leadweight
Contributor
After reading Rodale's fin test where a few snorkel fins outperformed even the best of adjustable fins, I decided to try some.
None of the three tested fins were available in Houston, so I found some Tusa Reef Tourer fins for $30. These are similar to the Oceanic Caribe. Note that fins that appear to be identical to the Reef Tourer are sold under other names around the world.
The Reef Tourers provided better than average propulsion at low to moderate speeds. Foot comfort was excellent and I experienced no cramps. No timed tests were done. Performance in a current was not very good. I could make headway, but it seemed more difficult than my old Aqualung Blades I adjustable fins.
Unfortunately the blue polymer blade of the fin quickly (fewer than 10 dives) developed white spots just ahead of the foot pocket, a likely indicator that the material was breaking down. There were stress cracks on the surface of the fin as well. Another diver was using a silver pair of these fins (with a different brand name) and his quickly developed the white areas.
I have since retired these fins. Good thing they cost only $30.
None of the three tested fins were available in Houston, so I found some Tusa Reef Tourer fins for $30. These are similar to the Oceanic Caribe. Note that fins that appear to be identical to the Reef Tourer are sold under other names around the world.
The Reef Tourers provided better than average propulsion at low to moderate speeds. Foot comfort was excellent and I experienced no cramps. No timed tests were done. Performance in a current was not very good. I could make headway, but it seemed more difficult than my old Aqualung Blades I adjustable fins.
Unfortunately the blue polymer blade of the fin quickly (fewer than 10 dives) developed white spots just ahead of the foot pocket, a likely indicator that the material was breaking down. There were stress cracks on the surface of the fin as well. Another diver was using a silver pair of these fins (with a different brand name) and his quickly developed the white areas.
I have since retired these fins. Good thing they cost only $30.