Swim Fins for Bodyboarding & Bodysurfing

Which swim fins should you get?

Shopping for a board too? See our bodyboards.

How should swim fins fit?

Snug, with no heel slipping, but not so tight they pinch. Fins are sized by shoe size, and each brand runs a little differently. Churchill recommends sizing up if you're between sizes. For DaFin, use our DaFin size chart. If your fins end up a little loose, neoprene fin socks fill the gap and protect your feet from rubbing.

Do you need fin socks and fin tethers?

They're worth having in real surf. Fin socks are thin neoprene socks that sit between the fin and your skin, so they stop blisters and tighten up a loose fit. Fin tethers and fin savers strap the fin to your ankle, so a strong wave can't pull it off and leave you swimming in with one fin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best fins for bodyboarding?

Short, stiff rubber fins that give you quick bursts of speed. Churchill's Makapuu is the classic choice, and DaFin's Pro Classic and Alton's Orin are good options too.

Can I bodyboard without fins?

You can on small days, but fins make a big difference. They help you kick into waves earlier, get back out through the whitewater and stay in position.

Should I size up or down for fins?

Go for a snug fit. If you're between sizes, size up, which is what Churchill recommends, and wear neoprene fin socks to fill the space and protect your feet from rubbing.

What size DaFin should I get?

DaFin Pro Classics come in sizes XXS to XL, sized by shoe size. Check our DaFin size chart to find yours.

Are longer or shorter fins better?

For bodyboarding and bodysurfing, shorter fins. They let you kick fast to catch waves. Longer fins are better for distance swimming and diving, where steady kicks matter more than quick bursts.

What are bodysurfing fins?

Short, powerful swim fins made for catching waves with your body. DaFin and Churchill's Vortex are both made with bodysurfers and lifeguards in mind.

What is the difference between Churchill and DaFin fins?

Churchill's Makapuu is the classic bodyboarding fin, with a split dolphin-tail blade and a history going back to 1936. DaFin was developed in Hawaii with top watermen, fits either foot, and is a favorite with bodysurfers and lifeguards. Try both on if you can, since fit is personal.

Do I need fin tethers?

They're a good idea in real surf. A strong wave can pull a fin off your foot, and tethers or fin savers keep it attached.

What are swim fins good for?

Speed and power in the water. They help you catch waves bodyboarding or bodysurfing, swim farther with less effort and move with more control in the ocean.

Where can I buy Churchill fins near me?

At our six Southern California shops in Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Dana Point, Hermosa Beach and Santa Monica, or online. Stock varies by shop, so call ahead.