I really doubt that they are not used over there, in fact I am sure they are. You just have not seen anyone using one yet. You are correct in knowing that it is not something you would want to do until your skills are top. I was just messing around when I was saying get a DPV anyway.

There are some new fins out called the APS Mantaray, that look very interesting. They promise to reduce the effort needed to move you through the water and also are said to reduce leg cramps. I know others that make the same claim. They are about $100, so they are not the most expensive and not the cheapest either.