Best Scuba Fins in 2021 - Reviews and Buyer's Guide

Fin length: from 24 inches (60.9 cm)

The Scubapro Jet Sport Scuba Diving fins is considered both a powerful and a high-performance scuba diving fins that is suited for use for all scuba divers regardless of certification level.

Newbies and experienced divers will enjoy the smooth performance of this scuba diving fins that is designed for maximum leg power and energy to distance conversion. It has a distinct design where the foot pocket and the fin blades are separated through a 3-division window called as the drag-reducing vents that allows the natural flow of water as you kick the up and down or left and right.

This feature alone significantly reduces water drag and conserves your leg power.

The foot pocket of the Scubapro Diving fins is ergonomically designed to naturally fit the contours of your feet. The use of a diving booties is highly recommended where it is secured through an adjustable fin strap that is equipped with a quick release buckle for easy donning and doffing.

Even if you are using a diving gloves, you can easily manage the fin strap and adjust it accordingly courtesy from the splitting handle grip that is located at the center. The fin blades are made from 3 highly rigid yet flexible materials that is constructed in a durable frame which gives optimal flexibility.

The fin blades are visually large which aides you in achieving maximum fin power and it naturally bends as you kick the fins in the water. The blades are further equipped with a rubber ribbing at the side which acts to prevent water from slipping thereby maximizing the energy to distance conversion in every kick.

If you try to make a closer look, you will see that the rubber ribs starts at the tip of the blades and goes all the way up to the foot pocket. This guarantees you that all your leg power is transferred all the way to the tip of the fins.   

When it comes to flexibility, the fin blades naturally bends as you make a kick. On top of this, the Scubapro Jet Scuba Diving fins has a unique feature where its fin blades forms a small u-shape in every upward and downward motion which acts like a fan thereby maximizing the water it comes in contact with.

This simply means that you are guaranteed the maximum distance in each fin kick. But how is this possible? This is brought to you by its 3-composite material that is intermixed to naturally bend.

The hard polyethylene material (usually this is the part where it is colored) is joined by a softer rubber material allowing the fin blades to change its shape in every stroke. When not in motion, the fin blades are flat. However, as you make a kick cycle, the fin blades bends into a u-shape directing and propelling water towards the tip.

Fin length: 23 inches (58.4 cm)

If you want a short, heavy and powerful scuba diving fins, then the IST Deep Sea Scuba Diving Military Fins is the one for you.

Weighing 3.2 kilograms (7 pounds), this pair of fins is made from a thick and a high quality durable rubber that is expected to withstand to roughest conditions over an extended amount of time. But despite being tough, using the fins will give you a soft and comfortable feel.

The IST Deep Military Fins are not recommended for newbies. The fins are heavy and requires leg power. This is the reason why they are preferred by experienced divers, professional technical divers and also for military use.

If you have the leg power, this scuba diving fins will come in handy where you will appreciate its features that maximizes your glide and underwater distance in every kick you make.

Its old school traditional design has been proven from years of usage that it will give you power and motion while being underwater. The fin blades are slightly curved and will natural bend at different angles which creates overall flexibility and positive thrust.

While it is heavy, this scuba diving fins creates less drag as you make a stride. This is brought to you by its windows or drag-reducing vents that has an angular orientation which further lessens water drag.

One thing that is well pronounced in the IST Deep Sea Scuba Fins are the rubber ribbings. You can see that it is highly elevated up to an inch high and is further supported by 2 inner rubber ribs at the middle.

This means that in every kick you make, it channels a maximum amount of water towards the tip, which in turn is converted in to thrust or underwater motion.

Although the foot pocket of this scuba diving fins is softly contoured, it is recommended that you use a diving booties and make sure that you have the proper size compatibility between your feet, booties and fins. Otherwise, if it is not compatible, you will be struggling underwater where the possibility of experiencing cramps while underwater is imminent.

You also have to take note that this scuba diving fins has a fin strap that has no quick release buckle. Although the fin straps are adjustable, you need to pre-adjust before using it since it will lock in place once it is locked in. The only way to put on and take off these scuba diving fins is either by pulling or pushing down the straps.

Just in case you want to add a bit of flexibility and suspension in the fin strap, you can pre-order a coil spring fin strap. This upgraded fin strap accessory is equipped with the universal IST clamp with coil springs that are made from high performance stainless steel.

Just a reminder: the coil spring fin strap is sold separately.

Fin length: 26 inches (66 cm)

If there is one scuba diving fins that has exceeded the established performance of traditional scuba diving fins, then nothing beats the Mares Avanti Quattro Plus Scuba Diving Fins.

This non-vented fins is a redesign and restyle version of the legendary Mares Avanti Quattro Fin. Made from a new composite and lightweight material that only weighs 1.95 kilograms (4.3 pounds), this scuba diving fins gives you an optimal leg power.

It has an increased fin blade efficiency courtesy from its new hi-flex composite material. Each pair of this fin has four water channels that directs water towards the tip as you make a kick. This mean that the conversion from leg power to distance is 4 times higher when compared to other scuba diving fins.

Taking a closer look at this scuba diving fins will give you an idea that of the 4 water channels, 2 are depressed on the front while the remaining 2 water channels are depressed at the back portion. This, in effect, guarantees you that water is channeled whether you are doing an upward or downward kicking.    

When it comes to fin efficiency, the Mares Avanti Quattro Fins has greater responsiveness regardless of the type of diving environment you are exploring.

Its improve stabilizers guarantees fin stability at all times which eliminates the possibility of an ankle twist especially in swimming against the current or in exploring areas with strong tidal fluctuation.

The foot pocket has a new anatomical design which conveys more power from your legs up to the fin blades. One thing that is noted and new to this scuba diving fins is its patented bungee fin strap. This easy to use elastic cord that is encased in a high performance rubber guarantees that you will always have the right fit, especially when using a pair of diving booties. In short, not too tight and not too loose.

You have to remember that the bungee heel straps does not need any adjustment. All you have to do is pull the thumb loop, insert your booties and set back the bungee straps in place. It naturally adjust to expansion and compression which is great for deep diving where you don’t feel a loose fin when you go deep. The bungee heel strap also acts as a suspension where it releases foot tension when you are doing hard kicks. 

On top of all its engineering and anatomical features, the Mares Avanti has an overall improved look that is highly attractive and with more colors to choose from.

Aside from the standard colors from its old version, it now offers the lime version (green), flamingo (red) and white. The various choices of colors are designed to be highly visible in the water even if it is turbid or deep. One of its users who choose the flamingo color was expecting that the red color of the fin would dissipate as it goes deep. But surprisingly, it did not fade away and stayed as bright red even at 30 meters (100 feet) deep.

The sixth entry on our list of best fins for scuba diving is a hybrid that combines classic fin technology with the latest hydrodynamic innovation - the Scubapro Seawing Nova. 

This open heel fin has an efficient design that delivers power, maneuverability and acceleration in every kick you make. Balancing hardness and flexibility, the fin blades have variable geometrical wings that arc upward and deliver more power and stability.

The oversized foot pocket design allows for an easy on and off. Molded grip pads provide anti-skid and anti-slip properties. 

This is very important as it will give you efficient footing when you are striding at the edge of the boat during entry. The straps are made from a highly elastic, self-adjusting marine-grade bungee that has a soft heel pad at the center and an oversized finger loop that allows easy donning and doffing of these diving boots.

In-between the foot pocket and fin, there are hinged blades made from space-quality monprene rubber. They are designed to expand when you kick and produce a propulsive snap that propels you in an instant motion.

Weighing only 4 pounds, this fin is also lightweight and has an efficiency similar to a split fin. Highly recommended for newbie divers as every kick guarantees smooth underwater motion.

7. Scubapro GO Fins for Scuba Diving

The Scubapro GO is a high-performance lightweight fin highly recommended for frequent travellers as it can fit on any IATA-compliant carry-on.

Despite its low weight, this fin is highly durable. It is primarily made from ultra-strong monprene rubber and constructed in such a way to avoid delamination, breaking of the blades and ripping of the foot pockets.

This fin has a boot-fin design which allows you to use it with a pair of diving booties. The foot pockets are re-profiled, giving you maximum foot comfort and power transfer in every kick. 

Divers and snorkelers alike appreciate the foot pocket feature, as they can easily walk on rocky shores while their feet are fully protected against sharp objects like shells and barnacles.

Upgraded from the original version, the fin blades now have mounting points with attached skegs for minimal sideslip and maximized stability. The blades are also pre-angled at 25º, with a central panel that channels water away, thereby maximizing kick performance. 

To prevent from over flexing, the blades also feature power bars on the underside. The fin straps are made from a replaceable, self-adjusting bungee heel strap that allows for a versatile fit. No doubt, this fin will give you the power, maneuverability, speed and agility you’d expect from a top-notch product.

Combining the elements of a classic vent-type fin with modern materials, the Sherwood Triton Fin is a lightweight and highly flexible full-size open heel fin. 

It is made from thermoplastic polyurethane molded in a TPR construction, making it light, durable and slightly buoyant, without compromising your diving weight requirement. This means that when you accidentally dislodge this fin in the water, it will slowly float back towards the surface.

This fins has an optimized foot pocket with an adjustable strap that is attached to a quick release buckle. A large heel pull tab will aide you in donning and doffing. Furthermore, the blades are ergonomically designed with channels that lead water towards the tip of the blade to enhance propulsion. 

Between the foot pocket and the blade, there are three large vents that provide additional thrust during down kick and decrease drag during the recovery up-kick. This design allows you to easily perform any fin stroke like the flutter or frog style kick.

Ideal for amateurs, pros, and travelers, this fin has even won the Sport Diver Magazine award for its performance.

9. CAPAS Snorkel and Diving Fins

While the Capas fins are designed for snorkeling, they’re perfect for diving too. Indeed, many scuba divers who want to go at a slow pace prefer them over other models on this list.  

This fin is made from a combination of silicone and rubber, and has an overall negative buoyancy. In other words, it will sink when dislodged. The foot pockets have a hard sole with large non-slip inserts and a soft upper material that gives comfort and prevents bruises when wearing a shorty-type of diving booties.

Thanks to the open heel design with large foot pockets, this fin can accommodate a wider range of foot sizes, making it an ideal fin for sharing or family use. The foot-size versatility is further complemented by an easy to adjust rubber strap. 

Pulling the straps will give you a tight fit, while pressing the buckle will loosen down the tightness.

Furthermore, the fin blades have a humanized design that helps you swim using minimal effort but converting energy to maximum swimming efficiency. Overall, this fin is lightweight and very short - highly recommendable for the active and traveling diver.

10. IST Rubber Rocket Scuba Diver Fins

Projected to give optimal mobility and maximum power, the IST Rubber Rocket fins are ideal for open-water rescue, salvage diving and technical diving - a few features that make it the number one choice for military use. 

This super strong fin is made from premium-grade rubber that will not wear out or lose its stiffness. Weighing only 7 pounds, this fin is also heavy and boasts a negative buoyancy feature. 

The IST also has a special curvature construction with vents and a tapered blade for maximum propulsion . The foot pocket has an open heel design with adjustable straps made from high-density rubber. 

While the rubber straps may require a little effort to adjust your diving booties, you can upgrade it with the easy-to-use coil spring strap sold separately. 

The fin blades are stiff and have multiple grooves designed to force water into the channel, giving maximum thrust and underwater freedom of movement. 

Vents between the foot pocket and the blades also allow water to pass, lessening drag when kicking. 

This power fin is not recommended for newbies, but it’s undoubtedly a perfect choice for the pros.

11. Atomic Aquatics Open Heel Scuba Diving Split Fins

The Atomic Aquatics Split fin boasts a progressive approach to the underwater propulsion of a scuba diver. It is made from a high-quality rubber that is both rigid and flexible.

The foot pocket has an internal power plate sole that provides a rigid base beneath your diving booties, creating an increased power transfer towards the fin blades. The straps are made from rubber and are attached to an EZ lock buckle system, allowing you to quickly release it with one hand.

The main feature of this fin are the blades. Each blade has a slit at the center that splits the blade in two. 

When you kick, regardless if it is a slow or fast kick, the fin blade will split to form a wing that slices through the water to reduce drag. This feature enhances propulsion, as it displaces water during a horizontal or vertical kick. In other words, you can perform any stroke with this fin, like the common flutter or frog kick.

This also means that this fin requires less effort, reducing leg strain. It is highly recommended for newbies. However, it is not recommended for the frequent traveler due to its heavier weight.

12. Hollis Performance F1 Technical Scuba Diving Fins

The Hollis F1 is a power fin made from high-grade rubber molded in a heavy duty construction. It has an open heel foot pocket with spring heel straps mounted in an angular position - a feature designed to enhance fit and comfort. 

The straps have a large finger loop designed to aide you in easy donning and doffing. The blades are sturdy, tapering down to a thin cut at the edge, towards the yellow mark.

Vents between the foot pocket and the blades reduce water drag when kicking. Going back to the yellow markings at the tip of the blade, it is used as easy identification mark and is highly visible underwater.

Weighing 9 pounds, the fins are heavy and may require moderate to strong leg power when performing a kick. As such, they are not the best choice for newbie divers, but highly recommended for the experienced ones.

13. Aqua Lung Stratos 3 Full Foot Scuba Fins

After passing the most extreme stress and anti-shock laboratory tests, the Aqua Lung Stratos 3 has been deemed the best all-around fin for diving. This full foot fin combines the power of quality scuba diving fins and the sleek features of a snorkeling fin, making it ideal for warm water use.

The foot pocket is made from a reinforced ergonomic material that adds comfort as your feet will come in direct contact with the material.

The underside of the foot pocket features anti-slip rubber pads that improve stability while walking on wet and slippery surfaces. The fin blade has a 4-channel structure that allows water to naturally flow towards the tip of the fins. 

Furthermore, the sides of the fin blade are ribbed with a strong material and molded in such a way to have a bending point. Just perfect for achieving more powerful kicks with less leg power.

The last entry on our list of best fins for scuba diving is the Palau long blade adjustable fins. They come in a set with the brand’s Liberty Triside silicone mask and Tao dry snorkel.  

Focusing on the fin, it’s  made from a light but responsive material that assures flexibility in every kick, with large open heel foot pocket that can accommodate large sizes of diving booties. 

Designed to secure the diving booties, the fin also has a rubber strap that is connected to a quick release and easy-to-adjust buckle that allows you to easily adjust the tightness, either by pulling or pushing the straps. 

The fin blades have a large central panel that leads a large volume of water towards the tapered end of the blade. Indeed, this feature will give you the most propulsion in every kick you make. 

The set comes with its own backpack and in a variety of colors. Just perfect for rookies and intermediate divers alike.