Short fins for the pool: characteristics, models, choice

Fins are one of the irreplaceable attributes of swimmers. They can be described as foot gear for snorkeling or pool workouts. Short fins are relevant for swimmers who exercise in an artificial reservoir. A variety of models on the modern market will allow you to choose "second legs" for any type.

Aids for the legs during water training visually resemble fins. Some athletes classify this accessory as an athletic shoe.

They increase the foot area and drive the leg, allowing you to develop at a high pace.

The attribute itself consists of:

• strap;
• buckles;
• shoe;
• stiffening rib;
• gutters;
• blades.

When using short fins in training, swimmers find the following benefits.

• The breaststroke, butterfly and crawl techniques are effectively honed. Muscle mass is trained to perform wavy torso throws.
• Flexibility of the foot is developed, because the joints of the feet bear the bulk of the load.
• The physical fitness and speed of the swimmer are improved. He is getting harder and stronger.
• Miniature Swimming Fins help to avoid strong bending of the legs during training.

In addition, short models allow you to take the correct position of the body in the water and give good maneuverability. But the elongated varieties negatively affect the speed of movement. These fins are most often used by divers.

In most cases, adult and children's fins are made of rubber, plastic and hypoallergenic silicone.In this case, the craftsmen use several components of different rigidity at once. Almost all fins have raised edges, ridges and raised logos.

Let's consider the main types of products.

• Open heel (adjustable). A very convenient and practical swimming accessory. Some scuba divers use it as an additional attribute when diving. It is possible to adjust the size of the products. Suitable for adults and teenagers. However, this model has one significant drawback: when immersed in water, the ends of the belt give a feeling of discomfort.
• Wide. Flexible rubber fins are most often used by instructors. In their manufacture, a combination of rubber and thermoplastic is used. Training fins, thanks to their large paddle, protect the legs from fatigue and discomfort while swimming. This model has a variety of colors and affordable cost. The most popular are yellow flippers.
• Closed heel. They are used for immersion in water with a tube. Closed products are ideal for diving and snorkeling. Such models perfectly fit the legs and can be easily removed.
• With a forked blade. This model has a slot in the center of the blade. Thus, she divides it into two halves. Split-blade short fins are great for large artificial ponds.
• Monofins. Interesting product, which is a combined "decoration" for the legs. Outwardly, monofins resemble a fish tail. Most often, carbon is the material for their manufacture. Such models are relevant for training in the pool, but inexperienced swimmers will need an instructor's consultation for the first time. Regular monofin workouts strengthen your back, leg and abdominal muscles.

Also on sale are children's short fins made of silicone or plastic rubber. These products are soft and elastic. Their shapes are similar to adult models. Using children's products, the child will quickly learn to develop speed while swimming.

Pay attention to the following expert recommendations.

• For scuba diving, models with a transverse slit are suitable (the load on the muscles is reduced).
• Longitudinal insert options create a "tunnel effect". This feature increases the speed of movement and saves energy.
• A comfortable diving process depends on the quality of the adjustment and fixation of the mounts on the fins.
• The length of the shortened models does not exceed 65 cm, the middle ones - 80 cm.
• Models in black are considered the most elastic, and multi-colored ones are considered the softest.

Before purchasing the product, you must try on and spend at least 10 minutes in it. If the buyer is uncomfortable, then this option should be abandoned.

You can learn about what short fins are for in the pool from the video below.