Did you chop the 13.5 also? I have the 13.5 but the 178 seems to turn a bit better in waves and has better low end to help elevate my pumping skills to the next level.
What shim are you using with the 13.5 progression tail?
I prefer the 13.5 with the tips. I like how it locks in the pump. But I’m 185lbs. It should be way faster than the 178, ever faster than the 158 too. Not sure why you’d be feeling the 178 as faster. You going zero shim? The 178 does give a very stable and supported pump, and consistent easy surf feel.
I believe the 13.5 is faster (i weight 170 lbs). I tried the 178 with a -0.5 degree shim but will try it with no shim next. I agree that the 178 is very stable and supportive of pumping with a great surfy feel to it.