scuba-freediving hybrid fins

[qsys]

I'm scuba diving (since 1999) and recently I started to be interested in freediving a lot. I have weekly scuba training and usually, we do quite a lot of (relatively short) apneu-exercises. My fins are somewhat the cheapest ones anyone can find, just because, well, it are still my first pool-fins.
I'd like to upgrade my fins. Now, since it's still scuba-training, it wouldn't be a good idea to buy real freediving fins (long ones, monofins). Is there any advice about typical scuba-diving fins that are good for freediving as well?

What I wonder, for example is if splitfins would be a good choice, or should I just stay with paddles? This has been partially discussed before on this forum, but maybe there are some new things recently, or someone has some experiences. Or if anyone has fins that are good for different kick styles? ...?

I know, there is no absolute answer, but any experiences might give me an idea which ones to buy.

 

[kwtony]

If you're looking for something with versatility to do both,I'd suggest a medium length plastic fin that utilizes a full foot pocket. Not one that needs booties and straps. This might e tough to do depending on the thickness of your booties. So find a good comfortable dive sock that you like, and bring them in to the dive shop and try on a pair of ne size larger fins. I don't know where you dive in, but if it's warm waters a 2mm should be perfect or maybe even a normal pair of black socks would work.

 

[qsys]

The new fins would be for pool only, for training (both scuba and freediving). For outdoor scuba diving, I have other fins (jet fins). I dive in Belgium (low vis, 4-21deg C, some current, ...), so I normally wear prretty heavy boots (underground to walk to dive sites is not easy), 5+7mm or dry suite (although I prefer wet suit by far). I might buy fins for outdoor freediving as wel one day.
I just don't want to buy two different pairs of fins for pool training. Don't need socks. Only full pocket fins. Are there some kind of medium size carbon fins? Reading the forum, most seem to agree on better performance of carbon fins, but I don't know if that still counts for medium size fins... So far, I'm a bit struggling with: should I take some kind of split fins with the 'propeller effect'-thing, or should I just use normal paddles, which seem in most cases more appropriate for different kicks (like dolphin kick, frog kick etc), are they not?

 

[kwtony]

Could always Find some cheap carbons/plastics and cut them ago your preference.

 

[cdavis]

Not sure what kind of pool use you have in mind, but I can't imagine anything where split fins would make sense in freediving mode.

I have a pair of sporosub plastic blades that are short as longfins go. They are quite fast, would work better in the pool because they are "short". I used them extensively when I had a busted knee and was surprised at how efficient they were for open water. Might be something you could use.

Connor

 

[qsys]

Don't know about the split fins thing either. I just see many people wearing them these days, although I don't really like them a lot, but that might be because I didn't wear them enough. And as far as I understand, I shouldn't be wearing them . The pool is 5m deep for 25m long. Well, at least this year. Next year, it'll be 3m deep... (they're building a new one ).

Anyway, I'll check these sporosub plastic blades...

Thx a lot! I'll just have to give something a shot, I suppose.

 

[hteas]

Split fins suck. They provide very little power. Your Jetfins are really the best option. I realize that you are looking for full foot fins, but the Jetfins, based on several decades of using them, are the best all around fin made.
If you really want to go with a full foot fin, look at the Mares Plana Avante Quatro.

 

[qsys]

Yeah, I love jet fins. I might try Hollis for outside (open heel). For pool training, I'll check Mares Plana Avante Quatro. Just yesterday, I was looking at leaderfins uwg 130 (hard): closed heel, not too long and well, I don't know, they're possibly ok, but I have no clue if they really are.
Thanks for your advice!