The path set by the UP fins has effectively raised the bar for this type of fin thanks to the use of a more performant technopolymer and a lightness that was previously lacking among "plastic" fins. Following this trend, a new fin has been created and designed for those taking their first steps in spearfishing and freediving, as well as for experts seeking a compact and easily manageable product in shallow water: the Storm.

The first thing that stands out is the length, a full 10 centimeters shorter than average (measuring 79 centimeters) and with unprecedented lightness. Additionally, it's the first time C4 has offered a fin with the foot pocket molded together with the blade, without screws or the possibility of disassembly.

This feature might raise eyebrows among regular users of disassemblable models, but it actually hides a significant advantage in production time and costs, consequently reflected in a very attractive final retail price.

Examining the structure of the Storm, pre-molded water rails can be seen at the end of the blade, while along both surfaces there are slight ribs that serve multiple purposes. Firstly, they ensure uniform blade movement without any give during motion. Additionally, combined with the chosen technopolymer, they allow for high elastic return and considerable resistance to breakage, all without compromising softness.

Continuing the analysis, two more pronounced ribs are noticeable on the underside, in the center, corresponding to the blade's angle. These serve to provide a direct connection to the foot pocket and, consequently, optimal transmission of motion generated by the leg.

On the Storm, the blade-to-foot pocket ratio (29 degrees to 3 degrees) creates an angle that helps keep the ankle in a relaxed position and reduces stress during use.

The blade's design features a total-black color with the imprint of some lines forming lightning bolts. On the front and back, the matte C4 logo and the word Storm are printed. Completing the package is the essential 250 foot pocket, which we have tested and stressed in many versions, both in carbon and technopolymer, appreciating its lightness and comfort.

Without side rails, the 250 pre-molded with the Storm blade allows for direct transmission of our motion without affecting the blade's flex or stiffness.

The new Storm is available to the public in sizes ranging from 36/37 to 44/45 and at a very interesting retail price of just €55.

At Sea

The late winter storms represent the critical moment of the season when the shallow water can give everything or nothing. So, I decide to improvise a couple of afternoon hours to play among the receding waves with the new Storm fins.

The advantage of their size makes it easy for me to prepare the equipment at home, allowing me to easily fit them into my duffel bag thanks to their compact length.

It's around three in the afternoon, and once dressed in the gear, it's time to put on the fins. I have appreciated the fit of the 250 foot pocket on several occasions, but in this case, given the lightness of the blade, it really feels like having nothing on my feet. The length of the blade and the overall weight of the fin (just 600 grams in size 42/43, the one tested) give this strange and pleasant sensation!

Into the water! I immediately notice that when moving on the surface, despite a slight current, the generous wave, and the exceptional weighting for shallow water, the Storm responds well, not showing any limits due to its length. However, the length, right from the first actions, shows all its advantages. They are indeed easy to move, to insert into small spaces, to hide behind the body.

There is no doubt that the real advantage for those who "know fins," but also for novices, is the complete manageability even in very shallow waters, where the new Storm maneuvers with mastery. However, its response at more significant depths, such as around 15 meters, is far from trivial.

In this case, the fin proves to be sufficiently performant, allowing a good cruising speed both during descent and ascent. However, it is less energetic when pushing off the bottom and gradually becomes more "heavy" on the leg with each successive dive. This is because its length, which greatly facilitates action in shallow water, shows its limits in medium/deep dives. But this is normal. The Storm was designed to accompany us in shallow water, and that's where we should use it.

After about three hours and catching two fish for dinner, it's time to head back to the starting point. The fin passes the shallow water test with flying colors, "surfing" the receding waves and maneuvering in tight spaces without ever causing trouble or accidentally hitting rocks during long ambushes. Less performant, as mentioned, in more demanding dives, but still adequate to handle occasional deeper excursions.

The comfort of the 250 is excellent, and it's easy to put on and take off, even with a 5-millimeter sock. Rounding off the package is a very interesting quality/price ratio, making the fin accessible to everyone, even those who decide to buy it as an additional model for certain types of fishing.

In short, a model for beginners or for those who, already experienced, seek a fin for the winter or, in any case, to use in the very first meters of depth.

Scores!

Structure: 8 The choice of specific ribs allows an excellent response relative to the length. The small final water rails are also valid, keeping the blade on track.

Materials: 8 A "decisive" technopolymer that ensures good elastic return for the blade while maintaining interesting softness.

Comfort: 9 The 250 foot pocket always scores well. Combined with the blade/foot pocket angle, it results in a fin that doesn't tire the ankle.

Performance: 7.5 Undoubtedly the queen of shallow water. Its compact length allows easy management even in the tightest spaces. However, the same length limits deeper dives, where the fin shows its limitations.

Design: 8 It features a fresh and youthful finish, with matte logos creating a pleasant effect depending on the light angle.

Quality/Price Ratio: 10 The crown jewel of the Storm. At €55 for the public, it has no rivals on the market.

Top:

Shallow water management and an unbeatable price

Flop:

Shows its limits in more demanding dives