What's the deal with monofins?

[ONT]

It seems monofins are extremely popular here, almost always a new post in the subforum for them. I thought it would spark some good discussion to ask people their opinions on mono- vs bi-fins.

To me, it seems bi-fins are the winner because the technique seems more natural (kicking with each leg is more like walking than doing the full-body dolphin kick that most use for monofins) and because bi-fins often have interchangeable blades (If monofins do as well, excuse my ignorance ). Also, monofins are STEEP! A high quality pair of entry-level bi-fins runs about $200 USD, while I'm pretty sure a comparable monofin looks more like $400 or $500!

 

[sims]

Neither is better for all situations.

Monofins give you way more power and efficiency of propulsion, so they are better if you are trying for performance (this isn't a small difference, but very noticeable even with less than perfect technique).

Bifins are easier to get used to, travel with and are more maneuverable, so they are often the better fit for more recreational diving.

 

[cdavis]

Different strokes for different folks.

IMHO for most divers, most spearos, most of the time, bifins are a better choice. That said, monos have some amazing advantages. As a bifinner who looked for years to find a mono that fit my kind of diving, and was successful with a Dol-fin, I am happy to have made the switch for most of my diving. I'll still use bifins for some things, but most of the time, reef crawling, spearfishing, etc, I prefer the mono.

Monos expensive? compared to top level bifins, a top level mono is a bit more expensive, and often less durable. So buy a Dol-fin. Its pricy, but will never wear out, and, if monos are for you, its unlikely that you will ever find a fin that works better. If it lasts forever, that by itself justifies a higher price. The truth is, price is an excuse for most divers. If you are really tight, and I have sure been there,plastic bifins work almost as well as the best at 1/10 of the price. Otherwise, price is just an excuse.

 

[Apneaddict]

Bifins are practical and maneuverable and allow for a variety of techniques.

Monofins tie your legs together (inherently more restrictive) and some are quite uncomfortable.

Monos are way more powerful / efficient and make us pretend or believe that we are aquatic mammals like dolphins / whales. Some of us have wanted to be a mermaid ever since we were young and dressed up in sundresses and had tea parties.

For pool, monos rule. In open water, it's a bit trickier to tread water casually.

Traditionally - monos are a pain to travel with.

But when the proper stiffness and they are just the right fit, it feels so damn organic and natural that you feel like you're a natural part of the underwater world.

Monos spread the work load out over the bigger core muscles, whereas bifins put more emphasis on the quads.

William Winram (WR holder and shark conservationist - also the deepest man with bi-fins) uses bi-fins for shark-tagging and so as not to be confused with "food", uses an exaggerated bi-fin kick... "because nothing in the ocean moves like that".

Monos are the quest for perfection. Like an exotic, perfect 10 bikini model. Might be a pain in the azz, but the pursuit is worth it and too alluring to ignore. And if you get it right... MAGICAL!

Bifins are a solid 7-8. Girl next door Reliable, comfortable and gets the job done.

 

[cdavis]

"Monos are the quest for perfection. Like an exotic, perfect 10 bikini model. Might be a pain in the azz, but the pursuit is worth it and too alluring to ignore. And if you get it right... MAGICAL!

Bifins are a solid 7-8. Girl next door Reliable, comfortable and gets the job done."


Well said.