Split Fins--which ones?

SCheckman · 04-14-2007, 11:02 PM

I am looking into buying a pair of split fins. My old paddle fins are TUSA XTen Liberators that I've had for about 18 years. I think I have narrowed my quest down to the Apollo Bio Fins and the Atomic Splitfins (liquid blue). Which do you think is better for a woman diver. I am a strong swimmer and in good condition but less exertion underwater is always better. Can anyone help me with this?

Thanks,
Sheryl

PhotoGirl · 04-15-2007, 03:45 AM

Sheryl,

Yes, I can help. Split fins are a marketing gimmic! Split fins do nothing but spill water which reduces thrust, the same action of which can be accomplished more efficiently by either going to a softer compound or a smaller surface area fin.

**MgicTwnger** · 04-16-2007, 12:11 AM

I've been using the original Atomics for a number of years. I've tried others like Jets and other paddle fins and keep coming back. They are stiff enough for good thrust and manuverability, but don't wear me out. They have enough oomph to push me and my twin steel 108's.

SCheckman · 04-16-2007, 12:15 AM

I think I'm pretty much set on the Atomics now but I'm leaning toward the liquid blue. They are supposed to be slightly softer than the regular splitfins. Any comments on thise vs the regular ones? I think I am over thinking this! :-)

**MgicTwnger** · 04-16-2007, 01:06 AM

My only advice is to go to your LDS and try them both. Only you can tell what works best for you.

mdjgirl7 · 04-29-2007, 02:55 AM

I am a newbie but I have a pair of split fins they are scubapro twin jets and I love them. I am not a strong swimmer and I can barely tell they are on my feet they are so light and they give me all the get up and go I need so far.

scubatoys · 05-10-2007, 08:00 PM

Split fins are not a gimmick... they work. And work great. Every independent test has shown they are far superior to standard paddle fins for speed and efficiency. Perhaps their only draw back is until you are used to them, it is harder to do little backup type maneuvers... who cares. I go forward in life!

As far as which ones - the Apollo Bio Fins are my favorite - and have ruled the tests year after year. Very flexible, no cramps, and yet more speed than any other fin if you want to get up and go to try to get a shot of the turtle speeding away...

Larry
http://www.scubatoys.com