Jet fins for non-technical diving?

diver_doug · Apr 21, 2010

From the many posts I've read SP Jet Fins seemed to be, by far, the most preferred fin for pushing doubles, a drysuit, etc. Just curious what people's opinions are (people who have experience with them) regarding Jet Fins for a diver in a wetsuit with a single tank?

When I said "Tech diver", I guess what I really meant was: diver's pushing heavy loads, and/or loads with a lot of drag.

Rainer · Apr 21, 2010

I've used them with that same configuration. They work exceedingly well.

Cave Diver · Apr 21, 2010

diver_doug:
From the many posts I've read SP Jet Fins seemed to be, by far, the most preferred fin for pushing doubles, a drysuit, etc. Just curious what people's opinions are (people who have experience with them) regarding Jet Fins for a diver in a wetsuit with a single tank?

I've used them for hundreds of single tank tropical dives. The only issue I've had is they're a bit heavy traveling. One of my buddies has the OMS slipstreams that are practically identical but much lighter. I've thought about getting those when traveling by air, just for the weight savings.

Other than that, no problems.

vinegarbiscuit · Apr 21, 2010

That's how I started using them, and I love 'em. They're better suited for 'alternate' kicks, like the frog kick: most mortals' leg muscles will protest if they flutter-kick for an extended period of time. Myself, I flutter-kick with them only when I need a real burst of power, (e.g., dealing with a strong current), and I'm always amazed at how easily I move.

There are lots of old school fins you can try, such as Rocket II's, Turtles, Slipstreams and the Hollis F1. They have their differences: some are lighter and flopsier than others, for example. Can you ask your LDS or paddle fin-wearing friends to let you borrow their fins for a couple of dives? You may prefer a different type of old school fin to Jets or (which is sometimes the case) have foot pocket-sizing issues, so trying before you buy is a great way to go.

Mayor · Apr 21, 2010

The OMS Slipstreams are a very nice single tank / wet suit fin!

Mopar · Apr 21, 2010

One more for the OMS Slipstream they are neutral in the water as the Jetfins are slightly negative. I own a pair of the Jetfins and love them for the ocean. I use splitfins in the quarry at home.

diver_doug · Apr 21, 2010

hmmmm...traveling weight's not a concern, so at some point I'm gonna have to give them and/or the Hollis F1's a try (I know the SP jetfins are super well-regarded, but I like the F1's foot pocket better and they are probably the coolest looking fin I've ever seen). Thanks for the replies so far!

laguna230diver · Apr 21, 2010

i still think jetfins are kind of a gimmick. they are short woohoo nice for wrecks. I personally like a nice longblade that can push a lot of water. Freediving fins are my favorite if your calves can handle em. Just take a tiny bit of getting used to.

FireInMyBones · Apr 21, 2010

I use my Jets for single tank dives all the time in the summer, especially if I am doing shore entry or need boots.
My dad kicks up silt when using his splits trying to pass me.

Nemrod · Apr 21, 2010

Jets are the preferred fin of experienced divers the world over, regardless of the "tech" or not "tech" designation. The downside is that they are a tad heavy and with today's increasing travel restrictions they sometimes are a weight liability.

N

Jet fins for non-technical diving?

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