Glide through the water as elegantly as a fish or dolphin and get fitter at the same time – swim fins can help you achieve this. This not only increases the speed in the water, but also the training effect.
What many people don’t know:
There are different types of fins. You may also be interested in the following articles: Mermaid fin, diving fins, swim fins for snorkeling, monofin.
Avoid buying mistakes:
BeyondSurfing’s big swim fin comparison 2024 shows you which swim fin model is right for you and what you need to look out for when buying one!
Content
In a hurry? Our favorite flippers:
- Ergonomic foot pocket protects the joints
- Particularly robust
- Can be used for snorkeling and swimming
Swimming fins Checklist
- What length? Swimming fins are shorter and more compact than snorkeling or diving fins.
- For what? Due to the increased resistance in the water, the training effect is higher than without fins.
- What size? The shoe size does not necessarily correspond to the correct fin size.
Also interesting: The most popular water wings 2024.
These are the top 7 swim fins in 2024
1. aqua speed short flippers
Advantages
- Ergonomic foot pocket protects the joints
- Particularly robust
- Can be used for snorkeling and swimming
Disadvantages
- High dead weight
- Strong buoyancy (not for diving)
Summary
These short training fins from Aqua Speed are built for extremely efficient training. They have a high dead weight but excellent buoyancy without being too long or wide. The buoyancy centers the body parallel to the water surface. This allows you to focus even more on your training!
The sole is equipped with a special grip foot pad. This makes it easy to push off from the edge of the pool or turn while doing laps without slipping. Despite their small size, they are also suitable for snorkeling thanks to their excellent power transmission and buoyancy.
A real all-rounder for safety-conscious customers who love variety!
Product details
Size: 13.5 x 6.8 x 4 cm | Material: 100 % silicone | Weight: 518 g
Customer ratings
Customers praise the speed of the fins. One buyer describes how he feels like “Aquaman” with the Finns. There are some who have remained faithful to this model for years. The fins are very durable despite regular use.
A full 7% are neutral about the product, while 8% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
A few customers find the manufacturer’s size specifications unsuitable. One customer noticed that her pair had been delivered and looked as if it had been used many times.
FAQ
2. finis zoomer gold training fins
Advantages
- Natural, very soft footbed
- Ergonomically shaped fin blade
- Low price, high quality
Disadvantages
- Stiff fin blade – for advanced users
- Only available in yellow
- Smooth sole, risk of slipping
Summary
The Zoomer Gold fins feature a foot pocket made of soft natural rubber. This is not only comfortable to wear, but also scores points for its low allergy potential. The short fin blade requires fast paddling. The training effect is therefore greater than with other models.
The fins are the ideal training partner for more fitness and speed training. The eye-catching design catches the eye and has a high-quality appearance. The price is low despite the exceptional material.
These fins are ideal for sensitive skin and ambitious users with some previous experience!
Product details
Size: 33 x 20.3 x 12.7 cm | Material: Natural rubber | Weight: 699 g
Customer ratings
Customers are delighted with the speed of the fins. There are some older buyers who are happy about the joint-friendly training. Their legs have been much fitter since they started using the fins. They are also great for the beach to feel safer when swimming.
A full 6% are neutral about the product, while 9% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Some buyers find this model too stiff. Some people criticize the fact that the material rubs against the outer toe and can cause blisters. It was noted several times that the manufacturer’s size specifications were incorrect.
FAQ
3. cressi light swim fins
Advantages
- Large selection of colors
- Low dead weight
- Also suitable for snorkeling
Disadvantages
- Sizing not consistent
- No curved fin
- Low buoyancy, little correction of the swimming position
Summary
With their blue color, the Cressi Light fins are directly reminiscent of the element of water. They are available in all sizes for children and adults. Thanks to their particularly low weight and free carrying case, the fins are very easy to transport.
The paddling of the feet is transmitted to the water particularly effectively by these fins. They are also a “fusion model” and are not only suitable for swimming training, but also for snorkeling. The ideal compromise for people who like to do both.
Product details
Size: 31 – 46 | Material: Rubber | Weight: 852 g
Customer ratings
Some customers praise the design and the soft fit. The fins do not leave any marks. One customer describes how he forgets he is even wearing fins in the water. The model can be used for swimming and snorkeling.
A full 7% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Customers repeatedly complain about incorrect sizing. One customer criticized the material because it developed cracks after a few months.
FAQ
4. beco sprint fin
Advantages
- Protective bag included
- Very reasonably priced
- Choice of color and many sizes
Disadvantages
- Made from inexpensive rubber
- Narrow cut
- Intrinsic odor
Summary
The Beco rubber flipper is particularly flexible and follows your own swimming movements well. The good workmanship is striking. Thanks to their flexibility, they are ideal for technical training.
The sprint fins are available for both children and adults. The design can be chosen between three colors. The price is particularly low because the material is rubber.
The manufacturer has many years of experience in the production of fins. A clear protective bag is included free of charge, which is particularly practical.
This product is suitable for the whole family thanks to its many sizes!
Product details
Size: 30 – 41 | Material: Rubber | Weight: N.A.
Customer ratings
The price-performance ratio is repeatedly praised. Customers like the choice of colors and that the sizes are suitable for the whole family. The feeling of swimming is particularly pleasant.
A full 4% are neutral about the product, while 10% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Some customers complain that the fin is very tight. We recommend trying them on in the store or ordering several sizes. Some buyers dislike the rubber smell.
FAQ
5. speedo unisex biofuse fins
Advantages
- Slightly inclined fin blade, increased power transmission
- Flex points in the shoe
- Also suitable for wider feet
Disadvantages
- Lots of buoyancy
- Sizes are smaller
- High dead weight
Summary
The Speedo Unisex Biofuse fins have a slightly inclined fin blade, which increases the force applied to each fin stroke. Speedo’s Biofuse® technology focuses on delivering top performance in comfort.
The body is encouraged by the special design to combine the strength of the skeleton with the flexibility of the muscles. The result: better performance and a better training experience.
For users who want to protect their joints and still build up as much speed as possible, this fin is the ideal choice!
Product details
Size: 35 – 48 | Material: 100% silicone | Weight: N.A.
Customer ratings
The reviews describe that the fins are particularly comfortable to wear. The short fin blade is very easy on the joints. The design has also been praised several times and proves to be highly efficient.
A full 5% are neutral about the product, while 13% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
The weight of the fins is criticized. The material is too thick and the fin tends to be too wide, especially at the forefoot.
FAQ
6. arena unisex short swim fins
Advantages
- Made from high-quality polypropylene
- Eye-catching design
- Closed foot section for a secure fit
Disadvantages
- No protective bag included in the scope of delivery
- Manufacturer’s size specifications criticized by customers
Summary
The short swim fins from Arena offer a good compromise between training and functionality. The flippers are designed to improve technique and strengthen muscle development at the same time.
The material is made of polypropylene. This makes them particularly durable and comfortable. Their bright color makes them a real collector’s item. Ideal for swimming training or water aerobics.
A product for customers who like eye-catching design and particularly high-quality materials.
Product details
Size: 38.1 x 17.8 x 7.6 cm | Material: Polypropylene | Weight: 745 g
Customer ratings
Buyers like the fact that they feel like better swimmers with the fins. The training is significantly more effective. You also like the design. Muscle development is significantly accelerated when you wear these fins.
A full 4% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
The product caused blisters for one customer despite being the right size. In addition, the size chart is not correct.
FAQ
7. speedo biofuse fitness fins
Advantages
- Extremely compact and lightweight
- 100% silicone, exceptionally soft
- Particularly effective training
Disadvantages
- Less surface area and therefore lower top speed
- Manufacturer’s size specifications inappropriate
Summary
The futuristic Biofuse fitness fins from Speedo are particularly easy to transport. The semi-open sole means that the foot is less restricted.
The fins are among the smallest on the market, and although it is easier to pick up more speed with longer fins, you will be fitter with a shorter model. This makes training with these fitness fins particularly effective. What’s more, in a public swimming pool you don’t disturb your fellow swimmers if things get tight.
These fins are for advanced users who are looking for a light but effective training partner!
Product details
Size: 20 x 12 x 20 cm | Material: silicone | Weight: 199.8 g
Customer ratings
Customers praise the handy design. Transportation is described as particularly easy. Some describe that the feet feel freer but still sit securely in the fin. The training is particularly effective.
A full 0% are neutral about the product, while 13% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
One customer complains that the sizes are given incorrectly. Another describes that he had knee pain after training with this model.
FAQ
Bestsellers: The most popular swim fins
(**Last update 2024-12-04)
Buy flippers:
How to make the right decision
The selection of swim fins is huge. This buying guide will give you the know-how you need to make an informed decision yourself. First of all, of course, you have to think about it: Do I really need my own flippers?
It is worth taking a look at the advantages and disadvantages of swim fins during training:
- Models tailored to your own training goals
- Significantly more effective training
- Correction of the swimming posture
- Joints are spared
- More fun through more speed
- Purchase or rental price
- Transportation to training
- Some models are slippery on tiles
- more sore muscles
What you need to consider when buying swim fins (incl. Checklist)
Every person is as individual as their training goals. When looking for the best swim fins, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:
- Material
- Size and fit
- The right model for individual goals
- slip resistance
- Durability of the model
- Possible allergies
Pro tip: There are so-called Fusion models that combine several uses in one fin . A training fin is then also suitable for snorkeling, for example. However, you have to make compromises in terms of functionality in some areas.
The material of swim fins?
Swimming fins are usually made of rubber and plastic. Higher-quality fins also have elements made of fiberglass or carbon fiber for more durability, flexibility and stability:
Rubber and plastic
Rubber and plastic are inexpensive and sometimes lead to temptingly low prices. This material is well suited for swimming.
Glass and carbon fiber
But it can also be worth spending a little more on fins with fiberglass elements or carbon fiber. This is particularly the case if the flippers are to be used frequently.
Which material should I use now?
High-quality materials withstand permanent stress better than cheap plastic. This means that you can generally enjoy more expensive fins for longer and do not have to buy replacements after a short time.
However, if you only go swimming occasionally, you will also be satisfied with rubber and plastic fins.
The right flipper size?
In any case, flippers must fit the foot perfectly. However, the shoe size is not always helpful. It happens time and again that fins turn out differently and do not fit properly despite the right shoe size.
The result:
Fins that are too small constrict the foot, which becomes uncomfortable after a short time. If the fins are too large, the material can scrape against the heels and cause blisters. If fins slip or flap in the water, power transmission is restricted.
Pro tip: The ideal fin fits over the foot like a second skin!
There are models for children, men and women, which differ in their width and size range, so if you have the opportunity, try on fins before you buy and see for yourself.
When ordering online, it is advisable to order 2 or 3 different sizes and then keep the ones that fit. Fins that are not required are simply sent back.
Fins with adjustable size?
Adjustable fins are an alternative to fixed sizes. The advantages and disadvantages of adjustable fins:
- One fin covers several sizes
- Can be used by several people
- Neoprene sock wearable in cold water
- The fin grows with children
- Less grip than in closed fins
- Possible friction due to heel buckle
- More resistance in the water thanks to straps
The right model for individual goals?
There are different types of flippers, which are designed for different types of swimming. For example, there are:
- special crawl fins for crawling,
- Flap fins for the frog kick during breaststroke and
- Monofins (connected foot piece) for dolphin swimming.
Choose swim fins according to your abilities and training goals:
Creating that mermaid feeling with flippers?
There is nothing that does not exist. For example, there are costumes to buy that already have a decorated flipper integrated. This is a monofin that encloses both feet. But without a costume, you can buy a fin like this one, for example.
Slip resistance of flippers?
Swimming fins have one risk: the danger of slipping.
The floor in the swimming pool is usually tiled. Fins slip out particularly easily here. But it can also get slippery at the edge of the pool when pushing off or doing an underwater roll.
To avoid bruises and make your turns in the water more efficient, choose fins with a grip sole. These are non-slip and offer more safety when swimming.
Durability – what are the indications of weak points?
Flippers that are assembled from a particularly large number of individual parts are more susceptible to wear and tear and predetermined breaking points. Repairing or patching is usually not worthwhile as this creates resistance. Why? A patch will never be as smooth as the intact fin.
Therefore:
One-piece swim fins are particularly durable. The disadvantage of this design is that the weight of the fins often increases.
Are there flippers for allergy sufferers?
Not all materials are equally well tolerated by humans. Some people react to plasticizers in rubber or have a latex allergy. Both materials are often used in swim fins.
If you know that your skin is particularly sensitive, opt for fins made of natural rubber.
The advantages of training with fins?
1Fins can give the swimmer more propulsion, increase speed and position you better in the water.
What does that mean?
The use of flippers increases swimming speed and ability.
It also needs more energy to move through the water with fins. More energy means higher calorie consumption. For those who want to train their body and lose weight, this is another advantage.
The best is yet to come:
The training effect continues even after taking off the flippers!
Mona Maria Reilmann ★★★★★
Sports scientist from Göttingen
2Swimming fins support the training of the correct swimming technique.
Good swimmers bring their legs and body into line. Beginners, on the other hand, often pull their legs lower behind them with a vertical positioning. The buoyancy of the fins helps against this.
Regular fin training gets your brain used to the right movement. Even after taking off the fins, your body will continue to try to imitate this movement. This is known as neuromuscular structuring. The more often it is repeated, the more effective it is.
Flippers tested by Consumer Reports and Öko Test?
Unfortunately, Consumer Reports or Öko Test have not yet chosen the best swim fins. Instead, however, there are similar studies by other entrepreneurs.
Good to know:
Swimming fins often use the same materials as other water sports equipment!
What other test reports say:
In a test of a snorkel set from Lidl and an investigation of kickboard swimming, unfortunately some substances that are hazardous to health were detected.
What does that mean?
The harmful substances are mainly found in buoyancy aids containing foam, which can increasingly be found in extremely cheap fins, mostly from Asian manufacturers.
Don’t save money in the wrong place. You should always check the material when buying cheap items from discount stores.
Well-known brands and manufacturers?
Which brands and manufacturers can you rely on? The products of well-known brands can benefit from their many years of experience on the market. The best-known brands and manufacturers include
Arena, Aqua Lung, Beco, Cressi, Head and Speedo
Arena
Arena offers several fin models. Materials and workmanship are of a high standard. However, the fins cannot compete with the best manufacturers. However, they are comparatively inexpensive and more suitable for beginners and occasional swimmers.
Aqua Lung
Aqua Lung scores with outstanding technology and is also active for professionals. The company even works with the military. This quality comes at a price, but the investment is worth it. Both professionals and motivated recreational swimmers can benefit from the manufacturer.
Beco
Beco models are versatile. There is something for beginners as well as for the more advanced. The manufacturer offers something suitable for every budget and training goal.
Cressi
Cressi swim fins offer a good combination of high-quality materials and the latest technology. The engineers at this manufacturer draw on many years of experience and incorporate this into the production process.
Head
Head is actually known from the ball sport tennis. The swimming and diving activities of its subsidiary Mares only fill a niche, but are taken very seriously. The manufacturer offers a wide range of swimming and diving accessories, including solid swim fins.
Speedo
Fins play a subordinate role at Speedo. Nevertheless, there are some interesting articles here that impress with their quality. There is something for every budget at Speedo. The range is not limited to expensive high-end products.
Care and cleaning tips for flippers
Make sure that you clean your fins after swimming training and allow them to dry thoroughly. Otherwise unpleasant odors will develop or bacteria and fungi will grow.
How to clean and care for flippers correctly:
- After snorkeling: always rinse off salt water with fresh water.
- To protect the material: Use a mild cleaning agent.
- Use sponges without a rough scouring side.
- The same applies to pool use – always wash off the chlorine.
- Do not leave to dry in direct sunlight.
Pro tip: Get yourself a storage bag such as this one! The bag protects against scratches, holes, dust and sunlight, among other things. These are all factors that would affect the comfort and durability of the flippers.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about swim fins
Discover the most frequently asked questions about swim fins below.
What are the benefits of flippers?
You can read more detailed information on this topic here: ” The benefits of training with flippers.
How do swim fins work?
What do swim fins cost?
How do you swim properly with fins?
During training, the normal crawl leg stroke is usually used to move forward. Alternatively, there are also fins that are suitable for the breaststroke leg stroke, the so-called frog kick.
How should swim fins fit correctly?
Watch out: Your own shoe size does not automatically correspond to the correct fin size. It is therefore better to test several flippers and return the ones that do not fit.
Who invented flippers?
In 1940, Owen Churchill patented a flipper made of vulcanized rubber. His design was inspired by the locals in Tahiti. They had woven mats and dipped them in tar before strapping them to their feet and using them for swimming. He acquired a license from de Corlieu to mass-produce the flippers and sell them in the USA. Churchill was the first to coin the term “flippers”, which is commonly used today.
Where can you buy swim fins?
You should know this:
However, not every store has all sizes available and fins often feel different in dry condition than in the water.
On the Internet, however, you usually benefit from lower prices, a larger selection and fair return conditions.
Conclusion: These are the best swim fins reviewed
Swimming fins are easy to transport, not too expensive to buy and make training more fun. But it gets even better.
Swimming fins increase the efficiency of swimming training enormously:
- Swimming fins automatically train the correct body posture through slight buoyancy.
- Swimming fins protect the joints through gliding movements.
- Swimming fins enhance muscle training by increasing resistance in the water.
Once you have tasted the speed it can achieve, you will never want to do without it again. Modified shapes such as the mono or mermaid fin can provide extraordinary fun.
Specialist literature, sources & further links
You can find more information on this topic here:
- Beco products: http://www.beco-products.com/about_beco.htm
- Speedo: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speedo
- Arena: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arena_(swimwear)
- Cressi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cressi-Sub
- General facts: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swimfin
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