How safe are monofins?

Question

My 14 year old daughter wants to buy a monofin. She's saved up for it and my husband and I are just a little worried for her well-being. I looked on google but I couldn't find anything. Could someone tell me from experience how safe these are?

Answer 1

I'd suggest having a word with a freediving association as the type of fin you mention is used by them. Is your daughter interested in the sport?

Here's a wikipedia article that gives some info.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monofins

Answer 2

If she has the idea of relying on it so she can swim... bad idea.  If she is already a good swimmer without needing a mono fin then ask her what is her purpose?  They have very limited use.   Monofins are used for deep diving.  Where did she get this idea and what is she going to do with it?  But after all, it's her hard earned money.  We all go thru this stage.