Introduction Which Attachments? Which Buoyancy Compensator? Which Computer/ Dive Timer? Which Compass? Which Contents Gauge? Which Dive Bag? Which Fins? Which Knife? Which Mask? Which Reel? Which Regulator? Which Snorkel? Which Surface Marker Buoy? Which Suit and Options? Which Tanks? Overview - Which Single Cylinders? - Which Pony Cylinders? - Which Twin Sets? - Which Deco/ Stage Tank? - Which Argon System? Which Torch? - Which Back-up Torch? - Which Main Torch? Which Watch? Which Weight System?	Marking Template for EAN50 Marking Template for O2 Modifying AP Valve SMB's Modifying Other Style SMB's What Do I Need to Make My Own B'C'?	Introduction Modified Valve Drill Valve Drill Modified S-Drill S-Drill Switching to Deco Bottle

Which Fins?

You have an initial choice of pool fins or sea fins. Pool fins tend to be cheaper but are made to go over a bare foot so are unsuitable for UK waters. The best way to buy a set of fins is to ask to borrow fins from other club members and try them out first, particularly if you are thinking of going for one of the more expensive models. Things to look for:

	Can I swim for extended periods without feeling tired?
	Are they comfortable? You may wear them for more than an hour at a time.
	Are the fin straps and fittings solid? Will they hold the fins securely on my feet and last. Plastic buckles are subject to a great deal of stress and may fail when metal buckle alternatives won't.
	Is the fin very flexible? Generally the more flexible it is, the less efficient it is.
	Are they going to stir up the sea-bottom?
	Are they so long that I will find them too cumbersome when I have to climb a boat ladder?
	Will they make my feet float?
	Will they fit over my suit boots or are they just for pool work?

Recommendations It may be worth considering buying pool fins when you initially start training. These are generally cheaper than sea fins and mean that you don't also need to buy yourself wet suit boots as a first step. This will also limit the amount of effort it takes to wash and dry your kit every week. If you buy sea fins straight off then there is no guarantee that they will ultimately fit whichever type of suit you end up with. "Scubapro Jet Fins" or "Turtle Fins" for those who have a larger foot size (pictured above) are both options worth considering when you buy your sea fins, since they are very resilient (ballistic almost) and allow you to modify your finning action to avoid stirring up the bottom. They additionally reduce/eliminate the need for ankle weights since they are negatively buoyant. "Scubapro Jet Fins" are available from any good dive store, "Turtle Fins" are available from Underwater Explorers. Some people choose to fit their fins with "spring straps" or even bungee instead of the standard rubber straps which they come with. These tend to be more resilient and reliable. They can be obtained from Halcyon through Underwater Explorers Alternatively a site containing useful information about making spring straps is on http://www.deeperstuff.com/spring-strap.htm,(the site is currently off-line but it is worth a try in case it has come back since.) If you chose to make your own, stainless steel springs can be ordered in 1 metre lengths from Euro Stock Springs, Part No T49120. (Don't confuse Scubapro's "Twin" Jet Fins with their Jet fins - these are two completely different products)

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	Good/Essential Features.
	Mixed Good/Bad features depending on the circumstances.
	Bad Features.
	Points requiring your consideration depending on your personal circumstances.
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	Tips, Ideas and general information for your attention.
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Diving can be a hazardous sport and the information contained within this site is not intended to replace formal training. Furthermore no responsibility will be accepted for any accidents, injuries or financial disadvantage, howsoever caused.

Copyright © H Beasley 01 August 2001 All Rights Reserved