Best Scuba Fins for Wide Feet
Scuba diving requires the appropriate gear for maximum fun and safety. Without the proper gear, divers can end up sustaining injuries both physical and physiological. Just like divers with narrow or small feet need to find snugly fitting fins, so do those with wide feet. Finding the perfect fin fit can be a hustle but don’t worry. In this article, we’ll look into the best scuba fins for wide feet.
When shopping for the best scuba fins for wide feet, divers must consider the foot pocket. Other factors such as the fin style, efficacy, color, or design come after. While it may be challenging to find a pair of fins with all the desired features, doesn’t mean it’s not possible.
Looking at what qualifies as a wide foot will differ among individuals. Some have small wide feet while others have big and wide feet.
Generally, a shoe size with a width “D” is considered big, and may be easier to find snugly fitting fins compared to someone with a shoe width size “E”.
There are many types of open-heel fins that can comfortably fit a standard D-size foot. However, for those with width “E” of multiple Es in their shoe width, it will take a lot of time trying on different types of fins. It’s also advisable to shop for the fins in person so you can have a chance to try them on before making the investment.
Remember to factor in the dive boot style when buying your fins. Buying a size bigger helps accommodate the dive boot without causing any discomfort.
While this is not a comprehensive list, below are some of the best scuba fins for wide feet. Due to differences in feet shapes and width, the fins are not universal.
Let’s get right into it!
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Scubapro GO Travel Fins
The Scubapro GO Travel Fins are not only ideal for travel but also great for wide feet. Divers with small or regular-sized feet that are also wide will love the foot pocket on these fins.
The foot pocket in the 2XL Scubapro fins fits snugly on a male foot size 13 extra wide (5E) with 3mm dive booties. Being the largest size currently available for this fin, this is a great option for both male and female divers with wide feet.
The fins can be worn with or without scuba boots. The fin design covers the foot heel while giving a feel of open fins. The bungee strap makes it very easy to put on or take off the fins.
Divers with big and extra wide feet over size 13 may find the fins uncomfortable or pressing on their pinky toes.
More reasons to love this fin are that they are very lightweight and convenient for travel. In addition, they fit perfectly in the approved carry-on bag recommended by airlines.
These high-performance fins are very versatile and ideal for diving in different conditions such as in warm or cold water. They are also great for beginners in scuba diving and for snorkellers.
I personally own a pair of these fins and even though my foot is not very wide, I find them to fit perfectly with 5 mm diving boots. I can’t recommend them enough.
READ MORE: Do You Wear Dive Boots with Fins?
Atomic Aquatics Split Fins Smoke on The Water
These fins are designed for divers with big and wide feet. The foot pocket is wide enough to accommodate a size 13 extra wide and above for the latest size available.
Divers with extra big and wide feet may experience slight pressing of the pinky toe against the fin. This however is in a few cases. Most divers with wide and big feet experience a snug fitting in this particular fin type.
Scuba divers with smaller but wide feet may find the fins useful when wearing thing diving booties. However, they may still be too big for a diver with a generally small foot.
The fin has a split fin design meaning that as a diver you will experience powerful thrusts while applying little kick effort. The drag in split fins is highly reduced preventing foot muscle cramping.
The sole platform extends to the foot heel. This helps in reducing the pressure against your sole arch while kicking as this can also lead to cramping and using a lot of effort in the recovery kicks.
More features to love about these fins include the lightweight design and the bungee strap for easy putting on and taking them off. Not forgetting the 180 degrees swivel buckle for easy strap adjustment.
Lastly, the foot pocket is open on both ends creating extra room for the foot.
The only disadvantage to these fins is that they may not fit divers with smaller wide feet.
Atomic Aquatics Open Heel Scuba Diving Split Fins
These are very similar to the Atomic Aquatics Split Fins Smoke on The Water in terms of design, power, and efficiency. Split fin design helps reduce drag while maximizing propulsion.
The only notable difference is the buckle style and color. The fins have an EZ- lock system for easy and fast release with one hand.
Divers enjoy powerful thrust with minimal kick effort meaning you can scuba dive for up to one hour without feeling the heat in your feet.
Read More: Best Scuba Fins for Small Feet
TUSA SF-22 Solla Open Heel Scuba Diving Fins
A relatively new fin model from TUSA, a popular brand among scuba divers for their highly effective gear. The fins have great features to love, from the anatomic fin straps designed to give the diver the utmost comfort. This fin strap design also promotes flexibility and balanced fin control.
The wide foot pocket makes it ideal for divers with wide feet. Divers with very big and extra wide feet may not experience a snug fit with these fins. Those with very big feet may experience discomfort as one toe can get caught up in the drainage hole.
Similarly, it’s important to wear diving socks or booties especially when planning on diving for a longer period. The diving socks or booties prevent toes from getting caught up in the drainage hole.
The fins are very comfortable whether wearing barefoot or with diving socks. The grip on the sole platform ensures the diver is comfortable when preparing to dive in or when stepping on rocky ground.
Divers get to enjoy great thrust while applying minimal kick power. The foot pocket design also adds to the thrusting power by transferring this power to the fins pushing you forward.
Other features to love include the wide color range to choose from. The fins are unisex and the blade has an angled design adding to the propulsion power.
The downside to the fins is that divers with a shoe size over 13 Wide may not fit comfortably, especially when wearing thick diving boots.
Scuba Pro Jet Fins
The Scubapro jet fins have a more traditional fin style. Made from rubber you are certain they will last you a lifetime.
The foot pocket is wide enough for wide feet. However, when buying this particular fin style, it’s advisable to buy a size bigger than what you would normally buy for other open-heel fins. The Scuba jet fin design tends to run small, especially when wearing thick diving booties.
Divers with experience in frog kicking will love and enjoy diving in these fins. Highly recommended for cave and wreck divers.
Looking at the sole platform it’s a mid-size meaning it will only cover half the foot sole. While this may not be an issue for advanced divers, beginners have a hard time kicking and thrusting using the fins.
In addition, the design isn’t very kicking-friendly for most beginners. Naturally, a diver wearing the fins has to apply a lot of effort in their kicks. This will tire you very quickly and could cause cramping.
Another downside to the fins is the strap style. The spring straps are great for security and adjustability according to foot size but they can press on your skin causing discomfort especially if you pick a small size.
Read More: Best Fins for Strong Currents
Scubapro Unisex Jet Sport Fins
Beginners experiencing difficulty using the ScubaPo Jet fins will love the Scubapro unisex Jet sport fins. These lightweight rubber fins have jets conveniently located on the fins to reduce drag while maximizing thrust and maintaining buoyancy.
The open heel fins feature a modern design with the sole platform extending backward towards your sole. This design ensures divers don’t experience cramping due to forceful kicks.
With easy quick-release buckle straps, you are sure of easy don and doff.
Just like the Scuba Jet fins, the foot pocket on these fins is very wide ideal for divers with wide and big feet equally. While wearing diving boots, the fins fit snuggly without pressing onto the skin.
When buying these fins, no need to go a size bigger than what you normally wear as the foot pocket is very wide and comfortable with thick booties.
Scubapro Twin Jet Max Open Heel Split Fins
Last but not least the twin jet max fins are ideal for big and wide feet. According to Amazon reviews from buyers, the fin size tends to run big. This is a great sign for those with big extra wide feet as the sizes would fit perfectly even without a diving boot.
As mentioned several times before, the split fin design reduces drag while promoting thrust. Divers apply minimal force for powerful thrust. Due to this high technology, the fins are great for conserving air allowing longer dives.
In addition, the vents promote water flow ensuring a powerful upstroke. More features to love include the easy-release spring strap.
Parting Words
We’ve looked into some of the best scuba fins for wide feet. Finding a pair of fins that fits snugly, last long, and is great value for money is a big win. The above list will help you make in finding your next dive fins without breaking the bank.
It’s important to note that depending on the width and length of your feet, some of these recommended fins may run big or small.
Look for fins that offer comfort, have great efficiency, and are a snug fit for your feet.
Happy shopping and Diving!
