Paddle Fins -
The Original Scuba Flipper!

Paddle Fins

Paddle fins, of all the scuba flipper styles, are definitely the most common and conventional. The mechanics behind this flipper are very basic. When you kick, the blade of the fin (since it has greater surface area than your foot alone), is able to push more water and therefore propel you forward more efficiently.

PROS:

•Great for beginners. Since it is the most basic flipper, it will give you a good foundation.

•Least expensive. You can usually find a good model of this flipper for under $30.

•Most common. Since it is the most common, it is usually easiest to find.

•Very versatile. Many believe that the original fin is the most versatile flipper around.

CONS:

•Drag. Due to the design, water accumulates on the top of the flipper, which causes drag and forces the diver to exert more effort to overcome this issue.

•Speed. Because of the drag that is created, you’ll find your speed is more limited in this style of fin compared to other designs.

•Efficiency. Although many believe it is the most versatile, many also think it is the least efficient style of all scuba flippers.

Modified Paddle Fins

The design of the traditional flippers definitely gets the job done; however, as I said, they are constantly coming up with ways to improve in the scuba industry. Some of those improvements can be seen in the modified paddle fin. The same pros and cons basically apply, but the advancements made to this style of flipper lessen some of the disadvantages. For example, the unwanted drag that was created by the original paddle flippers is greatly decreased in the modified version through the use of angles, grooves, channels.

In the modified paddle flipper, the water is moved or directed to be in the most advantageous position based on where you are in your kick. In other words, the grooves, channels, etc., push the water to where it can be most efficient. Not only does this produce more powerful movement with each kick, but it also lessens the drag. That water that used to accumulate at the top of the flipper in your old fins is now pushed down the angled blades on your new, modified fins.

Another version of the modified flipper employs vents or blades to overcome the drag. Small vents open backwards on the underside and forwards on the upper-side, allowing water to rush back as the diver swims. This flow of water that shoots out of theses vents prevents the water accumulation and drag.

No matter which of the different modified scuba flipper styles you choose, both have the same advantage: Use less energy for the same power.

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