makes a huge difference on FW tricks, or 360, 540s. I tried it on one ski in the surf, it was great. I'm having same issue. Longevity and steering getting tight, when it flaps backwards. Trial 3 to come. I will now not ride without it, just hate the hassles. Would worry in surf about breaking cable though. I am running the Xscream thinner one, running a 155 pump, so that may be why it bends over so easily.