I’m a middle-of-the-pack swimmer when it comes to diving with a group. I’m rarely out ahead, but I do lag behind, especially if I’m swimming in current. But the new Cressi Thor EBS fins might just help me fix that. I tested them out on a recent trip to the Sea of Cortez, and though the fins are meant for diving, I appreciated the power in their kick the most when I was snorkeling — trying to keep up with a fast-moving whale shark.
Tech specs
Thor fins have a wide, soft-centered blade that’s in a permanent scoop formation, making moving water out of your way that much easier on a dive. The arched profile combines with two central ribs to not only move the water but boost your speed as you power through it. Further, the triangular vents along the side, which allow for water flow, mean that you can get that power without undue stress on the legs. This feature comes in very handy for those of us with short legs or limited kicking thrust.
Blades are molded of two different materials, which also boosts their reactivity. Because they’re powerful without being bulky, they’re suitable for everyone from the newest diver to the most experienced.
Finally, the new EBS strap is easily adjustable and leaves extra/ample room in the foot pocket for different bootie styles. I had gloves on while putting the fins on and taking them off and had no issues with either. They were snug without being tight underwater as pressure increased
What I love about the Cressi Thor fins
These flexible fins more than got the job done in both diving and snorkeling scenarios. I kept my booties on while waiting for whale sharks to appear and, once they did, the EBS strap meant I was able to slip into them in mere seconds before sliding off the boat.
On both dives and snorkels, pushing through the water required very little effort and I found my legs didn’t become fatigued as they have with other fins. When I was flutter kicking to get through the water quickly, the Thor fins got me right to the whale shark’s side. It was also quite easy to put the fins on and take them off on both snorkels and dives, thanks to the adjustability and flexibility of the EBS strap.
Wrap-up
Cressi Thor EBS Fins
- The Thor fins are powerful without being bulky thanks to their scoop shape and triangular water vents on the side.
- The EBS strap is a must-have these days in terms of ease of popping fins on and off. I was able to jump into the water on mere seconds’ notice.
The design of the Thor fins means they’re much better for flutter kicking. When your legs are moving straight up and down, you’re moving lots of water out of the way and getting considerable speed. But the triangular vents along the side don’t work nearly as well when it comes to frog kicking.
The Cressi Thor fins are a solid choice if you’re primarily a flutter kicker.