Fishing Forum

Anyone out there try both Mares Power Planas (older black and translucent white) fins and the Force fins?

Comparisons?

I keep hearing nothing but good things about the Force and I'm thinking of picking up a set.

Thanks!

_SHig
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C'mon, nobody?

What I'd LOVE to see is one type of fin on one foot and the other on the opposite. If you go in circles one way vs. the other, we have a winner!

_SHig
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I go around in circles anyway..and Im wearing a matched pair of fins.. :-)

MacFly [cool]
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^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

<LOL>

Well, I bit the bullet. There was a decent package deal on CL for a split front donut tube (anyone ever hear of a Sabe tube? I think it's Swedish), baby pocket anchor (hardly seems likely to hold a tube let alone a empty motor oil bottle in a stiff breeze), small pump, turbo fins, Force Fins (!!!), fin leashes, repair kit, suspenders, and a large SAGE gear bag (faded but sound) for $120.

The tube seems to have urethane bladders so that's a bonus. I may keep it for my kids to use or sell it. Not sure yet as I have yet to inflate it.

Anyway, the Force Fins look brand new, have adjustable heel strap (not bungee), open toe XL. I may have to pad the foot top if I plan to use my water shoes, but they'll fit over my boots nicely.

Seems like for the price the fins alone are a pretty decent buy.

I'll be trying them out on Saturday. Depending on the outcome, I may have some fins for sale!

_SHig
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I don't have a clue on the Mares, as PERSONALLY, they are made for Scuba, not Float tubing, but that is DEFINITELY just me.
I bought the DELUXE Force Fins several years ago, and have not for one minute regretted it.
They are a little heavier, but in the water, no big deal.
They are "A LITTLE SHORTER", but a lot wider than scubas, and the bowl/shovel shape is a BIG bonus, plus you can walk forward.
But like I said, I have the DELUXE. The ones you are getting are the less expensive ones and they might not have the same curve
Here is mine with a size 8 (men's) boot. Yes I said 8, with the neoprene sock in my waders being on the large size I had to get an over sized boot.[]
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As far as I can tell the curve is the same. Only difference is the adjustable foot pocket. I may just add an over-the-top strap or an insert to fit if it's not quite right. Being an XL, I should be golden (not too tight but able to snug to fit).

Can't wait to try it out!

_SHig
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[cool][#0000ff]Like most other elements of tubing and tooning, your choice of fins is really a matter of personal preference...what works best for you and your style of kicking and fishing.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]I have long ago lost track of all the different types of tubes and fins I have tried. I bought my first pair of Mares fins in the early 1980s, and I still have them. They have propelled me through waters all over the country and down into Mexico...fresh water and salt...diving and tubing. [/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]I too got a good deal on some tubing gear that included a set of Force Fins. I took them out on one trip...for about 15 minutes. Then I returned to shore and put my Mares back on. I did not like them at all, but I know many others who swear by them. I sold my pair for $25 and the guy who bought them loved them. Go figure.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]There are probably over a hundred models of diving fins on the market today that will work very well for tubing. But, some tubers and tooners are bigger, stronger and more ambitious than others. They will do better with fins that have larger and/or stiffer blades on the fins. For just paddling around on small ponds...or for those with smaller frames...smaller and lighter fins will work better without causing cramps and fatigue.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]There is no law that says you can only own one set of fins at a time. If you have the finances, the need and the space to store them, it is conceivable that you might want two, three or more sets....especially in climates where there is a big difference in what you wear over your feet when the water temps change with the seasons. [/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]But, a good fin with soft foot pockets and easily adjustable straps can accomodate a lot of changes. I wear the same set of Mares XL throughout the entire year...tightening the straps when I fish wet, wearing only a thin set of booties...and loosening them when I add neoprene waders and a couple of pairs of heavy socks in the cold months. Tight enough in the summer and loose enough in the winter that I don't get constriction or foot cramps.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Look forward to your evaluations.[/#0000ff]
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Hey SHig,

I'm not sure if I'm chiming in too late to have my opinions matter, but I'll offer something anyway.

I am new to the tubing way of fishing. I placed several calls, asked opinions of TubeDude and others, and read several reviews on line relating to popular types of fins. Of the several calls I placed, I did speak to a couple fly fishing shops here in Utah and Colorado and even asked opinions of a couple local scuba shops. Of course, I did all of this in order to make the most informed choice when it came time to purchase my fins.

What I discovered was that nearly everyone I spoke with said Force Fins were highly overpriced. A few folks also said that the Force Fins weren't as efficient as scuba-type fins, as there is very little energy gained on the down stroke of one's legs with the FFs.

On the other hand, I heard rave reviews from everyone regarding the Mares fins. First off, they're huge. A couple of informed folks said their size and overall flexibility with just the right rigidity allows them to be highly efficient on both the upstroke and downstroke kick.

I was able to find a nearly brand new $140 pair of Mares Plana Avanti Quattro fins on eBay for $45. I've fished with them now a few times, and they're incredible. The other day at Strawberry Reservoir I was able to hold my ground in fierce winds for nearly two hours while fishing a spot that yielded a lot of fish for me. They really move me in the water, and as I said I'm able to get propulsion on both the up- and down kicks of my legs. Also, by comparison the Mares fins are far longer in length than the FFs.

That's my $.02 on the issue.
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I like my Force fins but you should wear leashes with them as ,for some reason they sink. Mine unclipped itself, my own fault I'm sure, and sank out on a night bass fishing trip . $80.00 to replace. The fishing was incredible and made up for the loss, but it would have been better to have not lost the fin! Easy on, Easy off, I can't believe they sink.

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Thanks (and keep 'em coming) for all the responses!

I have some leashes for the fins already so I won't lose 'em. I was thinking that maybe some "floaties" instead my work as well. Like those things that you put your keys on in the boat? Only thing is that they're fluorescent orange or something and may either attract the fish or put them off...

Again, let's keep the discussion going, and I'll post up my review this weekend.

_SHig
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[quote PrinceFisher]

What I discovered was that nearly everyone I spoke with said Force Fins were highly overpriced. A few folks also said that the Force Fins weren't as efficient as scuba-type fins, as there is very little energy gained on the down stroke of one's legs with the FFs.

On the other hand, I heard rave reviews from everyone regarding the Mares fins. First off, they're huge. A couple of informed folks said their size and overall flexibility with just the right rigidity allows them to be highly efficient on both the upstroke and downstroke kick.

I was able to find a nearly brand new $140 pair of Mares Plana Avanti Quattro fins on eBay for $45. I've fished with them now a few times, and they're incredible. The other day at Strawberry Reservoir I was able to hold my ground in fierce winds for nearly two hours while fishing a spot that yielded a lot of fish for me. They really move me in the water, and as I said I'm able to get propulsion on both the up- and down kicks of my legs. Also, by comparison the Mares fins are far longer in length than the FFs.
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Starting with your last statement that Mares are longer. I am assuming you are referring to more surface to move water.
You are correct, they are longer. I did a comparison with another Mare owner.
His are 12" from toe to tip and 7.5" wide, his wife, 15" from toe to tip and 8" wide.
My hubby and my Force Fins:
With his #12 boot, 10" from toe to tip and with my #8 boot 12"
BUT! they are 13" wide...almost TWICE as wide.

Then you say
highly efficient on both the upstroke and downstroke kick.
I understand the up stroke, but the down you want no resistance.
What energy do you need on a downstroke?
Force Fins are bend in the middle forming somewhat of an arrow, or the bow of a boat. Which cuts through water easier, a point or a flat surface? On the down stroke you want to cut through the water, otherwise, you would be propelling yourself in both directions.

Again I say, a knife cutting through water (long and narrow) or a spoon (wide and bowled)?

Overpriced? It is your motor, your life support, your way back to land in rough water. To me as important as the air in the tube/toon.
Just my thoughts and experiences after 25+ years.

Plus with my force fins, I do wear waders with boots or my hippers with built in boots....no adjusting, set once and good for the rest of my life no matter what I wear and how many socks.[]

You knew I had to come back with this[laugh]
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I reply simply to provide added insight regarding my Mares fins. I have no desire to get into a mine-are-better-than-yours debate. If you're happy with your FFs, then, well, I'm happy for you.

I said Mares are longer than Force Fins. You agreed. I mentioned nothing about the width comparison. I find that I wouldn't want my fins much more wide, as I find my fins narrowly missing each other as I kick as it is.

As far as obtaining propulsion on the downward kick, you can say what you'd like about going in a different direction if I apply force with my downstroke; however, I find I DO get significant motion on the downward kick. Your mention of the FFs folding with little resistance on the downward kick is the same feedback I got when speaking with professionals on the phone. However, many of those same professionals said--and I know now, since I have experienced it--that a well-made scuba fin will give propulsion in the direction you desire on the downstroke as well. Next time you watch the Discovery Channel or some other channel featuring scuba divers, notice how they are propelling themselves in the water as they contract and extend their legs. I really like my Mares fins for that purpose. Gives an entirely different set of muscles in my legs an extra workout if I consciously apply force to the downstroke instead of letting my legs simply fall. It really is a benefit. Nuff said.

Lastly, my Mares fins new are comparable in price and quality to the top-of-the-line FFs. I did not settle in the least by purchasing my Mares. I just happened to get a screamin' deal on eBay. While shopping on line I found that there are considerably more deals on Mares fins than FFs, due to their popularity.

Okay, I'm done now. Won't reply again to this post unless I'm asked to provide something further that may be helpful.
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Fair enough Prince Fisher. I was not trying to debate or "mine are better than yours (which never occurred to me) with you either.
You gave the points you liked about the fin, but YOU compared it to the force fins.
I, as an owner of the force fins merely replied with hands on experience.
I also never said anything about FF folding on the back stroke. They are harder rubber and do not fold. They cut.
As far as the length/width, the point is still how much surface, if you bump flippers, then you made a very good choice.
I agree scuba fins are great and as you put it the discovery channel. You are horizontal and the up and down is propelling you, but in a tube or toon, you are seated and lifting and pushing you legs like an oar (only not out of water). Not at all the same motion, unless you want to go up.

The post was on Force Fins AND Mares, I gave my opinion on the FF, you gave yours of the scuba.

I agree also that FF are expensive, probably more than most pay for their ride.
This is the only forum I go to that have anything BAD to say about Force Fins and I am assuming because most here do not use them and that is because of the price.
I am just trying to shed some light, that is all.
PEACE.
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first let me say that I am not trying to counter anything that anyone has said here about the pros or cons of either set of fins.. but I do have a question, more for my own clarification, on what you mean by downward thrust..

when I first got coerced to go into a tube I asked the obvious question and that was how do I make myself go with these fins.. I had in mind do like Lloyd Bridges did on SeaHunt and do a "flutter" kick (legs going up and down with feet out straight).. I tried this in the tube and made a lot of noise and splash.. so.. I remembered what several people here told me to do .. and that was to picture myself on my 10 speed bike and pedalling backwards.. in other words in a backward circular to eliptical motion.. in doing that I was able to get myself along pretty well..

in doing that type of kicking motion, I dont see where there is a downward thrust.. just a smooth transition back to where you start to bring the fins forward.. and that is where I get the thrust from them.. course I could be missing it and not know it..

MacFly [cool]

btw.. my second obvious question was "how do I turn this d%%% thing.. lol.. and that made TN2, DR, and bendo almost bust a gut laughing.. but it was still a great day on the water.. [cool]
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First of all, no hard feelings Goddess.

Second, I want to state here that I am not crazy. Nor do I have a warped sense of what is factual and/or a warped appreciation of what may be termed "reality." LOL. [] I do actually get propulsion on my downkick. Honest. Wish I could prove it. Anyone wanna come fishing with me for a demonstration? Sit on my lap while I tube? Anyone have a camera I can strap to my head while I motate?

I am a big guy. 6'1" and 235 lbs. I have long legs. As I sit in my Fat Cat nearly all my leg below the knee is in the water. When I kick, I feel it most in my thighs and hamstrings, due to the fact that I consciously lift vigorously with my upper thighs to propel myself on the upkick and attempt a forceful thrust while sending my fins back down to get some movement as well. My calves have to actually resist the natural tendency for my ankle to bend and let my fin slip through the water, but I resist, and with that effort, I do propel myself on the downward movement. I can't explain it any better than that. It may not be as much of a movement as on the upkick, but both the extender and contracter muscles of my legs get an excellent workout when I tube, and added to the fishing and scenery, I think that's a terrific benefit.

Think of it this way: My kicking with my fins while I am in my tube is almost exactly similar to the motion of scuba divers. They get propulsion with their fins while moving their legs in both directions and so do I. I don't know if it's because I have freakishly long legs, but when I'm really trying to move in strong winds, my legs are more straight than bent at the knees, and, ONCE AGAIN, I'm getting moved through the water as my legs are coming up and going down. Promise.

This is kinda getting funny for me. I experience it. It's not some strange phenomena like seeing aliens fly above my house. It's a simple kick, and it works for me. And unlike the alien thingy, I can prove it. Anybody wanna race? My tube against yours? I'm pretty dang fast! LOL. [laugh]
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I am not doubting what you say is your experience.. and from the sounds of it you are doing is basically an up and down kick with your legs straight out (correct).. and yes I can see where if you have really long legs and consciously keep your movement to a point where you dont break the surface of the water you would get "force" on both the up and down motion.. in fact I may of had the same thing happen to me.. but I try to make sure I do the "backwards pedalling" motion as I find it a little less tiring and easier to do and less concentration to keep my fins down.. lol... but that is just me..

MacFly [cool]
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"What energy do you need on a downstroke?"

[cool][#0000ff]I'm not sure what kind of kicking you use, but most tubers use a regular up and down rhythm when either kicking to get somewhere or to maintain position in the breeze. To sacrifice propulsion on the downstroke is to give up 50 percent of the efficiency of the fins...plus expend more energy to get from point A to point B. And that is not only for tubing. I have been a diver as long as I have been a tuber and I value a good fin that delivers propulsion on both sides of the kick.[/#0000ff]
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I use the same kind of kicking as everyone else I know, and what comes natural. Seated in a chair, lifting leg and flipper up in that they are scooping and propelling me backwards, while other leg is merely going back under me, to do the same thing....like peddling a bike backwards. Foot pointing down on the lift up, and up on the way back....not much strain...do it faster, you move faster. OR, sitting in a chair and kicking a ball.

But it sounds like you are putting your legs straight out and doing the fluttering thing that one does swimming or diving...that seems like more strain, trying to keep your legs out.

Plus, I don't know about you, but in Fly Fishing, I want to move a little while stripping.
I have even been able to hold myself in wind by pointing my flippers down under me.

I couldn't see how bringing your leg and flipper back under you could move you backwards, but, like I said, I guess if you have your legs out like swimming you could...I just don't[angelic]

Just like there is really no way to go foward[crazy]
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So here's what I have in the "bag" from left to right:



ScubaPro Turbo Fins, Caddis, Mares Power Plana, and Force. I'll probably just be testing the Mares vs. Force this weekend, but if I get a chance I may inflate the tube and borrow the neighbor's pool and time "drag races". Should be good for a laugh?!

As you can see the Mares have the most surface area and the most leverage on the ankle, then the Caddis and Force come in close next, then the ScubaPro. The ScubaPro and Mares are the heaviest, then Force, then the Caddis are lightest.

The Force are floppiest, then Caddis, then ScubaPro then Mares (most rigid).

I wish I had the time and inclination to calculate the "moment of inertia" of the areas of the blades about the ankle, but I'm not that bored yet!

Just more fodder for discussion...
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I have a set of the force fins. or ones very close that I picked up at basspro.. and I agree with your assessment of their size, weight, and stiffness (although I really dont have any others to compare them with)... I will say that they have gotten me around in the water well including my last trip when there was a "decent" wind blowing across the lake..

MacFly [cool]
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