Fins rub my toes raw

[aedwards92]

When diving locally I use my Aqualung boots and fins and they work great.
When I travel I rent most of my gear, including fins and since I travel to warm waters they only offer the slip on fins. Problem is that these always rub the top of my toes bloody. I've tried different sizes, bigger, smaller, and it still happens.
I bought a pair of neoprene socks and while they help some, after 2 dives they start to blister.

I've thought of buying a pair of travel fins but most don't seem to fit in a carry-on suitcase (which is what I tend to travel with).
Any suggestions of what to do?

 

[ColoDale]

With new booties, I have the same problem before they are broken in. I don't use slip on fins. In any case I have found that half inch medical/athletic tape (plastic) wrapped over whatever joint or area that has the issue solves the problem. It generally does not move or come off in saltwater. I can buy the tape at any place selling first aid supplies.
I have used scuba socks (lycra) at times but if the thicker neoprene socks don't work then lycra probably would not work as they are thinner.

 

[aedwards92]

actually the ones I have are lycra, not neoprene.
I thought of using tape but thought it would just come off in the water. I'll give it a try next time.
Thanks.

 

[Saboteur]

When diving locally I use my Aqualung boots and fins and they work great.
When I travel I rent most of my gear, including fins and since I travel to warm waters they only offer the slip on fins. Problem is that these always rub the top of my toes bloody. I've tried different sizes, bigger, smaller, and it still happens.
I bought a pair of neoprene socks and while they help some, after 2 dives they start to blister.

I've thought of buying a pair of travel fins but most don't seem to fit in a carry-on suitcase (which is what I tend to travel with).
Any suggestions of what to do?

Perhaps try thinner lycra socks. Scubapro makes the GO travel fin, designed to fit in carry-on luggage. Scubapro also makes a modular fin that breaks down into components. Maybe take your carry-on to the LDS and check on a few brands?

 

[USdiver1]

I have had good luck with the lycra socks, but if you are getting blisters with lycra, get some thin 2-3mm ankle high neoprene socks, they should provide more protection than the lycra.

moleskin tape will help out in a pinch.

 

[aedwards92]

I have had good luck with the lycra socks, but if you are getting blisters with lycra, get some thin 2-3mm ankle high neoprene socks, they should provide more protection than the lycra.

moleskin tape will help out in a pinch.

I'll definitely look into neoprene socks, thanks.

 

[happy-diver]

These things are wonderful