I just got a new 140 marius and was looking for some feedback and what people thought about riding it finless. I road with fins today but wanna try it without. Just dont know what to expect (edging wise, how slippery it will be, landings ).
The board feels a little slow to me so, I like the fins so I can "dig" a little more in the water to help me keep my speed. Without the fins I tend to slip right at the top of the wake and end up on my back(like your mom).
I ride the 07 Marius finless. I totally understand about the "dead period before the edge locks in". It is a little more difficult to initiate your cut into the wake.
Also, I enjoy boardslides and it's a lot easier to do w/o fins.
Its pretty hard to get traction w/o fins but when u really put your edges in you'll have it... does that make sence?? i ride mine finless just because i love to wip my board around and everything... it just makes it not as agggressive and more fun (i think)