When you’re trying to catch a wave, there is only so much power you can generate with your feet. To ensure you don’t miss the perfect wave, you should add a pair of fins to your bodyboard gear list. Kicking your feet with fins attached will give you more power and propel you through the water with ease.
Using bodyboard fins not only makes your time on the water more enjoyable, but also increases your safety by allowing fast reaction in tricky situations. The main factors you should look for when buying are fin power, comfort, and construction quality.
With these things in mind, we have created a list of best bodyboard fins that will make every session a success. Also, don’t miss out on our buying guide if you want to learn more about different fin features.
OUR TOP PICK
DaFin Black Swim Fins
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Malaysian rubber construction makes kicking easier
- Easy to control with great maneuverability
- Smooth foot pocket fits either foot
- Extra comfy even without fin socks
- Lightweight relative to the amount of power
Sizes: XXS (1-2) to XXL (15-16)
Material: Malaysian rubber
Floating: Yes
Weight: 1.3 – 3.0 lbs per pair (depends on size)
EDITORS CHOICE
Churchill Makapuu Swim Fins
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Thick heel strap keeps the foot in place
- Gum rubber provides incredible comfort
- Stiff fin blade for improved thrust
- Stiff side rails for more powerful kicks
- Drainage hole allows water and rocks to escape
Sizes: S to XL
Material: Natural gum rubber
Floating: Yes
Weight: 3 pounds (depends on size)
BEST VALUE
Cressi Agua Adult Short Fins
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Self-adjusting Foot Pocket System adapts to every foot
- Shorter fin blade is perfect for bodyboarding
- Lightweight and comfortable rubber construction
- Top-level performance without leg fatigue
- Great for both beginners and advanced users
Sizes: 1/2 to 13/14 (men), 2/3 to 14/15 (women)
Material: Lightweight natural rubber
Floating: Yes
Weight: 2 pounds
Hydro Tech 2 Ocean Swim Fins
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- T-Form silicone material provides ultimate comfort
- Asymmetrical fins for more efficient kicking
- Ergonomic foot pocket design for a better fit
- The shape prevents fin from catching in dropknee position
- Three drain holes easily eliminate water and sand
Sizes: XS to XL
Material: Silicone
Floating: No
Weight: 3.2 pounds (pair)
Voit Duck Feet Swim Fins
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Soft foot pocket with a stiff high-power blade
- Hydrodynamic design maximizes propulsion with less effort
- Full-floating so you’ll never lose them
- Great-looking green and blue design
- Large number of sizes available
Sizes: XXS to XXL
Material: Dual-density natural rubber (soft and stiff)
Floating: Yes
Weight: 6 pounds
How To Choose Bodyboarding Fins – Buying Guide
Power
Getting extra power in your kick is the main reason to add fins to your bodyboarding setup. Power determines the performance of your new fins, which is why it’s very important when considering which fins to buy. You can only generate so much propulsion with your feet, so well-made fins can really make a difference.
Generally speaking, a larger fin will give you more power. On the other hand, if a fin is too large, you won’t be able to control it easily. In addition, the shape of the bodyboard fins will also dictate how much power they can produce. Unlike standard fins, bodyboarding fins often have an asymmetrical shape that makes every kick count.
Besides size and shape, fin material also influences power. The blade should be made of firm materials that can create resistance and propel you when swimming. However, a fin that is rigid throughout can be difficult to control, so the best fins for bodysurfing use rubber of different densities to improve performance.
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Comfort
While the power of your bodyboard fins is the main focus, you should also pay attention to the comfort of your fins. If they don’t fit comfortably, you won’t really enjoy your day out in the water. The foot pocket needs to be smooth so you can easily glide your foot in and out. It should also be soft so the fin doesn’t chafe your foot.
There is nothing worse than wearing a fin that digs into your foot or one that is too tight and gives you blisters. In the worst-case scenario, a tight fin can even block off your circulation.
On the other hand, a loose-fitting fin can also create problems. If a fin is too loose, it will flop around and you won’t be able to generate the power you need. Loose-fitting fins also easily create blisters as the material rubs against your foot. In the worst-case scenario, the fin can come off and get lost in the water.
Soft foot pocket materials and proper sizing are the two most important factors when talking about comfort. One feature that helps improve comfort are drain holes. This will keep the water from sitting inside the fin, and it will also help to get rid of small stones and sand.
Material
Rubber is the most common material used when manufacturing of body surfing fins. It’s durable, relatively flexible, and, most often, it floats on water. If your fin accidentally comes off, you won’t have to dive to get it back. On the other hand, rubber fins can sometimes be too stiff and uncomfortable, so you should pay close attention to rubber quality.
The alternative are fins made from silicone-based materials. Silicone is a durable material with a huge advantage in terms of comfort. It’s softer and more flexible, but the trade-off is that it will quickly sink if it comes off. If you’re worried about losing your fins, you can add a pair of fin savers to stop it from happening.
FAQs
Q: Do You Need Fins To Bodyboard?
No, but bodyboarding isn’t the same without a pair of fins. Their paddling power helps you move through the water and catch waves. Without them, your arms and legs will have to do the extra work, making you very tired in the process. In addition, wearing fins is important from the safety aspect too – they make it easier to get back to shore if you’re pulled by a current.
Q: How Tight Should Flippers Be?
Body surfing flippers should have a snug fit (but not too tight). This gives you optimal control and maneuverability when you’re in the water. If there’s room for your finger between pocket and foot, the fin is too large. On the other hand, it shouldn’t press too much on the foot either because this can cause discomfort and blisters.
Q: Can You Repair Broken Bodyboard Fins?
Yes, you can. If your bodyboard fins are accidentally damaged, you can repair them with resin (instead of buying a new pair). Before pouring resin in the damaged area, make sure the fin is clean from debris and dry. After pouring, hold it in place so it starts to set and then leave it for a day to harden before you use the fin again.
Q: Do Bodyboard Fins Need Leashes?
No, but they are highly recommended. When a wave wipes you out and knocks your fins off, you don’t want to swim around looking for them. You might even be able to retrieve floating fins, but if you have a pair that sinks you might lose them permanently. Strapping a fin leash around your ankle solves this problem.
Q: How Do I Pick The Right Size Of Fins?
You should always start with your standard shoe size. As we’ve pointed out, the fin should have a snug fit for optimal performance. Product user reviews can give you an insight if a specific fin runs larger or smaller. Also, keep in mind that you’ll need to go a size up if you have wide feet.
Q: What Can I Do If My Shoe Size Is An In-Between Size?
If you’re a half-size, we advise that you start with the larger whole size rather than smaller. Having a bit extra comfort, and the fin most likely won’t be too loose. Unfortunately, most manufacturers don’t make fins in half sizes. If you feel there’s too much room inside, you can always wear neoprene fin socks.
Q: Why Are Fins So Hard To Put On When Dry?
The materials from which fins are made create a lot of friction on the human skin. Whether it’s rubber or silicone, your foot won’t be able to slide in if the fin is dry. Fortunately, water solves this problem because it acts as a lubricant. Before putting them on, either dip the fins or your feet into the water (or both), and you won’t have any problems.
Globo Surf Overview
Bodyboarding is a lot of fun, and all of us want to get the most out of each wave. With the best body surfing fins to power you through the water, you will waste less time paddling and enjoy more time boarding.
If you want fins that are comfortable and functional, be free to grab a pair from our list. A good bodyboard fin will not set you back a lot of money, but it’s guaranteed to make your bodyboarding sessions much more enjoyable.
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