Just to resurrect an old thread... And to make a short story long... stussels decided to sell his Beavers on e-Bay and I bought them.
I haven't been on the board in quite a few months, but wanted to post some test results.
First off, in my growing collection of fins, I have a set of Adjustables, the Beavers and two pairs of Pros (original black and bright yellow). I also have a pair of Slims for my wife, but she hasn't tried them yet (long story).
Due to medical concerns (note my status) I have been pretty much confined to swimming laps at our local Y. I normally do about 45 minutes freestyle followed by 30 minutes with fins. After getting the Beavers, I decided to run a little test to see which I would mainly use for fitness. All test are done with lightweight reefwalker booties.
First test day I decided to do 200 yards (kind of pressed for time).
Adjustable - 4:07
Beavers - (V) - 4:02
Beavers - (!!) - 3:56
Pro - 3:48
(Note: The difference on the Beavers is with the vanes set straight or one notch in.)
A couple of days later I decided to repeat the test at 400 yds (with intermediate time at 200 yds). This time I added my old Rocket Fins with spring straps that I used to dive into the mix.
Rockets - 3:57 (Had to quit at 200 yds. Even though I had tape on my toes like I used to dive, the pain was too much.)
Adjustable - 4:24 / 8:53
Beavers (V) - 4:11 / 8:17
Beavers (!!) - 4:05 / 8:09
Pros - 3:55 / 7:54
It's funny, but the Pros that feel more flexible actually give me the best time.
So, for training work in the pool, I am now using my Beavers and I love them. When I go in open water (and I'm not admitting that I sneak out for an occasional dive), I always use my Pros.