if you do strictly flat water, a tight pole is better. if you rec ride/chase boats, a spring is better. the pole moving up and down acts like a shock absorber for your body. thats why fixed steer skis beat you down if jumped, but are easier to ride. it all depends on what you are doing or what YOU personally like. some like the pole so tight, you have to yank it up. i like mine just tight enough to stay where you leave it, but i chase boats and do flat water. on a beater superjet, i want a good spring that the pole moves easily without sticking.