The attachment system
The attachment system to choose for use with fishing waders that provides a good hold is the one with an open heel and a strap passing behind it. This system ensures a good hold of the fin during its use. Older systems, often made with several straps, should be avoided because their adjustment is tedious and they tend not to hold their position for long.
Width of the shoe
The width of the shoe, i.e. the width of the foot opening, varies according to the model. It is important to choose the right size according to the way you wear your shoes, otherwise you risk getting tired or injuring yourself. The foot must be able to sink properly into the shoe so that the fin remains well stuck to the foot during use.
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Large shoe
The fins dedicated to float-tube have a wide boot opening which requires the use of boots or some wading shoes. This is interesting if you are looking for comfort, especially in terms of ankle support.
For years, this wide foot opening was only offered with short fins. Lately, for those who want long fins with a wide foot opening, brands like Savage gear and Madcat offer interesting products.
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Narrow fit
Diving fins have a narrower boot opening which does not always make them adaptable to waders boots and incompatible with wading shoes. They are therefore best used with a waders type of slippers. It is possible to put the fins directly on the neoprene liner of the waders, but this may damage it prematurely due to the wear and tear caused by repeated rubbing of the fins on the liner. It is therefore preferable to protect the waders with a diving boot or a neoprene sock.
The diving boot, with its rigid sole, is more resistant and comfortable and will be adapted when you have a long walk before entering the water. Concerning the size to choose, you must count at least 2 sizes higher than your shoe size because the one comes above the waders. The absence of boot and this type of waders gives a certain lightness and comfort but solicits more the ankle. This is not dramatic, just a little more tiring during long sessions.
During the summer season, if you want to go float-tubing in swim shorts, a pair of diving fins with booties will be the ideal solution.
Conclusion
The best configuration, in my opinion, remains the waders type booties, accompanied by diving boots and diving fins. This combination will give you performance, versatility and durability. However, if you want to focus on comfort rather than performance, or if you want to fish occasionally in a float tube, it may be interesting to choose fins dedicated to float-tube fishing.
Some references of diving fins ideal for the practice of float-tube:
- Cressi frog plus
- Cressi pro light
- Mares avanti quattro
