Hydroshort helium 5'10 31.4L as a quad with Fcs 2 DHD medium fronts with small size performer quad rears goes absolutely mental my favorite all time board and it's my one board quiver for all conditions it's all I need
Great content as usual. I used the first Sci-Fi in everything from small days to relatively bigger days in NorCal. I surfed it in well overhead off Ocean Beach (SF). I preferred it to my step-up or normal shortboard when the waves were big but soft. I was really surprised that a board with a wide tail and extra lift/volume would hold and drive off the bottom so well, even on bigger days with all that speed. Also, the smooth rocker and volume under my chest made paddling into anything really easy. I had a 5'7 which was about a liter more than my normal shortboard. I agree with Thomye saying the new version is more for groveling. If I order a 5'7 now, it's added width and volume would be way too much lift for me going fast and wouldn't have the bite or track as well as the older one in bigger surf. That said, the new one sounds like it's less parallel with the rounder (wider) outline set up for performance surfing, going top to bottom, or doing wraps in a tight pocket of smaller waves. I think Noel Salas was describing these performance characteristics and refined rails working in better waves or less grovely conditions. I'd have to order the shorter one and use it in smaller/head-high surf. The older version was an all-around gem. Now we have to buy more boards to cover the range of conditions. Oh well...
Great review! Love the photo of how the water comes off the tail contrasted with the channels in the board. I’ve been impressed with Tomos’a boards, they look a little crazy but ride fast and fun and somehow pretty forgiving
I've been impressed too. The shocker to me is still the El Tomo Fish. I can't understand why a wide tail fish has bee the best board for me on backhand. it is literally 2x better that my other boards. coming off the bottom, speed, and timing. very strange to me. but, love it. keeping that one for sure.
Just bought the 5'9. Good but sometimes unpredictable board. Only surfed as thruster but had same experience as you. Good projection of bottom but on softer waves loses speed at top. Will try as quad next. Great review 🤙
I think that's a great quiver. They are good for about the same size waves with the scifi2 with slighter bigger range. The scifi2 is really good for better conditions and the mashup overs more of the low end. provided you waves don't get too small, sub 1 or too big, plus 6, I think the two boards you mentioned with compliment each other well. There is a small overlap in the middle but on any given day, you have some better better than others or worse than others. Two great boards in my opinion
태극기를 보니 한국계이신가요?ㅎㅎ 친근하게 생긴 아저씨같은데 서핑은 엄청나게 잘하시네요 같은 구피 숏보더로서 항상 많이 보고 배웁니다. I saw the flag on the bottom of your board and then I realized you probably have a Korean heritage. You look like a friendly uncle living next door but the surf skills you have are amazing..I always learn a lot from you myself as a goofy surfer. Thanks for the great review.
Hi Thomye, I was wondering if you could help me choose the right size for the Cymatic. The 5'5 is 28.4L and the 5'4 is 26.7. I'm an intermediate plus surfer (good turns and cutbacks, good positioning and I can easily catch waves). I ride a 5'3 seaside at 28.2L (thanks to your videos) and love it. I have a Dominator 2 5'7 29.4L but if feels too big at times, I can't really duck dive it too deep. I'm 172cm (5'7/5'8) and weigh between 65 to 69kg (143-150lbs). I'm fit and wear a 4/3 in the winter, boardshorts in summer. I'm looking to replace the Dom with the Cymatic, to sit alongside my Seaside for when the waves are a bit better. I wanna go 5'4 on the Cymatic but I'm afraid it would be too much work to get it going since the waves here in Italy are not too powerful. I'm also afraid of getting the 5'5 as it might be too close to my Dominator and therefore not justify the expense to upgrade if I end up having the same experience. I might be able to surf in better waves like Hossegor and I would be bringing that board along. I would really appreciate your advice here, so thanks a lot in advance! P.S. I don't specifically NEED to get a new board, I unfortunately don't even get that much time in the water anyways, maybe I'm better off just keeping the Dom
that is a tough decision. I have those fights with myself all the time. To be honest, all surfers do. In fact, as you get better, those decisions get worse. When you become an advanced surfer, what you'll find is that your tolerance for differences will become much tighter. Anyways, first and foremost, I need to mention I have never ridden the Cymatic. Also, thanks for all the detail. By design, the cymatic seems to have a bunch of great features. But there are things that concern me. Initially, I would think that it was like the dom2 with its nose cut off but the rocker is adjusted for the new length. I have the revo in 5'3 and can't surf that thing. It is a great board, i'm certain of it, but i should have gotten it longer. The issue there is that then it would be too much liters. I'd be trading one problem for another. People love that board but the people that have told me that all surf it bigger. I think the smaller is better, 5'4, cuz my experience, all tomo boards feel bigger than they actually are. I think shedding 2 L isn't a big deal if you are fit. Besides, you seaside is 28.2L which is your grovel board. You have that for groveling and now you just need to bump up your performance. Having said that, I think there are two better options in the firewire lineup for you. If you like the Seaside like I love the seaside, then consider the Mashup. 5'4 which is 27.1L. it is great for better performance in roughly the same conditions as the seaside. If you like the concepts of the cymatic, maybe consider the SciFi2.0. Same tail and roughly the same bottom. But a pointy nose which I think performs better. You can get the 5'7 and only drop 1 liter from the dom2. But it is exactly 1" narrower which is way more performance for better wave conditions. look at the firewire website and check out the optimal conditions chart. it's a general idea of what it was intended. Sorry to have confused the matter but I can't whole heartedly say go with the cymatic cuz I haven't surfed it. But I have surfed the other two. I have two 5'4 mashups cuz I love the board so much. I was so afraid they were going to discontinue it, I ended up buying a gray colored backup. one that won't go yellow. :) think about my response and hit me with some questions.
@@ThomyeSurfs thank you so much! I knew you were the right guy to write to. You did not confuse me at all, your insights are so honest and varied, I really appreciate it! To be completely honest, the first wave i ever got on my 5'7 Dom I was like, "nice, but it feels like surfing a door", though I did enjoy catching any wave I'd paddle for. I had just stepped off my 8-year-old HPSB that I grew up on. That thing was a 5'9, PU standard board, it might have been in the 27-28 L range, and I had been surfing fine with it. The thing that attracts me the most about the Cymatic is the volcanic construction, just like my Seaside. I appreciate you suggesting the sci-fi but I might avoid that due to concerns on the longevity of the LFT construction and yellowing (just like you, I can't stand yellowing). The Mashup is definitely a board to complement the Seaside but I don't think I would feel comfortable bombing bigger waves when i travel with it. I agree the Cymatic might be a souped-up version of the Dominator, but with more performance in the concaves and rocker. It allows more performance without fully committing to a board like the sci-fi which needs good waves, (something we don't often get here in Italy). I also think that it might have a little more surface area compared to a standard HPSB in the same volume, due to the blunt nose. Maybe that's what made you feel like Tomo boards felt bigger. I might be leaning more towards the 5'4, it's just a 5% decrease in volume compared to my Seaside. My doubts would be: 1) I might travel to Hossegor and Morocco later this year and might be surfing overhead+ conditions, do you think I will regret not having enough float to get into the waves quicker? I'm pretty capable of dropping into steep waves. 2) I don't plan on gaining weight, but it's a concern, what do you think is the upper weight limit for a 26.7L board for someone like us to still enjoy surfing? We can add 0.5L to the board since it's EPS, so it floats like a 27.2L PU no? (this is actually close to my old board, which in comparison was narrower and had much more rocker) I should definitely take a 5'4 for a spin but none of my friends have it, and the shops don't let me try boards. Fun fact: i skate regular but surf goofy, I might try to switch stance soon!
@@sammaproductions crazy about your stance. my buddy is the same way but his issue is that he hurt his knee years ago and started surfing around the same time. he couldn't get up regular so he learned goofy. although if he had figured out a way, he might actually be a much better surfer than he is. as for some of your questions. I'd say the upper limits for me on a 27 would be 165 to 185. I like surfing 27 now and i'm 145. that's just me cuz I have gotten used to being on top of the water. but the issue is when it comes to volume, it is mostly for paddling. All my buddies, surf around the 27 to 29 L range and they weight 30 to 40 lbs more than i do. I'm just a big wuss when it comes to paddling. I like catching a lot of waves. LOL My friends will average 15 to 20 a session and i average around 30 to 35. once in a 4 hour session, I caught 80 waves. some luck in that but I think it is cuz i surf more volume. Havin said that, I know that when I do surf board with less volume, I tend to be in the water and get more spray. if you watch any of my clips, you will see I don't get much spray at all, cuz i'm surfing on top. Anyways, if your fitness is good and you don't mind not going for everything than the upper limits could be 180. otherwise for me personally and how i like to surf, i'd say 155 to 160 tops. As for EPS vs PU, not sure what the buoyancy percentage works out to. using PU as a baseline it might be 3 to 5% I guess. but that depends too. LFT and Helium makes a difference and now i-Bolic. One thing I know for sure, my Sharpeye in Dark Arts, although only 25.5, floats like my mashup at 27.1, maybe even a tad better. But again, i'm on top of the water which I like. My buddy hates that and purposely give up paddle to surf in the water.
Great review, I think you surfed best on this board vs others; the first pump/turn gave you great speed and projection and it still was very maneuverable; good flow from rail to rail
I think you sum up thrusters for the average waves we surf... just always falling behind on the bigger waves... If they aren't walled and you get a corner they peel very very fast
Rode my 5’9 today first time. Excellent paddler. Surprised how floaty it was for me at 30 L. Rides excellent on steep faces. Super crowded today but hoping to get more wave’s tomorrow. Such a cool little board. 🤙🏾
Saying that the board is a better groveler because it carries more volume at 5''7" than the Sci-Fi 1.0 did isn't exactly accurate. It just means they have repackaged things to have more volume in a shorter space. In other words, I rode a 5'7" in the 1.0 and now ride a 5'6" in the 2.0 because I want to carry the same volume. At the same volume, I'd say the "grovel" about the same. I'd say the 2.0 is can actually hold in more solid waves because the tail is more pulled in and there's a bit more rocker. Added volume in general will help you grovel better because you can paddle and plain quicker. But in an apples-to-apples, volume-to-volume comparison, in my experience, they're about the same.
I have two friends that says that this board sometimes slows down for some reason just like you say! Try the rocket wide let us know how you like it :) Great review!
The Rocket Wide it's insane backhand in one foot waves bro! Trust me I suck at this sometimes but that board makes me think I'm a better surfer 😆 Also if you look at closer to all the lines at the Rocket Wide, the board looks so simple, nothing special, almost like a board crossing the 80's to the 90's so weird but yet effective. Try it! You love it champ 💯👌🏼☺🏄♂️
Thank you for the review. One question: do you think that for the Sci-Fi 2.0 in 2-5 ft conditions it is correct to choose a volume close to the one normally used for performance shortboard, or the shape/LFT construction needs something more? Thank's again.
Probably the opposite. But it depends on your normal board. If you were on a PU you could probably scale the scifi2 smaller. If you are on a FireWire helium you may want to scale it a little bigger. In terms of 2 to 5 foot waves, this board is perfect for that size if there’s a little bit of punch.
Great review Tomye, it made me excited about this board and thinking of buying it! I own a Dominator 2 in 5,7 (29.4L). I am thinking about buying this one in 5.6 26L (I like shorter, agile boards but still want them to paddle easily), do you think that makes sense? Also to have it in the same quiver as a Dominator 2? I was thinking of using this board for a bit bigger and better waves (3-7FT), I usually surf my DM in 3-5FT, any wave type. I am going to the Mentawais soon and feel the Sci--fi 2.0 can really work there (also for the barrel). I am currently considering the S-Boss (also in I-Bolic) or the Inferno 72 in Dark Arts, which one would you get! Thanks!!
There's definitely a little bit of overlap in the D2 and SciFi2, I consider both of these grovelers/performance grovelers. Comparing these two boards in the sizes you mentioned, you are giving up a bit of paddle power since you are dropping 3 liters. Also, you are giving up planing speed since the D2 is just a tad over 1" wider. Catching waves on the SciFi2 will be a tad more labored. You are definitely getting a narrower more performance oriented board with the SciFi2, which would likely surf in pockets better and steeper waves. So the way it appears to me, both boards cover the same size waves roughly, but the Scifi2 will be more maneuverable. Having said that, do you feel the D2 is too big? I've never been to the Mentawai's but one of my buddies who goes there quite often said, don't go a thousand miles to surf just to miss waves. I think your D2, if it doesn't feel big, can handle everything from 3 to 5 easily. Anything bigger, I would think you would want a proper step up. Sharpeye 77, FRK, etc
@Surfs Great advice, thanks for the quick reply Tomye! I felt that my DM2 was a getting a bit bumpy on bigger waves last time I was in Indo (5-6ft), I then used my Lost Rocket V3 in Poly and that was much better. I am basically looking to replace my Lost Rocket V3 for a new, more durable board (Sci-Fi 2.0, S-Boss, Inferno 72/FT). Aren't boards such as the Black Vulture 2, RNF96, Ultra Joe more in the grovelers/performance grovelers category. I do own a Ultra joe :D
@@stolkkj I'm not familiar with the BV2 other than on paper and the RNF96 looks like the Mashup to me. Yes they are all grovelers. they are all grovelers/performance grovelers. At our height and weight, anything over 18.75" wide and shorter than way 5'8 is technically a performance groveler. anything over 19.5 is a groveler. these are all subjective though. Someone like Felipe who is about your size would consider all these boards to be Uber grovelers. LOL The 72 of all these boards is the most performance and it is still considered a performance grovel to a pro. To me, it's a blade. Anyways, regarding the R v3. It could have been the PU that made it feel that way. I recently went out on a double overhead day and took out a buddies 6'2 CI Happy Traveler. it was 6'2 and 32L. a proper step up for me. It got into waves super easy and rode smooth as silk. I think PU dampens bumps and speed better. Of the 3 you are looking at, the 72 and SF2 are good options. They are both narrow and more performance oriented than the D2. The S-Boss in my opinion is too similar to the D2, in fact, to me, it looks like the original Dom with a rounded nose. it's only a fraction narrower and less volume relative in size to the D2. The SF2 is the most similar to your old Rocket v3. the 72 is the most different but likely the most performance of the 3. However, you would be going taller since it is a more traditional performance shape.
Hi Thomye, you mentioned the el Tomo fish in this review…..does the sci fi 2.0 have the similar feel or does it feel more shortboardy? Also is it stable like the el Tomo?
great question. One thing I stated exactly in my El Tomo review was how stable it felt. I'm glad you said it as well to validate what I felt. The SciFi2 is a tad more shortboardy for sure. not much though especially if you get get it around the same volume. I had the 5'6 ET which was 28.8L and the 5'7 SciFi2 which was 27.5L. the narrower nose and less volume made the board feel a little more shortboardy as you put it. Having said that, if I could buy these boards again, I would get the 5'4 or 5'5 ET and the 5'5 or 5'6 SciFi2. Funny you asked this question because I had not ridden my ET since I did the review and only yesterday I took it out by coincidence. Right when I hopped on it, I remembered how stable it was. It just locks in. I may need to try some different fins to see how much I can loosen it up. Anyways, the SciFi felt very stable as well, not as much as the ET but way more than say the D2 and the Glazer.
Hey Thomye, I ended up getting the Sci fi 2.0 not long after we last chatted on here and it’s been my favourite pointed nose board amoungst my twin fins. Pretty much the only shortboard type shape I’m riding. You’re spot on about the El Tomo and the Sci fi in similar volumes, I had a 5’8 ET and a 5’10 SF 2.0 and they both performed just with a different feel. How does the FRK+ compare to the Sci Fi 2.0? In feel, performance and get up and go speed etc…
Great review! I watch all your videos. I’m trying decide between a 6’2” Sci-fi at 38.9L and a Mashup 6’0” at 38.5L. I have a 5’11” Seaside and love it! But want to progress my top to bottom surfing, both boards seams like they will do the same thing. But I’d like to know what you think as you have surfed both boards. Thanks for your time! Keep the videos coming🤙🏻
i think the SciFi2 is more versatile. will work in small and bigger waves. I found the mashup to be great for smaller waves only. I have fun on bigger waves but it does not carve well for me, it hacks more, if that makes sense. Having said that, my buddy who weighs 200lbs loves his 6'4 mashup. seems to surf it really well in bigger waves but he has always been a ripper. He used to be sponsored and rips on a wavestorm.
@@ThomyeSurfs Thanks for the info, I was leaning towards the SCiFi. But I like the Seaside so much I figured it would be an easier transition. I might end up with both if I can swing it! I really enjoy your content, nice to see boards in a variety of surf by a normal surfer not by a pro. Thanks again.
Hi Thomye, I find your review interesting a friend of mine also likes this board and he own about 12 Firewires 🤣 my biggest problem at the moment is transitioning between my DM2 & FRK due to Helium vs LFT. I am considering this board only concerned about the lower range….thanks for the review 😄
out of curiosity, what are the volumes on the Dom2 and the FRK? The SciFi ride a tad big, meaning, although it is less vol than my El Tomo and Dom, it feels like it floats better. It could be my weight too though. I'll need to paddle them around on the same day. I really like the board but I feel I bought mine too big. which is weird because it's the volume that l like, 27.5. Which is actually on the low end of most of my firewires. BTW, 12 is a lot. I don't think I have that many,. but I have sold a bunch too. 😁
Hydroshort 5'10 31.4L as a quad with Fcs 2 DHD medium fronts with small size performer quad rears goes absolutely mental my favorite all time board and it's my one board quiver for all conditions it's all I need.
I’m stuck between the El Tomo and the Sci-fi 2.0. We’re the same weight and similar skill (you’re a bit more advanced though). Curious if you could speak to your experience with both boards now that you’ve been riding them for a while?
I would consider the sci-fi two over the Al tomo because of the fin options. I love the old tomo but it is a dedicated quad with no other option. So you have to like quads to begin with which I do and they tend to work back and better for me. Having said that I think that it also depends on your wave. The L tomo will be a better growler because of the lighter tail and fuller nose. So if your wave is punchy or bigger than the sci-fi too but if it’s smaller or softer, then the el tomo
to drive down the line, all the times you see me pumping to get speed mid face, I'm actually forward on the pad. Only for turns do I need to step back. I find that to be the case with most pointier boards. I have to stand forward for speed and then step back for turns. Grovelers like the seaside and potato line, I can surf it from the tail full time.
@@ThomyeSurfs Cheers man It's just I'm 5'75 but would need a 6'0 for volume as I put on some pounds so would need to do a mega poo stance to get my back foot right at the back.
@@peacepuffz LOL. that's is a legit concern and good observation. You should be fine especially if you run it as a 2+1. That would allow you to have your font foot forward more for drive and speed yet still be loose without requiring you to move your foot all the way back. NVS also makes a cool fin called the AIPA Sequencers, it's a quad but the front fins are bigger (sized between a twin and regular fin) and the rear fins are smaller. That too would allow you to surf it a tad more forward.
@@ThomyeSurfs Thanks Thomye & thanks for understanding. I used to be 80Kg's riding 28 / 30 liters short board & would have around the same sizing as you. I had a 5'5 Omni so my back foot would be much futher back on the pad. Now that I need more float hance longer boards the sweet board is some thing I need to consider as some of these short boards don't feel great unless your feet are right in that sweet positon. Hopefully i'll lose the weight that's the plan but in the mean time I'll defo check those fins options. Thanks for taking the time to get back to me. Peaceeee
I am weighing in at 180 - 185lbs. And would consider myself Intermediate surfer. 5"10" tall. Is a 6'4" SciFi 42L too much board? I love your reviews! Thank you!
as an intermediate at 185, i would say no, it's not too much. but I would think there are better suited boards. there really isn't a wrong way just better ways. a more user friendly board just makes the learning process faster and easier. The SciFi2, width to length ratio, is more of a high end intermediate to advanced board. at the 42L, it will work in smaller waves but having more width is key at an intermediate stage especially for soft waves. if you are surfing a point or reef break with a little more power, the SciFi2 is fine. I learned on a 5'8 quad and went to a 6'0 performance board. pretty much spend my entire learning time on a performance board. I would have learned much quicker on a shorter wider board.
thank. the toledos (thruster) are medium. The quad i was running large. I size my fin based on board and wave size. I'm 135lbs right now, trying to get back to my walking weight of 145/150. when waves are small, big fins. if board is pointy, raked back. pointier, the more raked. :)
@@ThomyeSurfs I got mine in last week but I haven’t ridden it yet. Still trying to figure out the traction pad placement on it and I ordered the endorfins from FireWire but I guess they’re still on back order. I was hoping your video and Noel’s video would give me more clarity haha
@@kristianszeto6424 hoping to get my soon. I ordered a traction pad for it but because of the step down rails, it is going to be difficult. I bought a 3 piece and plan to only use the middle piece. The leash plug and the rails might make it difficult. I know that when I paused Kevin Scholz video, it looked like he had a far back as it goes but, it also looked like at time, he was standing on the kick. Hopefully I'll get mine soon. I plan to ride mine as a quad so likely, I won't have to worry too much but as a thruster, you will want to make sure you can stand over that back fin.
tough one. under most conditions, my favorite has shifted. It is now the El Tomo Fish. I'm able to surf that the best. The Modern 2 is a tad looser but factoring in backhand, for whatever reason, my backhand waves are 2x better on the el tomo than any other board. The seaside is my favorite for when it is small, sub waste high. so given it is winter. the longer boards at 5'6 has been what I am favoring. i'm certain come spring/summer I will be back on the 5'3 Seaside
@@alanhart6407 I have two friends who swear by the EVO. I can't seem to find one short enough for me. The volume to height ratio is misleading on that board. I tried a bigger one but that didn't work well for me. It was too big.
@@ACBHR with the two I own, the El Tomo Fish is better but so slight that I can't really tell. generally speaking, if you are comparing them by volume, the el tomo fish will be wider and shorter. a shorter packages means the foam is more concentrated and usually more buoyant since it is under your chest. no needles nose volume. My 5'6 El Tomo Fish is 28.8L and is 19.25" wide while my SciFi2 is 55'7" X 27.5L and only 18 7/8" wide. just on paper, the ETF is floats better and will plane better when catching waves, but only marginally. so small that I'm not sure one would be able to feel it on those characteristics. For me, the two boards feel really similar in terms of paddle power. I would imagine though that the ETF has a better entry rocker so it pushes less water when you are just about to catch the wave. I felt that on some of the smaller waves on the SciFi. it didn't glide in as smoothly, but that was minimal too.
Both are good boards but I feel the d2 has a night ceiling and the scifi2 grovels a tad better if you get them at the same volume cuz of the narrower tail. But the scifi2 is narrower in the middle so it to has a decent ceiling. Personally I liked the scifi2.
I liked the SciFi2 a lot. If I had to rate it, it would be 7 of 10. The mashup is 8 of 10. But this is also contingent on conditions and break. Too many other factors go into it. Also, I may have bought my scifi2 a tad bigger than I should have. Having said that, I love love love the mashup because it is great where I surf but the rail line is too short. For speed on soft waves, it is a 10 of 10. but with speed you have to give up certain things and fluid turns is out the window. Anyways, its hard to rate something on an overall scale when there are lots of things that go into it. I am certain I would love the scifi2 more than the mashup at say lowers trestles which I never get to surf. But in most conditions, I like the Mashup more. Oh, except when it gets above shoulder high. Lack of rocker makes it difficult in bigger punchier waves.
El Tomo for me. the board locks into turns and it has really helped my backside bottom turn. it locks in so I dig less rail but because of the wider tail, it does start to get sketchy as the waves get bigger/faster/steeper.
Hydroshort 5'10 31.4L as a quad with Fcs 2 DHD medium fronts with small size performer quad rears goes absolutely mental my favorite all time board and it's my one board quiver for all conditions it's all I need
Yes in general but definitely in smaller or softer waves. The scifi can handle punchier waves also slightly bigger waves. but my daily waves are smaller and softer so I have to pick the board that I would take out the most. If I surfed a reef break or a point break, likely the scifi would be my goto.
yes, it has been good recently. I stopped doing the updates. Maybe I am on a good software version now. I used to have a 20% fail rate but my last 8 uses has been solid. :)
i haven't had the opportunity to try the rocket wide. my buddy demo'd it but I didn't trade up with him. I wish I had now. minus the tail, I think the boards have a very similar outline. the RW is a swallow which will have better hold and bite. The SciFi2 looks like a big thumb tail with a jagged thumbnail, haha. each bump/point acts as a pivot point but in general, I think it would do better longer drawn out turns better. RW is probably better in the pocket. Until I surf it, I won't really know though. Hoping to try out an RW soon.
scifi 2.0 for sure but I think I rode my Dom2 a little small. I had the 5 '4 @25.9L. I probably would have liked a 5'5 or 5'6 better. But at that size though, the dom2 then is wider. So with that said, I still think the scifi2 would have edged out the dom2.
Depends. I have a theory that most professionals and super high-end advanced surfers like thrusters because they actually surf on top of or behind the center fin. They talk about pivot but in my opinion as a low end advance surfer that surfs in front of the center fin I tend to think that thrusters have less pivot. They feel like they have a longer/bigger turning radius to me. With a quad that same foot position puts you on top of the rear fins which then allows you tighter turns and better pivot. With a 2 + 1 that's smaller stabilizer fin doesn't impact you as much so even though technically a 2 + 1 is like a thruster, you still get good pivot because they have less drag through a turn. At the end of the day it's personal preference. I tend to like two plus ones and quads. I think I would like a thruster if it were a high performance board.
@@ThomyeSurfs that’s an interesting explanation and makes sense. Many pros are going to quad fins at times. I have a quad, twin and thruster board. My thruster def turns amazing but lacks speed. I feel on my quad board it still turns good but I need more power to complete turns on it. I will try the quad set up first. Appreciate your awesome feedback as always 🤙🏾
Hi Thom, Have you tested the Cymatic? I have the Cymatic and love it! It’s fast, loose and has that barely out of control feeling depending on the fins. I had the Omni, it was more like a step up and tighter in the turns. I tried the SciFi 1.0 and like it. I might get the SciFi 2.0.
I have not but you are like the 5th person to tell me that the cymatic is a great baord. I am liking Tomo's boards so definitely will give it a go if one pops up in my size. :)
the biggest difference would be the wide point. The D2 puts the wide point behind the front foot giving the board a very loose feel. The SF2 has it slightly forward which makes it feel super stable and with more foam up front, it feels bigger than it really is. I personally liked the SF2 due to my front foot heavy surfing. I liked the old Dom at 5'8 which is actually way big for me. I tested the D2 at 5'4 which was just too small. The Dom and D2 design doesn't suit my style of surfing at the proper volume and length, I have to ride it bigger. Having said that, because I rode it bigger, it was probably the single most influential board I have surfed. It more than any other board improved my surfing. I think I would love the D2 at about 5'7 which again, is too big for good waves but great for Bolsa. As an FYI, I loved the Dom so much at 5'8, I bought the spitfire at 5'8 and surfed it a heap. Great for Bolsa soft waves. At 31 Liters, it was my uber groveler at the time. With that said, I took the Spitfire to Waco BSR. it didn't work at all. Too big a board for the punchy wave. Way too big even for the intermediate waves. All in all, I like the SF better just because it suite my surfing. I think I would like the D2 in a 5'5 or so at trestles but don't surf that place much so the D2 isn't my go to board.
@@RBNK157 let me know how it compares for you. I think the hard part about surfing is that everything is so subjective. I really like the D2 but for me, because of the wide point being back, I would love it if Dan Mann made it narrower. Something like a 5'8 with only 27L. That would probably work for me.
@@ThomyeSurfs will do! Yea everything in surfing is very subjective- i just considered many opinions regarding the D2 before i got it so we’ll see how it goes.. my friend has the sci fi2 he loves it but he always says that this board needs a wave.. also have another friend who bought it and sold it pretty quickly got the D2 instead
I saw it on amazon. some clever people out there. I also saw something similar for a standup surfboard but thought a SUP was too much weight for the motor. Not sure though.
Excellent review Thomye! I got Sci-Fi 1, more like a daily driver like The Spitfire. The Rocket Wide for example it's a high performance Groveler but not the Sci-Fi one. Well maybe if you are are a semi-pro. Not like me I got a bunch of board and much skills 😝😜😅 The dominator 2 I've personally fund it slows down sometimes and hard to get into waves compared to any of my other boards, humans...all different right?🤔
yeah. I found the narrower nose of the d2 made it slightly harder to catch waves but also the wide point back made it feel too loose and unresponsive. I tried it with all kinds of fins too but couldn't dial it in. it was still fun and if there weren't so many other options, I might have kept it.
@@ThomyeSurfs Thanks legend for the reply. I still got the Dom 2 on 6'6" All my boards are around 40ish ltrs I'm 6' tall and around 220LBS in a good season 205LBS. The Domi 2 its a bit of a brick I the water. It works for me with the right wave I think 🤔 Trust me, you've been missed out in that board. Move on. I will too. By the way I'm goofy as well!💪🏽🏄♂️ Keep up the good work awesome to see brother.
I tested the D2 5'4 and it is too small for how I surf. I am very heavy front footed. The D2 with its wide point back from center rides smaller for a front footed surfer. I am 145 now and like my boards around 25 to 26 litters. But my waves require a tad more cuz it is so soft and weak.
Great review and surfing + fun waves🙏 I keep hearing it is no good in small waves; you show that it goes great in small waves🤙
Awesome, glad you liked it! I have a soft spot for Tomo's boards. The El Tomo still rates as one of the best I've surfed.
same. I liked it a lot when I reviewed it but the more I surf it, the better it gets for me.
Hydroshort helium 5'10 31.4L as a quad with Fcs 2 DHD medium fronts with small size performer quad rears goes absolutely mental my favorite all time board and it's my one board quiver for all conditions it's all I need
Love your work bro! 🤙
Thanks bro, appreciate it. :)
Great content as usual. I used the first Sci-Fi in everything from small days to relatively bigger days in NorCal. I surfed it in well overhead off Ocean Beach (SF). I preferred it to my step-up or normal shortboard when the waves were big but soft. I was really surprised that a board with a wide tail and extra lift/volume would hold and drive off the bottom so well, even on bigger days with all that speed. Also, the smooth rocker and volume under my chest made paddling into anything really easy. I had a 5'7 which was about a liter more than my normal shortboard. I agree with Thomye saying the new version is more for groveling. If I order a 5'7 now, it's added width and volume would be way too much lift for me going fast and wouldn't have the bite or track as well as the older one in bigger surf. That said, the new one sounds like it's less parallel with the rounder (wider) outline set up for performance surfing, going top to bottom, or doing wraps in a tight pocket of smaller waves. I think Noel Salas was describing these performance characteristics and refined rails working in better waves or less grovely conditions. I'd have to order the shorter one and use it in smaller/head-high surf. The older version was an all-around gem. Now we have to buy more boards to cover the range of conditions. Oh well...
thanks Peter for the very detailed response and feedback. appreciate it brotha. :)
Great review! Love the photo of how the water comes off the tail contrasted with the channels in the board. I’ve been impressed with Tomos’a boards, they look a little crazy but ride fast and fun and somehow pretty forgiving
I've been impressed too. The shocker to me is still the El Tomo Fish. I can't understand why a wide tail fish has bee the best board for me on backhand. it is literally 2x better that my other boards. coming off the bottom, speed, and timing. very strange to me. but, love it. keeping that one for sure.
Awesome surfing and great review Thomye, I was bummed when I sold this board, now I want it back 😂👍
Just bought the 5'9. Good but sometimes unpredictable board. Only surfed as thruster but had same experience as you. Good projection of bottom but on softer waves loses speed at top. Will try as quad next. Great review 🤙
I felt the same on the old model. Sometimes i love it and sometimes it's unpredictable and i hate it
I love my Tomo helium hydroshort best board ever.
@3:00 barrel?!
Great review!
Thanks for sharing.
Nice review! Do you think that the Mashup and Sci-fi 2.0 is a good quiver? For only this 2 boards
I think that's a great quiver. They are good for about the same size waves with the scifi2 with slighter bigger range. The scifi2 is really good for better conditions and the mashup overs more of the low end. provided you waves don't get too small, sub 1 or too big, plus 6, I think the two boards you mentioned with compliment each other well. There is a small overlap in the middle but on any given day, you have some better better than others or worse than others. Two great boards in my opinion
Great review Thomye. Great footage
Nice review! Good to see more flags on the board!
태극기를 보니 한국계이신가요?ㅎㅎ 친근하게 생긴 아저씨같은데 서핑은 엄청나게 잘하시네요 같은 구피 숏보더로서 항상 많이 보고 배웁니다. I saw the flag on the bottom of your board and then I realized you probably have a Korean heritage. You look like a friendly uncle living next door but the surf skills you have are amazing..I always learn a lot from you myself as a goofy surfer. Thanks for the great review.
Nice review, great surfing. You definitely could see the difference in the quad being a bit faster than the thruster. Thanks.
Hi Thomye, I was wondering if you could help me choose the right size for the Cymatic. The 5'5 is 28.4L and the 5'4 is 26.7. I'm an intermediate plus surfer (good turns and cutbacks, good positioning and I can easily catch waves). I ride a 5'3 seaside at 28.2L (thanks to your videos) and love it. I have a Dominator 2 5'7 29.4L but if feels too big at times, I can't really duck dive it too deep. I'm 172cm (5'7/5'8) and weigh between 65 to 69kg (143-150lbs). I'm fit and wear a 4/3 in the winter, boardshorts in summer.
I'm looking to replace the Dom with the Cymatic, to sit alongside my Seaside for when the waves are a bit better. I wanna go 5'4 on the Cymatic but I'm afraid it would be too much work to get it going since the waves here in Italy are not too powerful. I'm also afraid of getting the 5'5 as it might be too close to my Dominator and therefore not justify the expense to upgrade if I end up having the same experience. I might be able to surf in better waves like Hossegor and I would be bringing that board along. I would really appreciate your advice here, so thanks a lot in advance!
P.S. I don't specifically NEED to get a new board, I unfortunately don't even get that much time in the water anyways, maybe I'm better off just keeping the Dom
that is a tough decision. I have those fights with myself all the time. To be honest, all surfers do. In fact, as you get better, those decisions get worse. When you become an advanced surfer, what you'll find is that your tolerance for differences will become much tighter.
Anyways, first and foremost, I need to mention I have never ridden the Cymatic. Also, thanks for all the detail.
By design, the cymatic seems to have a bunch of great features. But there are things that concern me. Initially, I would think that it was like the dom2 with its nose cut off but the rocker is adjusted for the new length. I have the revo in 5'3 and can't surf that thing. It is a great board, i'm certain of it, but i should have gotten it longer. The issue there is that then it would be too much liters. I'd be trading one problem for another. People love that board but the people that have told me that all surf it bigger.
I think the smaller is better, 5'4, cuz my experience, all tomo boards feel bigger than they actually are. I think shedding 2 L isn't a big deal if you are fit. Besides, you seaside is 28.2L which is your grovel board. You have that for groveling and now you just need to bump up your performance.
Having said that, I think there are two better options in the firewire lineup for you. If you like the Seaside like I love the seaside, then consider the Mashup. 5'4 which is 27.1L. it is great for better performance in roughly the same conditions as the seaside. If you like the concepts of the cymatic, maybe consider the SciFi2.0. Same tail and roughly the same bottom. But a pointy nose which I think performs better. You can get the 5'7 and only drop 1 liter from the dom2. But it is exactly 1" narrower which is way more performance for better wave conditions.
look at the firewire website and check out the optimal conditions chart. it's a general idea of what it was intended. Sorry to have confused the matter but I can't whole heartedly say go with the cymatic cuz I haven't surfed it. But I have surfed the other two. I have two 5'4 mashups cuz I love the board so much. I was so afraid they were going to discontinue it, I ended up buying a gray colored backup. one that won't go yellow. :) think about my response and hit me with some questions.
@@ThomyeSurfs thank you so much! I knew you were the right guy to write to. You did not confuse me at all, your insights are so honest and varied, I really appreciate it!
To be completely honest, the first wave i ever got on my 5'7 Dom I was like, "nice, but it feels like surfing a door", though I did enjoy catching any wave I'd paddle for. I had just stepped off my 8-year-old HPSB that I grew up on. That thing was a 5'9, PU standard board, it might have been in the 27-28 L range, and I had been surfing fine with it.
The thing that attracts me the most about the Cymatic is the volcanic construction, just like my Seaside. I appreciate you suggesting the sci-fi but I might avoid that due to concerns on the longevity of the LFT construction and yellowing (just like you, I can't stand yellowing). The Mashup is definitely a board to complement the Seaside but I don't think I would feel comfortable bombing bigger waves when i travel with it.
I agree the Cymatic might be a souped-up version of the Dominator, but with more performance in the concaves and rocker. It allows more performance without fully committing to a board like the sci-fi which needs good waves, (something we don't often get here in Italy). I also think that it might have a little more surface area compared to a standard HPSB in the same volume, due to the blunt nose. Maybe that's what made you feel like Tomo boards felt bigger.
I might be leaning more towards the 5'4, it's just a 5% decrease in volume compared to my Seaside. My doubts would be:
1) I might travel to Hossegor and Morocco later this year and might be surfing overhead+ conditions, do you think I will regret not having enough float to get into the waves quicker? I'm pretty capable of dropping into steep waves.
2) I don't plan on gaining weight, but it's a concern, what do you think is the upper weight limit for a 26.7L board for someone like us to still enjoy surfing? We can add 0.5L to the board since it's EPS, so it floats like a 27.2L PU no? (this is actually close to my old board, which in comparison was narrower and had much more rocker)
I should definitely take a 5'4 for a spin but none of my friends have it, and the shops don't let me try boards.
Fun fact: i skate regular but surf goofy, I might try to switch stance soon!
@@sammaproductions crazy about your stance. my buddy is the same way but his issue is that he hurt his knee years ago and started surfing around the same time. he couldn't get up regular so he learned goofy. although if he had figured out a way, he might actually be a much better surfer than he is.
as for some of your questions. I'd say the upper limits for me on a 27 would be 165 to 185. I like surfing 27 now and i'm 145. that's just me cuz I have gotten used to being on top of the water. but the issue is when it comes to volume, it is mostly for paddling. All my buddies, surf around the 27 to 29 L range and they weight 30 to 40 lbs more than i do. I'm just a big wuss when it comes to paddling. I like catching a lot of waves. LOL My friends will average 15 to 20 a session and i average around 30 to 35. once in a 4 hour session, I caught 80 waves. some luck in that but I think it is cuz i surf more volume.
Havin said that, I know that when I do surf board with less volume, I tend to be in the water and get more spray. if you watch any of my clips, you will see I don't get much spray at all, cuz i'm surfing on top. Anyways, if your fitness is good and you don't mind not going for everything than the upper limits could be 180. otherwise for me personally and how i like to surf, i'd say 155 to 160 tops.
As for EPS vs PU, not sure what the buoyancy percentage works out to. using PU as a baseline it might be 3 to 5% I guess. but that depends too. LFT and Helium makes a difference and now i-Bolic. One thing I know for sure, my Sharpeye in Dark Arts, although only 25.5, floats like my mashup at 27.1, maybe even a tad better. But again, i'm on top of the water which I like. My buddy hates that and purposely give up paddle to surf in the water.
Please try an album plasmic, chest and below, and a twinsman for better waves. Thanks!
will definitely try to get my hands on one. but surf funds are in the negative now. Need to sell some boards. :(
Might want to try the performer quads
thanks. I think I had the performers in at one point. definitely better as a quad for me.
Great review, I think you surfed best on this board vs others; the first pump/turn gave you great speed and projection and it still was very maneuverable; good flow from rail to rail
I think you sum up thrusters for the average waves we surf... just always falling behind on the bigger waves... If they aren't walled and you get a corner they peel very very fast
Are all of the waves in the video as a thruster and the quads start at the 7:37 mark? Quads look faster and looser.
yes. night and day for me. speed was so noticeable. off the bottom, whipped.
nice review! you were ripping!
Thanks again. Good info.
Nice review!
Rode my 5’9 today first time. Excellent paddler. Surprised how floaty it was for me at 30 L. Rides excellent on steep faces. Super crowded today but hoping to get more wave’s tomorrow. Such a cool little board. 🤙🏾
Yeah, my tomo scifi 2.0 feels like it's more volume too. Mine is supposed to be 27.5 but feels like 29 to 30.
Saying that the board is a better groveler because it carries more volume at 5''7" than the Sci-Fi 1.0 did isn't exactly accurate. It just means they have repackaged things to have more volume in a shorter space. In other words, I rode a 5'7" in the 1.0 and now ride a 5'6" in the 2.0 because I want to carry the same volume. At the same volume, I'd say the "grovel" about the same. I'd say the 2.0 is can actually hold in more solid waves because the tail is more pulled in and there's a bit more rocker. Added volume in general will help you grovel better because you can paddle and plain quicker. But in an apples-to-apples, volume-to-volume comparison, in my experience, they're about the same.
Really enjoyed this review
My brother gave me a 6’6’ sci fi, I ride it as a tri, it’s way bigger then I normally surf, I am still shocked how loose it is.
I have two friends that says that this board sometimes slows down for some reason just like you say!
Try the rocket wide let us know how you like it :)
Great review!
The Rocket Wide it's insane backhand in one foot waves bro!
Trust me I suck at this sometimes but that board makes me think I'm a better surfer 😆
Also if you look at closer to all the lines at the Rocket Wide, the board looks so simple, nothing special, almost like a board crossing the 80's to the 90's so weird but yet effective.
Try it!
You love it champ 💯👌🏼☺🏄♂️
Thank you for the review. One question: do you think that for the Sci-Fi 2.0 in 2-5 ft conditions it is correct to choose a volume close to the one normally used for performance shortboard, or the shape/LFT construction needs something more? Thank's again.
Probably the opposite. But it depends on your normal board. If you were on a PU you could probably scale the scifi2 smaller. If you are on a FireWire helium you may want to scale it a little bigger. In terms of 2 to 5 foot waves, this board is perfect for that size if there’s a little bit of punch.
Great review Tomye, it made me excited about this board and thinking of buying it! I own a Dominator 2 in 5,7 (29.4L). I am thinking about buying this one in 5.6 26L (I like shorter, agile boards but still want them to paddle easily), do you think that makes sense? Also to have it in the same quiver as a Dominator 2? I was thinking of using this board for a bit bigger and better waves (3-7FT), I usually surf my DM in 3-5FT, any wave type. I am going to the Mentawais soon and feel the Sci--fi 2.0 can really work there (also for the barrel). I am currently considering the S-Boss (also in I-Bolic) or the Inferno 72 in Dark Arts, which one would you get! Thanks!!
There's definitely a little bit of overlap in the D2 and SciFi2, I consider both of these grovelers/performance grovelers. Comparing these two boards in the sizes you mentioned, you are giving up a bit of paddle power since you are dropping 3 liters. Also, you are giving up planing speed since the D2 is just a tad over 1" wider. Catching waves on the SciFi2 will be a tad more labored. You are definitely getting a narrower more performance oriented board with the SciFi2, which would likely surf in pockets better and steeper waves. So the way it appears to me, both boards cover the same size waves roughly, but the Scifi2 will be more maneuverable. Having said that, do you feel the D2 is too big?
I've never been to the Mentawai's but one of my buddies who goes there quite often said, don't go a thousand miles to surf just to miss waves. I think your D2, if it doesn't feel big, can handle everything from 3 to 5 easily. Anything bigger, I would think you would want a proper step up. Sharpeye 77, FRK, etc
@Surfs Great advice, thanks for the quick reply Tomye! I felt that my DM2 was a getting a bit bumpy on bigger waves last time I was in Indo (5-6ft), I then used my Lost Rocket V3 in Poly and that was much better. I am basically looking to replace my Lost Rocket V3 for a new, more durable board (Sci-Fi 2.0, S-Boss, Inferno 72/FT). Aren't boards such as the Black Vulture 2, RNF96, Ultra Joe more in the grovelers/performance grovelers category. I do own a Ultra joe :D
I am by the way 160lbs and 5,8 in height.
@@stolkkj I'm not familiar with the BV2 other than on paper and the RNF96 looks like the Mashup to me. Yes they are all grovelers. they are all grovelers/performance grovelers. At our height and weight, anything over 18.75" wide and shorter than way 5'8 is technically a performance groveler. anything over 19.5 is a groveler. these are all subjective though. Someone like Felipe who is about your size would consider all these boards to be Uber grovelers. LOL The 72 of all these boards is the most performance and it is still considered a performance grovel to a pro. To me, it's a blade.
Anyways, regarding the R v3. It could have been the PU that made it feel that way. I recently went out on a double overhead day and took out a buddies 6'2 CI Happy Traveler. it was 6'2 and 32L. a proper step up for me. It got into waves super easy and rode smooth as silk. I think PU dampens bumps and speed better.
Of the 3 you are looking at, the 72 and SF2 are good options. They are both narrow and more performance oriented than the D2. The S-Boss in my opinion is too similar to the D2, in fact, to me, it looks like the original Dom with a rounded nose. it's only a fraction narrower and less volume relative in size to the D2. The SF2 is the most similar to your old Rocket v3. the 72 is the most different but likely the most performance of the 3. However, you would be going taller since it is a more traditional performance shape.
@@stolkkj BTW, choosing a board sucks. I go through this every time. it's just human nature. Unless they were free, we will likely be overly cautious.
Hi Thomye, you mentioned the el Tomo fish in this review…..does the sci fi 2.0 have the similar feel or does it feel more shortboardy? Also is it stable like the el Tomo?
great question. One thing I stated exactly in my El Tomo review was how stable it felt. I'm glad you said it as well to validate what I felt. The SciFi2 is a tad more shortboardy for sure. not much though especially if you get get it around the same volume. I had the 5'6 ET which was 28.8L and the 5'7 SciFi2 which was 27.5L. the narrower nose and less volume made the board feel a little more shortboardy as you put it. Having said that, if I could buy these boards again, I would get the 5'4 or 5'5 ET and the 5'5 or 5'6 SciFi2.
Funny you asked this question because I had not ridden my ET since I did the review and only yesterday I took it out by coincidence. Right when I hopped on it, I remembered how stable it was. It just locks in. I may need to try some different fins to see how much I can loosen it up.
Anyways, the SciFi felt very stable as well, not as much as the ET but way more than say the D2 and the Glazer.
Hey Thomye, I ended up getting the Sci fi 2.0 not long after we last chatted on here and it’s been my favourite pointed nose board amoungst my twin fins. Pretty much the only shortboard type shape I’m riding. You’re spot on about the El Tomo and the Sci fi in similar volumes, I had a 5’8 ET and a 5’10 SF 2.0 and they both performed just with a different feel.
How does the FRK+ compare to the Sci Fi 2.0? In feel, performance and get up and go speed etc…
Great review! I watch all your videos. I’m trying decide between a 6’2” Sci-fi at 38.9L and a Mashup 6’0” at 38.5L. I have a 5’11” Seaside and love it! But want to progress my top to bottom surfing, both boards seams like they will do the same thing. But I’d like to know what you think as you have surfed both boards. Thanks for your time! Keep the videos coming🤙🏻
i think the SciFi2 is more versatile. will work in small and bigger waves. I found the mashup to be great for smaller waves only. I have fun on bigger waves but it does not carve well for me, it hacks more, if that makes sense. Having said that, my buddy who weighs 200lbs loves his 6'4 mashup. seems to surf it really well in bigger waves but he has always been a ripper. He used to be sponsored and rips on a wavestorm.
btw, i'll try and get more vids out. :)
@@ThomyeSurfs
Thanks for the info, I was leaning towards the SCiFi. But I like the Seaside so much I figured it would be an easier transition. I might end up with both if I can swing it! I really enjoy your content, nice to see boards in a variety of surf by a normal surfer not by a pro. Thanks again.
@@tristanholsgrove7619 both is always good. 😊
Hi Thomye, I find your review interesting a friend of mine also likes this board and he own about 12 Firewires 🤣 my biggest problem at the moment is transitioning between my DM2 & FRK due to Helium vs LFT. I am considering this board only concerned about the lower range….thanks for the review 😄
out of curiosity, what are the volumes on the Dom2 and the FRK? The SciFi ride a tad big, meaning, although it is less vol than my El Tomo and Dom, it feels like it floats better. It could be my weight too though. I'll need to paddle them around on the same day. I really like the board but I feel I bought mine too big. which is weird because it's the volume that l like, 27.5. Which is actually on the low end of most of my firewires.
BTW, 12 is a lot. I don't think I have that many,. but I have sold a bunch too. 😁
@@ThomyeSurfs my FRK is 29.1L & DM2 is 29.4L
@@rallnaude642 i wonder if the dom2 was 28 or even 27. What size would you get if you got the scifi2? around the same?
@@ThomyeSurfs I would get a 5’8 = 29L
Hydroshort 5'10 31.4L as a quad with Fcs 2 DHD medium fronts with small size performer quad rears goes absolutely mental my favorite all time board and it's my one board quiver for all conditions it's all I need.
I’m stuck between the El Tomo and the Sci-fi 2.0. We’re the same weight and similar skill (you’re a bit more advanced though). Curious if you could speak to your experience with both boards now that you’ve been riding them for a while?
I would consider the sci-fi two over the Al tomo because of the fin options. I love the old tomo but it is a dedicated quad with no other option. So you have to like quads to begin with which I do and they tend to work back and better for me. Having said that I think that it also depends on your wave. The L tomo will be a better growler because of the lighter tail and fuller nose. So if your wave is punchy or bigger than the sci-fi too but if it’s smaller or softer, then the el tomo
Do you need to get your back foot right at the back of the pad for it to fly?
to drive down the line, all the times you see me pumping to get speed mid face, I'm actually forward on the pad. Only for turns do I need to step back. I find that to be the case with most pointier boards. I have to stand forward for speed and then step back for turns. Grovelers like the seaside and potato line, I can surf it from the tail full time.
@@ThomyeSurfs Cheers man It's just I'm 5'75 but would need a 6'0 for volume as I put on some pounds so would need to do a mega poo stance to get my back foot right at the back.
@@peacepuffz LOL. that's is a legit concern and good observation. You should be fine especially if you run it as a 2+1. That would allow you to have your font foot forward more for drive and speed yet still be loose without requiring you to move your foot all the way back. NVS also makes a cool fin called the AIPA Sequencers, it's a quad but the front fins are bigger (sized between a twin and regular fin) and the rear fins are smaller. That too would allow you to surf it a tad more forward.
@@ThomyeSurfs Thanks Thomye & thanks for understanding. I used to be 80Kg's riding 28 / 30 liters short board & would have around the same sizing as you. I had a 5'5 Omni so my back foot would be much futher back on the pad. Now that I need more float hance longer boards the sweet board is some thing I need to consider as some of these short boards don't feel great unless your feet are right in that sweet positon. Hopefully i'll lose the weight that's the plan but in the mean time I'll defo check those fins options. Thanks for taking the time to get back to me. Peaceeee
I am weighing in at 180 - 185lbs. And would consider myself Intermediate surfer. 5"10" tall. Is a 6'4" SciFi 42L too much board? I love your reviews! Thank you!
as an intermediate at 185, i would say no, it's not too much. but I would think there are better suited boards. there really isn't a wrong way just better ways. a more user friendly board just makes the learning process faster and easier. The SciFi2, width to length ratio, is more of a high end intermediate to advanced board. at the 42L, it will work in smaller waves but having more width is key at an intermediate stage especially for soft waves. if you are surfing a point or reef break with a little more power, the SciFi2 is fine. I learned on a 5'8 quad and went to a 6'0 performance board. pretty much spend my entire learning time on a performance board. I would have learned much quicker on a shorter wider board.
Dude you rip!! What size fins do you use for thruster/quad setup? Cheers!
thank. the toledos (thruster) are medium. The quad i was running large. I size my fin based on board and wave size. I'm 135lbs right now, trying to get back to my walking weight of 145/150. when waves are small, big fins. if board is pointy, raked back. pointier, the more raked. :)
Appreciate the fast reply! I just got the mashup 5’4 as well, super stoked on your review :)
@@kristianszeto6424 sweet. you already have it or is it on order?
@@ThomyeSurfs I got mine in last week but I haven’t ridden it yet. Still trying to figure out the traction pad placement on it and I ordered the endorfins from FireWire but I guess they’re still on back order. I was hoping your video and Noel’s video would give me more clarity haha
@@kristianszeto6424 hoping to get my soon. I ordered a traction pad for it but because of the step down rails, it is going to be difficult. I bought a 3 piece and plan to only use the middle piece. The leash plug and the rails might make it difficult. I know that when I paused Kevin Scholz video, it looked like he had a far back as it goes but, it also looked like at time, he was standing on the kick. Hopefully I'll get mine soon. I plan to ride mine as a quad so likely, I won't have to worry too much but as a thruster, you will want to make sure you can stand over that back fin.
Love the videos, keep it up!
Would love to know your favorite boards of all you’ve reviewed and know your current quiver.
tough one. under most conditions, my favorite has shifted. It is now the El Tomo Fish. I'm able to surf that the best. The Modern 2 is a tad looser but factoring in backhand, for whatever reason, my backhand waves are 2x better on the el tomo than any other board. The seaside is my favorite for when it is small, sub waste high. so given it is winter. the longer boards at 5'6 has been what I am favoring. i'm certain come spring/summer I will be back on the 5'3 Seaside
@@ThomyeSurfs thanks!
@@ThomyeSurfs would be curious how you like the Evo by Tomo. It’s one of my favorite boards. I need to try the el Tomo fish!
@@alanhart6407 I have two friends who swear by the EVO. I can't seem to find one short enough for me. The volume to height ratio is misleading on that board. I tried a bigger one but that didn't work well for me. It was too big.
@@ACBHR with the two I own, the El Tomo Fish is better but so slight that I can't really tell. generally speaking, if you are comparing them by volume, the el tomo fish will be wider and shorter. a shorter packages means the foam is more concentrated and usually more buoyant since it is under your chest. no needles nose volume. My 5'6 El Tomo Fish is 28.8L and is 19.25" wide while my SciFi2 is 55'7" X 27.5L and only 18 7/8" wide. just on paper, the ETF is floats better and will plane better when catching waves, but only marginally. so small that I'm not sure one would be able to feel it on those characteristics.
For me, the two boards feel really similar in terms of paddle power. I would imagine though that the ETF has a better entry rocker so it pushes less water when you are just about to catch the wave. I felt that on some of the smaller waves on the SciFi. it didn't glide in as smoothly, but that was minimal too.
between the scifi 2 or firewire dominator, which would you suggest ?
Both are good boards but I feel the d2 has a night ceiling and the scifi2 grovels a tad better if you get them at the same volume cuz of the narrower tail. But the scifi2 is narrower in the middle so it to has a decent ceiling. Personally I liked the scifi2.
Good video information. Was that national cute off day?
Lol. I didn't even notice howany times I got cut off. I was focused on the video content I guess. Haha
How did you like the sci-fi compared to the mash up
I liked the SciFi2 a lot. If I had to rate it, it would be 7 of 10. The mashup is 8 of 10. But this is also contingent on conditions and break. Too many other factors go into it. Also, I may have bought my scifi2 a tad bigger than I should have.
Having said that, I love love love the mashup because it is great where I surf but the rail line is too short. For speed on soft waves, it is a 10 of 10. but with speed you have to give up certain things and fluid turns is out the window. Anyways, its hard to rate something on an overall scale when there are lots of things that go into it.
I am certain I would love the scifi2 more than the mashup at say lowers trestles which I never get to surf. But in most conditions, I like the Mashup more. Oh, except when it gets above shoulder high. Lack of rocker makes it difficult in bigger punchier waves.
If you could only pick one SciFi or EL Tomo Fish, which would you choose and why?
El Tomo, it's so much fun to surf. I sold mine, spent months regretting it only to buy another.
El Tomo for me. the board locks into turns and it has really helped my backside bottom turn. it locks in so I dig less rail but because of the wider tail, it does start to get sketchy as the waves get bigger/faster/steeper.
Hydroshort 5'10 31.4L as a quad with Fcs 2 DHD medium fronts with small size performer quad rears goes absolutely mental my favorite all time board and it's my one board quiver for all conditions it's all I need
You like the mashup more than the sci fi?
Yes in general but definitely in smaller or softer waves. The scifi can handle punchier waves also slightly bigger waves. but my daily waves are smaller and softer so I have to pick the board that I would take out the most. If I surfed a reef break or a point break, likely the scifi would be my goto.
The solo shot seems to be working well for you
yes, it has been good recently. I stopped doing the updates. Maybe I am on a good software version now. I used to have a 20% fail rate but my last 8 uses has been solid. :)
This looks pretty solid I’d think it’ll surf well as a quad in bigger punchier surf.
Great review as always. I know they are similar boards but would love your take/review on the Tomo Cymatic!
you aren't the only one that thinks I should look at that board. Waiting for one to pop up on the used market. Hopefully soon.
Sci fi vs rocket wide what u think
i haven't had the opportunity to try the rocket wide. my buddy demo'd it but I didn't trade up with him. I wish I had now. minus the tail, I think the boards have a very similar outline. the RW is a swallow which will have better hold and bite. The SciFi2 looks like a big thumb tail with a jagged thumbnail, haha. each bump/point acts as a pivot point but in general, I think it would do better longer drawn out turns better. RW is probably better in the pocket.
Until I surf it, I won't really know though. Hoping to try out an RW soon.
Which do you like better SF 2 or Dom 2?
scifi 2.0 for sure but I think I rode my Dom2 a little small. I had the 5 '4 @25.9L. I probably would have liked a 5'5 or 5'6 better. But at that size though, the dom2 then is wider. So with that said, I still think the scifi2 would have edged out the dom2.
💪🔥🙌
Is this better as a thruster? I’m getting one tomorrow. 6’1 at 37L
Depends. I have a theory that most professionals and super high-end advanced surfers like thrusters because they actually surf on top of or behind the center fin. They talk about pivot but in my opinion as a low end advance surfer that surfs in front of the center fin I tend to think that thrusters have less pivot. They feel like they have a longer/bigger turning radius to me. With a quad that same foot position puts you on top of the rear fins which then allows you tighter turns and better pivot. With a 2 + 1 that's smaller stabilizer fin doesn't impact you as much so even though technically a 2 + 1 is like a thruster, you still get good pivot because they have less drag through a turn. At the end of the day it's personal preference. I tend to like two plus ones and quads. I think I would like a thruster if it were a high performance board.
@@ThomyeSurfs that’s an interesting explanation and makes sense. Many pros are going to quad fins at times. I have a quad, twin and thruster board. My thruster def turns amazing but lacks speed. I feel on my quad board it still turns good but I need more power to complete turns on it. I will try the quad set up first. Appreciate your awesome feedback as always 🤙🏾
Hi Thom, Have you tested the Cymatic? I have the Cymatic and love it! It’s fast, loose and has that barely out of control feeling depending on the fins. I had the Omni, it was more like a step up and tighter in the turns. I tried the SciFi 1.0 and like it. I might get the SciFi 2.0.
I have not but you are like the 5th person to tell me that the cymatic is a great baord. I am liking Tomo's boards so definitely will give it a go if one pops up in my size. :)
how is it compared to Dominator 2.0 ?
the biggest difference would be the wide point. The D2 puts the wide point behind the front foot giving the board a very loose feel. The SF2 has it slightly forward which makes it feel super stable and with more foam up front, it feels bigger than it really is. I personally liked the SF2 due to my front foot heavy surfing. I liked the old Dom at 5'8 which is actually way big for me. I tested the D2 at 5'4 which was just too small. The Dom and D2 design doesn't suit my style of surfing at the proper volume and length, I have to ride it bigger. Having said that, because I rode it bigger, it was probably the single most influential board I have surfed. It more than any other board improved my surfing. I think I would love the D2 at about 5'7 which again, is too big for good waves but great for Bolsa.
As an FYI, I loved the Dom so much at 5'8, I bought the spitfire at 5'8 and surfed it a heap. Great for Bolsa soft waves. At 31 Liters, it was my uber groveler at the time. With that said, I took the Spitfire to Waco BSR. it didn't work at all. Too big a board for the punchy wave. Way too big even for the intermediate waves.
All in all, I like the SF better just because it suite my surfing. I think I would like the D2 in a 5'5 or so at trestles but don't surf that place much so the D2 isn't my go to board.
@@ThomyeSurfs i just bought the D2 5’9 31.5 the same liters as my mashup 5’7 31.4 so i plan to take the D2 on bigger waves
@@RBNK157 let me know how it compares for you. I think the hard part about surfing is that everything is so subjective. I really like the D2 but for me, because of the wide point being back, I would love it if Dan Mann made it narrower. Something like a 5'8 with only 27L. That would probably work for me.
@@ThomyeSurfs will do!
Yea everything in surfing is very subjective- i just considered many opinions regarding the D2 before i got it so we’ll see how it goes.. my friend has the sci fi2 he loves it but he always says that this board needs a wave.. also have another friend who bought it and sold it pretty quickly got the D2 instead
you RIP dude. I didnt know you could store fishing reels that way!~
I saw it on amazon. some clever people out there. I also saw something similar for a standup surfboard but thought a SUP was too much weight for the motor. Not sure though.
Excellent review Thomye!
I got Sci-Fi 1, more like a daily driver like The Spitfire.
The Rocket Wide for example it's a high performance Groveler but not the Sci-Fi one. Well maybe if you are are a semi-pro.
Not like me I got a bunch of board and much skills 😝😜😅
The dominator 2 I've personally fund it slows down sometimes and hard to get into waves compared to any of my other boards, humans...all different right?🤔
yeah. I found the narrower nose of the d2 made it slightly harder to catch waves but also the wide point back made it feel too loose and unresponsive. I tried it with all kinds of fins too but couldn't dial it in. it was still fun and if there weren't so many other options, I might have kept it.
@@ThomyeSurfs Thanks legend for the reply.
I still got the Dom 2 on 6'6"
All my boards are around 40ish ltrs
I'm 6' tall and around 220LBS in a good season 205LBS.
The Domi 2 its a bit of a brick I the water.
It works for me with the right wave I think 🤔
Trust me, you've been missed out in that board. Move on. I will too.
By the way I'm goofy as well!💪🏽🏄♂️
Keep up the good work awesome to see brother.
Hydroshort as a quad get on one of them my favorite board.
At 135lbs I believe you can ride an board with less volume I’m 155 lbs and ride 5’4 D2 with 25.9vol with no problem
I tested the D2 5'4 and it is too small for how I surf. I am very heavy front footed. The D2 with its wide point back from center rides smaller for a front footed surfer. I am 145 now and like my boards around 25 to 26 litters. But my waves require a tad more cuz it is so soft and weak.
Definitely 5'6 but more importantly a 5'3 Cymatic!
Sci fi or a puddle jumper?
I have not tried the puddle jumper. Looks good though. But the puddle jumper seems like it’s more grovel
You should review a flat earth
i've been waiting for one to pop up somewhere but nothing in my size.
@@ThomyeSurfs no worries man love the channel, especially the guides, I surf in the same area as you so I feel it is particularly helpful