Mares Plana Avanti X3

Advantages: Very strong, powerful, good buckle system
Disadvantages: price (although can't complain too much!)

...These fins are among the best I've used - at the moment I prefer the conventional fin design: but I'm slowly investigating the side of twin channel models. The Plana Avanti Quattro fins are very durable - mine have been through a lot and they still look new, rather than the numerous pairs of fins which look like they've just been discovered in a glacial deposit after a couple of dives! Propulsion is brilliant (thanks to their "4 channel design") and they present far less stress on the legs than other models I've tried. The ABS buckle system is great - it endures easy donning of fins (simply slip the strap over the heel and click both sides) - the lock on the side has meant that I have not once had to chase after a fin that decided it wanted to abandon me: and yet they are the easiest fins to take off after a dive... unclip the buckle... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Excellent design, ease of use
Disadvantages: Expensive for fins

...In an age of twin bladed fins being all the rage, Mares have produced the Avanti range in a range of styles and designs, with the quattro being their flagship model. Though dear in price, their effectivness and ease of use in the water confirms you made the right choice. My previous fins took on the ordinary flat surface style which looks to be the best natural solution for diving needs. However, these would produce cramps and tire you quickly with the regular finning needed. The quattros, however, intelligently channel the water down the fin to provide a more efficient kick that gives the effect of increased speed while swimming normally. Other have to race to keep up! However, though it has rigid sides, the main part of the balde is made up of a maliable, flexible plastic that again provides for a better dive. Finally, the clips can... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Impressive speed, flexible, good performers
Disadvantages: Pricey, flimsy straps, poor feedback

...INTRODUCTION I used to have some Mares Plana Avanti Quattros (yes, that is what they're marketed as) which were very impressive but flawed in the comfort department. They gave me terrible calf cramp. After asking around and settling on a Jetfin design, I tried on some of these grey fins in a very eminent technical dive shop near Egham, Surrey. The salesman, whom I trust, said that the fins were among the best he'd tried and urged me to have a go with them. They have a design that mimics a whale's fin, he said. It's all about looking how nature's biomechanics work and passing this onto a diver. I must admit I was a bit sceptical. TRY-OUT I was impressed after a pool session and more or less convinced of their ability to propel the diver efficiently and without undue effort. The vents at the base of the twin blades allow water... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful