First impressions: slim and supple
Compared to some of the other fins we’ve tested here at DIVEIN, there’s no denying that Cressi Maui fins are a simpler design. In the hand, they have a very slim profile. These fins seem tailored for travelers and casual divers seeking a reliable, no-fuss option.
The fins came in a long mesh bag, which is ideal for storing not only the fins, but also other small items like a mask or snorkel.
Lightweight design
The Cressi Maui fins are built for ease and efficiency, weighing only 650 g per fin (S/M size). If you suffer from leg or knee problems, then you could benefit from these softer, more forgiving fins.
The blade is constructed with two materials—stiffer edges and a softer center. This dual-material construction channels water into a supple, more flexible central section. This creates a “spoon effect” that enhances propulsion.
Best of both worlds
Cressi has marketed the Maui fins as both open-heel snorkeling and scuba fins. Designed for versatility, the Maui Fins can be worn with bare feet for snorkelers and light neoprene socks for some added warmth when scuba diving.
After using these fins on a recreational diving trip, with some snorkeling sprinkled in as well, I would consider the Maui fins to be much more suitable for snorkeling. I would say if you already have the Maui fins as your go-to snorkeling fins and don’t want to splurge just yet on scuba diving fins, then you could get away with using them on shallow, easy dives. If you plan to do any deeper or more advanced diving, check out the Cressi Origin fins, which we also recently reviewed and recommend.
Warm-water only
Cressi Maui foot pockets are made of soft rubber that—when snorkeling barefoot—was comfortable and didn’t cause any blisters. I did wear small beach shoes when I went diving for some added warmth, which was okay. In hindsight, neoprene socks would have been better so that the bungee cord didn’t sit on my ankle above the shoe.
I can definitely see these fins being a great fit for tropical dive shops to have as rental for both dive customers and students, but also for casual beachgoers who want to rent a snorkel set for the day. The straps can be swapped out for different colors as well to help dive shops label out different sizes. For cold waters, where dive boots are a must, the foot pocket is too small and the Mauis are just not suited for that kind of diving.
Price/Quality Ratio
At around $80 the Maui fins are a reasonable price, especially when compared to similar travel/scuba/snorkel fins such as ScubaPro GO Travel or Aqualung Storm fins. The Cressi Maui fins aren’t as sturdy or scuba-focused, but will nonetheless work in a range of water-sports.
Do we recommend Cressi Maui fins?
The answer is yes, depending on what you intend to use the fins for. If it’s primarily for scuba diving in warm to cool waters, where currents are common, then the Maui fins might not be the best fit. But if you live in a tropical area, and want versatile fins for beach days and in-water activities, like snorkeling or scuba diving, then the Maui fins will be a good choice.
Specs & Features
| Fin type | open heel |
|---|---|
| Blade style | paddle |
| Material | soft rubber |
| Weight | 23 oz. (650 g); S/M single fin |
| Length | 24 inches (60 cm); 26 inches (66 cm); and 27 inches (68 cm) |
| Sizes | S/M, M/L, L/XL |
| Strap style | bungee cord |
| Number of colors | black/blue and black/red |
Take a moment to look at this.
