Ever tried paddling out without wearing flippers before? It’s like trying to have a fight in a dream. The harder you try, the less effective it is.

And don’t be a fool and think that fins are all the same – they come in more shapes and sizes than the chicks in your local beer-goggles-on club of a Saturday night. Fins are all different shapes, with different foot pockets, mixes of rubber compounds, ankle straps, blade sizes and drainage holes – and getting the ones that are right for you is key to your success and enjoyment in the water.

A decent pair of fins are the difference between wave-catching heaven and a rub creating hell. So, with your best interests in mind, we got the best selection of aquatic footwear on the market, grabbed a few test pilots and took them for a spin. Check out the results then head to your retailer of choice with a handful of grubby fivers and seal the deal..