Today you will find a variety of scuba fins type, design, and stiffness, but one on the most interesting trend in the last decade is the introduction of split fins.
Many divers around the world are still debating about the overall efficiency of split fins. But, those who favor them claim that they are almost 30% more efficient than traditional paddle fins, and are much easier on their ankles and knees as well. (more about this below)
However, not all split fins are created equal and not all of them will give you the best performance. When it comes to getting the most out of these type of fins, you need to have the best.
Below is a comparison chart of some of the best split fins on the market
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Split Fins Comparison Guide
Use the chart below to quickly sort through 10 of the best split fins available on the market today. The values for the weight and length are based on a size “Medium” or “Regular” and are approximate values.
Computer | Rating | Price | Foot Pocket | Strap | Weight | Length | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9.3 | $$$ | Open Heel/Full Foot | Adjustable Rubber | 5.02 lbs | 24.4 in | |
 | 9.5 | $$$ | Open Heel | Spring Strap | 6.4 lbs | 22 in | |
 | 9.5 | $$$ | Open Heel | Spring Strap | 5 lbs | 24.4 in | |
 | 8.5 | $$$ | Open Heel | Spring Strap | 5 lbs | ||
 | 9.0 | $$ | Open Heel | Adjustable Rubber | 5.4 lbs | 24.4 in | |
 | 9.2 | $$$ | Open Heel | Adjustable Rubber | 4.7 lbs | 24.4 in | |
 | 9.0 | $$$ | Open Heel | Adjustable Rubber | 4.8 lbs | 25.2 in | |
 | 8.0 | $$$ | Open Heel | Adjustable Rubber | 4.7 lbs | ||
 | 8.0 | $ | Full Foot | N/A | 2.3 lbs | ||
 | 8.0 | $ | Full Foot | N/A | 2.4 lbs |
Compare Scuba Fins
Compare the key features of over 20 of the best scuba diving fins to find the right one for your diving needs
Split Fins Review
Below you will find our review of the top 10 best split fins on the market today. The one that will work best for you will be based on your personal preference and budget. However, any of the fins below would make a good buy.
Atomic Split Fins
Foot Pocket: | Open Heel (Available in Full Foot as well) |
Strap: | Adjustable Rubber |
Quick Release: | |
Weight: | 5.02 lbs |
Length: | 24.4 in |
Manufacture: |
Read Full Review: Atomic Split Fins Review
Apollo Bio Fins Pro
Foot Pocket: | Open Heel |
Strap: | Stainless Steel Spring Straps |
Quick Release: | |
Weight: | 6.04 lbs |
Length: | 22 in |
Manufacture: |
Atomic Smoke On The Water
Foot Pocket: | Open Heel |
Strap: | Stainless Steel Spring Straps |
Quick Release: | |
Weight: | 5 lbs |
Length: | 24 in |
Manufacture: |
Scubapro Twin Jet Max
Foot Pocket: | Open Heel (Available In Full Foot As Well) |
Strap: | Stainless Steel Spring Straps |
Quick Release: | |
Weight: | 4.65 lbs |
Length: | |
Manufacture: |
Oceanic Vortex V-16
Foot Pocket: | Open Heel |
Strap: | Adjustable Rubber |
Quick Release: | |
Weight: | 5.4 lbs |
Length: | 24.4 in |
Manufacture: |
Tusa X-Pert Zoom Z3
Foot Pocket: | Open Heel |
Strap: | Adjustable Rubber |
Quick Release: | |
Weight: | 4.7 lbs |
Length: | 23.9 In |
Manufacture: |
Mares Raptor
Foot Pocket: | Open Heel |
Strap: | Adjustable Rubber |
Quick Release: | |
Weight: | 4.8 lbs |
Length: | 25.2 in |
Manufacture: |
Scubapro Twin Jet
Foot Pocket: | Open Heel |
Strap: | Adjustable Rubber |
Quick Release: | |
Weight: | 4.65 lbs |
Length: | |
Manufacture: |
Tusa X-Pert Evolution
Foot Pocket: | Full Foot |
Strap: | N/A |
Quick Release: | N/A |
Weight: | 2.3 lbs |
Length: | |
Manufacture: |
Oceanic Vortex V6
Foot Pocket: | Full Foot |
Strap: | N/A |
Quick Release: | N/A |
Weight: | 2.4 lbs |
Length: | |
Manufacture: |
What Are Split Fins Anyway?
Unlike your traditionally paddle fins, they have a split in the middle of the blade going almost the entire length. The fins are often supported by two ridges on either side for added support and flex.
Split Fins VS Paddle Fins
Split fins are more efficient and help conserve energy and air better than traditional paddle fins. However, paddle fins provide more power and trust.
The type of fins will generally be determined by the dive of diving you will be doing. If you are going to be diving on dive sites with little current then split fins would be more efficient. However, for more technical dives with stronger currents paddle fins are preferred because they provide more power.
How To Get The Most Out Of Your Split Fins
When using split fins for the first time you might worry about how easy they are to kick. But, there is nothing wrong, you are probably going just as fast as you were with your old dive fins.
Generally, for you to get the most out of your split fins you will need to change your kicking style to shorter flutter kick. So, if you are a diver that uses a longer stroke flutter kick and are not willing to change your kicking style, then you will not get the most out of them.
How Not To Kick With Split Fins
Below is a short video I found on youtube.com. The video shows you exactly how not to kick with split fins or any other fins for that matter. At least he was wearing split fins thou, the kicking he was doing would be useless with any other type of fins. Enjoy, and try not to laugh too hard, unless you have the same kicking style.
The Bottom Line
In summary, split fins are more efficient and help conserve energy and air better than traditional paddle fins. However, paddle fins provide more power and trust.
The type of fins will generally be determined by the dive of diving you will be doing. If you are going to be diving on dive sites with little current then split fins would be more efficient. However, for more technical dives with stronger currents paddle fins are preferred because they provide more power.
If you have great success with split fins or just generally hate them, leave a reply below and let us know your story.