A fin with a hydrodynamic flex control framework allows the axis of bending to be in close proximity to the ball of the user's foot making kicking easier as well as more productively efficient and a method providing thrust from an unusually low drag kick by a swimmer are disclosed. The fin includes a fin for use by a swimmer comprising a foot pocket adapted to receive a foot of the swimmer; a foil shaped blade extending from the foot pocket; hydrodynamic flex control framework configured to allow the blade to bend in close proximity to the ball of the user's foot within a narrow range of angles of attack under a wide range of loads while enhancing hydrodynamic performance. The present invention allows low drag kicking by a swimmer that is similar to walking in place with the user's feet staying within the user's slip stream.