Surfing Waves

So I cut my forehead a couple weeks ago on a fin (I think) \and decided that since I was a total noob beginner I should try to be a bit more safe. So I bought some of the pro teck powerflex fins (the medium flexible core ones). Since I have put them on my board, I seem to have more trouble catching waves... and I seem to be slightly wobbly on the board. Is it the fins (they are roughly the same size as the previous ones)? Or is it the week or so I had to stay out of the water? I could just put on the old fins and give it a go, but I think there might be some psychosomatic effects that might convince me it's the fins. I'd prefer to keep using the pro teck fins, but if they are going to hinder me, I might give it up.

Thanks.

Mmmmmm, I'd use the harder fins - wrapped in baby seals !

Noooooooooo, I’m joking .

Okay, seriously, I have had a smack from my board a good many times - one of those things I guess.

If the fins are slowing you down that implies you can surf a little bit (well done dude), so you need to learn to get the hell out of the way of the thing when you wipe out !

If you are worried get a big fat foamie and get knocked about all you want with no injury !

agreed that it does hurt when you fall on fins and also tears wetsuits but i think i'd stick with the normal fins if you want better performance. you'd be unlucky if you kept getting injured by fins, as esonscar said, learn to wipeout.

okay, so you think there is a good chance that the fins are slowing me down? or is it just in my head? Could you explain the fins would be slower?

thanks.

Yes, the fins might be slower.

A small difference in fin characteristics can make a big difference in how a board paddles, catches waves and rides. Surprisingly so, more than seems logical

And of course, if you think you're paddling slower you wont catch any waves - that's a self-fulfilling prophecy.
So get some new fins, slot them in, and try them out and see if it makes a difference.

To help you 'feel' the effect of different fins just wind a car window down when traveling, form a Karate Chop edge with your hand, stick your hand out the window and wiggle it slowly in the wind.

That is kind'a what your fins feel in the water.

It must be the fins alright.