Question

What influences lead to your fin purchase?

Answer 1

I actually just bought a new pair of fins, and I'm eager to try them out. I read a lot of reviews in dive magazines and diving websites to see what each fin was known for (power, ease of kicking, etc.) and what reviewers had to say about them. I also talked to several divers I knew who had split fins, paddle fins, etc. to see what they liked about theirs and if they would recommend them. I can tell you, the divers I talked to were firmly in either the split fin camp or the paddle fin camp; I think I spoke to only one person who liked both types of fins!

I was also influenced by what I *didn't* care for in my prior set of fins. For example, I got caught in a strong current once and had a difficult time getting out of it because my original fins didn't have a lot of power built into their design. So "power when I need it" was one of the things I looked for.

(P.S., it also didn't hurt that I got a small discount on my fins through my local dive shop because they had been used only once in a pool and returned. I didn't mind the one-time use as they were still practically new. )

Comments

Curious what did you end up getting?  I totally agree with the need for power moment and I have had many. I have dove with the old trusty SP Jets for years and never once regretted having them. Some say they are too heavy and stiff, I disagree.  I have put them into high gear and was glad they were on my feet.

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I ended up getting SP Novas, not sure yet if I'm going to like them, but I'm going diving this weekend and can test them then. My dive shop said if I didn't care for them, I can bring them back and exchange for something else.

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Update: my dives with the new Scubapro Novas went well, and I'm pretty happy with them so far (granted, this was in a lake with no current or waves!). I'm not entirely certain I like the bungee cord backs that came with the fins... I may yet replace them with spring backs, but they were certainly easy to get on and off with bulky 5mm gloves, and the foot pockets fit well. I did notice that it's a bit more difficult for me to do a frog kick than with my old fins, but that might just require some practice. I'm more of a flutter or scissor kicker anyway.

Answer 2

I actually have several sets of fins. I have a pair of vey light Mares full foot fins that I use when photography is the primary reason for a dive or series of dives. They are light and flexible a help maintain stable buoyancy while taking a picture.

I have and use a Tulsa split fin for stronger current dives or longer swims. The are both light and powerful.

I also have a set of short fins (8") that are great for snorkeling.

Answer 3

Easy of use (getting them on and off with one hand), fit (no blisters or rubbing points), compatibility with a variety of foot wear, size (do they fit in my dive bag easily), and do they work!

Answer 4

I like a fin that always has more strength if I need it. An easy fin is more comfortable, but they have a limit on propulsion. Also I like the lifetime warranty, I go through a pair in two years or less.

Answer 5

I would have to say it was looks, performance and reviews also the brand did matter some.