OMS Slipstream Fins Review
Last updated: July 2025
A reliable, medium-stiff paddle fin ideal for drysuit diving and long bottom times.
Overall Score: 8.6 / 10 (Strong)
A reliable, medium-stiff paddle fin ideal for drysuit diving and long bottom times.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Medium stiffness helps with leg fatigue | Negatively buoyant in freshwater |
| Strong back kick and maneuverability | Less powerful flutter kick than Quattro |
| Rugged and durable for cold water | Not ideal for warm water travel |
| Good control for drysuit skills | Not the fastest fin in open water |
Why I Chose the Slipstream Fins
I switched to the OMS Slipstream after using the Deep6 Eddy fins during my GUE Fundamentals course. I was diving with a steel backplate and drysuit, and hoped the Slipstream’s slightly softer flex would reduce the leg cramping I was experiencing on long bottom times. Only time will tell if that tradeoff pays off, but so far I prefer the OMS fins for all my drysuit dives.
Verdict
The OMS Slipstream is my drysuit fin of choice. It’s comfortable, predictable, and forgiving—especially on longer dives where fatigue matters. I’m still evaluating it for long-term performance, but so far it’s proven to be a solid addition to my cold water kit.
Would I buy it again? Probably. If it helps reduce leg fatigue, it’ll stay in rotation long-term.
Who the OMS Slipstream Fins Are Best For
This item is best suited for:
- Drysuit divers who want a medium-stiff paddle fin with smooth power delivery
- Divers practicing frog and back kicks who value precise control
- Cold-water or quarry divers needing a durable, predictable fin
It may not be ideal for:
- Warm-water travelers counting every ounce in their luggage
- Divers who prioritize maximum flutter-kick speed over control
Deep Dive into the Score
Scoring System: Each category is scored out of 10 and weighted by importance. This model is used consistently across all gear reviews for transparency.
| Category | Score | Raw Score | Weight | Weighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Function & Performance | Exceptional | 9.0 | 30% | 2.70 |
| Ease of Use | Strong | 8.0 | 20% | 1.60 |
| Versatility | Fair | 6.5 | 15% | 0.98 |
| Durability & Build Quality | Strong | 8.5 | 15% | 1.28 |
| Value | Strong | 8.5 | 10% | 0.85 |
| Brand Trust & Transparency | Exceptional | 9.0 | 10% | 0.90 |
| Total | 8.30 / 10 | |||
Rounded Display Score: 8.3 / 10 — Strong
Scored in freshwater using size XL fins with steel backplate and drysuit.
Deep Dive Score Explanations
- Function & Performance – 9.0: Great balance of control, maneuvering, and drysuit compatibility.
- Ease of Use – 8.0: Comfortable and easy to manage, but not travel-optimized or beginner-focused.
- Versatility – 6.5: Limited to drysuit and cold water use. Not ideal for warm water or travel.
- Durability & Build – 8.5: Sturdy and consistent construction. No complaints so far.
- Value – 8.5: Strong option in the mid-to-premium price tier.
- Brand Trust – 9.0: OMS has a solid reputation, though not as strong as Shearwater or Deep6.
Performance in the Water
- Trim & Buoyancy: Slightly negative in freshwater, but still manageable in drysuit configurations with a steel backplate.
- Kick Styles: Performs well with frog and back kicks, slightly less powerful on flutter than Mares Quattro. Precision is on par with the Eddy.
- Comfort: Feels smoother over long dives compared to the stiffer Eddy. No hot spots or strap issues with proper boot fit.
- Control: Easy to maintain position for skills. Clean helicopter turns, easy to modulate kick force in cold water.