For my spring straps, I followed Dave Dalton's design, with a variation. I didn't cut off the fins' origninal attachement hardware and replace it. Instead, I found a cheap method of attaching the spring to the existing hardware.
This offers a clear advantage: -If for some reason you change your mind or you don't like the spring straps, you can just go back to the black rubber straps. I can't think of a situation where this applies, but you never know...
First I got the spring from McMaster-Carr supply company. See www.mcmaster.com <http://www.mcmaster.com> . I got part number 9665K29 : Type 302 SS Continuous Length Extension Spring 1/2" OD, .054" Wire Dia, 20" Lg, 18.5 Coils/Inch.
I found this this spring to work well in wetsuit and drysuit boots. I wear my fin straps very loosely, so changing back and forth did not require me to tighten or loosen my fin straps in any way.
I cut the spring in half, and bent the last couple coils of the spring on a 90 degree angle to form the attachement points. I ran cave line through the spring between the attachement points. I used enough so that I could stretch the spring without damaging it. I put wet suit cement on the knots.
I put a length of PVC vinyl tubing over the springs to prevent damage to my boots.
Then I bought 4 stainless steel split rings from McMaster-Carr part # 90905A651. Do NOT use ordinary key chain split rings as they will rust and break. The ones I bought were 300-series SS.
I simply attached the spring to the existing jetfin hardware using the split ring. They look great and have worked well so far. I don't think that the split ring poses any kind of snag hazard. I've had no problems yet, but if anyone does, please email me.
Enjoy, Steve Schultz
