While working at ScubaPro, we did all these kinds of tests, except we also swam against a pull force gauge to measure the amount of power available.

I fell in love with the Oceanic V12 split fins. They're just perfect for me. Super good set

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello Josh Mandeville, glad you found a set of fins that work for you.

This is the best review and honest review on fins . Thanks for the effort and time making this video free for everyone

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome kui Q

Fantastic video! Thank you for making this comparison video!!

@LakeHickoryScuba

11 ай бұрын

Glad you liked the video @TimeNayda.

Great video! Very informative for the novice like me. Thanks.

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks usnrn7, glad you liked the video and found it helpful.

Best fin review in the whole internet. Thanks a lot!

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Thank You and you're welcome.

Ive been using the Mares X-Stream for about 3 years, i did have to adjust my kick slightly to get the best of them, but im well happy with them and when these have seen their day i will buy another pair ! I do own a pair of mares plana also Thanks for the review !

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome Gaz Tinsley. Glad you liked it.

Well done, this video is by far (and I mean miles) the best proper review video on YT. The other videos are mainly talking about features of the fins which anyone can read. You put in the effort and I truly appreciate the analysis!

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked the video avidAlexTan.

Love the avanti quattros! Now I have two pairs of them, the full foot and the open heel

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

They are the favorite by all of our Pro's here at the shop.

Thumbs up, great test; i'm gonna subscribe right now, greetings from Spain.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Hello Jose Luis Martinez Rodriguez, we are glad that you liked our video, and Thank You for the Subscribe. If you ever have a video idea for us, just let us know, and we will see what we can get produced for you.

Awesome tests, terrific information... thank you, man!

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Glad you liked the video Pedro Rondon.

@pedrorondon777

2 жыл бұрын

Greetings from Caracas, Venezuela.

Tremendous work. Matches my own experience and expectations ;-). I did a similar test, testing clocked max speed, starting each cycle at the same pulse rate. Best did our S.E.A.L.S.' fins, the age old Barakuda Gigant full rubber fin with Springstraps, second to my surprise the Apollo Biofins, then the Dessault Apnoe fins..next to my surprise the hated Force Fins.. All this in flutter kick.

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello sun yata, we enjoy doing comparison videos like these. The results will always be different depending on who does the test. We all have different kick patterns and preferred methods of kicking.

Thanks for taking time to demonstrate the fins to the rest of the complainers open up your channels get a bunch of fins and let us know what you think

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

You're welcome Ivory Johnson. I wouldn't necassarly say they are complainers, I know Rev Tech, LLC personally (great people and experienced divers). They give us great ideas for future videos. Sometimes we are just limited on what equipment we have on hand to test.

Great test, honest even when you tested the split fin.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Rick, glad you liked the video.

Thank you for this. I have been hoping for a coparo video on fins and this helped me make my decision

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked the video skibarron.

I still have my pair of Avanti Quattro since the late 1990’s! Excellent fins!

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Not much has changed with them over the years, other than the material used to make the fins.

@DonovanCYoung

5 жыл бұрын

Same... I've tried all kinds, and even went though a split-fin phase (which, by the way, i still say are the most "powerful" for the least effort flutter kick you'll find), but all-around, I too gotta hand it to the Quattros.

Great video! I'd love to see this test again with some newer fins vs some old favorites (Avanti Quattro vs Apeks RK3 and Scubapro Seawing, Scubapro Jet)

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Hello Peter Blair, I would love to do another test video. I just need to get my hands on different manufactures fins.

I have to say I use Aqualung rocket fins I've had them for years I just can't part with them absolutely love them.

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Hello Bob, glad to know your rockets fins are working for you. I would definitely stick with them.

wow I am very impressed with the wave! Gonna go get a pair to try out! As for the split fin, I was never a fan until I tried out a pair. I was sold! I can go all day long snorkeling and scuba! it was effortless compared to my all time go to fin Quartro

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Hello psy Amok, they were very impressive to me as well.

Great video, I was hoping that you mentioned witch fin set you felt is the most efficient (less effort and more trust), I'm also a bit skeptical about split fins but I heard people saying they're very efficient, others say when you kick it feels like you're not moving water at all, so if the split fins require less effort to kick and yet they keep up with the others they must be very efficient like I heard other people say, please let me know your thoughts, thank you.

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello Mervin, there will always be dependencies when it comes to fins. I've never really been a huge split fin guy personally, but I was impressed with the results of this test. They main goal you should have is to find a fin that works for you. The down side is, you may have to go through several sets to find the right ones for you. It all comes down to fit and comfort.

Thank you for the lesson about fins. I'm new in snorkling n freediving. Please make another test for google mask and snorkle tube.

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Hello Paul GMM, let me see what we can do for you.

Enjoyed the video

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you David Collins, glad you liked it.

An interesting experiment. I'd love to see a perfectly blind test in which someone else selected the fins for the study without your knowledge and an assistant put them on you and stood you up with your eyes closed. Swim the laps "on your honor" to not look down. Reverse the steps after the trial and provide your impressions of each set of fins without ever knowing what you were wearing until you see the results on the whiteboard. I know you went out of your way not to be biased (for or against) but scientists will tell you that unless an experiment is totally blind, trying to eliminate bias usually creates its own. Thanx!

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

This is very true Mike. There will always be a small level of biased in test conducted. This is why I recommend to divers to purchase the fins they feel will work best for them, and not what some KZreadr tells them to buy.

would love to see Avanti Quattro Power included in the next comparison :)

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

We will see what we can do for you.

Thanks man!

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

You're welcome.

I have mares wave ff, it's amazing and fast. Bigger than usual diving fins and i love it's quality

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Hello Epic Memes, glad to hear that the Mares Waves are working for you.

@theepicmemes9891

2 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba yes, it's the best so far for my use, I bought another one to my gf a week ago 😅 the old ones are damaged or just stiff "15 years old"

Good reviews- I subscribed.

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the subscribe JT.

I own and love the Mares Avanti Quattros. Some friends of mine keep saying the bungee straps break down at some point, that I really should get fins with steel spring straps. You wear the Quattros all the time. Any thought on the bungee strap toughness? Any issues?

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Hello Gijs van Lieshout. I like both the Bungee and Springs. However, the bungees get very brittle in cold water and can break, and this is the biggest reason I use the Springs straps instead.

Great video.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Calvin. We have another trip down to Blue Grotto and Devil's Den, March 22nd-24th if you are interested.

@landgin3781

5 жыл бұрын

I’m always interested. Sadly I’m not gonna have a lot of time off until November. always looking forward to the mentoring

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Let me know next time you are in the area, and we will go diving

Well was nice to the see that the fins i use , after personally testing 5 types and Brands ! , came out as best allrounders , but Jet Fins for Drysuit and 3° celsius Gear would have been nice to see ,, keep up the great work guys !

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Lenny, we are all huge fans of the Avanti Quattro's here at the shop. A lot of viewers mentioned we should have used Jet Fins, so we may do another comparison video, using different brands.

@lennygermany1507

5 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba sounds good , i didnt want to mention the other Brands , but the quattro really did best for me

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

For the record, we are not against any other brand out there, we are simply a Mares Dealer, so having the other brands on hand to test is difficult sometimes. I have been fortunate over the last 31 years to work in this industry, and working for other shops over the years has afforded me the benefit of using all the different brands. They are all good, some better than others, and some that are the same, but with different cosmetics.

Great review! Wonder if you had a chance to test SCUBAPRO SEAWING NOVA fins? Do they worth the hype?

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Hello SS W. I have used and tested the Scuba Pro SeaWing Nova's. They are a great fin, and very comparable to the Mares X-Streams. The Novas are light weight and very responsive. I would recommend them if you are a Scuba Pro fan.

Great vid. If you do another vid with different brands please include Dive Rite!

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

As long as I got them to compare, we will be happy to. We may start a new playlist where we simply compare all different brands. We may have to ask our viewers to send us the gear we don’t carry though.

@scottselkey4460

5 жыл бұрын

I am sure we could do that! I bet Lamar at Dive Rite would send you a pair. They really are that good of a fin!

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

I’ve met Lamar several times down at the Springs, so I may give him a call

@scottselkey4460

5 жыл бұрын

Sounds good!

Too bad you didn't have a set of jet style fins or a set of Scubapro Seawing Novas to add to the test.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

From our previous experience, the Mares Power Plana's are close enough to the Jet Style fins to be considered equals. The same goes with the ScubaPro SeaWing Novas and the Mares X-Streams. The other issue we had, we simply used the fins that we sell. We may make a video in the future, crossing over to other brands such as the ScubaPro SeaWing Novas, just to show a comparison, but as previously stated, from our experience they perform so close to the X-Streams, it is hardly noticeable.

@ScubaGG

5 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba MARES Power Plana's are not equal or similar to any Jet style fins. From a Mares user Scubapro Jet's have too exaggerate push per kick compared to Power Planas that is specialy noticed in current.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

We are planning our next video, comparing the Mares Power Plana directly with the Scuba Pro Jet Fins, so hopefully we can get some great results. Stay tuned.

@babablaster_OG

11 ай бұрын

With no true jet style fin this video is not helpful.

Great video that provides accurate data. I swear some divers will become blue in the face before they admit that split fins can be efficient as or more efficient than some blade fins. At the end of the day, the best fin is the fin that works the best for YOU.

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Hello SoCal Fritos, glad you liked the video. We encourage all divers to wear what makes them fill the most comfortable.

Lately, I've been getting a lot of leg fatigue and cramps from my Edge fins. I've tried the ScubaPro twin jets and they were amazing! No leg fatigue or cramps. Which fins would you recommend for long swim dives?

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Hello Richard Adcock, if the ScubaPro Twin Jets are currently working for you, then I would continue to use them.

So for typical diving since the free diving fins are the best for efficiency should I use these instead of the fins like sea wing nova

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello Henry Crick, Free Diving Fins work great for Scuba Diving, as long as you are not in tight spaces. They do however cause some issues when traveling. Sometimes they can be difficult packing in normal luggage.

what is your opininon on the oms slipstream vs Deep 6 Eddy flippers? for deep diving

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

If they fit your needs and you are comfortable using them, then I say they are great.

Hello. I just recently started Snorkeling. First set of Fins I bought, Sherwood Elite FF. Gave me good speed. But cramped my legs while treading. The Dive Shop that held the class sold me a set of Deep See Aqua Glides. a little shorter and with Heel Straps. Tried them yesterday. Easier to tread water. But not as much speed. Maybe I should just rent different sets to test out. To find out which ones work best for me.

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Renting fins is a great option Chris Philhower. Over time you will discover newer fins as technology increases, and you will find a pair that works for you.

Ahh darn, Sir, I was hoping to hear about the Apeks RK3. I too used the Mares 24 but they hurt the top of my feet. I have seen many divers use the RK'3's. so the Apeks RK3 and I wouldn't mind your opinion. good day. Julien.

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Hello sorel456, I would be happy to review the Apeks RK3's, unfortunately, I do not have a pair here to review.

I'm a new diver (7 total dives as of this comment). I will primarily be doing dives in the Caribbean and Mexico Cenotes so travel size is a must. I currently own Aqualung Express SS fins. I recently tried my buddies Atomic Smoke on the water split fins. As a new diver i was amazed how much less effort and leg strain between the splits and my normal style. I would like to know if you recommend any that are less strain/fatigue feeling? I know less strain and effort = less air used. Thank you for a great review very informative.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

I would look at the Mares X- Streams or the Scuba Pro SeaWing Nova

@mr337kj

5 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba thank you for the response I'll check those out.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

You’re welcome

good information abaut all models fins so maybe thats difference in one and the other is most efficent in the sea that in the swimming pool

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked the video Rodriguez.

Could you do this video with a back kick? Using twin jets as your split fin?

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

I don't think I have ever tried to do a back kick using split fins. But we can definitely make a video for you. Here is a testing video we did of the Mares Power Plana and the Scuba Pro Jet Fin you may find interesting. kzread.info/dash/bejne/iqSbltmMkdPHfso.html

I bought my Quattro in 1987. They were an awesome set of fins and when I lost one I went out and replaced. In our area, you need to tow a flag shore diving. I never liked the splits because I imagine them catching the flag line and would be a royal PIA to unhook. I might be wrong, anyone have any thoughts or experiences? It would have been interesting to see how a pair of rocket-style fins would do on this test (considering how common they are). My guess is they would be killed until you start including double or drysuits

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

We have had a lot of viewers request us test the rocket style fins as well.

what about dive right XT or Hollis. can you test them out

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

djjoshua007, I would be happy to test those our, if I had them here to test.

Some day try a high end freedive fin with fiberglass or carbon fiber blade - I would expect even better swimming performance. The freedive blades tested were "economy" blades.

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello Whatandwhen2, we would be happy to test your fins. Feel free to send them to 420 Taylorsville Beach Ct., Taylorsville, NC, 28681

I love my CRESSI GARA 2000hf. They're powerful 💪

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing Zakaria600. Cressi makes great equipment as well.

Great video. Do you have any one about the Mares Excite Pro?

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Hello Heitor Castel Branco. The Excite Pro was a well built fin, however, it never was a big seller for us, so we don't have any in stock to compare them to the others.

@heitorcastelbranco4210

3 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba Ok, thanks for your replay. Anyway, from your experience and knowledge, do you advise these fins? I have been diving for almost 13 years with a Scubapro "Twin jet" but they are not good for the "frog kick", as I heard about Excite Pro from Mares I would like to hear your opinion. Thanks.

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

The Excite Pros should work great for Frog Kicking.

I would like to hear your opinion how big is the difference between avanti quattro and the mares excite/Excel fin. By the way, thanks for this nice video thumbs up!

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello Marko Simic, I just happen to have both in stock and would be happy to do a comparison video for you.

@markosimic6305

4 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba That sounds great in my ears

Avanti Quattros are also neutral. I also own a pair of Jetfins and OMS Slipstream that's very similar to Jetfins but slightly more flexible. I used the Avanti Quattro for many many years and I like it very much.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Hello meandtina, the Avanti Quattros are our favorite as well.

No RK3, jet, oms slipstream, or Eddy deep6? Left out every fin I love.

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Hello Andre Greber, sorry to hear that you did not like our test. Glad to hear though that you have several fins that work for you.

@agreberag

2 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba test, not so bad. Just in the market and am looking at reviews of jet "style" fins. Functional for advanced diving.

There is a new fin called Truefin that performed efficiency tests with a machine

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Hello MET123, thanks for sharing this with us. We are always cautious of test performed by a machine with no flaws. As humans will always have some type of handicap or flaw. This is why we prefer to perform the test ourselves.

What about the mares volo power? I hv volo power. I was looking forward to having a comparison to others since im a newbee diver. Still learning. I liked the volo power. Felt easy and effortless.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

The Volo Power were on the leading edge of technology until the the X-Streams hit the market. The US Navy used them for a lot of their diving operations. The issue we have with them, based off the money value alone, for an extra $15 (retail cost), a diver can purchase the X-Streams. So we no longer carry the Volo Power. They are still great fins though.

@shannonbriscoe8425

5 жыл бұрын

I was also disappointed not to see the Volo Power included in the test. Having used both the Volo and X-Stream I've found that the Volo feels much more powerful and efficient to me even though the X-Stream is supposedly the better technology. Again, that's all based purely on feel from my experience and not any objective testing.

@HellrazorDogsnDives

5 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba Thanks! I watch your videos a lot. Thank you! You should do some live streams for Q&As, i would love to chat with you. Cheers!

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

We have done several Q&A's in the past, and we even done a live Q&A last June. We will see what we can do in the future for you.

@phisitpooratanachinda7894

5 жыл бұрын

Volo Power offers everything but power.

About split fins - they vary drastically. I had the Scuba Pro Twin Jets - and they were c**p. Conversely, I'm now using the Atomics Aquatics SplitFins - and, oh boy, what a difference. They are way stiffer than the Twin Jets and they propel like hell.

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Hello Klaus Schroiff, you make a great point. Different materials and styles can drastically change the effectiveness of a fin.

Maybe a time with each style of kick and fin type...

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

We thought about adding the time of each test to the list, but we noticed how tired I was getting towards the end of the test, the results would have been based off my endurance and not so much the fins themselves.

Great Test, i use the Ouattro and Excel+ for many years, great fins, but this year i buy the power plana (xr) with spring straps. The reason??? I need shoe size 15/16 (europe 50/51). In this case, the power plana XXL is the „best“ fin 🤣

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello Andreas, glad to know the Quattro's and the Excel+'s have been working for you. You will enjoy the Power Plana's, they are definitely built tough.

I’ve always dove with boots and split fins, I love split fins,the softer the better lol. To each their own I guess. Rigid and short fins kill my knees but I’ll use them for swift water

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Rigid fins do tend to be harder to kick, of course this is all dependent upon what type of kick pattern a diver uses.

Would you say the split fins are easier on knee joints?

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Hello Suzanne McCallum, choosing the right fin for you can be difficult at times. If the Split Fins prevents any unnecessary resistance, then yes they can be great for Knee Joints.

Could you add Force Fin to the test.

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

If we had a set, we would be happy too.

I am a proper mermaid when swimming without a tank but am really missing surface skills to swim in strong current to the boat (200 meters) with dive gear (and catch bag). Can you give some tips on how to surface swim?

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Hello Rachel Wilson, one of the techniques taught in most Freediving courses, is the slanted swim. The key is to keep your legs submerged as much as possible. Anytime you have two different medians, swimming efficiency will always decrease.

Can we use dive boots in full foot fins ?

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Some models allow it, but most do not.

Said "basically" a few too many times lol, not trollin but i can't unhear that word nowdays because my dad would say it unnecessarily during conversation with customers (we repaired cars) it annoyed me to no end, but im glad you did this test, i was looking for an efficiency test on fins Btw i hate split fins too because i need the feedback or i don't feel like im going anywhere but i have to admit it looked like you went faster with them

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Hello Bad Donkey, glad you liked the video. Sorry about saying the "b" word so much. It's just how I talk sometimes.

great comparison, mares man with pink tank )) NEED one more discipline, its important how fins would work in a strong flow

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

I wished we had some type of current machine in the pool to do some current testing.

nice tests but as one thing might make them better, or actually a few since these numbers actually still lack some values to measure acual efficiency. one would be to add the speed you went at, since not all your kicks will be equally as fast, some fins also automatically go faster or slower. for example if we look at the raptor and avanti quatro based only on the flutter kick for now, then they are equal, however. perhaps one of them went at a much higher speed but just allow faster movements, if both take the same power and the same amount of kicks then the faster one would be more efficient. another one is since that doesn't tall all as well since there is also fatigue and such, so the force in the legs and feet should be measured, or the energy the body uses. well that is very hard so here is one alternative, you know your maximum half endurance power output(which we can call 100%. all you need to do is to sprint with them, possibly both a technical sprint and a real sprint if you can't keep up your technique at the sprint. all you need to do is measure the time it takes to complete the distance between 2 points where you are around at top speed, then take the fastest time, that one is 100%, the other fins will get the percentage based on how long they take, or just show the times instead. this might not seem very much needed since most people don't normally swim at that speed, but in reality it is very usefull and informative since it allows to show the actual efficiency factor, combined with the other values you can get very accurate results. another alternative to a sprint would be to have a big elastic band and some ropes attach you to the side of the pool to a device which measures the amount of pull you create, and see how much force you can make at most. then also use a waterflow measurement device to measure around how much speed you shoot the water back with, combining those also gives a nice estimate for efficiency.

@LakeHickoryScuba

11 ай бұрын

Hello @ted_van_loon, thank you for the suggestion. You are correct, a more methodical test would be as you stated to add in the other variables. The biggest issue is, there are not two human beings on the earth that are identical. Thus, we kept the test more practical and more simple. Out of the last 35 years of diving, I can't think of a single time I ever measure the speed of my actual swim (dive). I consider our test more practical than scientific. Other divers may have a different result.

Hello. I am diver at fish farms. I am diving 6 days per week about one and half hours the dive. About 300 per year. The seac propulsion I own are killing my legs!!! Can you please suggest me what fins I should buy? I want them comfortable, cushy and durable. I have no money problem. Thank you. Keep up the good job....😜

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello stayros42481. Your best option is to try several different sets until you find the best ones that work for you. Your local dive center should be able to help you with this.

@stayros42481

4 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba Thank you for your answer. Unfortunately there is no dive center around here and I don't have the option to try. Can you suggest me some fins? What is your opinion for the apeks rk3? Thank you for your time.

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Apeks make some great fins, but my personal favorites based off my personal needs are the Mares Avanti Quattro's. Great for all different types of fin kicks, stiff enough for strong current but light enough for travel.

@stayros42481

4 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba Thank you very much.

@TheDonkyGamePlay

11 ай бұрын

​@@stayros42481Did you buy the Mares fins? Visually Seac pro fins and the Mares Avanti look identical. Also similar in price. I would love hearing comparison if you owned both

Can compare with dive rite xt fins?

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello BlackPaw, we would be happy to compare the Dive Rite XT's, jsut waiting on some one to send us some to test and compare.

the problem is it is hard to find the shop that we can try all the fins.

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

I understand the struggle BlackPaw.

could you go into why you don't like split fins, just curious?

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

To be honest Ranger77, I've never found a set that worked for me. Since 1988, I have owned more sets of fins than I can remember. And every time I tried a set of Split Fins, I never felt like I was going anywhere while kicking. I was pleasantly shocked at how well the Mares Raptors performed during this test. The technological advancements in fins is amazing now days. Back in the day, they were sold by several manufactures as a fin that was designed for those who had issue with leg cramps. Now they are being developed with stiffer sides and more dense material. I still don't think I will ever be a huge fan of them, but I will give them credit for what they are. One final note, even though they are not my favorite, if they work for others, then I am all for them. One of my Divemaster's swears by them, and uses them on a regular basis. I like to pick on him all the time. He is a pretty good sport about it. As a matter of fact, we made a parody video together, where even he made fun of them. kzread.info/dash/bejne/c4emk5J_m6fVh9I.html

@joneill63

5 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba You did not kick properly to to really get the most out of the split fins. They are actually much more effective with a more rapid, lower amplitude flutter kick - not the slower, higher amplitude kick you used.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Possibly. All the more reason a diver should focus on a set fins that work best for their individual kick patterns. Based off which kick works best for them or their physical capabilities, the Split Fins may or may not work for them.

@joneill63

5 жыл бұрын

Agreed - there is much misinformation out there on split fins and, at least, this video showed you can very effectively frog kick with splits (a common myth is that you can’t). I actually have both paddle and splits but, for general Caribbean open water diving, I normally prefer my Atomic Smoke on the Water splits (a stiffer split fin). For more confined spaces, i use my Atomic X1 blade fins. Both of the Atomics are preferred over the ScubaPro Jet Sports I started with for both power and control. As you said, good for folks to try different fins and find what works best for them - just glad to see myths on splits being dispelled. Thanks for doing the test and posting it!

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

You’re welcome. We are planning on doing more testing videos in the future.

Great video, one thing I found a little annoying was that you were standing in front of the chart so I couldn't read it while you were talking about it

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Hello ProphylacticGizzard, glad you liked the video. Sorry I blocked the chart.

I have no idea test and evaluate the fin efficiency　by my own frog kicking！

@LakeHickoryScuba

8 ай бұрын

Hello @user-gm2qc3np5o, we encourage you to use the fin that best works for you.

Time taken to do that distance would be interesting too.

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Time is not really relevant underwater. Or, should I say speed. For me, I like for time to slow down when I am diving. The last thing I want to do is rush through out my dive. But I understand what you mean Ketsu No.

@user-zx3pq5rz6m

3 жыл бұрын

More interesting is air consumption. In litres per minute or swim distance per cylinder.

Not all split fins are alike. I've come across some I dislike and some I love.

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

We agree Matt M. My experience with them in the past has never been that good, however, this test was eye opening.

How do I turn on the Sub titles? Please

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Hello iamdrambuie, there should be an option at the bottom of the KZread view window.

@iamdrambuie

3 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba i have just been told the Americans dont have a sense of humour

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Oh we have a sense of humor, but only on days that end in y.

interessting test, but i think the number of strokes per pool lengh is not the best measure of efficiently. I think the better masure would be how many pool lengh you can dive on 1tank of air, however that would be a very long test. But for this test it would be nice to see the how long you took for a pool lengh and maby test 3 different speeds per fin, one time go very slow, on time as fast as you can, and one time like you did in the video.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

We tried to keep this test as simple as possible. Thus we only did one length of the pool. The other issue was, I had been teaching all day prior to the test, so I am not sure how much more my legs could have taken that day.

@Sebastian-mh8jx

5 жыл бұрын

yeah i know the test would be much longer (3 times as long) and it still would be far from a real scientific test, so as a fast test for a light overview this is probability enught, however it still would be nice to see how long you took for one swim, that would have only taken one guy to aktually time the dives, or you could just do it by watching the viedo and timing then.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

I still have the footage, I can look at the time stamp......... Avanti Quattro Flutter :35 sec Mares X-Stream Flutter :40 sec Mares Raptor Flutter :40 sec Mares Power Plana Flutter :40 sec Mares Wave FF Flutter :33 sec Mares Razor Pro Flutter :34 sec Mares Quattro Frog :47 sec Mares X-Stream Frog :47 sec Mares Raptor Frog :46 sec Mares Power Plane Frog :50 sec Mares Wave FF Frog :47 sec Mares Razor Pro Frog :44 sec

@Sebastian-mh8jx

5 жыл бұрын

thank you! @@LakeHickoryScuba

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

You're welcome

i'm a freediver, but the long freediving bifins will kill your legs if you're gonna swim for 1hour one time i went diving with this club, the diving master was using the mares quatro, and i was using the razors from their club surface swimming for 1 hour killed me legs i want to get the quatro for surface swimming even tho i still didnt get into scuba yet

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello zazugee, we thoroughly enjoy using the Mares Quattros.

Time per test?

@LakeHickoryScuba

9 ай бұрын

Hello @wesa665, speed is not what we were measuring in this specific test.

When I go diving, I use atomic split fins. But I wouldn't use freediving fins. Great video.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Thank You, glad you liked it.

@jesspeoples3292

5 жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba you should do a review on the atomic split fin.

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

If I had a set to review, I would be happy to do one.

@GastrophetDrum

5 жыл бұрын

@@jesspeoples3292 I've put about 400 dives on atomic aquatic smoke on the water splits...And I'm blown away by how effective they are. So quick and effortless compared to blades, and the sheer number of different movements one can use to create thrust is astounding. Mind you they are stiffer splits, I would not like softer ones, and it took me maybe 100 dives to really dial them in... (Scuba instructor, been using fins since I was 5, kinda thing.)

@jesspeoples3292

5 жыл бұрын

@@GastrophetDrum Thanks for the input. I just upgraded the straps to spring. They work great. When I started diving, I wore paddle fins for my checkout dives. My instructor let me try a pair of split fins and I was hooked. Later, he had an old pair of split fins and he let me have them and I have been diving with them ever since.

No Force Fins ?

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello Don Riley. We only chose the fins that we currently sale and have access to. Since we are a Mares Dealer, we grabbed all the current models we had in stock at the time. We did however, do a showdown with the Mares Power Planas, and the Scuba Pro Jet Fins. I will link that video here for you. kzread.info/dash/bejne/iqSbltmMkdPHfso.html

So if you bought the version of the wave with the foot pocket ..would not a drag and completely change the performance of the little fin hum ..... Hands down there's only two fins that I will ever use mares Avanti Quattro and the apeks rk3hd it's kind of odd it's you didn't do an old school jet fins all things considering before or precious quatro's came out they were the go-to

@Yggdrasil42

5 жыл бұрын

Rev Tech, LLC I personally love the RK3-HD for frog kick, back kick and helicopter kick but dislike them for flutter kicks. Probably because they're quite stiff. They give great control but don't flex much.

@revtechmarine

5 жыл бұрын

Yggdrasil42 I completely agree that's exactly why I love them Dual side mount penetration is where I mostly use them either cave or wreck awesome control keep you off the walls and ceiling while being short enough to allow you to turn enough to give you the power to do it anything over water or instructor base I-10 towards the quatro's case I need to chase down someone LOL

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

We decided to use the fins that we had in stock. We have had others comment that we should have used Jet Fins as well. I have several pair of older ScubaPro Jet Fins laying around, we may try to compare them to the Mares Power Planas, and even compare the ScubaPro SeaWing Novas to the Mares X-Streams. Same basic design, just different cosmetics. In regards to the open heel versions to of the Mares Waves, the parachuting effect is possible, but with the proper foot pocket size and the proper size boot to fill in the foot pocket, it is most like hardly noticeable.

so if we don't do any cave diving. freediving fin is actually the best in any way.

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Hello kui Q, not sure I can answer that, simply because its personally preference. Most Freediving fins tend to be difficult to travel with, that is if you are attempting to put them in a standard luggage or diving bag. Also, in the winter time, they tend to not work very well if you need foot protection. Walking to and from the dive site can be difficult too. Unless, I am specifically Freediving, or on select boat trips, I do not use them for everyday use. My go to favorites for all types of diving would be the Mares Avanti Quattro.

Great video. Being on swim teams since my childhood i can confidently say you are doing the frog kick incorrectly. Your knees should come up toward your chest at the beginning ofthe kick. Instead you were bringing your feet to your butt. Also, once you finish the kick, your legs should be in a strait line with your body. You had your knees bent behind you which ruins the glide of the frog kick. If you did the kick correctly I bet each one of those fins would drop about 3 or 4 kick cycles.

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the input MuttonChops24, I will try to work on that.

@alexpilloni

2 жыл бұрын

The same can be said for the flutter kick...since knees should not be bent... Maybe that's the reason why the "broken fins", I mean the razor pro, won :-D

A Mares commercial

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Hello Mark Sallows, sorry to hear that you did not like our video. Nevertheless, we appreciate you watching it and sharing your thoughts with us.

FEENS lol

@LakeHickoryScuba

2 жыл бұрын

Hello Gene Harrison, I believe it is spelled Fins. My accent can be deceiving at times. LOL

So basically it's a Mares commercial...

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Hello Silent Screamer, sorry to hear that you did not like the video. Nevertheless, we appreciate you watching it and sharing your thoughts with us.

@SilentScreamer413

Жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba I didn't say I didn't like it. I think it's quite alright to compare things. However, here you compare only Mares products (Mares make good fins no question) but other brands would be welcome in a comparison test...

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

We are a Mares exclusive dealer Silent Screamer. We will be happy to give a fair test to any and all fins anyone is will to send us. These are the fins we currently have in stock. Hope this clears up any confusion. We have completed multiple test in the past, testing the efficiency of other brands as well. We have produced videos as well comparing Jet Style fins from brands such as Scuba Pro to the Mares Power Plana’s.Fill free to check those videos out as well. If you have a specific set of fins you would like to send us for testing, we will be happy to provide an address for you to send them to. Just let us know which Mares fin you would like us to compare them to.

@SilentScreamer413

Жыл бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba That's fair enough. I appreciate the fact you take the time to explain too. Thanks.

Great Test ! BUT completely wrong title ! Your test is only testing POWER of the fins. Each kick propels different fins for different distance. It should have been called : “Testing fin POWER”. If you want to test Fin Efficiency you got to compare Distance to Energy used. OR How far and how fast you can sustain swimming without any fatigue. In order to get it right, I did swimming in multiple fins for 1h (covering ~ 2 miles). With Scuba Pro Yellow Jet Fins I can swim the longest distance in first 1h (over 2 miles over 3.3km) no tiredness, no fatigue in my legs, so I can enjoy watching fish underwater with breast stroke mostly on the way back (yes no problem with frog kick in split fins for me) another 2 miles (total over 4 miles or 7 kilometer). Other fins that I tried not only gave my leg fatigue but I could not swim that fast and long either e.g. “Finis Positive Drive Swim Training Fins” - absolute garbage for swimming efficiency in a longer distance and “US Divers Nature’s Wing Shredder” - much shorter, stiffer split fins but highly inefficient for long distance. Fatigue again.

@LakeHickoryScuba

9 ай бұрын

Hello @maresks360, that is an interesting take. The biggest issue we face with any type of test is the changing variable of the individual diver.

If the guy with a camera didnt move up & down I would watch until the end but sorry

@LakeHickoryScuba

Жыл бұрын

Hello Gourmet Camping with Ross Guseinoff, sorry that you found out video difficult to watch. Nevertheless, we appreciate you watching it and sharing your thoughts with us.

Thank you. My comments are in the video technique. Opening shot needs to be tilted downward to show the fin blades (which is the subject we're talking about, not the pool). No need to have your head in front of your board. It's ok to show both your face AND your results.

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello Jim, thanks for the advice, we are always looking for better ways to improve our videos.

Only mares ? Hummm….

@LakeHickoryScuba

Ай бұрын

Hello @luciebergeron9177, if you have a specific brand you would like to send us to test, we would be happy to test it for you and produce a video for your viewing pleasure.

@luciebergeron9177

Ай бұрын

@@LakeHickoryScuba thanks for replying. Not a specific brand or model but I need to replace my fins and I have been looking and reading different reviews recently. Your test is by far the best I’ve seen but unfortunately only mares. I am a female DM, looking for good all rounder fins. As a woman, we don’t have the same strength, but the goal in the same. Power without exhaustion.

@LakeHickoryScuba

Ай бұрын

Fin selection can be difficult, and most shops will not allow a try before you buy program. Depending on what kicking pattern you prefer, I personally like a fin that is neutrally buoyant, and has a stiff spine (side rail) but a thinner more responsive blade. This allows me to flutter kick and frog kick interchangeably without causing cramping. If you were local to us, we do allow customers to try fins out before they purchase them. Online reviews can sometimes be deceiving. Not necessarily because the online user is lying to you, but simply because they may have a different kick pattern or leg strength than yourself. So even though they really like a specific fin and it works for them, it may not work for you. I would ask local divers to try their fins to see what works for you. As far as us only displaying Mares in this specific video, we are a Mares dealer and had the fins readily available to test.

WHICH IS BAD THE RAPTOR HTE FIN IS CUTING IN HALF BECAUSE YOU SAID IS NOT GOOD OR NOT ENOUGH FAST I HAVE ONE IS CUTING IN HALF FROM FACTORY OS COURSE IS THE ONE WHAT YOU SAID IS NOT GOOD

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

Hello Hector, none of these fins are bad. It all comes down to what is the most practical for the type of diving you choose to do, and what fits you physical capabilities.

@hectorfernandez4640

5 жыл бұрын

I WILL LIKE TO DO A VIDEO WITH YOU I AM LOOKING FOR CERTICATION IN WRECK SPECIALIST OR SIDEMOUNT I JUST HAVE THE OPEN WATER ONLY

@LakeHickoryScuba

5 жыл бұрын

We would be happy to shoot a video with you. We can also teach your Wreck Diver Specialty and your Sidemount Diver Specialty.

Your kicking technique has way too much knee action.

@LakeHickoryScuba

3 жыл бұрын

Hello clarence foster. Thank you for the critique.

Mares anything is just trash...

@LakeHickoryScuba

4 жыл бұрын

Hello King Gucci, thank you for commenting on our video. It supports us in many ways. Thanks again.