Ankle straps and baking powder help!

[mermaidmerchelle]

Hi everyone!
I used my Mernation tail for the 2nd time yesterday and like the first time, the heel straps came loose in the water (despite doing them up really tight.) As it's happened both times I'm obviously doing something wrong. :( The tail has a finis rapid monofin.
Does anyone have any tips to stop this happening? I'm going to buy some neoprene socks to see if it helps. It's such a nightmare to swim properly when your feet are loose.

Also, I wanted to give the tail a good clean but what is the best way to use bicarbonate of soda? How much soda, how hot the water and how long to soak for?

Thanks for your help.

Merchelle.
XX

[AniaR]

it's normal for monofins. try wearing neoprene booties, or even just regular socks til you can get some.

You can clean silicone tails with just about anything, only certain things will deactivate chlorine. I've actually started using clarifying shampoos (just a cheap one) because they are meant to deactivate chlorine.

the big thing is making sure you dry the tail. that way you dont get mold.

[Winged Mermaid]

How long you leave it is up to you- most do either a few hours or let it soak over night. The ratio of baking soda to water hasn't been established- most just use their best judgment. However baking soda is a very benign substance- I imagine it would be hard to "over do it" to the point of any kind of damage. Just be sure there isn't so much that it doesn't dissolve in the water. Be sure to rinse with fresh water after then dry.


- http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?3108

[MermaidSabrina]

If it makes you feel any better,I've had my mernation tail for over a year and I still have to spend over half an hour on getting the monofin straps together...yet again I have no one to help me ;-; only to watch

[Mermaid Lily_Pad]

Sabrina, do you use booties?

[MermaidSabrina]

I did,but i lost one of them sadly.