How important is the fifth stroke?

Since the Seoul Olympics back in 1988, we have witnessed the progressive explosion of underwater swimming. The so-called fifth stroke.

Between clumsy attempts and incredible technical innovations (how can we forget the phenomenal Denis Pankratov) it has reached the point that today an elite performance cannot be separated from this phase of the race.

This great article from Swimming World contains some useful tips on how to build effective underwater kicking.

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However, the issue of using fins is not addressed.

Almost every swimmer today has at least one pair of fins of different shapes, colors and materials in his swim gear.

What is your relationship, whether you are a coach or an athlete, with this equipment and which one would you recommend to who is about to buy them?