"Mermaid Slippers": Finding the Perfect Freediving Fins

The Journey Begins: Choosing Your First Freediving Fins

Congratulations! You've completed your level 1 freediving course and are eagerly diving into the world of freediving. The first step in enhancing your freediving technique is investing in the right equipment—starting with your first pair of freediving fins.

The Common Mistakes in Selecting Freediving Gear

Many freedivers, myself included, have made the mistake of purchasing fins based on recommendations without knowing if they fit properly. You might find yourself ordering long, stiff plastic fins, recommended by a friendly chap on Facebook. To cover potential fitting issues, you throw in some socks and fin straps. Does this sound familiar?

Instructor Insights: The Physical Demands of Freediving

As a freedive instructor clocking up to 80 dives a day, the toll on my body is significant. At the water's edge, my ankles and Achilles tendon often scream in protest. Long hours of finning also click my knee, tenderize my calf muscles, and leave my limbs weeping in silent protest.

The Impact of Ill-Fitting Fins on Physical Health

Through my teaching and Pilates practice, I've realized the importance of proper fitting gear to prevent wear and tear on my body. I began to focus on mobility, strengthening my ankles and feet, and refining my leg alignment and kicking technique. Despite improvements, the wrong fins continued to cause pain.

The History of My Freediving Fin Choices

I started my journey with long plastic Cressi fins, typical of a novice, and later upgraded to carbon fins after completing my instructor course. Unfortunately, these too came with their issues: blades too stiff, ill-fitting foot pockets, and the unpleasant loss of a toenail.

Finding Relief with Custom Freediving Fins

Enter Alexey Molchanov and the custom foot pocket fins. It seemed as if everyone was wearing his CS1 fins, sparking my intrigue. I invested significantly in a custom-made pair, and after six weeks, my life changed.

The Transformational Experience with Perfect Fitting Gear

With my new fins, my right knee stopped clicking, foot alignment improved, and the soft blades felt like natural extensions of my feet. My student aptly named them "Mermaid slippers." Now, I no longer experience lactic acid build-up or ankle pain after deep dives. Freediving is once again a joy.

The Importance of Prioritizing Comfort and Fit in Freediving Equipment

This experience taught me that proper fitting gear is crucial for overall well-being. It's not just about selecting the most expensive pair but finding what's best suited to your body.

Conclusion: Listen to Your Body and Choose the Right Freediving Equipment

Invest in your health by choosing gear that fits well. Whether it's fins or other equipment, your comfort should be the priority. Remember, aging isn't always the cause of discomfort—sometimes, it's just poorly fitting gear.

For more information on incorporating Pilates to refine your freediving technique, contact Apneista to learn more about our courses.

Anna-Marie Richardson, Freediving & Pilates Instructor