Did you know? The modern design of the fin was invented by a Lieutenant Commander in the French Navy, Louis de Corlieu (source). Inspired by how the webbed feet on frogs and ducks propel them through water, de Corlieu designed wearable swim fins that work in a similar manner. He demonstrated his first prototype to the public in 1914 and later left the navy to refine the design, patenting it in 1933. By 1939, the propulseurs de natation et de sauvetage (swimming and rescue propulsion device) … [Read more...] about How Do Swim Fins Work? (SCUBA and Snorkeling)
Gear Guides
Split Fins for Snorkeling? (How They Work and Recommended Models)
The modern design of the fin was invented in 1914 by a Lieutenant Commander in the French Navy, Louis de Corlieu (source). Since then, the design of the humble swim fin has seen countless iterations, styles, and designs to suit many different kinds of activities from snorkeling to SCUBA! One design that has become especially popular in recent years is the split fin. But is this new trend legit or just a gimmick? As it turns out, split fins can be a great choice for snorkeling! But to … [Read more...] about Split Fins for Snorkeling? (How They Work and Recommended Models)
What’s the Difference Between Snorkeling Fins and SCUBA Fins?
If you're in the market for a pair of fins to use on your next snorkeling trip, you might be confused about what kind of fin to buy. You should be buying your snorkeling gear at a dedicated dive shop (you can read this article to learn why that is important). However, that means many of the fins you'll come across will be designed for SCUBA divers, not snorkeling. But isn't a fin just a fin? What's the difference between snorkeling and SCUBA fins? SCUBA fins tend to be longer, stiffer, and … [Read more...] about What’s the Difference Between Snorkeling Fins and SCUBA Fins?
Where To Buy Snorkeling Gear That’s High-Quality
If you’ve decided to buy your own snorkeling gear, you’re looking for a more personal connection with the water. Renting and impulse buying won’t cut it for you. I think that’s awesome! Even if you’re a total beginner, investing in your own gear is a wise decision you won’t regret. When taken care of, a quality mask, snorkel, and fins will last you 25+ years! You’re making a long-term investment that will set you forth on all kinds of adventures. That includes not only snorkeling but SCUBA and … [Read more...] about Where To Buy Snorkeling Gear That’s High-Quality
No-Leak Dive Mask: How to Get a Perfect Seal
There are few things more frustrating for a diver or snorkeler. There you are trying to appreciate the jaw-dropping underwater vistas around you when your eye starts twitching... that light trickle over the sensitive skin just below your bottom eyelid is one of the most annoying feelings! Or maybe you notice a cold puddle building up in your nose pocket, the salt stinging the sensitive tissue inside your nostrils... Ugh! How can you stop this unpleasantness once and for all? Is there such thing … [Read more...] about No-Leak Dive Mask: How to Get a Perfect Seal