I have used the paddles for a few swims and I am sold.  As several of the reviews note, the paddles will assist with stroke efficiency and position.  In addition, the paddles will give you some buoyancy and slows your stroke down which I have found to be very helpful as I am newer to swimming. I am training for a tri and swimming is my weakest area - in using the paddles I recently swam 1500 yards non-stop- prior to I had only swam 500 yards.  Slowing down really helped (during the catch and pull phase).  I used another set of paddles and the strain on my shoulders was much more- not so with these paddles- feel like I could swim forever based on the design, but you do need to be careful.  A cheap good investment that will improve your swimming.

Used the paddles and noticed an immediate difference in my stroke!

This really show where my stroke needed improvement to become more efficient.

These paddles helped my hand entry right away.  Lightweight and easy to carry in my swim bag.

I bought these for my son, and after using them twice, he said that he is forced to keep his elbows high during his pull pattern, and that if his form slips, the paddles give him immediate feedback.  He is excited to use these paddles through the rest of the season to see how much he improves.

Use the paddles every time I'm in the pool! Has greatly helped my stroke and also helped me to build some strength. The greatest thing is I do not have to worry about crossing over and damaging my shoulders. The freestyler is a must have for any swimmer. Will keep you honest about your form. For added fun use with a pool buoy!