At this moment, I dont have the best picture of me in my tail as my first opportunity to swim in it happened to be at night.

Let me start on the colors: They are everything I had hoped for. Pictures do it no justice! It has a very fish-like sheen without being too metallic. They blend together amazingly well and the back looks just as great as the front!

Texture: All of the scales are well formed. The silicone is so supple yet resilient at the same time. The seams are nearly non-existent. You really have to search to find the seam on my tail. It all flows so naturally from fluke to top, side to side. I'm very impressed! And oh, that tattered fluke... it's hand cut and just a sight to behold.

Swim and fit: My first swim was surprisingly easy. I've never used a tail or mono fin before and it seemed so natural. I didn't feel awkward and the neutral buoyancy of the tail makes me feel like I would have to have a cinder block (or two) tied to me in order to drown. The fit was impressively spot on! The only issue I can find is that the foot pockets seem a little tight (but that is of my own fault, of course. I was warned the sizes run a little small). It doesn't hinder my swimming ability, and I honestly think a pair of socks might help cushion the fit a little. Even with my first time putting on the tail, it only took about 5 minutes, and less then 3 when I figured out the best way to put my feet in.

All together the tail is wonderful. Eric kept in great contact with me and it took about 5 months from start to receiving my tail (which seems like a very reasonable wait to me, considering the craftsmanship). I already love it and it and i think it suits me quite well! I wouldn't hesitate to order from Eric again.