Why wearing fins in the ocean is more than okay
It’s funny how a simple pair of fins (flippers) can make even the most confident swimmer second-guess themselves. You’re standing on the sand, fins in hand, and suddenly that little voice asks whether you should even wear them. But if fins help you feel stronger, safer, or simply more joyful in the ocean, then they’re not just okay – they’re one of the best tools you can give yourself.
This is your swim and your way.
The difference fins can make
Once you take that first step, fins open up a whole new rhythm in the water. You get a little more lift and glide, and the ocean starts to feel more welcoming. The outside bank becomes easier to reach, longer swims feel within range, and the chop softens into something you can move through instead of battle. Your confidence expands naturally and safely.
You also start noticing more about your swimming – your rotation, timing, and body position – because fins don’t replace your effort, they simply help you tune into it.
Choosing the right fins
There are plenty of styles out there. Smaller, softer pool fins are the friendliest place to start. Longer, firmer bodysurfing fins are brilliant once you’re ready for more power. Whichever you choose, take them into the pool first. Fins wake up muscles that don’t get much attention in regular swimming, and unconditioned legs cramp fast. Better to learn that in the calm of the pool than your first trip out the back.
How to put them on (smoothly)
Putting fins on becomes easy once you know the trick.
Walk into knee-deep water.
Turn your back to the waves.
Lean into each rise of water for balance.
Keep one eye over your shoulder for anything approaching.
Slip your fins on during the lulls, then walk backwards into deeper water and take a shallow dive.
How to take them off (without the chaos)
Coming in works the same way. Stop in waist-deep water, turn your back to the waves, lean into them, and remove one fin at a time during the calm moments. You can also roll onto your back and float while you slip them off, keeping an eye on the swell. And if all else fails, just wander into the shallows and beach yourself like a happy whale. It’s a perfectly valid technique.
Making fins part of your ocean life
You won’t wear fins every swim, and you don’t need to. But weaving them into your ocean routine – on days when you want to go a little further, feel a little steadier, or stay out just a touch longer – can turn an ordinary outing into something quietly magic. Fins are teachers, confidence builders, and gentle adventure extenders.
If they help you explore more, feel more at ease, or enjoy the ocean in new ways, reach for them without hesitation. There’s no rulebook out here – just you, the water, and what feels good.
