On Saturday, January 10, 2004 2:56 PM, Robert Delfs wrote:

> In abject fear that this critically important and fascinating thread
> might somehow die out, let me try a branching move.

> Has, or does, anyone on the list actually use Force Fins?  I've never
> even seen a pair of these weird looking things on a diver in the water.

(snip)

> Any views?

Mate!  Both Ralf and Huw - during his first visit to Oz - used them.  (Ralf
still does!) Despite the fin's appearance, both guys used them to good
effect in the water.  The only times that I've tried them, I found them very
adequate when below the water, but not very efficient when used for surface
swimming.  (Having said that, I've only used the standard - original? -
design.  There are, I believe a number of models that boast different
characteristics.)  For Huw - who was travelling light at the time - they
were perfect fins to cart around.  :-)

Back in '96, 'aquaCORPS' magazine carried an depth interview with the
designer, Bob Evans, and the resistance he experienced in terms of their
acceptance.  (If you can't access a copy, let me know and I'll send you a
photo-copy.  It is worth reading.  Especially the 'Fin Flashback' sidebar by
Dr Sam Miller and the evolution of fins!!)  :-))

It seems to me, that the three major problems that Force Fins had (have?)
were/are:
1. An innovative design.  (Whether divers think so or not, diving is an
essentially conservative activity!  While there are 'fashion fads', these
rarely stray from already proven techniques or equipment design models!)

2. The foot attachments appear to be flimsier - and less secure - than those
of other fins.

3.  Marketing/distribution.  Getting new product into the stores - and in
front of customers - is difficult for equipment newcomers.   (Something that
goes back to that conservative attitude, and the reliance that many dive
stores place on retaining the 'goodwill' and support of the established
manufacturers/distributors.)

The other - and possibly most damning of all - considerations, is the
attitude that those who have never used Force Fins show towards them!  This
is usually a clichéd parroting of popular prejudices.  (Much like the use
of, 'Put Another Dollar In' when referring to PADI!)  :-)

Like I say, I've only tried one model - but wouldn't mind giving the others
a try.  If for no other reason than to confirm my own decision to stick with
what I've got!  :-)

Strike