The old rubber ScubaPro Jetfin, and other similar models such as the
IDI Turtles or US Divers Rocket Fin, are extremely durable, stiff
enough to provide a great deal of thrust when required, and correctly
shaped to be useful for attitude control when using a DPV, turning
yourself around in a confined space, and for kicks other than a
standard flutter kick, such as a bent-knee anti-silting kick.  There
are many models of fin out there that claim to be extremely efficient
at thrust production, but generally this is with one kick style only,
and then the other qualities are lacking.

I have two pairs of XL SP Jetfins and one pair of the Turtles, and have
put low entrapment potential spring straps on them, one using vinyl
tubing as a spring cover, and the other two with tubular webbing. 
Despite these precautions, I have managed to get hung up on debris
catching the vents on the Jetfins.  Of course, this was in black water
in a swift current in a river on a tender-directed search, but I
wouldn't entirely discount the possibility of it happening again.  The
Turtles have narrower vents, which may serve to prevent this, and also
have large foot pockets, which accomodate my size 15's nicely.

I have tried a lot of different models of fin, and to be honest I do
not recall the names of most of them, but I am now convinced that the
old rubber standbys are the way to go.

-Sean


On Wed, 15 Mar 2000 12:56:00 -0600, Eric Stiers wrote:

>Hi all-
>
>We all have 'em, we all use 'em on every dive, but I've never seen a
>discussion on the topic of the best general-purpose fins. I bought my
>current set (some kind of Ocean Pro) back when I was just getting into
>diving, and chose them mainly on the non-scientific basis of price and
>color without trying any others out. As I've gained experience, I've come
>to the conclusion that they kinda suck and should be upgraded. So, great
>and mighty mail list, what are the best fins and why? Any models to avoid?
>All informed comments will be appreciated.
>
>Eric


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