XDEEP EX1 Polish brand xDeep have now got in on the propulsion act with these big, chunky technopolymer fins. The xDeep EX1 are available in a range of finishes, from ‘soft’ through ‘medium hard’ to ‘hard’ so you can tailor which flexibility best suits your style of kicking/diving. Being made from a technopolymer, they don’t change parameters whatever the water temperatures, unlike rubber. Regardless of which ‘hardness’ you select, the foot pocket has a two-phase moulding, in that the front part is made of a softer material for added comfort. They are fitted with a stainless-steel spring strap and large thumb loop for simple donning and doffing. The EX1 fins look like a straightforward rubber tech fin, but the nifty technopolymer used in their construction means they are not as heavy as a rubber equivalent, and as stated above, are not affected by temperature. The Medium Hard version we tested provided some serious propulsion, though as par for the course with a fat-blade fin like this, you need decent leg muscles to really get the most out of them. Excellent back kick and frog kick, and a great spring strap. www.xdeep.eu
TECH SPECS & VERDICT WEIGHT: 2.88kg per pair | STRAP: Spring strap with thumb loop VERDICT: Chunky fin made from an advanced technopolymer, which generate lots of power. Great stainless-steel spring straps. But please can we can a larger size - even XL is not that big.
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ZEAGLE RECON Zeagle have now joined the fin race, and the Recons put in a strong performance while still coming in at a cracking price. According to Zeagle, ‘aerodynamic surfaces, four strategic strakes on the top and underside, and thick side ribs combine to generate optimal thrust and performance across the entire fin’. Made from compression-moulded rubber, they are strong and durable - and negatively buoyant - and are equipped with a quick-fastening, adjustable stainless steel spring strap with large thumb loop for easy donning and doffing. For those wanting to brighten up their ensemble, colour-accent kits for the buckle and thumb loop are available. The Recon fins really put Zeagle on the map in the world of fins, and they give all of their rivals a wake up call that there is a new kid on the block. They are solid, heavy, well-made fins, with a good heft to them, and they are comfortable to wear, and easy to get on and off. That blade works well, pumping out some serious thrust and being spot-on with all fin kicks. Excellent value for money. www.zeagle.com
BEST VALUE 2018 GROUP TEST
FINS
TECH SPECS & VERDICT WEIGHT: 3.42kg per pair | STRAP: Spring strap with thumb loops VERDICT: Neat-looking design, nifty adjustable spring heel strap with monster thumb loops, a decent foot pocket and a blade that delivers in all finning styles. And at an amazing price point.
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