All You Need to Know About the Mares X-Stream Fins
The Mares X-Stream fins are built with a mix of materials and design features that focus on efficiency and comfort. They reduce wasted energy, cut down on drag, and deliver strong thrust without feeling heavy on your legs. Below are the key features that make them different.
OPB (Optimized Pivoting Blade) System
The OPB system keeps the blade at the most effective angle through the entire kick cycle. Instead of losing power on each stroke, you get steady thrust whether you’re using a flutter kick, frog kick, or modified technique. This helps a lot in currents or when you need to cover distance.
Channel Thrust Technology
The blade is designed to flex in a way that channels water more effectively. This increases propulsion with less effort, which you’ll notice most during long swims. It also makes the fins feel more forgiving if your technique isn’t perfect.
Riddled Foot Pocket
The foot pocket has small perforations that let water escape. This eliminates the parachute effect you get with solid foot pockets, where water drags behind your foot. It also makes the fins easier to take off at the surface or in tight spots.
Lightweight Tri-Material Construction
The X-Stream uses three different materials in the blade and foot pocket: a soft elastomer for comfort, a stiffer technopolymer for structure, and rubber inserts for flexibility. This keeps the fins light—about 1.5 pounds per fin—while still offering the stiffness needed for power.
Comfortable Strap System
They come with Mares’ bungee strap, which makes putting them on and taking them off quick and simple. The elastic strap also adjusts to different boot sizes, so you don’t have to fiddle with buckles between dives.
Mares X-Stream: Manufacturer's Specification
Fin Type: | Paddle |
Foot Pocket Type: | Open Heel |
Blade Lengt: | ~34.5 to 38 cm (varies by size) |
Material(s): | Tri-Material Construction (thermoplastic rubber, technopolymers, soft elastomer inserts) |
Strap Type: | Bungee Strap System |
Weight: | ~0.7 kg / 1.5 lbs per fin (Regular size) |
Buoyancy: | Neutral, Slightly Negative |
Activity: | Recreational |
Our Rating: Mares X-Stream Review
Overall Score
4.2/5
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4.5
Fit and Comfort
The foot pocket is soft and flexible, which makes it comfortable even on longer dives. The bungee strap system keeps the fit secure without digging into your heel. They work well with standard dive booties, though the fit feels best with medium-thickness soles.
4.0
Performance & Efficiency
The OPB blade design delivers steady thrust through the entire kick. You’ll notice smooth power whether you use flutter kicks or frog kicks. They hold up well in current and give you consistent propulsion without wearing you out too quickly.
4.0
Build Quality & Durability
The tri-material construction feels solid and resists wear over time. The rubberized sections handle flex well, while the technopolymer keeps the blade stiff where it needs to be. Divers who use them frequently report they maintain their snap after years of use.
4.5
Ease of Use & Features
The bungee strap makes donning and doffing easy, even with gloves on. The lightweight design makes them simple to travel with and reduces fatigue underwater. They adapt well to different dive environments, from warm-water reefs to deeper technical dives.
4.0
Value for Money
These fins sit at the higher end of the price range, but the performance and long-term durability make them worth it for divers who log plenty of dives each year. They’re best suited for divers who want efficient, high-performance fins and are willing to invest in gear that lasts.
What We Like:
✅ Efficient Power Transfer
The OPB blade system keeps the fins at the best angle through your entire kick. This gives you steady propulsion without wasted effort, which is especially helpful in current or during long swims.✅ Comfortable Fit
The soft foot pocket and elastic bungee strap make these fins easy to wear for extended dives. They hold securely without pinching, and you can slip them on or off quickly even with gloves.✅ Lightweight but Strong
At about 1.5 pounds per fin, the X-Stream is light enough for travel yet durable enough for heavy use. The tri-material construction balances flexibility and stiffness, so the fins hold their shape over time.✅ Versatile Across Conditions
They perform well with different kick styles and adapt to both warm-water and colder dives. The riddled foot pocket helps cut drag, which makes them responsive in various environments.What We Don't Like:
❌ Premium Price
These fins cost more than many recreational models. While the performance justifies the price for active divers, occasional divers may find them harder to justify.❌ Slight Learning Curve
Because of their stiffness and design, new divers may need a little time to adjust their kick technique. Once you get used to them, they feel efficient, but the initial adjustment can take a few dives.The Verdict
The Mares X-Stream fins deliver a strong balance of power, efficiency, and comfort. Their lightweight design makes them easy to travel with, while the OPB blade and riddled foot pocket give you consistent thrust without wasted effort.
They’re best suited for divers who want high performance gear and dive often enough to appreciate the difference. Technical divers and experienced recreational divers will get the most out of them, but newer divers who are ready to invest in quality gear will also benefit once they adjust to the feel.
If you’re looking for fins that combine long-term durability with efficient performance across a variety of conditions, the X-Stream is a solid choice.
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Mares X-Stream: FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. They are available in different sizes to fit a range of foot shapes and boot thicknesses, from small to extra-large.
Yes. Mares sells replacement bungee straps separately, so you can swap them out without replacing the entire fin
They can be used with drysuits, but you’ll want to check sizing carefully. The open heel pocket and bungee strap have some flexibility, but thicker boots may require upsizing.
Mares X-Stream Fins
The Mares X-Stream fins combine power, comfort, and lightweight design. A top choice for divers who want efficiency and durability in every dive.
Product Brand: Mares
4.2
Pros
- Efficient power with OPB blade system
- Comfortable foot pocket and bungee strap
- Lightweight for travel yet durable
- Works well in various dive conditions
Cons
- Higher price than most recreational fins
- Takes a few dives to adjust to the stiffness