Mares Fins — Channel Thrust Propulsion Engineering
Mares' fin lineup is built around Channel Thrust technology — blade geometry and perforation patterns designed to direct water flow more efficiently through the full kick cycle, reducing the energy wasted on the recovery stroke (the "parachute effect" that makes finning feel like extra work). From open-heel scuba fins to a rubber technical fin built for negative buoyancy, the lineup covers a wide range of diving styles and conditions.
At DiveCatalog.com, we carry the current Mares fin lineup as an authorized dealer.
The Mares Fin Range
Plana Avanti Quattro Plus — Four-Rib Performance
The Quattro Plus uses a four-rib blade design (37–39cm depending on size) that arches through the kick stroke, channeling water in the opposite direction of motion to reduce resistance. Constructed from a thermoplastic rubber foot pocket and Tecralene technopolymer blade, with Channel Thrust technology and large foot pocket perforations working together to minimize the parachute effect for smoother, more controlled kicks. Available in sizes S–XL.
X-Stream — Tri-Material Blade
The X-Stream (34.5–38cm blade depending on size) pairs an open foot pocket with a low-profile bungee strap for quick on/off and a secure fit. The tri-material blade construction reduces turbulence while energy-absorbing joints and a wide central flap enhance the channeling effect, designed specifically to minimize leg fatigue during extended dives.
Power Plana LT XR Line — Technical Travel Fin
Built with Mares' XR-Tech engineering and a lightweight TPV (Thermoplastic Vulcanizate) blade, the Power Plana LT XR Line is designed for travel-friendly technical diving, optimized for all kick styles including the frog kick favored in technical and cave diving. Multiple strap positions accommodate dry or wet boots, and the wide-loop spring strap is easy to manage even with thick gloves. A direct foot pocket minimizes entanglement risk, and a blade hole simplifies hanging, drying, and transport.
Volo Power — Optimized Pivoting Blade
The Volo Power uses Mares' Optimized Pivoting Blade (OPB) system, which maintains a constant blade angle through the kicking cycle for steady, fatigue-reducing thrust. ABS Plus buckles allow quick, secure strap adjustment, and the open-heel design accommodates dive boots comfortably.
Power Plana — Pure Rubber Technical Fin
The Power Plana is built from nearly indestructible natural rubber — a high-density material that's intentionally negatively buoyant, a genuine advantage when diving with a drysuit and a steel backplate rig, where the fin's weight helps counterbalance rather than add to overall buoyancy. The patented bungee strap simplifies donning and doffing while remaining comfortable through the dive, and the full-shape foot pocket sets it apart from competitor rubber fins.
Nateeva — Snorkeling and Holiday Diving
The Nateeva is built for lighter, recreational use — snorkeling and exploring shallower water on holiday. An ultra-soft foot pocket and responsive, lightweight blade pair with a buckle-free strap adjustment system for fuss-free use.
Choosing Your Mares Fins
| Diver Type |
Recommended Fin |
Key Reason |
| General recreational diving |
Plana Avanti Quattro Plus or X-Stream |
Channel Thrust efficiency; reduced fatigue across a range of conditions |
| Technical and cave divers |
Power Plana LT XR Line |
Optimized for frog kick; travel-friendly; multiple strap positions |
| Drysuit and steel backplate technical rigs |
Power Plana (rubber) |
Negatively buoyant rubber construction counterbalances technical rigs |
| Divers wanting consistent, steady thrust |
Volo Power |
OPB system maintains constant blade angle through the kick cycle |
| Snorkelers and casual swimmers |
Nateeva |
Lightweight, soft foot pocket; buckle-free strap adjustment |
Why Buy Mares Fins from DiveCatalog.com?
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Authorized Mares dealer — genuine products, full manufacturer warranty
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Expert sizing advice — our team can help you choose the right fin and size for your diving
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Fast shipping — in-stock items ship within one business day
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Easy returns — if sizing isn't right, exchanges are straightforward
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Rewards program — earn points on every purchase
Frequently Asked Questions — Mares Fins
What is Channel Thrust technology?
Channel Thrust refers to Mares' blade and foot pocket design that directs water flow more efficiently through the kick cycle, using perforations and blade geometry to reduce the "parachute effect" — the resistance that wastes energy on the recovery stroke of a kick. The result is more efficient propulsion for less effort.
Why would I want a negatively buoyant fin?
For technical divers running a drysuit and steel backplate rig, the rig itself can create excess negative buoyancy that needs counterbalancing elsewhere, or alternatively, fins that match that negative trim help avoid the floaty-foot tendency some lightweight fins create in a drysuit. The Power Plana's rubber construction is purpose-built for this scenario.
What is OPB (Optimized Pivoting Blade)?
OPB is Mares' system for maintaining a constant blade angle through the full kicking cycle, used in the Volo Power, providing steadier thrust and reducing leg fatigue compared to fins where the blade angle varies unpredictably with kick force.
Are Mares fins suitable for frog kick technique?
Yes — the Power Plana LT XR Line is specifically optimized for all kick styles including the frog kick, the technique favored by technical and cave divers for its efficiency and minimal silt disturbance.
Browse the full Mares fin collection above and reach out if you'd like help choosing the right fin for your diving style and conditions.