What's the diff between a 3-stg smooth and 3-stg progressive

[EC99SS]

What is the difference in riding between those two profiles? I'm specifically talking about the PS3 (3-stg smooth) and S4 (3-stg progressive).

In addition can you clarify which is more a characteristic for:
1) Stability
2) Forgiveness
3) Speed
4) Pop
5) Surface tricks

Thanks a ton all!

[LakeIolaLuke]

The S4 is grippier, both are similar in terms of pop, but the s4 has a harder, lower volume rail that makes it sit a little deeper in the water and take a more aggressive turn in, and it tracks in at the wake a bit faster. They are similar on stability, PS3 is more forgiving, and will break free easier for surface tricks.

Not all of these features are due to the rocker. all features of a board work together to give it it's ride characteristics

[RrCoX22]

ya agreed... the 3-stage progressive will feel a little bit more direct with specific balance characteristics where as the smooth be squirly in a sense.

Stability: Equal or more toward S4
Forgiveness: Equal
Speed: PS3
Pop: S4
Surface tricks: PS3

[EC99SS]

Thanks all! Great explanations!