Hollis F1 Fins

At a glance

Hollis F1 Fins is a fins from Hollis, rated 4.6 out of 5 and placed 2 of 28 in our fins shortlist. Its defining number is weight (per fin): 1.15 kg (2.5 lbs). It scores hardest on bench performance (96/100) and softest on value for money (52/100). The clearest advantage divers report: excellent thrust for technical divers using frog/modified kicks.

What the fins actually gives you

Where it wins and where it costs you

Full review: Hollis F1 Fins

The Hollis F1 2 fin represents a refined evolution of one of the most trusted paddle-style fins in the technical diving community, built for divers who demand precise control and dependable power output beneath the surface. Constructed with a thermoplastic blade that balances rigidity and flex, the F1 2 channels water efficiently with every kick cycle, translating leg effort into forward thrust without the energy loss common in softer, less structured blades. The blade design retains the recognizable paddle shape that made the original F1 a favorite among cave divers, wreck explorers, and technical instructors, while incorporating subtle refinements to the rail structure that improve tracking during frog kicks, helicopter turns, and modified flutter kicks essential to controlled buoyancy diving.

The foot pocket on the Hollis F1 2 is engineered from a durable, slightly softer compound than the blade itself, creating a comfortable yet secure fit that accommodates a wide range of boot thicknesses without sacrificing the transfer of power from the diver's leg to the fin blade. This dual-material approach means the foot pocket flexes just enough to prevent chafing or pressure points during long dives, while the spring heel strap system allows for quick donning and doffing even with thick undergarment socks or drysuit boots. The stainless steel spring straps, a hallmark of the F1 lineup, resist corrosion in both saltwater and freshwater environments and eliminate the frustration of snapped rubber straps mid-dive, a detail technical divers particularly value when reliability cannot be compromised.

Weighing in with a negative buoyancy characteristic, the Hollis F1 2 sinks slightly rather than floating awkwardly at the surface, which appeals to divers who prefer fins that stay neutrally oriented underwater and don't require constant correction of trim. This slight negative buoyancy also assists in maintaining a horizontal body position, a critical factor for divers practicing precision propulsion techniques in silty caves, wrecks, or tight overhead environments. Available in a range of sizes to fit various boot and foot combinations, the F1 2 continues Hollis's reputation for producing fins that prioritize function and durability over flash, making it a staple choice for divers who view their fin choice as a serious piece of technical equipment rather than a simple accessory.