Your Complete Guide to Molchanovs Bifins
By Kristina Zvaritch and Asya Kleshchevnikova
Luckily it’s our favorite subject! At Molchanovs, we have a ton of bifins in our lineup, and all of them are geared toward freediving (but a couple can be used for spearfishing and scuba, too!). We know it can be difficult trying to understand the differences between all of them and how to choose the best one for your needs.
That’s why we created a complete guide to Molchanovs bifins. We want you to understand the different types of bifins out there, the different blade materials, their construction, the best bifins for fun diving, training, and competition, and how to extend their product life.
Are you ready to become an expert? Let’s dive in together!
Where you’ll use bifins:
Photo Credit: @Akivis
At Molchanovs, we have three equipment lines: the CORE, SPORT, and PRO lines:
It’s actually the foot pockets!
Or, more specifically, the foot pocket material and its connection to the blade. Let’s explore this.
The CORE Silicone Bifins foot pockets have:
Ready to upgrade? Enter the SPORT Bifins lineup.
Photo Credit: @evolutionfreediving
The SPORT Silicone Foot Pockets include:
Even better - the mounting plates improve the energy transfer from foot to blade, making them more performance-friendly.
But for the ultimate performance bifins, the PRO line is what you’re looking for!
Photo Credit: @b.blanked
The hand-built foot pockets in PRO line bifins includes:
For CORE/SPORT lines, there are 6 standard sizes that accommodate 2 standard sizes in one (for example, 36 - 37EU).
SPORT Foot Pockets are slightly wider than CORE Line foot pockets - they’re made to be worn comfortably for a long period of time and with socks. If you’re looking for a snug fit, make sure to size down OR buy 2 pairs of foot pockets - one for when you’re not wearing socks and one for when you are!
PRO line foot pockets include 11 standard EU sizes from 35 to 45. To choose the right size, you’ll need to measure your foot length and circumference:
The general rule of thumb freedivers follow is that fiberglass is more durable than carbon fiber, while carbon fiber is more lightweight than fiberglass. But something that is unique to Molchanovs fiberglass is that it is in the top-performance range for both fiberglass and carbon blades. In fact, the difference between Molchanovs fiberglass and carbon blades is very small for most freedivers.
Picture this: If bifins are an airplane taking you to your next destination (in other words: a depth in open water or a distance in the pool), think of fiberglass as economy class seats and carbon fiber as business class seats. While each cabin is different, the plane is still the same and taking you to the same destination!
In fact, only athletes trying to set records really need carbon blades, especially those that prefer a lighter blade. If you’re not a competitive freediver, you most likely won’t even notice the difference between fiberglass and carbon blades!
Photo Credit: @mitchfreediver @diver.aidan
Now that we’ve covered foot pockets and fiberglass/carbon blades, it’s time to discuss how to choose between the different blade stiffnesses and sizes to complement your body composition and technique.
You should choose a soft stiffness if you:
Blade sizes:
Photo Credit: @alexeymolchanov
Blades with angles have a benefit and a drawback:
Bifins with foot pocket angles also have a benefit and a drawback:
Photo Credit: @evsychev
Look for fun diving bifins that are:
Check out our full guide on How to Choose Between Molchanvos Freediving Bifins: Fun Diving Fins.
Training bifins for beginners should be:
Learn more specific information in our guides:
Photo Credit: @tones.of.blue
When choosing performance bifins, focus on these key aspects:
To discover what to look for in bifins geared toward performance, check out How to Choose Between Molchanovs Freediving Bifins: Competition Fins.
- Fahad
- Kristina Zvaritch
- Eren Noche
- Thibault Guignés
- Aleksandr
Check this full list of equipment care instructions to see how to care for each type of bifin material.
Photo Credit: @kuenok
We suggest the following accessories:
There’s a right and a wrong way to do it - let’s get into the right way:
As a rule of thumb, it’s always great to try the bifins you want to buy before actually purchasing them when possible. If a friend doesn’t have them, check our list of Molchanovs dealers and see if there is one near you!
And remember, having the best, most expensive bifins in the world won’t mean anything if you’re not using the proper bifin technique. Click here to find a Molchanovs instructor near you to take a freediving course or get coaching on your technique!
Still have questions? Don’t worry, we got you! Contact info@molchanovs.com with any gear-related questions and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. By Kristina Zvaritch and Asya Kleshchevnikova
- The Role of Bifins in Freediving
- Bifins for Different Freediving Levels
- Bifin Blade Stiffness and Size
- How to Choose Bifins for Fun Diving
- Training Bifins Features
- Bifins Designed for Competitive Diving
- Customer Testimonials
- Maintenance and Care
- Final Thoughts
Luckily it’s our favorite subject! At Molchanovs, we have a ton of bifins in our lineup, and all of them are geared toward freediving (but a couple can be used for spearfishing and scuba, too!). We know it can be difficult trying to understand the differences between all of them and how to choose the best one for your needs.
That’s why we created a complete guide to Molchanovs bifins. We want you to understand the different types of bifins out there, the different blade materials, their construction, the best bifins for fun diving, training, and competition, and how to extend their product life.
Are you ready to become an expert? Let’s dive in together!
The Role of Bifins in Freediving
Bifins, or fins that come in a pair (one for each foot), are a staple item in your fin bag. They come in different stiffnesses, with longer blades and shorter blades, and with different materials (plastic, silicone, fiberglass, and carbon). Bifins are easy for everyone to use as they require a ‘flutter kick’ technique and are very maneuverable in the water - once you’re used to their length, that is!Where you’ll use bifins:
- Safetying/buddying
- Fun diving
- Underwater photography
- Spearfishing
- Dynamic with Bifins (DYNB) - a competitive pool discipline where freedivers dive a horizontal distance in the pool with bifins using flutter kicks, all on a single breath
- Constant Weight with Bifins (CWTB) - a competitive depth discipline where freedivers dive down and up a line in bifins using flutter kicks while wearing the same weight the entire dive
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
Bifins for Different Freediving Levels
Photo Credit: @Akivis
At Molchanovs, we have three equipment lines: the CORE, SPORT, and PRO lines:
- CORE - Designed with an emphasis on style and durability, the CORE line offers everyday freediving gear tailored for recreational freedivers. Also ideal for beginner freedivers who are just starting their freediving journey, whether it’s dipping your toes into freediving while on vacation or becoming a new part of your regular life!
- SPORT - Uniting high-quality materials with exceptional value, the SPORT line creates gear for lifestyle freedivers who prioritize both comfort and performance.
- PRO - The PRO line provides premium equipment specifically crafted for freediving professionals and athletes requiring top-of-the-line gear.
It’s actually the foot pockets!
Or, more specifically, the foot pocket material and its connection to the blade. Let’s explore this.
CORE - Beginner/Intermediate/Competitive Freedivers
The CORE Silicone Bifins are not only are they the best starter fins for beginner freedivers to learn foundational bifin technique - they’re also a must-have for intermediate and advanced freedivers working on perfecting their technique!The CORE Silicone Bifins foot pockets have:
- Hypoallergenic and UV-resistant silicone
- Arch support to maintain the correct foot position while kicking for maximum efficiency
- Open-heel foot pockets for optimal foot positioning
- An anatomical shape of the back of the foot pocket strap for a better fit over your Achilles tendon
Ready to upgrade? Enter the SPORT Bifins lineup.
SPORT - Intermediate Freedivers
After you’ve perfected your bifin technique with CORE Silicone Bifins and are ready for something with more power, you should consider the SPORT Bifins 3.Photo Credit: @evolutionfreediving
The SPORT Silicone Foot Pockets include:
- Hypoallergenic and UV-resistant silicone paired with plastic mounting plates to mount the blade
- Open-heel design for maximum ankle flexibility
- Arch support for optimal foot positioning
- Rigid stabilizers for full control over each kick and movement
- Anatomical shape of the heel strap for maximum support and a comfortable fit
Even better - the mounting plates improve the energy transfer from foot to blade, making them more performance-friendly.
But for the ultimate performance bifins, the PRO line is what you’re looking for!
PRO - Competitive Freediving Athletes
The hand-built foot pockets on the PRO line are designed for the ultimate combination of performance and comfort, with an emphasis on performance.Photo Credit: @b.blanked
The hand-built foot pockets in PRO line bifins includes:
- Availability in both standard EU sizes or custom sizes
- Heavy-duty, wear-resistant, and UV-resistant rubber
- Rubber layering technique varies between different parts of the foot pocket: a soft rubber interior for comfort, stiffer rubber in the middle, and rigid rubber layer on top for better energy transfer
- Custom open-heel foot pockets for full ankle flexibility
- Built-in arch support to fatigue and keep your foot in the optimal position to maximize small-muscle use and minimize drag
- Comfort Lining interior with soft micropore for maximized comfort (no need for socks!)
- Increased toe space for added relief
Foot pocket sizing differences between CORE, SPORT, and PRO line foot pockets
Keep in mind: Size lines for CORE/SPORT and PRO Lines are different!For CORE/SPORT lines, there are 6 standard sizes that accommodate 2 standard sizes in one (for example, 36 - 37EU).
SPORT Foot Pockets are slightly wider than CORE Line foot pockets - they’re made to be worn comfortably for a long period of time and with socks. If you’re looking for a snug fit, make sure to size down OR buy 2 pairs of foot pockets - one for when you’re not wearing socks and one for when you are!
PRO line foot pockets include 11 standard EU sizes from 35 to 45. To choose the right size, you’ll need to measure your foot length and circumference:
- For a comfortable fit, choose foot pockets with the same measurements.
- For a normal or tight fit, choose one or two sizes smaller.
- If your foot dimensions don’t match the standard EU measurements, then go for custom foot pockets!
Fiberglass vs. Carbon Fiber Blades
In SPORT and PRO line bifins, you have the option to choose between fiberglass or carbon fiber blades.The general rule of thumb freedivers follow is that fiberglass is more durable than carbon fiber, while carbon fiber is more lightweight than fiberglass. But something that is unique to Molchanovs fiberglass is that it is in the top-performance range for both fiberglass and carbon blades. In fact, the difference between Molchanovs fiberglass and carbon blades is very small for most freedivers.
Picture this: If bifins are an airplane taking you to your next destination (in other words: a depth in open water or a distance in the pool), think of fiberglass as economy class seats and carbon fiber as business class seats. While each cabin is different, the plane is still the same and taking you to the same destination!
In fact, only athletes trying to set records really need carbon blades, especially those that prefer a lighter blade. If you’re not a competitive freediver, you most likely won’t even notice the difference between fiberglass and carbon blades!
Bifin Blade Stiffnesses and Sizes
Photo Credit: @mitchfreediver @diver.aidan
Now that we’ve covered foot pockets and fiberglass/carbon blades, it’s time to discuss how to choose between the different blade stiffnesses and sizes to complement your body composition and technique.
Blade stiffness
Molchanovs bifins come in soft, medium, and sometimes hard stiffnesses. But the stiffness you should choose depends on a lot of factors.You should choose a soft stiffness if you:
- Are a smaller and/or lighter freediver with less lower-body strength
- Dive in little to no current and with no extra gear (underwater camera, spearfishing equipment, thick wetsuit, etc.)
- Use a more ankle-driven technique and want efficiency
- Are larger and/or heavier and have lower-body strength or need more power
- Are unsure whether to choose soft or medium fins
- Are a safety diver, underwater photographer, or spearfisher
- Dive with extra gear
- Dive in water with current
- Have a very strong lower body and require a lot of power on your dives
- Dive with a lot of gear
- Are a spearfisher diving in heavy currents
General guideline on blade stiffness
In general, freedivers use soft to medium stiffness fins (with the current style leaning more toward soft than medium), while only spearfishers or people who already know their preference for hard blades choose hard stiffness fins.Blade size
Blade size is much easier to determine! For many brands, you only have one blade size to choose from, but Molchanovs bifins come in different sizes for different bodies.SPORT Bifins 3
The SPORT Bifins 3 Fiberglass / Carbon include size-graded blade stiffness, so soft stiffness blades are smaller than medium stiffness blades.PRO Bifins 3
The PRO Bifins 3 Fiberglass / Carbon have soft, medium, and hard blade stiffnesses, and you can choose your blade size according to the stiffness you pick.PRO Hyper Bifins
The PRO Hyper Bifins Fiberglass / Carbon come in soft and medium stiffness, and you can choose whether you want a ‘Small’ or ‘Regular’ blade.Differences in blade sizes
Here’s a handy chart to show the different blade sizes to pick from according to the bifins in our lineup!| Blade Stiffness | Available Blade Sizes | |
| SPORT Bifins 3 | Soft | Smaller blade |
| Medium | Regular blade | |
| PRO Bifins 3 | Soft | Small, Regular |
| Medium | Small, Regular, Large | |
| Hard | Regular, Large | |
| PRO Hyper Bifins | Soft | Small, Regular |
| Medium | Small, Regular |
- Small: 5 - 10% less surface area than ‘Regular’ blades (depending on the bifin)
- Regular: If you’re unsure which size to get, choose ‘Regular’
- Large: 10% more surface area than ‘Regular’ blades (depending on the bifin)
General guideline on blade size
The general rule of thumb is that shorter and thinner/leaner freedivers should choose ‘Small’ blades so they can more easily maneuver them underwater. All other freedivers can choose ‘Regular’ blades. However, if you have the option for a ‘Large’ blade and are 180cm - 185cm (5'11" - 6'1") and taller, you can consider choosing the 'Large' blade.Blade / Foot Pocket Angle
A blade or foot pocket angle is there to make your life easier in terms of finning - after all, everyone has differing levels of ankle flexibility!SPORT/PRO Bifins 3
SPORT Bifins 3 and PRO Bifins 3 use blades with a set angle: about 28°. And since it’s paired with an open-heel foot pocket, the angle becomes greater during the kick cycle since you have full ankle flexibility while finning.Photo Credit: @alexeymolchanov
Blades with angles have a benefit and a drawback:
- Benefit: The foot pockets are lighter without extra layers of rubber since the angle is built into the blade.
- Drawback: The blades are more fragile. This is due to the load being on the angle while finning - and why you should never push from the end of the pool with fins or jumping from a boat while wearing fins! Doing so makes them more prone to break at the angle.
PRO Hyper Bifins
On the other hand, the angle on the PRO Hyper Bifins (and monofins) is created with the foot pocket structure rather than the blade. Both the PRO Hyper Bifins and monofins actually have a flat blade since the foot pocket provides the angle.Bifins with foot pocket angles also have a benefit and a drawback:
- Benefit: Since the blade is flat, it is technically more durable. Don’t take this as an excuse to beat up your fins though - they still need plenty of TLC (tender loving care - not total lung capacity!).
- Drawback: The bifins will be heavier due to the extra rubber.
- 35° angle: If you cannot make a straight line from your shin to the top of your foot when you point your toes (meaning you don’t have very flexible ankles), you should choose a 35° foot pocket angle to compensate.
- 30° angle: If you can make a straight line when you point your toes (meaning you have flexible ankles), you should choose a 30° foot pocket angle.
- 25°angle: If you have ultra-flexible ankles (hello ballet dancers and yoga masters!), you can choose a 25° foot pocket angle.
How to Choose Bifins for Fun Diving
Fun diving bifins should have comfort as a priority! When you’re keen on exploring the underwater world on a fun diving session, you’ll be spending extended amounts of time in the water, usually 1 - 2 hours or more. Plus, you’ll want to go to different cities and countries with your bifins, right? They should definitely be easy to travel with!Photo Credit: @evsychev
Look for fun diving bifins that are:
- Comfortable
- Maneuverable
- Durable
- Easy to transport
- Fit into your budget
- Stylish
| CORE Silicone Bifins | PRO Short Bifins 3 Carbon | SPORT Bifins 3 Fiberglass | SPORT Bifins 3 Carbon | PRO Bifins 3 Fiberglass | PRO Bifins 3 Carbon | |
| Standard EU / custom foot pocket sizes | Standard EU only | Both available | Standard EU only | Standard EU only | Both available | Both available |
| Durable blades | Yes | Needs extra care | Yes | Needs extra care | Yes | Needs extra care |
| Removable foot pockets | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Different blade sizes available | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 1.6 - 1.8kg (3.5 - 4lb) | 1 - 1.8kg (2.2 - 6.2lb) | 1.7 - 2kg (3.7 - 4.4lb) | 1.6 - 1.9kg (3.5 - 4.2lb) | Size 42 EU: 1.7kg (3.7lb) | Size 42 EU: 1.5kg (3.3lb) |
| Suitable for long sessions | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 'Comfortable' or 'Normal' fit only (if custom foot pocket) | 'Comfortable' or 'Normal' fit only (if custom foot pocket) |
| Suitable for fun diving | Only in waters with little to no current | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Suitable for training | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Suitable for competition | ✓ | ✓ | ||||
| Suitable for spearfishing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Suitable for scuba diving | ✓ | ✓ |
Training Bifins Features
Bifins used for training sessions will depend on whether you are a beginner or a (potential) competitor. Depending on which category you fall into, you’ll need to look for a few features when shopping for training bifins.Training bifins for beginners should be:
- Comfortable
- Soft
- Affordable
- Efficient
- Comfortable
- Competition-ready
| CORE Silicone Bifins | SPORT Bifins 3 Fiberglass | SPORT Bifins 3 Carbon | PRO Bifins 3 Fiberglass | PRO Bifins 3 Carbon | PRO Hyper Bifins Fiberglass | PRO Hyper Bifins Carbon | |
| Standard EU / custom foot pocket sizes | Standard EU only | Standard EU only | Standard EU only | Both available | Both available | Both available | Both available |
| Durable blades | Yes | Yes | Needs extra care | Yes | Needs extra care | Customizable: 25°, 30°, 35° | Customizable: 25°, 30°, 35° |
| Removable foot pockets | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 1.6 - 1.8kg (3.5 - 4lb) | 1.7 - 2kg (3.7 - 4.4lb) | 1.6 - 1.9kg (3.5 - 4.2lb) | Size 42 EU: 1.7kg (3.7lb) | Size 42 EU: 1.5kg (3.3lb) | Size 42 EU: 2.3kg (5.1lb) | Size 42 EU: 2.2kg (4.9lb) |
| Suitable for long sessions | Yes | Yes | Yes | 'Comfortable' or 'Normal' fit only (if custom foot pocket) | 'Comfortable' or 'Normal' fit only (if custom foot pocket) | 'Comfortable' or 'Normal' fit only (if custom foot pocket) | 'Comfortable' or 'Normal' fit only (if custom foot pocket) |
| Suitable for fun diving | Only in waters with little to no current | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | 2.3kg (5.1lb) | 2.2kg (4.9lb) |
| Suitable for training | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Suitable for competition | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Suitable for spearfishing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Suitable for scuba diving | ✓ |
Learn more specific information in our guides:
- How to Choose Between Molchanovs Freediving Bifins: Training Fins for Beginners
- How to Choose Between Molchanovs Freediving Bifins: Training Fins for Professionals
Bifins Designed for Competitive Freediving
There’s one word you’re looking for when you’re in the search for the best bifins for competition: performance. You need fins that work for your body and have a very close fit around your feet so that you can maximize energy transfer.Photo Credit: @tones.of.blue
When choosing performance bifins, focus on these key aspects:
- Efficiency
- Maximized foot-to-blade energy transfer
- Maneuverability
| PRO Bifins 3 Fiberglass | PRO Bifins 3 Carbon | PRO Hyper Bifins Fiberglass | PRO Hyper Bifins Carbon | |
| Standard EU / custom foot pocket sizes | Both available | Both available | Both available | Both available |
| Blade angle | 28° | 28° | Customizable: 25°, 30°, 35° | Customizable: 25°, 30°, 35° |
| Size-graded blades | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Blade stiffnesses | Soft, Medium, Hard | Soft, Medium, Hard | Soft, Medium | Soft, Medium |
| Suitable for long sessions | 'Comfortable' or 'Normal' fit only (if custom foot pocket) | 'Comfortable' or 'Normal' fit only (if custom foot pocket) | 'Comfortable' or 'Normal' fit only (if custom foot pocket) | 'Comfortable' or 'Normal' fit only (if custom foot pocket) |
| Weight (with size 42 EU foot pocket) | 1.7kg (3.7lb) | 1.5kg (3.3lb) | 2.3kg (5.1lb) | 2.2kg (4.9lb) |
| Suitable for fun diving | Only in waters with little to no current | ✓ | ||
| Suitable for training | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Suitable for competition | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Suitable for spearfishing | ✓ | ✓ |
Customer Testimonials
We’re obviously big fans of our bifins, but in case you’re not ready to take our word for it just yet, check out what customers are saying about their own bifin purchases!CORE Silicone Bifins
- Fahad
PRO Short Bifins 2 Carbon
“These fins are so responsive, so snappy, so easy to carry with the buoy and bottom weight, and so comfortable on my feet even after HOURS in the water.”- Kristina Zvaritch
SPORT Bifins 3 Fiberglass
- Eren Noche
PRO Hyper Bifins Fiberglass
“This new hyper Bifins are a game changer. I would say the most important feature is this new footpocket that is just like for monofin and can be completely custom made to ensure you have no loss of energy during the kicking. The blades are perfect and have many different degrees of stiffness. The perfect fins for performance but also for comfort”- Thibault Guignés
PRO Hyper Bifins Carbon
- Aleksandr
Maintenance and Care
After diving
Your freediving session doesn’t end after you exit the water - it ends after you’ve rinsed your equipment! All freediving gear must be rinsed in lukewarm fresh water after freediving sessions and left to dry in the shade (not in the sunlight!).Check this full list of equipment care instructions to see how to care for each type of bifin material.
Traveling
We know, traveling with your bifins can be challenging. Luckily there are plenty of bags, cases, and accessories you can use to make your transit that much easier.Photo Credit: @kuenok
We suggest the following accessories:
- The Lightweight Bifins Bag 3 for carrying your bifins over shorter distances
- The Bifin Blade Protection to wrap your bifins in inside of the Lightweight Bifins Bag 3 or on their own to hand-carry your bifins
- The Hard Case to fully protect your bifins from any bumps and bruises when traveling on planes and for longer distances
Storing
Okay, so you’re done with diving and traveling and need to get back to real life - how do you store your bifins properly? Remember, storing them away correctly extends the life of the product.There’s a right and a wrong way to do it - let’s get into the right way:
- Make sure they are fully dry before you store them
- Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or hot, dry, enclosed places (e.g., a car that’s parked in the sunlight)
- If you have a fin rack - store them vertically so that neither the blade nor the foot pocket have contact with the ground
- If you don’t have a fin rack, lay them horizontally on a flat surface
Final Thoughts
Wow, that was a lot of information! We hope that you walk away from this guide knowing a little more about the different types of Molchanovs bifins and how to choose the best one for you.As a rule of thumb, it’s always great to try the bifins you want to buy before actually purchasing them when possible. If a friend doesn’t have them, check our list of Molchanovs dealers and see if there is one near you!
And remember, having the best, most expensive bifins in the world won’t mean anything if you’re not using the proper bifin technique. Click here to find a Molchanovs instructor near you to take a freediving course or get coaching on your technique!
Still have questions? Don’t worry, we got you! Contact info@molchanovs.com with any gear-related questions and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. By Kristina Zvaritch and Asya Kleshchevnikova
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