Sizing Your Dive Fins

Sizing your dive fins can be a very confusing phase when purchasing scuba gear. Every manufacturer has its own sizing chart, so you should focus on which brand you prefer and stick with it. They all have standard sizes, but each one has its own sales spin to make its product stand out. Words such as 'Channel Thrust' or 'Optimum Angles' could be used to differentiate the bells and whistles unique to their type of fins. Phrases such as these may mean that a particular fin is more effective at propelling you forward with less effort.

There are also some manufacturers that don't carry a wide range of sizes such as S, M, L, XL. They may only have S/M or L/XL so be careful when choosing. Review their size chart thoroughly.

Last thing to be taken into consideration when finding the right size fin is whether you will be diving in a wetsuit or dry suit. The latter will generally require that you go up one size ... a good piece of information to know when searching for that perfect pair of fins!

What to Look for When Buying Scuba Fins

Your choice of scuba fins will depend on what type of diving you do as well as your location. One thing for certain is that your fins must fit properly. If your scuba fins do not feel as if they are an extension of your limbs, it could make for an uncomfortable dive experience.

Here are a few things to look for when making your decision:

1. If you are on vacation and are looking to surface dive, force fins are your best option. They are very comfortable and are made of polyurethane, so there is no danger to sea life.
2. If you are deep sea diving or planning to dive in cold water, you will want scuba fins with adjustable straps. This will allow for warming booties as well as provide your feet extra protection from the elements.
3. Split fins are a good option for those who tend to have muscle spasms in their legs. The way they are designed is with an empty space down the center of the blade causing water propulsion behind the diver. These are fine if you are planning on going in a single forward motion the entire time. They are not ideal for those who wish to back track and/or take photographs.

Figure out which category you belong to and choose your fins accordingly. The right fit should be of utmost importance, and don't be cheap. Quality fins are one thing that can make or break a scuba diving excursion.

Reason We Need Fins and Masks

Scuba masks and fins are an essential part of the overall scuba gear in terms of their important uses.

1. Scuba Masks: These are necessary because our eyes are not constructed to see under water. We need protection around our eyes to be able to view sea life, and the scuba mask creates that shield. The air space in between the water and our eyes allows us to see. Most scuba masks are a light plastic frame with glass lenses and a silicone skirt that adheres to the face. It is most crucial to have a mask that fits properly as the entire diving experience is based around what you are able to see. If this is compromised by an ill-fitting mask, your dive will likely be unsuccessful.
2. Fins: Fins function for scuba divers just as fins do for fish -- they enable you to get around. They should fit as if they are extensions of your natural appendages and propel you through the water. Adjustable and full-foot are the main types of fins: full-foot fins cover the diver's entire bare foot while the adjustable version has straps that are worn over boots.