We tested the Cressi Gara Modular Sprint fins. Powerful and efficient, it was our Testers Choice for barefoot fins.

We tested the Sprint at Alexander Springs in Central Florida, where test divers rated fins in 12 different categories including efficiency, power, acceleration and comfort.

Essentially a shorter version of Cressi’s Gara Modular Impulse freediving fin, the Sprint is constructed with a similarly angled thermoplastic blade and self-adjusting multi-compound foot pocket, but is only 28 inches long, making it more practical for scuba use.

Testers were impressed with its performance, scoring it excellent in stability, power vs. stress, acceleration and flutter kick. The razor-thin blades track straight without any side-to-side wobble. “Straight as an arrow,” in the words of one test diver. Flutter kick is where this fin really shines, gliding easily with a small amount of effort and providing plenty of propulsion when kicking hard. “Strong swimmers in open water,” one tester commented.

Sizing runs large, and even with multiple sizes to choose from, testers had issues finding a good fit without the use of neoprene socks. This left many divers wondering if they might prefer an open-heel version.

Despite a less-than-perfect fit, the fin still showed strong overall performance and was a favorite of test divers. The Gara Modular Sprint is our Testers Choice for barefoot fins.