January 10, 2022 6 min read

If you are a beginner at snorkeling it is important to know the basics of what you need before going out on a snorkel adventure. It is important to find good fins to wear.

A lot of people think that you need to get a good snorkel to go with the fins, but it is not necessary. It is better to get a good fin because it will give you more mobility in the water. We hope you will read and benefit from our article. So, let's get started.

What Are Fins?

As summer approaches, people around the world are preparing to take some time to relax and enjoy the ocean. One of the ways people like to do this is by snorkeling. This is especially true for people living near the coast.

If you are interested in snorkeling for the first time, or you are preparing to go for your first time, there are some things you should know. One of the most important pieces of equipment required for snorkeling you should bring is fins.

woman snorkeling with yellow fins

What are Snorkel Fins? Snorkeling fins are used during snorkeling to help the swimmer propel themselves through the water.

What makes a good pair of snorkel fins? Well, they should be sturdy. In addition, they should have a good grip on the feet and the ankle. This will help the swimmer to maintain a steady position in the water, especially when going against a current. The fins should also have a lot of power. This will help any swimmer to feel as if they are gliding over the water. With a good pair of fins typically comes a lot of power. There are many reasons to bring fins but the most important one is the one that keeps the snorkeler’s body at a horizontal angle to the water.

Picking The Right Fins for You

Snorkeling fins have various length. Does a swimmer's height and weight play a factor in picking out a set of fins for essential snorkeling? This is a commonly asked question but the answer is not the same for everyone. Fins are designed to fit a variety of feet. For example, a shorter person may feel more comfortable with a shorter fin because it will feel more natural to them. Therefore, a shorter person needs short fins to get better results in the water and enjoy diving and snorkeling.

A taller person would be more comfortable with a longer fin because it has more blades at the bottom to give the long legs more coverage. So, a taller person will need fins proportional to his or her height. Regardless of the height and weight of the swimmer, it's important that the fins are long enough. It is not recommended to snorkel without fins.

Tips for Picking the Right Fins

  • Tighten the straps so they are tight but not too tight
  • Loosen the straps if they are tight
  • Avoid long fins if you are a beginner
  • Smaller fins are lighter, but big fins can help you stay balanced

If you are planning to snorkel in the ocean you should invest in a blade guard because the seawater can be abrasive to your fins.

 

fins on beach

Gear and Fins Required for Essential Snorkeling

There are many types of snorkeling equipment available for one to use to explore the underwater world beneath the surface of the water. The most common types of snorkeling gear are fins and masks. Masks provide a clear view of the underwater area while fins help propel a person while swimming. Snorkeling masks come in three basic varieties: traditional masks, which cover the nose and mouth and provide a view of the underwater world; snorkell masks, which provide a snorkel and a mask and cover the nose and mouth; and dive masks, which provide a clear view of the underwater world and cover both the nose and mouth.

Snorkeling is a popular recreational activity, and when it is done from even a boat a wetsuit is a must. Wetsuits are worn primarily for insulation against the cold water, and to provide buoyancy in the water. Newcomers to the sport may have the misconception that a wetsuit is not necessary in wetsuit snorkeling, but this is not the case. To really enjoy snorkeling, a wetsuit is essential for both safety and comfort.

These suits look like normal neoprene, but the material is specially designed to be saltwater resistant and offer added protection against the sun. So, such suits are very comfortable for wearing.

Do You Need To Take A Few Lessons Before You Take To The Sea?

It is not necessary to undertake lessons before you go snorkeling. But just like with any other water activity, whether it be spearfishing or enjoying scuba diving, it is good to learn some safety procedures. However, you'll find that there are many skills you'll quickly pick up on the go. It's quite easy to get the hang of basic moves like breathing through the snorkel, swimming on your back with your head above water, and putting the face into the water. However, beginners need to take important lessons to learn some basic skills before heading out snorkeling since not all spots are crowded with instructors.

Before you go into the water, it is important that you learn the proper safety rules for snorkeling. The first step is to make sure you are wearing fins. Fins help you to swim effectively underwater. You shouldn't swim without them since it would be more difficult to swim. Wearing a wetsuit is also important for your safety as well as a mask. The next step is to know how to use your snorkel. With a snorkel, you can breathe air from the surface of the water. If you should ever have a problem with the snorkel or should want to go down deeper, you should use a mask. Do not snorkel without required equipment.

To Sum Things Up

Fins have been a useful tool for people to aid them in swimming faster and more efficiently. They also help the swimmer to use less energy, and it is a common misconception that they will help a person improve swimming speed. The fins are a highly valuable addition for a beginner because they make the initial stages easier. The drawbacks for them are that they do not offer any assistance in steering and steering is a critical skill in learning how to swim. In addition, they can get in the way of other people swimming. However, fins are a must-have item when snorkeling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can non-swimmers snorkel?

Snorkeling is a great way for non-swimmers to get a closer look a what a reef looks like! Less experienced snorkelers will need to hold onto the buoy (and maybe lifeguard) at all times while they are in the water. Less experienced snorkelers should also head towards the shallower end of the reef to stay on top of the water. Safety measures are the priority, whether you go snorkeling of freediving with your flippers.

What should you not do while snorkeling?

Snorkeling is a fun activity for people of all ages. It's good exercise and it's something that the whole family can enjoy. However, there are some safety precautions that are needed to ensure that everyone has a good time. Below are some tips on snorkeling safety. Experieced divers recommend the following rules that are important for everyone who dives in the water:
  • Always use a mask that is approved by an approved organization, such as the Snorkel Masks Buying Guide.
  • Don't eat anything before you go snorkeling, since it may make you sick.
  • Leave all of your valuables at home.
woman wit fins and snorkeling mask

Can you drown from snorkeling?

Snorkeling is a great activity for people looking to explore the ocean and its inhabitants, but there are risks associated with snorkeling and water activities. One such risk is the possibility of drowning and/or injury from equipment or natural hazards. It is important to always check local surfing and snorkeling conditions.

Snorkeling involves some degree of physical exertion, so there is always the possibility for exhaustion or injury. One way to help reduce the risk of drowning while snorkeling is to not snorkel alone.

 

Are short fins better than long fins?

Fins are never one size fits all. It's important to try on various types of fins to make sure you get the best fit. A shortfin might be better for someone with shorter arms, while a long fin might be better for someone with long arms. A snorkel fin will be very helpful in the water and will provide you with better glading.
Author - Olivia Poglianich
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Olivia Poglianich          

Content Strategist

Olivia Poglianich is a nomadic brand strategist and copywriter in the surf, watersports and outdoor adventure space who has worked with brands such as Visa, Disney and Grey Goose. Her writing has taken her all over the world, from a Serbian music festival to a Malaysian art and culture event. Olivia is a graduate of Cornell University and is often writing or reading about travel, hospitality, the start-up ecosystem or career coaching. Her latest interests are at the intersection of web3 and communal living, both on and offline.


Sign up for our Newsletter

Spin to win Spinner icon