Mares Concorde Freediving Fins Review

The Mares Concorde represents an accessible entry point into long blade freediving fins. These are plastic fins designed for recreational freedivers and beginners who want to experience proper long blade performance without the cost of composite materials. I’ve recommended these to many new students over the years, and the feedback is consistently positive regarding the balance of performance and price. The main appeal is the lightweight technopolymer construction that delivers parabolic flex, and the comfortable overmolded foot pocket that works well for extended sessions. This is a practical beginner option positioned for new to intermediate freedivers working on technique.

Product Breakdown

The blade uses reactive technopolymer material. The parabolic flexion design creates progressive blade flex during the kick cycle. The blade measures 86-92 cm long depending on size. Blade width is approximately 20 cm. Each fin weighs between 900-1027 grams depending on size. The overmolded foot pocket is designed to work barefoot or with thin neoprene socks. Tapered lateral ribs along the blade edges provide progressive flexion. The tip profile features winglets to prevent side-to-side slipping during kicks. Price ranges from $90 to $120 at most retailers. Available in sizes from European 38/39 to 46/47. These fins work well for shallow to mid-depth diving up to approximately 30 meters.

In-Water Experience

Blade Flex and Performance

The technopolymer blade delivers decent performance for recreational freediving. The parabolic flex creates a progressive bend rather than a hinge-like flex you get with cheaper plastic fins. Several students report the blade feels reactive and provides adequate thrust for depths up to 25-30 meters. The tapered ribs along the blade edges help guide water flow and create smooth flexion. For beginners learning proper finning technique, these fins provide enough feedback to develop good form without being so stiff that they cause immediate leg fatigue.

Comfort and Fit

The overmolded foot pocket is genuinely comfortable. The soft compound material reduces pressure points during extended sessions. Multiple students mention they can wear these fins for 2+ hour training sessions without developing hot spots or cramping. The pocket works well barefoot for warm water diving, though some users with narrow feet report needing thin socks for a snug fit. The finger pull tab at the heel makes donning easier. Sizing runs slightly large—common feedback is to order one size down from your normal shoe size.

Weight and Buoyancy

These fins are lightweight for their length. The weight ranges from 900-1027 grams depending on size, which is noticeably lighter than many composite fins. The buoyancy is slightly positive, which some divers appreciate for surface swimming but requires minor adjustment during descents. For beginners who aren’t yet comfortable with negative buoyancy equipment, this characteristic can be beneficial.

Durability

The technopolymer construction holds up well to regular use. The material resists scratches and impact damage better than composite blades. The overmolded foot pocket maintains its shape without developing soft spots. I haven’t seen significant wear issues from students using these for a full season of weekly pool sessions and open water dives. These are durable beginner fins that should last several years of recreational use.

Against the Competition

Compared to the Mares Razor Pro at $140, the Concorde costs about $30 less and offers similar plastic blade performance with arguably better comfort from the overmolded pocket. The Razor Pro has modular blade upgrade capability which the Concorde lacks. The OMER Stingray EVO at $110 provides wider blades with keyhole design at similar pricing. The Bare Predator at $70 costs significantly less but uses basic blade design without parabolic flex. The Concorde’s main advantage is the combination of lightweight construction, comfortable fit, and beginner-friendly pricing.

My Take

The strengths are the comfort and the value. The overmolded foot pocket delivers genuine comfort for extended sessions at a price point accessible to beginners. The lightweight construction makes these easy to manage and travel with. The limitations are the performance ceiling and lack of upgrade path. The plastic blade performs well for recreational depths but won’t match composite efficiency as skills advance. There’s no modular system for upgrading to better blades later. For new freedivers learning technique and building confidence, these deliver appropriate performance at beginner-friendly pricing.

Who These Work For

Buy the Mares Concorde if you’re a beginner freediver who wants comfortable long blade fins for learning proper technique without overspending on equipment. They’re a practical choice for recreational divers who plan to stay in the 0-30 meter range and want fins that work well for extended training sessions. The comfortable foot pocket makes them suitable for pool work and regular diving. Skip them if you’re already an intermediate freediver planning to dive deeper—composite fins will serve you better. Also skip if you want equipment with an upgrade path, as these are fixed plastic blades. Better alternatives for committed freedivers include the Mares Razor Apnea or OMER Stingray EVO which offer upgrade options. For pure beginners on a tight budget, the Bare Predator costs less though with reduced performance.