Duck foot -fyi- history

[USdiver1]

@George austin,

You're a better man than I to still be using duck feet everyday. I swim a mile three times a week with my full foot Mares Avanti fins, and do most of my scuba dives with a set of twin 72s on my back while being propelled by an old set of USD Super Rocket fins. I just participated this last weekend in Sea Hunt Forever in Ocala, FL using a full compliment of vintage equipment. I dove both a full foot set of Swimaster UDT Duck Feet (black, natural rubber) and and open heel set of AMF VOIT UDT Duck Feet (black rubber - stiffer than hell). There is much work and resistance in using Duck Feet. Every stroke, up or down, in my flutter kick was a power stroke. After two days, I was walking with a limp, the muscles in my shins being tight due to lactic acid buildup. Duck Feet are a chore to use. Much harder work than either the Avantis or Rocket Fins.

 

[aquajedi]

From the Orange County California Public Libraries archives:

Duck feet brand diving fins manufactured by the Spearfisherman Company, 7521 Clay Street, Huntington Beach, April 16, 1951 :: OC Stories

What is fascinating about this photo to me is the mold being used. I didn't realize they were producing the new version/mold of duck feet in 1951. Would these have been the mostly blue duck feet?

 

[george_austin]

@USdiver1
I like my USD Super Rockets as well - use them rather often. My only issue with the UDT is is I forget to bring socks. After 9 or ten dives the top of a bare foot is raw and bloody

 

[USdiver1]

@USdiver1
My only issue with the UDT is is I forget to bring socks. After 9 or ten dives the top of a bare foot is raw and bloody

Agreed. Here is a link to some lycra socks. Cheap and excellent at protecting toes and the top of feet.

Amazon.com : Deep See Elastain Fin Socks, Black : Diving Swim Fins : Sports & Outdoors

My LDS carries them for the same price, check to see if they are available in your locale.

 

[george_austin]

Thanks, great price ! I just ordered 2 pair. Yes, my LDS carries them but I'm in LA so obviously the Amazon price is a lot better.