Get the Right Snorkeling Fins

Snorkeling is an activity that a lot of people look forward to when they're on vacation in an area with a lot of water and sea life. That's why snorkeling in Bahamas is so common among tourists and even the locals that snorkel as a routine hobby. Whether you're planning on a guided trip or you just want to do some snorkeling in Bahamas on your own, having the right equipment is important if you're going to have a good experience. You don't need to spend an arm and a leg on snorkeling gear, but one thing you really should pay attention to is the type of fins that you use to propel you through the water. Use this guide to help you pick the right type of fins for snorkeling in Bahamas.

Choose Closed Foot Snorkeling Fins

There are different types of fins out there, but for the average snorkeler who isn't going to be using their fins on a daily basis, the closed foot variety is the best option. Closed foot fins will work best for you because they are generally less expensive to purchase, weigh less than other types of fins, which makes them easier to actually use in the water.

Closed foot fins are also a bit smaller than other types, which means you'll be able to pack them in your luggage with relative ease. You don't have to use booties that go on beneath your closed foot fins either, which will save you additional money on snorkeling supplies. If you need to protect your feet from jagged rocks, water shoes or flip-flops that can be clipped to a belt while snorkeling will work just fine.

Get the Right Fit

The way your snorkeling fins fit is really the most important factor for the novice snorkeler. When you're buying fins, you should look for a pair that is snug but not uncomfortable. Fins that are too large can come off when you kick your feet in the water. The fact that the water will be cooler than your body temperature will also cause the skin on your feet to contract, making the fins even looser.

It can seem difficult and a bit silly to test fins outside of the water, but walking in them and even a few practice kicks can tell you whether or not the fins are right size.

You'll also want to check for potential hard spots inside the fins that may be apparent when you flex your foot back and forth. These spots can cause irritation in the water, especially after a long day of swimming.

Skip the Travel Fins

If you're tempted to buy those travel-style snorkel fins you see for a low price, your best bet is to skip them. They may seem like a good deal, but they aren't very efficient and they're likely to wear blisters onto your feet in the first day. You'll end up tossing them in the trash and buying a better pair, wasting the money you spent on those travel fins anyway.