These lightweight split fins are no drag, says Charles Hood 
Vortex V-16, £99The vortex V-16 features a mix of four materials that is aimed at improving performance – Oceanic claims that they are up to 30 per cent faster than conventional fins. The semi-rigid battens and rubber flex channels control the shape of the blade during the fin stroke to added power and reduced drag, says the company, while the oversized side rails are intended to add rigidity and control the blades’ movement for increased lift, power and efficiency. The foot pocket is big enough to take almost all sizes and styles of boot.
As these are the lightest of all the fins on test, I’d have no problem with taking them on an overseas trip. In the water, we couldn’t really fault the V-16s, and on a blind test it would be very difficult to tell them apart from our favourites, the Tusa X-pert Zoom Z3s. If anything, they were a bit too soft, but this is barely noticeable unless you are finning hard. To their credit, they are very flexible and the fact that they are £30 cheaper than the Z3s might influence your choice.
Vital statistics
Weight 2.24kg
Colour options blue, black, yellow, red
Sizes S, R, XL
Country of manufacture Italy
DIVE SAYS...
These light fins gave an excellent performance
Contact Oceanic • 01404 891819 •
www.oceanicuk.com