Best Budget Fins?

[JipThePeople]

My 18 year old son is in the market for a set of fins. He is going to get his OW Certification this summer but he is on a limited budget. Any recommendations?

[mwhities]

Depends on what budget means to you.

For me, I'd spend 60-100.00 on SP Jets fins. They'll last 10+ years.

Michael

[Vercingetorix]

The type of fin is dependent upon his swimming ability and style. For instance, if he is a strong swimmer, then go for a blade. If he's average, perhaps a split fin or hybrid. I pissed away $100 on a set of AquaLung Blades II. These are long and stiff, and I do not have strong legs. I was tired within 5 minutes.
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>I changed to hybrids and have no problems.</DIV>
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>Don't skimp on personal gear (mask, fins, boots). Get gear that is comfortable and does the job. Otherwise, scuba becomes less fun.</DIV>

[jacewindu]

i agree on spending money where it counts. mask, bc, and fins are some of the things that matter most to making a diver comfortable in the water. a good pair of fins will last a long time, so it's worth it to get something good.

[frankc420]

Just browse the fins sections of this site: http://www.scubatoys.com/store/Scuba_Fins.asp

Anything they sell is going to be good. No crap sold at this store!

[Joew]

For a good value he might want to look at Mares avanti quattros or Scubapro jetfins. You should be able to pick up either of these for under $100. If he'll only be diving in warm water from a boat or easy shore entry then full foot fins might be a good option. They're usually cheaper than open heel fins and you won't need to buy booties.

[dannybot]

I have the Tusa Liberator X-10 fin, it's okay, I got my wife the Mares Avanti Quatro, she couldn't tolerate them, so we switched, she doesn't tire with the Tusa, and doesn't need to strain to keep up. I recommend the open fin for either, so you'll need booties too

[bobbin-along]

TheCortez is actually a decent fin, made by XS Scuba and around 50$. There are some in the local shops rental fleet and are quite popular to be picked out first. Considering the shop also has cressi and scubapro in rental it's not just a name identity thing.
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>The Oceanic Viper actually surprised me in how well it did when we tested out fins.</DIV>
<DIV></DIV>
<DIV>Or you can buy used there's nothing wrong with used gear.</DIV>

[dk2943]

The Mares X-3s are the best value. They are a competent fin for about $50.

[dk2943]

go with the Mares Avanti x3's you will not be disappointed. They are very similar to the highly rated Quattros, but cost about $50.