Mares Avanti Quattro 4X Fins Review: The Next Evolution of a Legend

The Mares Avanti Quattro 4X represents the latest evolution of one of diving’s most popular fin designs. At around $180-200, they sit at the higher end of the mid-range price bracket. They’re designed for divers who want the proven performance of the Quattro line with improved materials and refined ergonomics.

What You’re Getting

The Avanti Quattro 4X features Mares’ signature four-channel blade design with three-material construction. The foot pocket uses dual-density materials with a soft thermoplastic upper and reinforced lower section. The blade combines flexibility and rigidity through engineered material placement. Blade length is approximately 38 cm on the regular size. Weight is about 0.9 kg per fin. Blade thrust area is 780 cm². Available in sizes XS through XL. Comes with an elastic bungee strap and anatomical heel pad. Price sits around $180-200. Includes eco-conscious packaging with a reusable quick-dry mesh bag. These are designed for divers of all levels who want powerful propulsion with enhanced comfort.

Real-World Performance

The four-channel design delivers the same powerful thrust as the Quattro Plus, which is exactly what Mares intended. Flutter kick generates strong forward motion. Frog kick works smoothly. Back kick is manageable. The stabilizing side ribs with overmolding provide directional control that feels more precise than the older Quattro Plus.

What’s noticeably improved is comfort. The dual-density foot pocket makes a real difference. The soft upper section feels comfortable from the first dive without requiring a break-in period. The reinforced lower section merges into the blade, which improves energy transfer from your kicks. Many divers I’ve spoken to who’ve used both the Quattro Plus and 4X mention that the 4X feels better on multi-dive days.

The anatomical heel pad is a small detail that makes a difference. It reduces stress on your Achilles tendon during long surface swims or extended dives. The elastic bungee strap works the same as on the Quattro Plus, with easy donning and consistent fit at depth. The large finger loop makes them simple to pull on even with thick gloves. However, the bungee straps are made from the same material as on the Quattro Plus. Mares made a cool looking cover to increase comfort and hide the surface cracks on the rubber material. I don’t understand why Mares did not choose a metal spring. That is certainly something you would expect at this price point.

In currents, the 4X performs as well as the Quattro Plus. The four-channel design efficiently directs water backwards, creating strong thrust without wasted energy. I’ve used them in moderate drift diving conditions and they deliver the power you need without exhausting your legs. The fins feel balanced and stable during turns and position changes.

Durability appears solid. The construction quality feels excellent. The three-material design seems well-integrated. The foot pocket shows no signs of wear or cracking. The blade material maintains its flex characteristics.

How They Compare

Against the Mares Avanti Quattro Plus ($140-190), the 4X offers similar power with improved comfort and refined ergonomics. The foot pocket is noticeably more comfortable. The blade feels slightly more responsive. The price difference is $40-50. If you’re deciding between them, the 4X is worth the extra cost if comfort matters to you. If you’re budget-focused, the Quattro Plus still delivers excellent performance.

Compared to the Cressi Reaction EBS ($140-175), the Quattro 4X is more powerful and better in currents but heavier and more expensive. The Cressi fins are lighter for travel. The Mares fins deliver more thrust. Choose based on whether you prioritize travel weight or maximum performance.

The Cressi Frog Plus ($90-120) is significantly cheaper but lacks the power and precision of the 4X. The Frog Plus works for calm conditions and budget-conscious buyers. The 4X is for divers who want premium performance.

Our Take

The Avanti Quattro 4X succeeds as the refined evolution of a proven design. It maintains the powerful thrust and reliability of the Quattro line while improving comfort through better materials and ergonomics. The three-material construction feels well-engineered. The dual-density foot pocket delivers genuine comfort improvement.

The premium price is the main consideration. At $180-200, these fins cost more than the Quattro Plus and significantly more than budget options. You’re paying for refinement and improved comfort rather than dramatically different performance. For divers who value comfort on multi-dive trips and want the latest technology, the price is justified. For divers focused purely on performance per dollar, the Quattro Plus offers similar thrust for less money.

Final Recommendation

Buy the Mares Avanti Quattro 4X if you want powerful, versatile fins with enhanced comfort and you’re willing to pay a premium for the latest refinement. They’re a good choice for divers who value both performance and comfort, especially on multi-day dive trips.

The improved foot pocket makes them suitable for divers who’ve found other powerful fins uncomfortable during long dive days. They work well for recreational divers advancing their skills, technical divers who want a comfortable yet powerful option, and frequent divers who want fins that perform across varied conditions from tropical reefs to temperate water with current.

Skip them if budget is your main concern or if you only dive occasionally. The Quattro Plus delivers similar thrust for less money. Also skip them if travel weight is your top priority, as lighter fins exist that pack smaller.