Roni Essex
Freediver, Spearo, Creator
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Roni Essex
Freediver, Spearo, Creator
Embark on an underwater journey with 3 deep freedivers as they delve into the impressive features of the new C4 250 footpockets. Discover why these footpockets, crafted with comfort and performance in mind, are becoming favorites among the community.
Hello, everyone! This is Luca, Alchemy Ambassador, and athlete, greeting you from the stunning Soufriere Bay in Dominica. Today, I want to discuss the new C4 250 foot pockets and why they've become my favorite non-custom options on the market. I also want to give a big shout-out to my well-worn v330 fins, which have accompanied me on adventures across the globe – from Canada and French Polynesia to deep free diving in Roatan and spearfishing worldwide. Alchemy's carbon fiber craftsmanship has always impressed me, and these C4 250s are no exception.
In cold water, where I've favored the Pathos Fireblade, these foot pockets shine. The C4 250s are incredibly comfortable, featuring a lighter and softer silicone that enhances power transfer. I've tested them in various environments, from cold 6°C water to temperatures exceeding 30°C, and they've consistently delivered top-notch performance. The snug fit, even without socks, and the durability in different conditions make these foot pockets stand out. Whether you're diving under ice or in the warmest tropics, the C4 250s excel. In terms of materials, flexibility, power transfer, fit, and comfort, C4 has truly nailed it with these foot pockets. I highly recommend giving them a try.
I'm currently in Dahab, having just returned from the Blue Hole, where I had the opportunity to test out these new fins. They feature a soft blade, and it's my first time evaluating the accompanying foot pocket from C4. While I initially used it for teaching in a deep spot, I must emphasize its aesthetic appeal and excellent craftsmanship, fitting comfortably. It resembles a blend of the older models, c4300 and c4400, making it challenging to choose a favorite. The c4300, a silicone variant, fits well but can be tricky to put on. On the other hand, the c4400, like a piece of rubber, suits frozen conditions but wasn't my preference for diving. My go-to used to be the C4 300, but now the new one stands out as the best.
It's remarkably comfortable, snug, slightly smaller than the c4300, eliminating the need for insoles or socks. Its water performance is impressive, boasting a visually appealing design with distinctive tendons and customizable reel colors. For those wondering about the best foot pocket, my unequivocal recommendation is the C4 250 – truly amazing, and I love it.
Notably, these foot pockets lack side horns, a departure from conventional designs, allowing for elastic bending of the blade throughout its length. The exceptional lightweight nature significantly reduces the energy required for movement, enhancing overall performance. The Alchemy blades, with a medium-soft stiffness, seamlessly integrate with the foot pocket anatomy, providing minimal resistance during finning. Wearing them feels as though you have fins with extra-soft stiffness, offering a barely noticeable sensation on your feet.
Having tested these fins beyond 70 meters, I experienced reduced dive times, minimal lactic buildup, and muscle fatigue, resulting in a more comfortable and efficient dive. Excited about their performance, I used these fins in a recent competition, breaking the National Record for constant weight bifins. For recreational dives, these foot pockets, known for their softness, prove ideal for extended underwater wear, ensuring comfort even after hours of use in photo shoots and videos. These fins are the perfect blend of aesthetics and comfort.