X1 Blade Fins

Picked up the Atomic X1 Blades to replace my old set of Oceanic V-16 split fins (which I loved). The Atomic fins are considerably more rigid (to be expected compared to the split fins), but boy do they have some serious thrust!! Frog kicks, flutter kicks, and reverse kicks are all fast and very responsive. helicopter turns are no problem, and they can propel me wearing my 2-tank side mount rig with ease. I find myself not kicking as hard to maintain speed, and if I need to kick in the after-burners, so to speak, the response is instant. I can cover the entire length of a 25-yard pool completely underwater (from standing, with no push off the wall) with these fins, which I could not do before.
They are lighter than the V-16 although the length is about the same. Comparing foot pockets, the Atomic X1 pockets are slightly narrower and taller, but they actually fit my size 10.5 Seasoft Sunray boots in a perfectly snug and secure manner. The base of the foot pocket extends out slightly longer to create a larger, more secure contact point on the sole of your boot; which I'm sure adds to the secure way they push you through the water. The standard rubber strap is OK. The quick release clips are surprisingly secure and come off and on with relative ease. That being said, I did change to spring straps since I was used to them from prior fins. They are just slightly negative (in fresh water) and with the spring straps (recommended) on, the tips float up as they rest on the ground in the water. Would highly recommend these if you're looking for a fast rigid fin. Not to mention that the price point for the Atomic X1 blade fins, quite frankly, can't be beat!! In the Atomic lineup, the X1 will be the stiffest fin and fastest thrust, the Atomic Splits will have the easiest kick, and the standard "Blade Fin" will rest squarely in the middle for effort needed.

These fins are very easy to move in the water. Plus they come in pink! I can move in the water easily without using much oxygen.