Originally Posted by
Maoraigh1
I don't get shoes restricting swimming. .....
It does increase drag in the glide and subsequent preparation for the accelerate/stroke phase, effectively reducing the speed buildup from the swim stroke. But that largely counts when you want to swim distances, vs. just stay afloat, stationary.
I seriously suggest keeping your shoes on in preparation of a crash landing on water to protect your feet, unless you are wearing really heavy shoes/boots. IF you escaped unharmed and decide to swim ashore, you can always remove your shoes. The human body floats with the head sufficiently above the water, when you keep other body parts in the water, so yeah, opportunities to remove your shoes.