This review is for the Alchemy S fins bought from Formula Freediving. I can’t post a review on Formula Freediving’s website unless it’s an online purchase. I live out of state and did this purchase over the phone after a number of calls with the owner Andrew to determine what I needed.
I am in the Pacific NW and have used these fins for about 6 months now. I’ll start by saying I have no experience with carbon fins. I had been using fiberglass that may have been a bit too stiff for the past 15 years. I’m getting older and was struggling to keep up with others surface swimming while dragging a float around. I decided to try carbon fins.
I asked Andrew a lot of questions about fins. He helped me choose the correct fin angle after looking at a photo of my foot while simulating a fin kick. I eventually settled on the Alchemy S fins. I was mailed several sets of foot pockets to try on for size. I chose the CETMA S-WiNG; they fit the best. Not long after that, Andrew assembled the fins and sent them to me.
My first thoughts when trying them in the water the first time was, they are too soft. I didn’t feel the constant bite I was used to with my old fins. After swimming around a bit, I was surprised. My effort was much less and there was an increase in speed and power. I could easily pull my float setup and keep up with others. The S fins are slightly smaller and narrower than my old fins; I don’t knock these fins together when swimming.
Overall, these fins make my diving more enjoyable. I appreciate the expert knowledge and service Andrew provided in helping me with this decision. – via 