Surfing Waves

So I have been riding my channel islands flyer (6'1 X 19 1/2 X 2 3/16) its a great board and I enjoy riding it. I felt the board was lacking in smaller surf, like gaining speed and bottom turning. Im 5'11 and weigh 140lbs. Anyway, so I rode my friends board just a no name brand shortboard (5'10 X 18 1/2 X 2) in like 2-3 ft. mushy surf. And I thought the board was easier to generate speed on and just in general get more speed. It was also much easier to do turns on. Why is this?

I think because it is closer to ur actual height therefore the more effort u put into ur turns and when u pump for speed it makes it alot easier for u and it is alot smoother.it might also be just because u r riding a different board that u have never rode before and it has a different feel.hope that somewhat answered ur question.

Rocker!

Look at both boards from the side, your buddy's board will look flatter. A lot of rocker is good for steep or barreling waves, but really slows you on small mush.