I’m considering getting split fins. I started out using open-heeled paddles but switched to a pair of Oceanic full-foot paddle fins because the former gave me leg cramps on every dive. My Oceanic full-foot fins are great – light and fast – but occasionally, they also give me cramps, especially on long surface swims back to shore after a dive. It may be high time for me to buy a pair of split fins.
I’ve done some reading on split fins (Scuba Diving magazine annual fin test reports, Scubaboard, etc.). I understand that split fins are not for everyone or for all types of kick or diving situation. I also realize that divers can be “passionate” about their fins, and that there may already be strong opinions on paddle vs. split fins. That discussion already exists here: http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=162021 . I’m hoping to get alot of information and opinions on which specific split fins work best for you (I know how Scuba Diving magazine ranks the different split fins, but I’m more interested in tapping a much wider audience and population sample for less bias and more objectivity). The best way would be for me to try different models to determine the best splits for me. However, my dilemma is that the LDS nearest where I dive will let me rent any brand of split fins I want to try, as long as they are Scubapro (that’s the only brand they carry). So I may end up having to buy some split fins without the benefit of first trying them out.
I’ve heard lots of good reviews on Apollo Bio Pro (and its variations), so I think that would be a safe choice. What about splits from other manufacturers – Atomic Aquatics, Scubapro Jet Twins, Aeris Velocity splits, etc.? Also, has anyone tried different split fins (for example, both the Apollo Bio and the Atomic Aquatics) and would like to share their experience and opinion? Thanks in advance.
I’ve done some reading on split fins (Scuba Diving magazine annual fin test reports, Scubaboard, etc.). I understand that split fins are not for everyone or for all types of kick or diving situation. I also realize that divers can be “passionate” about their fins, and that there may already be strong opinions on paddle vs. split fins. That discussion already exists here: http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=162021 . I’m hoping to get alot of information and opinions on which specific split fins work best for you (I know how Scuba Diving magazine ranks the different split fins, but I’m more interested in tapping a much wider audience and population sample for less bias and more objectivity). The best way would be for me to try different models to determine the best splits for me. However, my dilemma is that the LDS nearest where I dive will let me rent any brand of split fins I want to try, as long as they are Scubapro (that’s the only brand they carry). So I may end up having to buy some split fins without the benefit of first trying them out.
I’ve heard lots of good reviews on Apollo Bio Pro (and its variations), so I think that would be a safe choice. What about splits from other manufacturers – Atomic Aquatics, Scubapro Jet Twins, Aeris Velocity splits, etc.? Also, has anyone tried different split fins (for example, both the Apollo Bio and the Atomic Aquatics) and would like to share their experience and opinion? Thanks in advance.
