Last modified on March 12th, 2022 at 10:27 am

Up Your Surfing Game: Get the Best Body Surfing Fins

Are you wanting to get better body surfing fins? Continue reading to learn more about which surfing fin is the most suitable and affordable for you.

Surf’s up!

Summer is here again, and there’s no better time to hit the waves. And, bodysurfing is a great way to catch a few without having to invest in a ton of equipment. In fact, all you’ll need is a pair of good surfing fins.

If you’re new to the sport of bodysurfing or shopping for your first fins, the wide variety might seem overwhelming. But, don’t overthink it! 

In this article, we’ll teach you how to shop for surfing fins and help you find the perfect pair. Keep reading for all the details. 

Fin Design

Bodysurfing fins us a short, compact blade with very little flexibility. This style is what gives your kicks the extra boost needed to catch waves and ride them all the way to the end. 

And, they use a secure ankle strap, to keep them from slipping off of your feet, especially mid-thrust. In fact, unlike fins designed for snorkelers and scuba divers, you won’t see any “full foot” designs that slide on like a sock. 

Bodysurfing fins are different from bodyboarding fins, though the differences in style may seem subtle if you’re a beginner. And, there are some surfers that use one style for both sports – though it isn’t common.

Generally speaking, bodyboarding fins are stiffer and offer more thrust. This extra boost is needed for catching waves with a lightweight board underneath your body. 

Body surfing fins, on the other hand, offer a slightly more flexible feeling and are often made from a softer material like natural rubber. This offers extra comfort and reduces fatigue after a long day of fun in the sun. 

You should never try to bodysurf with snorkeling or scuba diving fins. They won’t offer enough power on the water’s surface, and will likely be very difficult to keep on your feet – especially if you get barrel-rolled by a big one. 

Focus On Fit

Fins for bodysurfing should be comfortable and fit your feet perfectly. When you try your fins on for the first time, look for a fit that isn’t too big or loose – as this can cause blisters, or too tight – as this can cause uncomfortable pressure points and pinch your feet.

Try lifting your foot up and down and imitating kicking motions. You shouldn’t feel the ankle strap sliding or your foot moving around inside the fin. 

Remember, a bad fit on land will be a worse fit in the water! So, never make a purchase based on looks. You’ll regret it in the end.

Believe it or not, weight is also an important part of your fin’s overall fit. Fins that are too heavy will drag your feet down in the water, potentially causing discomfort and keeping you from catching waves. And, fins that are too light were likely designed for other sports and won’t give you the power that you need for active surfing. 

Fins that are too negatively buoyant may also sink to the bottom if they come off of your feet. This can ruin a day in the water, and leave you spending a bundle on replacement gear. 

Keep in mind that some fins fit the same on both feet, and others come in a matched set with a right and left side. When you try your fins on, be sure you have each one on the proper foot. 

Styles Of Surfing Fins

If you aren’t a total newbie, you might prefer a set of fins with some style.  

Classic options like The Viper have been around for years, standing the test of time and holding up to season after season of abuse in the water. But, beware of trendy new models with gimmicky design elements or too many moving pieces. These styles are likely to wear out or break long before you’ve seen a return on your investment.

Not sure what style is best for you? Check out this site for a comprehensive list of all the best models on the market, plus expert reviews. 

Keep in mind that even the most exciting body surfing fins for sale won’t boost your performance if they don’t fit well. So, make the style your final consideration – not your first! 

Shop Smart

If you’re shopping online for body surfing fins, don’t be fooled by knockoff brands or deals that are too good to be true.

You should carefully read each fin style’s reviews, keeping an eye out for positive and negative patterns in customer opinions. If you’re new to the sport, you might also want to purchase a style specifically designed for beginners. These options generally cost less, and are designed to stand the wear and tear that new surfers often put their equipment through. 

Remember, your fins are designed for fun. But, they are also vital safety equipment for bodysurfers. For your own personal security, you should only shop only with trusted retailers. 

Beware of any product with a price that’s too good to be true, and avoid purchasing used equipment unless you personally know the seller. While counterfeit fins might look identical to the real deal, there’s no guarantee that they’ll perform the same way in the water. And, that can put a damper on your performance or even lead to dangerous in-water emergencies. 

If possible, purchase a product with a generous return period and full manufacturer’s warranty – just in case you aren’t satisfied.

Ready, Set, Shop!

Now that you know a bit about surfing fins and how to shop for them, you’re probably excited to start the search for your ideal pair. 

Just remember, focus on fit and performance rather than looks or brand. And, keep in mind that you don’t have to spend a fortune on your very first set. 

If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out the rest of our content. Our blog posts are packed with interesting information about science, nature, pets, sports, and outdoors.