For a bodysurfer, the right swim fins are even more important than the board. When you’re deep in the water, it’s next to impossible to get onto the bodysurf without fins. You need a good acceleration and propulsion force to catch the wave. Here’s a review of top fins models for bodysurfers to help you decide.
| Title | DaFin Fins | Churchill Makapuu Fins | Viper V5 Fins | Voit Duck Feet Fins | Hydro Tech 2 Fins |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Picture |  |  |  |  |  |
| Material | Natural rubber | Natural rubber | Natural rubber | Natural rubber | Silicone |
| Shape | Shortened rims, central spine, two curves and a tip on the edge | Smooth asymmetrical edge, medium-sized rims | Large stiff rims, triangular blade | Long blade, central spine | V-Rail rim, asymmetrical curved edge |
| Weight | 1,5 lbs | 3 lbs | 4.5 lbs | 4 lbs | 2.2 lbs |
| Accessories | Mesh bag | Mesh bag | – | – | – |
| Float in salt water | + | + | + | – | – |
| Worn on either foot | + | – | + | + | – |
| Foot pocket | V-shaped, soft on the top | Soft, thick heel straps | Stiff on both sides | Narrow, tight heel strap | Soft, anti-slip texture |
| Drainage holes | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Price | $64.95-$92.99 | $52.98-$69.95 | n/a | $52.41 | $70.00 |
DaFin Fins – Easy maneuvers and comfortable paddling
Designed by professional Australian and Hawaiian lifeguards and surfers, DaFin fins are endorsed by thousands of American rescuers. The side rim ends in the middle of the blade, just at the tips of your toes. Maximum force of your stroke is transferred to the front part, which gives you extra propulsion power. This means incredible speed on the wave, excellent maneuverability, a quick swim from the floor to the surface, and superior lifting power during rescue. The foot pocket is soft enough to wear the fins barefooted. And DaFins are easy to carry around: they weigh only 1.5 lbs and come with a durable mesh bag. The wide endorsement by lifesaving associations speaks for itself: DaFins are just as cool as the coastal lifeguards.
Pros:
- Reliability and power even in harsh surfing conditions
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear
- You’ll never mistake the left fin for the right one because they’re identical
Cons:
- Softer than most pro-level fins
- No fin savers included
Churchill Makapuu Fins – classic design and durability
Buying these asymmetric fins, you actually get two swimming aids. Put your feet apart and enjoy a pair of classic stiff fins. Put your feet together and swim like a dolphin by making powerful two-leg strokes. The foot pocket is rather soft, but some surfers recommend wearing socks. The stiff side rims and the hard rubber on the edges are perfect for fast paddling and steering while on the board. The natural rubber floats in salty water.
Pros:
- Time-tested classic made since 1936
- Stiff rims and edges for optimal thrust and durability
- More options in the small size range
Cons:
- May feel too heavy for beginners
- The fins may twist due to asymmetrical edge
Viper V5 Fins – Best bet for lightning-fast swimming
A well-known model of hardy and powerful fins. The sharp edges, thick straight rims, and a rigid foot pocket, designed special for bodyboarders, provide exceptional control of strokes. The irregular yellow blobs add spice to the otherwise minimalistic design. In short, that’s a serious fin for skilled bodyboarders.
Pros:
- Super-fast due to large paddling surface
- Optimal blade length for quick powerful kicks
Cons:
- Beginners can get tired quickly
- Stiff and narrow foot pockets
Voit Duck Feet Fins – Long and stiff for fast acceleration
The long blade and the recognizable edge shape gave these fins their name. Designed for experienced surfers and boarders, they give you rapid acceleration after just a few strong kicks. The central spine aids in steering on the board, and the flexible tip of the blade enhances both forward and backward kicks.
Pros:
- Decent thrust with minimal muscle power
- A reliable tight heel strap
- A wide selection of smaller sizes
Cons:
- Foot pockets may be too narrow for those with wide feet
- Might be difficult to maneuver and make short kicks
Hydro Tech 2 Fins – Original design for stability and comfort
The softest and the most unusual model of all five. These fins are made from silicone and have a V-Rail instead of the traditional side rim. The V-Rail doubles the surface area of the side edge, which stabilizes the foot and increases thrust. Those who ride in the dropknee position will enjoy the stability and comfort of these fins.
Pros:
- Comfortable heel strap with a cutout for the ankle bone
- The asymmetrical blade curve distributes the load evenly on the leg muscles
Cons:
- May feel too soft for those who like classic stiff fins
Advice !
To ensure long-term comfort during the ride, consider the available sizes, shapes of the foot pocket and strap, and the number and position of drainage holes. The features that affect speed are blade length and shape, side rims, and blade stiffness. In addition to your foot size and width, you need to figure out the socks/booties issue. If you decide to use them, consider their thickness and order 1-2 sizes larger fins than you would without them.
Conclusion
Experienced surfers recommend starting with shorter and softer fins, and upgrading to longer and stiffer models after training. Hydro Tech 2 might be the best option for comfortable learning. Makapuus will suit both beginners and skilled bodysurfers. DaFins and Duck Feet are great for professionals who already know how to paddle quickly. To feel all the advantages of Viper V5, you need a lot of muscle power and endurance. Whether you have a lifetime experience or just a dream of bodysurfing/bodyboarding, there is a perfect pair of fins for you.