Aeris Velocity Open Heel

Modern dive fins are all about efficiency. Manufactures use a variety of techniques to increase efficiency, but in the end, they all accomplish a similar goal: redirect up-and-down water movement created by kicking into lateral water movement.

The Aeris Velocity fin accomplishes this with a design known as PEV, or Power Enhancing Vents. Essential, PEV is a series of centerline vents in the fin blade that allows a small amount of water to pass through the flexing center section of the blade, reducing the effort needed to kick, while at the same time redirecting and accelerating water movement along the length of the fin.

I tried both the open- and closed-heel versions of the Velocity. Initially, I was skeptical of this relatively lightweight fin's ability to stand up to a stiff current.

In actual operation, however, the open-heel fin provided ample power to move me upstream against the strong flow of an area stream, and also proved quite versatile for kick styles other than the full or half-leg flutter. In less demanding circumstances, the Velocity also allows you to cruise at an air-conserving pace with minimal effort. The closed-heel version proved similar, but would be most suitable for snorkeling or resort-style tropical dives. They don't have the backbone of their open-heel counterpart, but still fulfill their intended mission

Aeris Velocity Fins
IMPRESSIONS: Despite its low weight and high comfort, the Velocity is no pushover in the power category. KEY FEATURES: Side rails and center vents for lateral stability, soft foot pockets; quick-release buckles (open heel) MSRP: $89.95, open-heel; $49.95, full-foot INFORMATION: 510-346-0010