Split Fins or Not?

[Scuba_Noob]

I currently have a pair of used Atomic Split Fins (don't know exact model). They're very used, but they do the job and don't feel too bad. I've noticed that they may be too flexible, though (might be a sign of age).

But I've read around that non-split fins are better for kicks other than the flutter kick (i.e., the frog kick and the back kick). I'd like to eventually get into photography, so I would likely want to be adept at the frog kick. Plus the frog kick seems to expend less energy and thus, cause less air consumption.

I also hear (from the other side) that it's much harder to kick normally with non-split fins than split fins.

Finally, what decent quality (yet not too expensive) fins would you recommend, should I decide to buy non-split fins?

 

[koozemani]

 

[Pullmyfinger]

Here we go! Buckle up kids!

 

[HatchetJoe]

 

[Scuba_Noob]

You guys appear to have knowledge of the answers, yet you don't reveal them. Not very helpful to just post animated .gifs. Just give me your opinions; I know you have them. If there's another thread that better answers my question, link it if you want (e.g., http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/fins-masks-snorkels/40193-split-fins-frog-kick-no-problems.html, http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/fi...-frog-kick-backward-kick-helicopter-turn.html).

As well, you guys seem to be expecting a flame-war. There are plenty of ways to reveal your opinions without bashing the other side. Though I asked about differences between split fins and non-split fins (a strong topic), I asked very specific questions as to avoid a flame-war (e.g., are non-split fins really better at frog kick and back kick). Thanks for your very helpful answers .

 

[tacky]

I started out with Atomic split fins just like you. As long as I only used flutter kicks they served me well.

If you want to use other kicks, like frog kickand back kick though, look for something else. I like jet fins when diving dry with doubles, but you are likely to strugglea bit for the first two or three dives. When I dive wet I really like the OMS slipstream and they do adescent job in cold water too.

I'm still a nob, but Ican even do half descent back kicks now.

 

[DennisS]

http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/fins-masks-snorkels/41806-split-fins-reverse.html
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/fins-masks-snorkels/322716-split-fin-vs-straight-fin.html
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/fins-masks-snorkels/206535-one-more-split-fin-theory-put-rest.html
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/fins-masks-snorkels/8942-do-you-prefer.html
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/basic-scuba-discussions/252236-split-fins.html

 

[mike_s]

This is a better smiley choice for this thread.

 

[Splitlip]

 

[Splitlip]

You guys appear to have knowledge of the answers, yet you don't reveal them. Not very helpful to just post animated .gifs. Just give me your opinions; I know you have them. If there's another thread that better answers my question, link it if you want (e.g., http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/fins-masks-snorkels/40193-split-fins-frog-kick-no-problems.html, http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/fi...-frog-kick-backward-kick-helicopter-turn.html).

As well, you guys seem to be expecting a flame-war. There are plenty of ways to reveal your opinions without bashing the other side. Though I asked about differences between split fins and non-split fins (a strong topic), I asked very specific questions as to avoid a flame-war (e.g., are non-split fins really better at frog kick and back kick). Thanks for your very helpful answers .

Just don't ask about spare air.

FWIW, I have a pair of Atomic smokes. They are positively buoyant and stiffer than other models. I can frog, helicopter and even manage (poorly) to back up.

My favorite fins however are my USD original blades. I injured myself skiing so the Atomics are kinder to me.