Atomic Aquatics SplitFin
A speed demon on the slalom course, Atomic Aquatics' SplitFin is pretty fast flat out too. This robust fin's rather stiff, longer-than-average blade doesn't fold up in a power stroke like some other splits do - good for when that eagle ray flaps in out of nowhere and you want to accelerate. For close work, the fin is both nimble and efficient despite its length. A well-shaped foot pocket ensures stability and comfort. We found the SplitFin to offer the best buckle system of all the fins we tested, with a special buckle that slips over a mounting post on the fin. To detach, you simply squeeze both tabs and slip the buckle off the post. To attach, slide it onto the post where it clicks into place. Couldn't be easier!

Atomic Aquatics Liquid Blue SplitFin
This new fin shares the spotlight as this year's best overall fin. Named the Liquid Blue because of its translucent look, this fin is identical in shape to the original Atomic Aquatics SplitFin, but is made of a slightly softer high-performance thermoplastic rubber material. This makes it a little lighter than the original and gives it a bit more snap. That said, the performance of the two fins is nearly identical. The Liquid Blue provides acceleration when it's time to go turbo, but is also very responsive. The Liquid Blue is just as stable as the original SplitFin, and shares the same buckle system. One of three fins rates "very good" for maneuverability.

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Rodale's Scuba Diving Magazine - July, 2003

"Kicking out from shore requires power and acceleration and the Atomic Aquatics SplitFin delivers both. The best buckle system in the business makes it literally a "snap" to put these fins on and take them off when entering the water. And a well-shaped foot pocket ensures stability and comfort."