Monday, January 23, 2012

ScubaPro Seawing Nova Fins


These fins get tremendously positive reviews in lots of places. It is in part why DiveGearReview was created. Giving the reader honest feedback, not fluff or the result of someone buying ad space on a magazine.

The write up on these puppies goes like: "Seawing Nova combines classic SCUBAPRO fin technology with the latest innovations in hydrodynamic design and cutting edge materials. This fin has the power, acceleration and maneuverability of a paddle fin with the comfort, efficiency and effortless speed of split fins. The articulated joint allows the blade to pivot and the entire blade is able to generate thrust. Clean water blade geometry for optimum propulsion. Water is free to flow onto the working section of the blade, drag is reduced and thrust increased. Variable pivot control ribs insures that the most efficient angle of attack is maintained across all strengths of kick. Ergonomic foot pocket with extended heel plate insuring ultimate power transmission with less leg strain. Heavy duty marine grade bungee strap system for easy to wear comfort. Durable Monprene construction making Seawing virtually indestructible. Available in black and white."


All this talk of articulated, hydrodynamic, acceleration, maneuverability, comfort and ability to generate thrust is quite intriguing. Then you look at the price tag for them, on average $200 and one thinks, they must be amazing. Check out Divers-Supply.  They just might be what they advertise for the week-end warrior. Not so for those who plan to do more than say, 10 dives a year. 


A friend bought a pair for himself and his wife before coming down to work full time as instructors here at Coconut Tree Divers. This Canadian couple is all about excellence in dealing with customers and students. The attitude spills over to their gear. Hence, the choice of spending $400 on two sets of these Seawing Nova Fins. To be fair, they supposedly come with a lifetime warranty. Nice, if you have a ScubaPro shop who will replace them every 200 dives. Like clockwork, the two sets of fins tore in exactly the same spot on each of the four fins. Not bad for accelerated articulation... blah, blah, blah. They get two thumbs down, way down. Perhaps one could purchase three sets and have them on a return rotation schedule but I am a dive instructor. In Roatan, Honduras it would take ages for them to get replaced. In the meantime one would have to use the reliable shop rental fins. By the way, what is the difference between a dive instructor and a table? The table can support a family of four. Guess who will not be buying three sets for the rotation thought. 



If you already have a pair, good luck. If you are not planning on doing much diving, they will likely work out well. If you are thinking about purchasing them, here is the the deal, the value of these fins is not worth the price tag. You decide.