I've been considering purchasing some new fins, but I just don't know what to get. I have been using long fins (not scuba ones) for 14 years. I have severe arthritis in my knees and and ankles. Both of my ankle joints are fused. Recently, I was diagnosed with herniated discs in my neck and lower back. I'm beginning to wonder if my long fins are making the back pain worse. I was looking into the Aqua Sphere Alpha fins (those little blue, foot-looking fins that float). Does anyone have experience with both types of fins? Which would be better for bad knees/ankles/back? Thanks guys!!
Former Member
We tested fins for SWIMMER magazine. You can view the video here:
SWIMMER Magazine Fin Testing - YouTube
I did not like the floaty fins, they were very hard to kick DOWN!!!!!
I do like & have the silicone short fins from Keifer!
Former Member
Great info. I read the article, but it was good to actually see it. I guess my next question would be because I have back problems, should I go for a really floaty fin like the Alphas or a regular training fin like the Clubswim trainers?
Former Member
That's kinda what I was thinking; that the floaty fins would make me have to kick too hard and make my back worse, whereas, a middle-of-the-road medium blade fin or a Zoomer would be better. I have really long fins now.
Former Member
Just a thought, but have considered not using fins at all? What benefit do you feel you are getting from them?
Exactly my thoughts. Ditch the fins.
I went to the Zura (now Aquasphere) Alphas - 3-4 years ago and really like them. They are light and comfortable with no blistering (unlike Zoomers and some of the other hard rubber open toe fins). The only problem that I have with them is that after significant use, the heel strap broke on a pair. I have trouble with my right knee and have not had any discomfort with them. I have never noticed that they put any stress on my lower back. After my last pair broke, I tried a pair of Tyr Crossblades after reading the fin review in the USMS magazine. While they were not too bad, I did have a little blistering after doing a long kick set. I experimented again with a friend's pair of Zoomers. I found them to be heavy and just as uncomfortable as I remember them. I happily went back to the Alphas as my primary training fin.
Just a thought, but have considered not using fins at all? What benefit do you feel you are getting from them?
Former Member
I absolutely loathe/hate/despise, etc. distance work. But, I will do the distance sets to work on my breathing and pacing. I wear fins to make the sets go by faster (otherwise I'd be in the pool for over 3 hours). I also use them for SDK sets.
