Best Snorkeling Fins: Quick Buying Guide + Reviews [2022]

Today, we will talk about the best snorkeling fins that elevate your diving game to a whole new level. No kidding!

Snorkeling is an activity that provides an often desired view of the marine life and sea creatures. And, when you want to go on a snorkeling trip, it is usually advantageous to carry your own equipment.

Lots of people know how to snorkel, and as a result, it is important to have access to the best snorkel gear to have a fun time in the water.

Apart from a snorkeling vest and a snorkel mask, you need to have some snorkeling fins. Because a snorkeling trip always remains incomplete without a pair of fins taking full advantage of the thrust.

A pair of high-quality snorkel fins allows you to spend more time underwater without suffering leg cramps or getting tired.

In this wordy piece, we have reviewed some of the top snorkeling fins on the market to help you proceed with a better buying decision.

The short snorkel fin by Cressi is amazingly flexible and can be folded in half for easy storage. You can have a better swimming and snorkeling experience with these incredible fins.

Its self-adjusting rubber foot pocket lets you have the ideal comfortable fit. Long-lasting non-vented plastic blade produces powerful kicks to propel you through the water without the worrying about leg cramps.

The highly reactive materials in the blade guarantee agile and effective kicks. It has shorter, wider fins, and is ideal for both snorkelers and swimmers. 

Classic long fins offer great thrust in the water, but short snorkel fins such as the Cressi Agua have their own distinct advantages. This snorkel fin is great for travel and comes in blue and black style only.

KEY SPECIFICS

Blade Size: Short blade.

Heel: Closed heel. It has Heel Grip Tabs for better donning and doffing

Material: Polypropylene

Size: 10/11, 13/14, 2.5/3.5, 4/5, 5.5/6.5, 7/8, 8.5/9.5

Pros

Cons

Being short fins, they produce less repulsion power through the water compared to traditional long fins. Furthermore, the foot pocket is not adjustable. It arrives in a variety of sizes, but people with very large feet may not find the most appropriate size.

The Twin Jet Split Fins manufactured by ScubaPro give you more forward motion with lesser effort. The developers studied the tail fin of a humpback whale to achieve this innovative design.

It’s available in 4 different colors; black, blue, yellow and gray. The black fins are negatively buoyant, have more rigidity and provide more traditional snorkel fin experiences. On the other hand, the blue, gray and yellow ones have more flexibility and are somehow more buoyant.

The vented blade reduces drag on your strokes to save you more energy. Plus, the unit proves durable since they are made of rubber. Its Split Fin Design provides 30% more efficient than the standard fin blade. These let water pass through the blades forming a vortex that propels you forward just like a propeller.

Foot pocket accommodates drysuit and wetsuit boots, and its large opening at the toe end part allows water to drain easily. Adjustable quick release buckle makes the donning and doffing of the fins very easy. Thus, the overall efficiency of the Scubapro Twin Jets stands reliably for many users to love and adore these fins.

KEY SPECIFICS

Blade Size : Short blade

Heel: Open heel.

Material: Monoprene

Size: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large

Pros

Cons

On the downside, split fins may take a little getting used to. In addition to that, they do not have a spring strap. Spring straps let you down and doff the fins much faster and easier without having to make timely changes

Topside Snorkel Fins from Wildhorn are comfortable and come with adjustable heel straps. These short fins are suitable for travel because of their compact nature.

Its adjustable heel strap ensures that your feet fit comfortably in the fin. More so, you do not have to wear a sock because this flipper doesn’t chafe against the skin.

They deliver a powerful and efficient kick which means you won’t have to work too hard. This allows you to swim better taking the most advantage of thrust without tiring your legs quickly.

The Wildhorn Snorkel fins are great for traveling, swimming in shallow water, training and short dives. They are also very convenient to store.

KEY SPECIFICS

Blade Size : Short blade.

Heel: Open heel design.

Material:  Neoprene fused rubber sole and polyurethane fin

Warranty : 2 YEAR manufacturer warranty 

Pros

Cons

These are short fins, therefore they are not suitable for deep diving and do not propel with much thrust. If you’re more interested in diving deeply underwater, long fins are better suited

Are you a snorkeler who wants some good quality fins on a budget? The U.S. Divers Profile II may be an ideal choice. They are suitable for both snorkelers and swimmers.

Profile II diving fins from U.S. Divers have a long blade that propels you through the water faster by providing an improved snap and thrust movement. They are very comfortable, reliable and come at a great price.

The pair is available in sizes from 5-13 and everything in between, meaning that they fit a broader range of swimmers. Furthermore, its full-sized soft pocket provides a comfortable and snug fit to secure your foot.

Its long blade moves you very quickly through the water as it delivers improved snap and thrust. TPS Center flex zones cup the water to give you more powerful kicks. However, while wearing these fins, it is best to pair them with dive boots to avoid blisters on your heel.

KEY SPECIFICS

Blade Size: Long blade with dual-composite fin rails.

Heel: Closed heel.

Material: Dual-composite

Sizes : S (5-6 1/2), M (6 1/2 -8), ML (8-9 1/2), L (9 1/2 -11 1/2), and XL (11 1/2 -13)

Pros

Cons

These are long blade fins, therefore they are not suitable for swimming near coral reefs as they may disturb the marine life. In addition to that, they are more difficult to pack because of the large size.

PLUMA lightweight fins by Cressi are one of the better fins out there for snorkeling. It is made from high-quality materials like the other more pricey top quality Cressi products.

The sole has an anti-slip rubber grip under the foot pocket to help you grip slippery surfaces better. You should probably wear some socks or any other underwater foot protection when you use these fins. Its elastomer foot pocket provides foot comfort and is suitable for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Constructed from Cressi patented 3 different material molded technology to provide the foot a combination of comfort and lightweight paddling. Lightweight and reactive Polypropylene blade gives the fins a super snappy energetic rebound. Plus, it has additional foot protection from the foot pockets near the base of the blade.

For longer swims and dives, the Cressi Pluma fins are a perfect choice. They are designed to offer you maximum protection and powerful kicks as you swim or snorkel in the water. Materials used in construction are the best of the best to ensure you get value for money.

KEY SPECIFICS

Blade Size: Long blade.

Heel: Closed heel.

Materials : Blade: Polypropylene, Foot Pocket: Thermo-Rubber

Sizes : 1-2 (Kids), 2.5-3.5 (Kids), 4.5, 5.5-6.5, 7-8, 8.5-9.5, 10-11

Warranty: 2 years

Pros

Cons

Long blades are not suitable for swimming or snorkeling near rocky areas or places with coral reefs. Furthermore, they are pretty long making storage cumbersome.

Lightweight, compact fins from US Divers are easy to travel with. A stiff snap from the fins provides you with powerful strokes. The foot pocket is soft and comfy to ensure your foot is safe and secure.

The flippers come with a mesh bag, making traveling with them easier. Its dual-composite fin blade allows snap and power.
Its short length feels excellent as a travel snorkel fin and suitable for other activities like swimming and body-boarding.

 Soft and comfortable foot pocket with adjustable heel strap gives your feet a snug fit.

US Divers Trek Travel Fins do a great job as snorkeling fins. They provide sufficient power underwater, and they also qualify as great body surfing fins to control your motion in the waves.

KEY SPECIFICS

Blade Size: Short blade.

Heel: Closed heel.

Materials : Rubber & Plastic

Sizes: Small (Men's 4-7, Women's 5.5-8.5), Medium (Men's 7-10, Women's 8.5-11.5), Large (Men's 10-13, Women's 11.5-14)

Pros

Cons

Short blades are not suitable for scuba diving activities because they have less power compared to long fins. The color choices are also limited.

The Proflex FX fins made by U.S. Divers produce a superior snap and thrust to propel you through the water quickly. The long blades produce powerful strokes moving you with ease without causing fatigue.

Open heel design together with an adjustable heel strap lets you have a comfortable and fitting style. Its dual composite material in the blades makes the fins more flexible enabling to produce more thrust.

This package includes a mesh drawstring bag which makes transportation easy. To keep your gear always fresh, the fins dry quick and super-fast.

The Proflex FX scuba fins come with some comfort and convenience specifications. They give you enough thrust and a comfortable fit to make your snorkeling more enjoyable.

KEY SPECIFICS

Blade size: Long blade.

Heel: Open heel.

Materials : Dual composite

Sizes: Small (Men's 4-7, Women's 5.5-8.5), Medium (7-10, Women's 8.5-11.5), and Large (10-13, Women's 11-5-13.5)

Pros

Cons

On the downside, the straps are likely to snap, and the buckle is susceptible to breaking. Take great care of your fins to prevent such occurrences.

High-quality snorkeling fins from Seavenger come in a wide variety of sizes and colors, making them an excellent purchase for the entire family. They dry fast, and the mesh drawstring bag out of the box makes them easy to transport.

The fins have integrated sharply designed blade into their design. This response excellently to a variety of kicking styles. Furthermore, its open heel design seems convenient for people with wide feet.

Adjustable strap and big open foot pocket let this fin fit your feet better than ever before. The vented blades propel water back with each down stroke to improve your kicking power.

The short length of the Seavenger fins helps you to swim more quickly, comfortably and easily. Its open heel design makes it an excellent choice for people with big or wide feet.

KEY SPECIFICS

Blade size: Short blade.

Heel: Open heel.

Materials : Sturdy material that still maintains flexibility

Sizes: XX-Small/X-Small, Small/Medium, Large/X-Large

Pros

Cons

Unfortunately, these fins are not buoyant. The straps may also snap if not used properly.

Short Dive Fins manufactured by ANGGO fit in the list of the best snorkeling fins for beginner. The super-soft foot pocket enables you to wear them comfortably as you swim or snorkel during your free time. They come with a fast drying mesh bag for easy transport.

The length and reactive nature of the blades make these fins great even for amateur swimmers and rookies. Its reactive and flexible pads are included to keep the foot pocket in shape when not in active use.

The unit stands fairly durable with solid parts made from PP and soft parts made of TRP materials. Additionally, its portable and compact size makes storage and carrying straightforward. Dual-composite fin blade offers a good snap, sufficient power, and styling.

Short training fins suited for both advanced and amateur swimmers. Highly reactive and lightweight material ensure agility and effective kicking which does not bring fatigue. If you are in need of short flippers with a bit more flair, then the ANGGO short fins are an excellent choice.

KEY SPECIFICS

Blade size: Short blade.

Heel: Open heel

Materials: PP for Solid parts and TPR for Soft parts

Fins weight: 1.47 pounds (Size S) 1.55 pounds(Size M) 1.67 pounds(Size L

Pros

Cons

Anggo fins are short flippers, so they produce less repulsion power than the long fins. They are not suitable for extensive diving.

Top rated Sea Lion Floating Fins from U.S. Divers are constructed from buoyant materials to help you float in the water at ease. The compact length is suitable for travel, and it is available in a variety of sizes ranging from 3-13.

Comfortable full foot pocket holds your foot tightly providing you with a secure and comfortable fit. You do not have to fear about the fins getting off the feet while you swim.

Sea Lion floating fins are made of sturdy, buoyant rubber that enhances your swimming performance. Plus, the quality materials guarantee a long lifespan of the fins

They are compact in size, and that makes them stress-free to transport. Throw them into your car or even in the travel bag, they won’t cause much distress. These fins are designed to be easy to use. They come at a great price and are an ideal choice for novice swimmers.

KEY SPECIFICS

Blade size: Short blade.

Heel: Closed heel.

Materials: Buoyant rubber

Sizes: XS (3-5), S (5-7), M (7-8), ML (8-10), L (10-11), XL (11-13), XXL(14-16)

Pros

Cons

The sizing may run too small for some foot sizes. Also, the material has a tendency to scratch easily. Therefore, you should take proper care of this flippers and get the right foot size.

If you have only been swimming in a pool, there are chances that you will not have any experience with the fins.

When you try them for the first time, it might be extremely uncomfortable, and you may even feel a bit awkward. But you should not give up.

The snorkeling fins offer the swimmers a number of benefits, which include power for the legs as well as protection for your feet.

Listed below are the benefits of snorkeling fins;

• If you are caught in a tide, your snorkeling fins will allow escaping the tide, as they can provide power and strength to your excellent swimming capabilities.
• When you wear a pair of snorkeling fins, your capacity can increase by fifty percent. Snorkeling fins help in making the legs strong.
• Snorkeling fins help in providing an added resistance to your hamstrings and quadriceps.

The main goal of any swimmer is to move fast and swiftly. This is what manufacturers work so hard for.

Apart from the drills, dry-land training, and intervals, the snorkeling and swimming equipment help in boosting your strength and power while you are swimming in the water.

However, there is a huge difference between the snorkel fins and the swim fins, and you should know about them.

The snorkeling fins have a strong and longer heel, which is much more flexible in comparison to the swim fins. They have flat edges which help in creating more resistance and provides a long and wide kick.

There are chances that the long blade of the snorkel fins start stretching and become flexible with time.

Snorkel fins are capable of covering a greater surface area in water, which plays an important role in activating the muscles, elevate the hips and legs, and allows you to move faster.

The swim fins are shorter, and they have flat or angled edges, which have been designed in a unique manner for targeting the different groups of muscles.

One advantage is that the swim fins are more durable in comparison to the snorkel fins. However, since they are short, they become less flexible and stiff.

Before you learn to adjust in a snorkel fin, it is suggested that you become comfortable with a swim fin first.

Since swim fins are stiff, they may cause discomfort, but they will teach you how to move your body forward in the water.

When you are ready for snorkeling, the snorkel fins will feel more comfortable and easier. In fact, you will enjoy when you are snorkeling because they allow you to move faster without causing any uneasiness.

The type of materials you want in your snorkeling fins depends on you completely.

However, before making your purchase, you should weigh the pros and cons of both the natural and synthetic snorkeling fins. The snorkel fins made up of natural materials are normally lighter than the ones made up of synthetic materials.

A lighter fin will help a diver to propel faster in the water as compared to a fin that will be heavy. On the other hand, the snorkel fins made up of synthetic materials are a lot more flexible.

If you are in an area of high tide, the flexibility of the synthetic snorkel fins will save you from getting trapped in the area.

Both the natural and synthetic snorkel fins are capable of flapping up and down with ease, but the synthetic ones are more flexible, and hence they can flap more.

The natural snorkel fins are stiff and can make you uncomfortable. But the synthetic ones have air space inside, allowing your feet to get space and hence, you will feel much more comfortable.

In case you have a low budget, you have to consider the natural snorkel fins, as they do not come with a heavy price tag.

However, if you are looking forward to a better and more comfortable experience, you should opt for the synthetic snorkel fins. Though they are pricey, they will be worth the money.

Also, they are the best choice if you are looking for comfort and versatility.

Snorkel fins, if they are of the right length, size, and great material to suit your needs, they can lessen leg cramps and fatigue as you dive. This can make your diving experience very fun and relaxing.

A lot of variables and choices available in the market for snorkeling fins. Below, we look at some of the factors you should consider before you make a purchase.

1. Full Foot vs. Open Heel 

The full foot pocket joined with the fin blade resemble a duck foot, which is the whole idea behind the design. Ducks are excellent swimmers and divers.

In general, full-foot pockets are constructed from stretchy materials that conform to the shape of the foot. This material can be a soft elastomer or neoprene.

On the downside, full foot pockets cannot be customized easily because they often lack straps and buckles, which can be tightened around the heel to enhance the fit.

On the other hand, open heel foot pockets are similar to slip-on sandals. They come with adjustable straps and buckles to secure the fin.

2. Long Fins vs. Short Fins

Fins come in a variety of lengths, but the most effective ones are longer. Extended fin blades provide more thrust on your kicks, which lets you dive deeper more easily.

Short fins are great too. Shorter fins whose blades begin adjacent to the foot pocket bring together the convenience of shorter fins with the surface area of longer fins.

These fins are easier to transport, wear and store, making them more popular. Manufacturers tend to apply several techniques to enhance the performance of shorter fins to make up for their length.

3. Split or Paddle

There’s always a debate on whether to go for the modern split fins or the classic paddle fins.

Paddle fins have a lot of benefits: they provide a quick thrust, and the much-needed control and maneuverability when the user is trying to move around coral reefs carefully. They also allow you to apply different kicking styles.

However, these paddle fins are not seen as efficient or as quick over longer swims like the split fins.

The design of the split fins is made to direct the water to the back of the fin, which propels you easier with less effort.

Therefore, for longer swims, you will be able to preserve energy with a split fin and swim faster, than if you were using a paddle fin.

On the downside, split fins do not give as much feedback as the paddle flippers, and they are less accurate for controlling movement and placing in the water.

4. Size Matters

It is very common for buyers to buy fins that are too small. The intention is to obtain a snug fit that’s not too tight or too loose.

While trying out the fool foot fins, you should be able to insert your small finger between the heel and the back part of the foot pocket.

If you are unable to fit your finger, then your fins are too tight. If the finger wiggles around with a lot of room to spare, then your fins are loose.

You don’t want loose fins because your fins will become slightly looser in the water and slip easily.

Open heel fins are easier to size because they come with adjustable straps and buckles.

While testing an open heel fin, if your foot tends to slide only partially in either as it is too tight or the toes reach the fin’s end, the flipper is too small. A fin that goes only partly onto the feet will bring more fatigue.

5. Choosing Color

The snorkel fins are available in a variety of colors which include red, green, blue, and black. The color of the snorkel fin has nothing to do with the build quality or any other feature of your snorkel fin.

You can select the color on the basis of your mood or personality. However, it is always better to opt for black as the temperatures below the water can be low.

Also, you should opt for the black ones as they are capable of providing better insulation.

However, if you do not want to go for the black ones, select the red, green, or blue one. They can provide equal comfort, though the insulation capacity will not be as great as the black ones.

Different brands have different colors of snorkel fins, and you can choose the ones that you love.

6. Comfort

When choosing a snorkel fin, comfort is among the priorities. The fin should not have hard spots that can easily rub on you.

You should be able to snorkel for a long time without having to deal with discomfort problems like blisters and leg cramps.

7. Traveling

Travel fins are very enticing because they save on luggage space. Generally, traveling snorkel fins are short, wider and have an open foot.

They do not have sufficient power and speed needed in the event of a current. Therefore, you will use more effort while snorkeling.

On the bright side, most of them have an open heel design, come with adjustable straps for a better fit, lightweight, and they take up only a fraction of the space in your suitcase.

8. Personal Preference

The choice of a fin mostly comes down to your personal preferences. Depending on your needs, you can easily decide whether you need a long or short fin, an open heel or full foot pocket, split fin or paddle fin, or travel fins.

The prices vary from fin to fin and depending on your pocket, you can make the best choice.

Deciding on the snorkeling fins appropriate for you is not a tedious task, at least in comparison to selecting the snorkeling masks.

Different types of snorkeling fins are available in the market, and when you are taking the decision, you have to think about your comfort first.

However, the types of snorkeling fins include;

The open foot fins allow the divers to wear boots. If you intend to walk or you need insulation, you should use the open foot fins.
However, they are stiff and heavier than the others. If you do not feel comfortable, you should not go for this one.

The closed foot fins are not only lighter, but they also fit the divers perfectly. Most of the divers recommend the closed foot fins, especially if you are snorkeling for the first time.

Paddle fins help in increasing your speed in the water, and if you are looking forward to getting a proper control, you should go for the paddle fins. For your info, a variety of kicking strokes can be used with the paddle fins.

Split fins allow moving faster in the water as compared to the other fins. Herein, if you are going to swim for a long time, you can go for the split fins, as you will be able to swim faster.

When you are selecting your fin, you have to ensure that it fits you properly. In case you have to wear it a number of times – in an exact manner as you do when you purchase a shoe – ensure that it is not loose or too tight.

These issues can lead to serious accidents. Hence, you should choose the snorkeling fin properly.

Try your snorkel fin in the water as well. If you find it too loose or too tight, you should ask for a replacement immediately.

It is notably crucial that you take care of your snorkel fins if you want them to last longer than usual. Addressed below are a few points that you should take care of when you are using your snorkel fins.

• You should not stand on the tips of blades of your snorkeling fins for a long time.
• Try to avoid hot surfaces and temperatures as they can damage the fins.
• Do not keep your fins in the trunk of your car on days when temperatures are extremely hot outside. This can exceed the temperature tolerance of your snorkel fins, and your blade may get distorted.

After using the fins, you should rinse it in fresh water and use a towel to dry it before locking it away. You can store the snorkeling fins in a dry and cool place, where sunlight does not reach.

Other tips that should also be kept in mind include; 

• Ensure that your snorkel fin does not come in contact with oil, alcohol, chemical solvents or aerosols.
• Ensure that you do not expose the snorkel fin to aerosol sprays, as they can degrade and attack the plastic or rubber materials.
• Make sure that you are not using solvent, petroleum, or alcohol-based substances for lubricating and cleaning any part.
• Try to keep your fins away from chemicals, gasoline, or oil.

You should soak your snorkel fin in lukewarm water and add a little bit of detergent to it. This will ensure that all the salt or other particles that are sticking to your snorkel fin is removed.

Many times, when you rinse them, the particles may be there, and if not washed properly, it can damage your snorkel fins to a great extent.

Hence, you should be responsible enough and take care of your snorkel fins and keep it prepared for the next snorkeling activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which brand makes the best fins for snorkeling?

A: U.S. Divers, Cressi, Wildhorn, and Seavenger are some of the best and reliable brands on the market.

Q: Are there snorkel fins that will fit wide feet properly?

A: Yes, there are. Fins whose foot pockets are made from flexible neoprene and other stretchy compounds are the best. Stretchy materials expand to accommodate wider feet.

Q: Which is better: long fins or short snorkel fins?

A: Longer fins tend to be better in general, but short fins have their benefits as well. Short fins are easy to carry, and transport and some are of higher quality than a number of extended fins.

Q: What are the benefits of open heel snorkeling fins?
A: Open heel fins allow you to wear boots. Boots provide the much-needed protection against rocky surfaces and cold water temperatures.

Q: What are the best paddle fins in the market?

A: Cressi Pluma fins, U.S. Divers Proflex II full foot fins, and the U.S. Divers Sea Lion Fins are some high-quality paddle fins to quote.

Snorkel fins are an essential swimming item as they give you efficiency and speed as you swim underwater. Buying a snorkel fin is just as important as buying a snorkel mask or a snorkeling vest.

You should invest in the best snorkel gear to help you swim well in the event of strong current (which is most likely in the open sea) without using too much energy.

Snorkel fins protect your feet from accidental contact with coral reefs or rocks, which can really injure unprotected feet. They let you tread through water more easily, saving you a lot of energy.

There are many different kinds of snorkel fins available in the market, and manufacturers make them suit the needs of snorkelers. 

As we have reviewed some of the best snorkeling fins in the market to help ease your search. Now, depending on your preferences, it should be easy to find the best product.