Bodysurfing Fins review (2020)
Whales, dolphins, seals, walruses – what do these marine mammals all have in common…they all have FLIPPERS!
Ok ok…yes, for these naturals of the water the mechanics are inbuilt. However, aspiring bodysurfers are fortunate in the sense that we have a huge variety of flippers or bodysurfing fins to choose from.
Choosing the perfect bodysurfing fins will maximise your bodysurfing experience. In order to help you choose which fins will best supplement your bodysurfing handboard we’ve reviewed a range of brands and models.
1. DaFin
DaFin are probably the most renowned bodysurfing fins in the world.
Developed by Andy Cochran, an Aussie who has made Hawaii his home for the past 30 years, they have quickly become a staple of many lifeguards and bodysurfers, including the legendary Mark Cunningham.
With it’s signature low angle wedge-type design, the soft foot pocket provides comfort whilst the hard blade gives that extra kicking power.
A grooved underside provide grip for those inclined to surf reefs and enter via rocks.
Why they’re rad?:
Made of high-grade Malaysian rubber
Endorsed by United States Lifesaving Association (USLA), Hawaiian Lifeguard Association and numerous Australian SLSC
Ultra comfortable foot pocket
Large amounts of power
Flexible enough to walk in outside of of the water
Can be worn on either foot
They float
Lots of colours/design options to choose from
If we have to be picky:
· Not a great fit for those with a wider foot
Overall: It’s hard to beat a pair DaFins. They are a classic, all round, bodysurfing flipper.
DaFiNs | WAW Handplanes review score
9.5/10
2. Stealth S1
If you grew up around an Australian beach, you will have seen a pair of these fins at some point in time, usually accompanying a bodyboard. The dolphin cut blade with the open water drainage hole in the bottom has been a timeless design for bodyboarders past, present and now bodysurfers too!
A timeless classic, the Stealth S1 are an excellent and economical way to get your foot in the door (or a fin 😏) of bodysurfing flippers. With a secure foot pocket and a comfortable yet robust Malaysian rubber design, they offer extreme power and speed in the water. The asymmetrical concept is designed to allow for a more precise directional kicking approach.
Why they are rad?:
Excellent speed & power
Secure foot pocket
Long outer blades for maximum wave face traction.
Great price
If we have to be picky:
· Harder foot pocket can be uncomfortable for some.
STEALTH | WAW Handplanes review score
9/10
3. DMC REPELLOR FINS
A brainchild of one of Australia’s most decorated bodysurfers, Don McCredie the DMC REPELLOR® uses patent pending technology - 'RVR'- REVERSE VEE RAIL designed to capture the maximum volume of water and increase power during the down kick as well as offering power in the up kick.
These fins are lot softer and more flexible than the majority of bodysurfing fins on the market – they are moulded from an non-abrasive material called Silform, as opposed to rubber.
Why they are rad?:
Good power
Minimal cramping
Secure foot pocket
Very comfortable
Flexible enough to walk in outside of of the water
Great for those with wider feet
Comes with free fin savers
If we have to be picky:
Fins may be too soft for some
Slightly less power
The fit is not great for those with a narrow foot
DMC Repellors | WAW Handplanes review score
8.5/10
4. Yucca Fins
Yucca Fins Standard Stiffness - Red Black
Don’t let the name fool you - there is nothing yucky about Yuccas! Created by Californian waterman Sean Starky, these fins feature a soft rubber pocket with a full length stiffened rail offering a tonne of propulsion with fast kick.
They are available in different levels of stiffness ranging from: Ultra Soft flex, soft flex and standard stiffness.
Hint! Sizing can be a bit on the larger side. We’d recommend adding on the Yuccas Fin foot pocket and heel padding for supreme comfort.
Why they are rad?:
· Dual sand flushing drainage system
· Super comfortable with the added foot pocket and heel padding
· Lots of power
If we have to be picky:
· Shipping costs to Australia
· Be wary of sizing
See more of Yucca fins - https://yuccafins.com/
YUCCAS | WAW Handplanes review score
8.5/10
5. POD Fins-PF2
POD PF2 Swim Fins - Black / Orange
Powerful and sleek, POD’s PF2 swim fins offer speed, power and comfort.
They utilise a Sic Cut® design along with with Unique Splay Rails®, Chisel Blade®, Tread Rails® - in other words a whole range of patented technology ensure a amazing bodysurf experience.
They are a hard fin, which gives extreme level of propulsion.
Why they are rad?:
· Sand flushing design - no chance sand staying in these badboys
· Powerful and direct
· Comfortable foot pocket
If we have to be picky:
· It’s a stiff fin for the strong kickers amongst us.
See more of POD PF2 fins here.