Split fins (newer technology) or paddle (traditional) fins. There are raging Internet debates over which is better. Divers from both camps cite data gathered with various methods. Each side has their merits, so I thought I would throw my analysis into the ring.

For the record, what I am comparing are traditional one piece stiff fins versus the newer highly flexable split fins. Traditional fins are pretty low tech and closely resemble the shape of a canoe paddle. Some are more flexible than others, some have vents, some don’t, but they are very similar in design. Split fins however are fairly new on the scene and have some radical design elements that make then very much like natures preferred propulsion method.

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