Looking for recommendation on a non-split fin

[glbirch]

I've been using Quattros for years. Never had a problem with the buckles, but mine predated those fancy ones I see on them these days. Recently replaced the buckles with springs straps, which have been working great.

 

[Scubakevdm]

Consider TUSA Imprex.

 

[metaldector]

Since I own a pair of Atomic Split fins and also a pair of Quattros I took a tape measure to them. Atomics from fin tip to lower heel 24 1/2" same measurement on the Quattro is 24". I'm of the Opinion switching from the first to the later wouldn't solve your problem. Look for a shorter fin, perhaps Jets.

 

[pipedope]

I like the Quatros with spring straps, see;
http://www.scubaboard.com/t39227.html

Jets with spring straps are also good, some say they are better.

Whatever fins you use it helps to be able to move in any direction using your fins only. If you can do this in a slightly head down, feet up posture you won't be wacking anything on the bottom.

Most problems in scuba are solved by learning good skills and using good equipment, in that order.

 

[glbirch]

My wife swears by her Force Fins. Definately a shorter fin, but they seem to be a real "love them or hate them" sort of fin.

 

[Turtleguy9]

Thanks for your informative replies. Interestingly enough I had a pair of Mares Volo fins when I first started diving and I lost one of the fins in a rough sea dive when one of the buckles came off just before getting back to boat. I found the Mares fins very good but that buckle seems to be an issue becuase I live in N. California where seas can be rough sometimes. (I heard from another diver about similiar problem). I found a similiar fin from Dacor (Tiger series) that is almost the same fin as Mares but I don't know if the buckle system the same. Any ideas?

cemkur

The newer version of the fin has a lock button on the side of the closing mechanisim. The old model is still the number one fin I find on the bottom of the ocean. I have three singles in various colors. Anybody need one?

 

[cemkur]

Watch Your Buoyancy..I hate to read into things..but if You wack Reef or Coral with Split fins..You'll wack Reef or Coral with Solid Fins..Learn to hover and control Your breathing.

I do appreciate your comments and I am very much with you on the subject. Having said that I am a master diver (also dive master) with excellent hovering skills, what I am trying to do here is avoid any possibility of damaging coral and sea life by being extra cautious. When you are into photography, you should be even more careful then other divers becuase nature of the activity requires closer look to the objects.
Thanks

cemkur

 

[cemkur]

Install a set of spring straps on a pair of SP Jets.

Great fin control, no buckles or buttons to break or come loose.

seems like a good solution

Thanks

cemkur

 

[cemkur]

Yes, the mares volo buckles, and the dacor tiger buckles are exactly the same, except one has a yellow button, one a red. If you don't like the buckles on the mares (and I don't) you can replace the entire assembly with a tusa set of fin straps. Then you have a conventional quick release instead of the flip over ski boot type connector.

I may go for this solution, thank you very much

cemkur

 

[fishwatcher]

Hello,

In a non-split fin I'd recommend:

Mares Plana Avanti Quattro - lots of power, great for alternate fin kicks, but takes strong legs (my last main fin).

Mares Volo Power - Cross between the Volo and the Quattro (my current fin).

Mares Volo (older version of Volo Power) - pivoting blade is easier on the legs than the quattros, and it still good with alternate fin kicks.

Aeris Velocity - Inexpensive, great, maneuverable fin.