Best Full Foot Fin????

[MaresMan1]

Yeah, I've checked out this version, but it's quite a bit longer and I'm pretty sure that it'll be too big. As far as whether or not I've "got the legs for it"...I guess that's up for debate. Holy smokes, I'm only 5'4" and 100 lbs...just a mere waif of a gal. I'm having a hard time finding all kinds of stuff that fits! I'm in good shape...skinny little legs...but I'd like to think I'm pretty strong. ahaha ha. Thanks for the input though...Maybe I'll still go with these and just wear socks....What does MaresMan think of the x-vision masks for a petite face???

If you want a light weight fin that is smaller and very effecient, try the Aeris Velocity. It got very good rating in Rodales comparison tests and I know a few people who swear by them.

Good luck in your search.
:cool1:

 

[MaresMan1]

Yeah, I've checked out this version, but it's quite a bit longer and I'm pretty sure that it'll be too big. As far as whether or not I've "got the legs for it"...I guess that's up for debate. Holy smokes, I'm only 5'4" and 100 lbs...just a mere waif of a gal. I'm having a hard time finding all kinds of stuff that fits! I'm in good shape...skinny little legs...but I'd like to think I'm pretty strong. ahaha ha. Thanks for the input though...Maybe I'll still go with these and just wear socks....What does MaresMan think of the x-vision masks for a petite face???

If you want shorter but efficient fins, try the Aeris Velocity full foot fin. They received good reviews from various tests and I know a few people who swear by them.

As far as the X-Vision mask is concerned, I love that mask and also use it. However, it is best that you find a mask that really fits your face properly. There are alot of really good masks out there, but fit is of primary importance.

Good luck on your search.
:cool1:

 

[TechBlue]

sturgeon,

If you are looking at fins to use on an instructor level you definitely don't want to get split fins, they are fine for noodling around looking at pretty fish and such but if you need a short fast burst of speed which you may need with students in the water you're not going to get that from split fins they do not perform at all well when you need to power down on them. Cressi makes a nice full foot you should take a look at, I don't have the site or model info handy but if you need it I'd be happy to get it for you.

Chris

 

[Boogie711]

Um - why are you set on full foot fins? Is the only diving you will do off a boat?

For that matter, even if it is - isn't climbing the boat ladder with booties on more comfortable anyway????

Non-full foot fins are more adjustable across a size range - you just need to find a boot that fits - and provide protection from stingy-things and whatever you need to walk in if you do a shore entry.

 

[reubencahn]

Mares also makes a Plana Avanti Tre which is pretty much the same as the Quattro. The full foot version is still reasonably short. Though the L version mentioned earlier is not really that long or that hard on the legs. I had been using the old two channel version of that fin for 14 years and it works fine.

I will say that I've now switched to SP Jets despite having the same objections to strap fins as you. I'm using the spring straps which make donning and doffing easier than a full foot fin. On a second try, I found the Henderson Goldcore tropic booties which are below the ankle with no zipper. The inside of the neoprene has no lining so it dries immediately--no cold wet booties on later dives--and with a thick sole and rubber toe covering, it holds the fin very securely on my foot. This combination of straps and booties has eliminated my longing for my old full foot fins.

 

[sturgeon]

Thanks so much for everyone's input! It seems there are almost too many options to weigh...I just ordered the Scubapro TwinJets in black because they're stiffer and whatnot, but I'm not so sure that the split fin will be great to work in (Instucting/Tours). I'll be doing my IDC and then staying on to work in the Caribbean. I really wanted the Quattros and I'm sure I'll either end up with the Avanti Tre's or Volo Races in the long run anyhow. I may be toying around with videography and photo a bit as well...I'm still listening to input however! Thanks again...

 

[leadweight]

IDC & work in the Caribbean? You lucky dog you.

 

[Paul Evans]

I'am with "Boggie711" boots and straps is the way to go.

 

[Scubaguy62]

Hello,

Looking for peoples opinions on the best full foot fin they've used. I'll be doing my IDC and doing a lot of diving. I know people love the quattros, but I can't find them with a full-foot pocket. Also I'm a woman with a small foot (size 7 1/2 womans). I know that fins are a hotly debated topic here. I'm looking for a good all-around fin that will be good for mostly flutter-kicking, instructing...Thanks for all input!!!

An old buddy of mine had a pair of avanti-tre, the full foot version of the Mares X3, and she loved them. Her foot size was 7 and the 3 1/2 - 5 1/2 size worked well for her. They're also quite inexpensive (about $50.00)

Semper safe

Rick