Question Fin Color and Stiffness

[The Cosmicist]

I've heard some people say this, but I'm curious if it's actually true. Does the color of a fin affect its stiffness? I'm specifically thinking about Jet style fins, so Jets and OMS Slipstreams, etc. I've heard that colors other than black are less stiff due to the dye. Is this actually true? What about other Jet/paddle-style fins?

 

[divad]

This is the best flipper I'v

e ever swum, ......and iza swum 'em all

 

[The Cosmicist]

Thanks everyone. My takeaway is that it doesn't matter, or if there is a difference it's negligible.

 

[Bob Evans]

Interesting subject. like to respond later in the week. Thank you.

 

[Nemrod]

Monoprene and polymer fins the color is not a concern. Rubber fins like the Jets the color can affect the stiffness and in practical use it is not a concern.

James

 

[Bob Evans]

Not sure about all fins, but for the hand-cast Polyurethane systems we have used for over 40 years, the pigment is essential. The natural color of Urethane is amber, a color like an IPA beer. Pigment or dye (tan Delta) is an additive, and a stabilizer is also needed to maintain color integrity over time. This adds to cost but also dilutes the polyurethane. Is it enough to affect performance? Out of the box, not likely, but black is the best over time. It is carbon-based and outlives other pigments.

A much bigger question is how different materials out of which fins are made perform for you. I selected the Skateboarding Polyurethane systems in the early 1970s. The rebound of our Force Fins is like no other. A simple way to test the performance of your fin is our snap test. Thrust is provided by the fin vs. you, which increases efficiency and per kick forward momentum. It's the SNAP - Force Fin