I recently had the opportunity to test dive the new LEFEET S1 Pro on a recent scuba diving/ snorkeling vacation. I was very impressed with this lightweight Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV), and plan on making the scooter a standard accessory on future trips.
General Summary
Over the years I have used a number of different DPV. I had used the LEFEET S1 for a number of years and like it very much. The LEFEET S1 Pro has many of the same features that the S1 had that set it above most other scooters. I also found the S1 Pro to have slightly better performance and improved a few things I found lacking in the S1.
The LEFEET S1 Pro is a very lightweight DPV, however, it performs as well as heavier more expensive recreational scooters. Traveling with the scooter was easy and the weight did not cause me any concerns while traveling by air. You just have to remember to carry the battery with you on the plane.
The light weight and small size makes this device more versatile than most underwater scooters. When I used it for snorkeling, I carried my fins and had the DPV with the rest of my gear in a small backpack. It is not uncommon for a DPV to weigh anywhere from 14 pounds (6.35 kg) to 20 pounds (ca. 9 kg). At just 5.5 pounds (2.49 kg), the LEFEET S1 Pro was hardly noticeable.
I found the smaller size beneficial while I scuba dived as well. After a little trail and error, I came up with a solution to clip it to my BCD when I was not actively using it that did not impact my trim. This allows my hands to be free. I was never able to do that with other DPVs.
The three speeds that the S1 Pro has provided a comfortable ride. I found myself using the middle speed the most. While scuba diving, I easily zipped pass the other divers without a scooter on the middle speed. The high speed gave the same thrill as a fast drift dive.
One of my snorkeling trips had a very rocky entry that was very difficult with fins. I overcame that problem by snorkeling without fins and allowing the scooter to assist with the propulsion. The low speed stetting moved me along at a very comfortable pace, better that if I was using fins. The medium speed allowed me to cover a good distance in a short period of time.
I was not disappointed with the battery life either. The rating says it will last between 45-70 minutes and start to slow when the battery is near empty. I did not have the scooter slowing in the 5 days of scuba diving and snorkeling that I did. I just recharged the unit at the end of each day. The specs say the unit will recharge in 2.5 hours, I did not need that long.
