willloomy: Do we know each other? Which island are you on?
I just learned that Florida Freedivers (561-848-0678) stocks the SpecialFins line (thanks
Lil Dragonfly!), and just this morning they told me they still have a few in stock. I believe they're clearing them out, so the price is right...$129.95 for the
Dolphin FRD! Even though shipping will be expensive (will let you know when I find out), at this price it's still worth it. I just ordered two (in case a friend wants one).
I'm aware that this fin is nothing special from a performance standpoint (due to its lack of angle), but I would not recommend getting one of the "hyper" designs for your first monofin, or for general training. You probably already know that for most people they are very uncomfortable because of the extremely snug foot pockets. Their utility is for single performance dives...Not for surface swimming or lengthier sessions.
I actually have the Nemo. But I've come to learn that I shouldn't have chosen the 'hard' stiffness (was not intuitive to me at the time that for deeper diving, less stiffness is favorable). That, plus the 41-43 foot pockets are not very comfortable to my wide feet. I'm venturing beyond 70m now, so it doesn't make sense to spring for a monofin as basic as the Dolphin FRD, but I know the OMER foot pockets (which is what all my bi-fins have) will be supremely comfortable, and I don't mind the handicap in my training. When I finally get serious and go for one of the hyper designs hopefully the removal of my handicap will result in a significant performance enhancement.
That said, I'll probably be looking to unload the Nemo soon (pending whether the Dolphin FRD suffices). I mentioned that I learned the 'hard' stiffness isn't ideal for constant weight (or dynamic), but it still works (hey, it's gotten me to 70m). If you're a heavier person (I'm average...5'10"/170lbs), the hard stiffness actually could be appropriate. Anyway, if 41-43 foot pockets work for you, I might be able to help you out soon!
really good looking good confort great performance and can be customized anyway almost any hyper is great, personally preformance also menas confort but don't buy something that only torture your feet
