noel your backhand on this board matches your forehand. The show continues to be the best board analysis show around.. i like seeing the evolution as you go through getting board and fins figured out, hangups included.. not everybody is willing to admit to miscalculations, but the process of correcting course is valuable. Thanks for the good work.
David Gough Stoked and thanks for the feedback! We want our show to as real.... my challenges and learning curves can be a little difficult at times but I love it.
I bought this board two years ago after watching a couple of reviews and talking to people but your channel and knowledge really won me over. Two years later I still love it and feel that the board has helped me excel in my surfing. Thanks for a great review and really enjoy your channel!
I love this board so much that i use it pretty much everyday even in small surf, as long as the waves are a bit punchy this board flies down the line. At first i wasn't really sure about it mainly cause of the bold nose (silly me) and i was hanging more towards the Scifi, but after watching your review i went for the Cymatic and i haven't looked back since. I also admire your capability to convert all the technical knowledge you have into practice when you take the boards out for a paddle. Thanks heaps for all the reviews!
@@tezf6883 Get it. It's a pretty amazing board. I've gone through quite a few hybrid and a few performance shotbatrds over the years and this ones my favorite for those chest plus days.. I snapped the nose on the LFT version a few years back and only recently replaced it with the volcanic and it's way better imho.
Definitely something about this board that’s special. I never lose my balance on steep drops, it’s fast and it loves big surf . I love it! And it paddles amazing . Great for my older shoulders and heavy frame
I bought one of these as soon as they dropped that Slater clip on North Shore. I friggen love the board. I'm 6'2" 210-215 and ride the 5'10" / 36.4l. It's got more volume than any of my other boards, yet it feels super light and whippy underfoot. It's crazy. They hide the foam so well and I especially like that I can just grab the nose like a handle when I'm about to turn around for a wave. Stoked on this beast...
@@tezf6883 Sold her about 3 years ago. Had to cover some house expenses and she was my nicest board and was in demand. I don't know much about the volcanic but i did buy one of those Seaside's when they did a limited run in the wool. Still have it. Anyway, the Cymatic was super fun. I would totally ride one again. My good buddy uses his a couple times/week in San Diego...
@@cwr8618 hey man. Yeh actually i did buy one in late 2020. Love it. I've used it in all kinds of waves and it goes good in everything. Seems to shine around the 4 -6 foot range for me though 🤙 Mine is abit thrashed now so looking for a new daily ride board. Been thinking of trying a Lost Driver 2.0 in PU
Hey Noel, I have just discovered your channel and I must say it is excellent. It is great to see independent reviews by someone who can both surf well, and critically analyse boards. You convey your thoughts beautifully and the comparisons between boards and fins are awesome. Great work 👍
You should include a clip or two of you paddling into the wave in your reviews so we can see how easily you get in and your technique as well. Happy holidays brotha!
Agree with above....At 63 yrs I can still paddle fairly strong, but would be wary of going at the recommended board length. We're at the same weight so seeing how it paddles for you would be a help.
New to the channel. Best best surfboard reviews out there. Your ability allows for proper judgement of these boards. Will recommend this channel. Great job and thank you.
I got this board 1.5 years ago surfed with it once and thought I wasn’t ready for it! Recently I grabbed it and wow!!! This board has changed my surfing completely! I have 10 boards and this will be the only board I’ll use from now on. If you’re on the fence about this board get it! It’s amazing. Easy paddle and easy to take off with and fast down the line. I love this board 🔥🔥
Great review as always came here to see what fins you were riding since your recommendations are always spot on. Can't wait to get some pivot quad rears in her. Such a great board. Rides so different than any other board I've ridden.
Noel, great review mate. Personally, I think you look much more at home on some of the more traditional shortboards. The Gamma and MonstaBox have seen your best surfing so far in my opinion. Keep the shows coming. I’ve learnt more about surfing from your board reviews than any other channel or show on UA-cam. Yew!!!
Your the man Noel! This review gets better every time I watch it haha I have a cymatic ordered and coming soon! Ill watch this everyday until it arrives ❤😊 yeeww thanks for the devotion to surfboard reviews
Nice review. Great to see you spending so much time on fins. For me, along with fin shape, rake etc is the fin size measurement. Front and back fin size is how I judge my need and the related performance of the fin just as much as shape. I like my all around rear quads to be in the 3.75” range and around 4” range for bigger more powerful waves. But again great review with lots of good info.
William Blaze Stoked you liked it... I like what your talking about on fin height. I am starting to dabble with fin shape according to board rocker. Less rocker more upright fin etc... good stuff. Cheers
I'm a big fan of Future Fins and the ride numbers they give each set of fins. With their composition listed, fin height, fins size and fin shape listed and a ride number from stiff to loose, it really helps in figuring out all the things that make the fins perform as they do. They also do a good job explaining all this with each fin set. With FCS fins I get a little lost because they don't quite provide the same amount of info. This is also why it's great to hear you explaining the FCS fins and what you liked about them. A good review for you to do (if you haven't already)might be to get your favorite board you know very well and try a wide varieties of fins in it (both Future and FCS and any others) and then list your feeling on them or a top 5 for small waves, big waves etc. That I would like to see. Latz
I had a sci-fi and it was the fastest board I ever had, super awesome board went great. This seems to have addressed any criticism I had of the SciFi. No more digging rail on heavy cutbacks less fussy on foot placement too.
It looks and reminds me of a more technical version of a wakeboard, which makes a lot of sense, lots of movement, loss of extra weight, more thickness in the middle for stability and more cylindrical than the standard shortboard shape which makes it easier for tricks, this is breaking new ground for sure, not more than the first funboards but still, we're heading in a nice direction because surfing needs to keep pushing the boundaries.
Thank you for a great and detailed review on the board and different fins. I'm learming lots of importsnt facts and points to pay attention to. Im farely new to surfing, beginner, looking for a good all-around board. Your reviews are on point, definitely helps when choosing a surfboard. Thanks.
Noel here's my latest fin experimentation: Didn't like the twin (TOO loose) via EN's, T1's and Pacific Vibrations high performance keels. Tried it as a quad in many variations (4" and 3.75" trailers) but it was TOO tracky. Tried the F6's and it was magic! Ordering the same exact template as the K2.1's from a generric vendor (Pacific Vibrations) however P6's replaced the WCT's as copycats of the K2.1's of the past. Cymatic is a KEEPER! 5'3 for me @ 150.
I'm looking forward to this after your Cymatic review. I am 49yrs, 85kg inter surfer and am on my third Omni, all 5'6s. Best board I have ever had in anything other than grovel, surf it as a quad with performers. I find the Omni butter smooth, but maybe a bit too predictable. Cymatic looks like good upgrade, can't wait for your comparison. Yes, LFT is maybe most similar to PU but the boards don't last any longer, due in some part because of low quality high volume manufacture. Also because EPS is a sponge after any slight compromise of the skin. Boards yellow prematurely when compared to PU (a poor performer in this respect anyway). Your show is so far ahead of the competition you could probably consider pay per view....!
The best reviews on the internet. Very informative and in-depth. And you actually take the boards into the water and test them out in various conditions , rather than just talking about the physics and theory of the board Any chance you will look at the Evo?
Chad Atkinson I am trying to get the EVO for review... that’s the most requested board for review from our community. Firewire hasn’t given me the boards yet... hang tight.
Absolutely love your reviews. I'm 6'3 and 195 lbs, intermediate/advanced surfer living in Costa Rica. I'm torn between the 5'8 and 5'9 cymatic at 32.9L and 34.3L respectively. My daily driver is a 33L Dominator 2. Getting a cymatic for better big days and hollower waves as the main wave I surf is a bit soft. If you or any in the community has some insight into if I should size at 5'8 or 5'9 that would be wonderful. The cymatic is also coming out in volcanic construction in the spring which I plan to get it in. Thank you so much!
I have owned the Omni 5'8" that was fun and more of a step up board, rides tighter arcs and sticks well in steep faces. I sold it and bought the 5'9" Cymatic. It feels fast, on the edge of control and loose depending on the fins. One of my favorite boards of all time! Next board will either be sizing up to a 5'10" Cymatic or to a 6'0 Sci Fi 2.0.
@@tezf6883 Cymatic is magic! I started in 2016 with the Omni, I loved that, but got the Cymatic in 2019 and loved it even more! Very versatile as a daily driver. I like the feel of the LFT but kept damaging mine too easy with the powerful waves here. I want to try a SciFi 2.0 and I need to size up my Cymatic from 5'9" to maybe a 5'10". I heard Firewire will be making there boards in the ibolic contruction in the near future which I think will make the board even better!!
@@MichaelJDay I've got an abolic FRK great board, the construction is much more durable and stronger than LFT and doesn't yellow. I just purchased yesterday, 5'7 Cymatic in the new volcanic construction can't wait to ride it, feels great and super strong, I think the volcanic construction could be replacing helium.
@@tezf6883 Sounds like you're set! I have yet to see the Volcanic Tech in Portugal or Spain. I haven't been able to find it yet. But when I do it'll be time for a new Cymatic. My current Cymatic turned 10 shades of yellow. Happy Barrels!
I`m surfing an Evo in 5`2`` but allways as a thruster ( you can see it in my channel). I was just thinking of buying another Evo but after this review i am confused ! Great review and amazing surfing.
Cymatic feels much more high-performance/advanced than Evo (and I love my Evo) and able to make more radical turns. Requires more precision than Evo, which is very forgiving. Maybe think of the Evo like a steak knife compared to a scalpel (cymatic). Different, but you won't be disappointed. I didn't ride my Evo for 5 months after I got my Cymatic- it was too fun.
@Valentino LuggenDepends how small. Cymatic's rails more foiled (thinned out), making it more high performance- good for punchy beach breaks... but it needs a wave with some push. I wouldn't ride it under waist high, and it really lights up in around chest high waves. Evo does better in smaller/weaker waves. Probably a better paddler with thicker rails, and all that volume packed into a small package- just don't go too big in sizing it. Smaller Evo is better. Tomo MPH boards should come up to your chin to nose on you. Good luck!
@@erikburkett4366 hi, would you say the EVO could be use as a groveler and then Cymatic as HP board?. For my normal shortboard volume around 26-27 liters i was recommended to go lower on the EVO, like a 5'1 or 5'2 (1-2 liters less than my normal volume)and for the cymatic around 5'5, does that make sense? Also, how good does cymatic paddle compared to a standard shortboard, for example a 5'9 or 5'10 pyzel amigo which is my reference.
Hey Noel, great reviews. I'm extremely picky about my boards, so wish I was in your position to try so many! As an ex competitor turned weekend warrior, I have the frustrating task of letting my mind (which is saying "here comes a good section to kill, go big") and body (which is telling my mind to "sod off") work together. So about 8yrs ago I figured the solution would be to go from my usual 27-28L thinner/narrower high performance boards to shorter/wider types with about 2-3L extra. Due to very limited options where I live, I've been through a bunch of local shapes with limited success, so unfortunately no references anyone here could relate to. However some Firewires I've had which you might know are Pyzalien (easy to surf, but super average, boring, a bit "dead"), Spitfire (fast, but too wide for me, terrible on the rail), Evo (uurrghh....dead, boring, most over rated piece of foam ever), Vader (one of my all time fave boards! Currently have two and surf them with heaps of different fin setups in waist high beachies to maxing J-Bay. Not comparable to a high performance stick, but soooo much fun to ride. Board loves being pushed off the rail, which suits my front foot style). As we all know, each surfer has their own preferences (case in point...Evo!) and that's why I've noticed you keep your reviews fairly free of personal opinions which is great. However just for interest sake, if you could pick two magic high performance boards, which two? To be honest, you didn't look super comfortable on the Monsta8, but the Monsta8 and Monsta Box (for weaker stuff) looks like a safe option for many. And comparing your surfing in this review with all the others, the Cymatic looks super fun. A great indicator is when a board projects out of foam after a round house or off the top. Kinda get the feeling it'll feel similar to the Vader, just way more "pop"...if that makes sense. Cheers. Keep up the great work.
Dee H The Cymatic is sick and it performed very well for me. I also like the Driver, Fever, Phantom, and NB2. All of the boards will go good in 3-6’ surf and some can handle 8’ surf too. I think the Cymatic and Weirdo Riper by CI will be right up your alley. I never reviewed the Weirdo Ripper but I had 3 of them and that board is legit performance in 3-8’ surf. Has a lot of foam and you can push hard or not and it goes. The Cymatic does sick turns in tight transitions and I like that. It also drives off the rail very well off the bottom.... feels like your surfing a board 3” longer then you are. Cheers
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for replying Noel. Had another look at your reviews of the boards mentioned and they look good, but the Phantom looks solid! That thing throws buckets of water, looks like wave abuse:)
Bro I thought that was Kelly surfing🤣 I have a 5'7" cymatic now that i switched to quads board feels unreal! I was using reactors and it did feel a little out of control I'm 6'2" and I luv surfing small boards technology now days is awesome!!🤙👏👍
Hi noel, Best review on the internet for sure, you're doing an Amazing work! Do you think this board will work as a step down from your traditional shortboard design?
Noel, try out the White Noiz by Haydenshapes,…. it's the most silky riding board I've ever ridden, and very versatile and solid,…. so free, fast, and super carvy-loose. It felt that way for me from my very first wave, though I found the best fins for it, by far, are all fins F8's, or smaller sides and a larger center fin, such as F6's on the sides and F8 in the back/center fin,… even Futures 3/2/1's for the side fins, and an F8 for the center fin worked great.
@@tezf6883 White Noiz is a favorite of Noel's. It's not a lemon. It's the most beautifully smooth riding HPSB board I've ever ridden, and I've ridden over a hundred. Have you ridden the White Noiz? Noel's surfing on it looked great with the more raked fins, such as the Jordy fins. The more upright speed fins didn't ride so special. The board rode very gracefully-carvey as a matter of its shape with the raked fins.
Fantastic review and great surfing! Just when I come to understand surfboards specs I come to a realization, the fins are more complicated and there is way too many of them 😂.
Indeed, I've been reading more in depth stuff about them in the last hour. Something I neglected before.. Maybe you could do a video about fins one day. What do you think?
At this point in surfing all these boards, what is your all around favorite board, like the CI "Fever" is to Pat Gudauskas? Something versatile from 2' beach break to 6' northshore?
Hi Noel, For 3-5 ft would you recommend the R8 beta over the JJF large paired with the HS quad rears to loosen things up? Guy at the shop was pushing the rasta quads (medium) as he said the channels add extra hold so you would want a smaller fin. 6'5, 190lbs intermediate. Thanks.
spiffjiff05 I agree with the Medium Fin set up on Tomo’s board even at 190 lb. not sure I would go with the Rasta set. I have the Rasta’s but I have not tried them yet. The Beta 2.0 have more rake than JJF so it will have more drive and tighten it up as a Quad. The JJF fins are Neutral good pivot and carving. I say get the HS Quad rears and try them with your JJF. If that feels tight or it’s catching then get a Medium set of Beta R6 or AM1. The Rake will give you more hold so you can lay into some turns.
Hi Noel I love all your videos there sick and your such a great surfer! I was wondering if any time soon you would be having a video on the Slater SCI-FI ? Keep up what your doing love your channel
Love this review with all the comparison. Torn between a 5'3 and a 5'4. I feel like the board design wants to be ridden shorter but I worry that I might want more drive in 1 to 3 ft surf. I surf reef points that are usually waist to head high and not very hollow. I'm 5'10 and 150 pounds/68 kg and feel comfortable on a 26 liter hpsb. Noel, would you recommend going up in size for waves with less punch or do you think it would lose performance with the extra volume?
Matt Clem Not sure I recommend this board for 1-3’ surf with no punch. This board does not grovel well. It has too much rocker.... I am concerned the board will feel slow for you even if you size up a little. Now if the waves were 1-3’ and hollow then I would say go 5’3” at 25.4 Liters EPS it will float like 26.
Hola Noel , Your reviews on board is reign supreme no matter which board you are giving a go. Two of my favorite reviews that you have done are this one (cymatic) and the lost sword fish. These two boards are the ones I am most interested in at the moment and I have one question regarding your opinion which of the two would be the closest to a 1 board quiver?? Which would be more suitable for an all-around are giving different wave conditions and sizes? Thanks bro for all your knowledge and insight. Very helpful
christopher curreri Tue Cymatic would be my choice out of these two boards. It will struggle a little in 1-2’ surf but it goes mental in 3-7’+. Swordfish is fun but not a Favorite.
Surf n Show Reviews yes I understand you... this shape has been calling me and the performance aspect of what it looks capable of is pretty unique. Cymatic it is!!! Now how to get the sizing right for this board. I’m same weight and height as you but your skill level is on another level. I have a 5’6 christenson fish about (32 liters) And a Dylan raptor 6’3 step up (33 liters) Given the shape of the cymatic what you recommend??
Surf n Show Reviews THE MAN!!!! based on what you recommend I’m Considering stepping it down to the 30L range to start a nEw chapter in my progression which I feel this board will be a good pivot point to do so.... One last question which is your preferred out of the sci Fi for cymatic?? Or which of the 2 is a more all arounder??
Noel, Really love the reviews. Super informative and visual. I just have a quick question. What is the name of the rack that you use to present the boards on. I need to order one of those up. Thanks,
Another great review, keep them coming. I currently ride a Cymatic as my daily driver, but it rides a little big for me. I love it in 2-4 but it’s hard to sink the rail in anything bigger. How does the Phantom, maybe even the Holy Grail, compare for our typical break in Orange County/San Diego? Debating sizing down or switching it up. Thanks
Chuck Johnson Both the HG and Phantom are epic. The Phantom paddles really well and surfs like a HPSB. The HG is a sick Daily Driver and I love the FF technology.
Thanks again for another awesome review. I have a question that pertains to body weight. I lost ten pounds over the off season (Florida/summer) and seem to be struggling to sink my rail as well as I did when I was heavier while also wearing a wetsuit. Do you have any tips on how to adjust board liters per 10lbs if weight? At 193lbs in Florida’s gutless waves, 38 liters rode really well for me but feels a bit boaty in anything over shoulder high now. Busting out my 34 liter board for Hurricane Florence tomorrow. 🤙
Thanks! I just did a simple ratio calculation and came up about the same, think I might be riding my groveler setup a little big to overcompensate and get even more days in. I ride a Sharpeye Modern 2 - Love it! But I might get the next size down this year. It just seemed odd that what feels right in bigger surf for me is so much smaller. Thanks again! I might even go for the Moonbeam next. 🤙
Great review Noal. I am caught between the Cymatic and the DHD 3dx for the Gold Coast. They seem like extremely different boards and the gold coast has not got the same power as your area. I am leaning towards a 3DX but have ridden the Cymatic in the Mentawais and it was incredible even for an amateur/intermediate like me. Would be great to get some feed back. Thanks
Imagine if you surfed any one of these boards for a year straight, it would be interesting to see the difference in your surfing on a board from start to a year later of connecting with a board.
awesome review. i own a cymatic. i definitely think sizing down is the key to the board. i ride it about 1 inch less than my normal shortboard and i wish i would have actually pushed down 3-4 inches less. really love the board though. i definitely plan on getting another just sized way way down.
Thanks Noel for a great review, I waited three years to get my cymatic and picked up a 5’7 in Futures two weeks ago. Pretty amped to get into some running surf and feet into the wax. 🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼
@@salt4life great! Got a few sessions which were crowded and windy. Finally got some glassy waves this past week and the boards great. Surfed from 1-2 foot all the way to 6 foot, really responsive and super quick
Hey Noel, I just got a cymatic and really loved it in some 5-7 foot walled up point break surf today. I'm in Nova Scotia, and I am going to use the board for good quality points, and hollow reefs. Can you recommend what fcs2 quad rear fins to buy for the board, that would match up with one of the thruster sets I own? I've got the Carvers and Matt biolos's in medium. And the Accelerators and Reactors in large. I'm 5'8, 150lbs. Oh and the board is LFT. Thanks! Your vids keep the froth on max for us out here in the far east!!!!
Hi Noel, Great show. Really helps guide finding a board. Pulled trigger on Cymatic! Looking for Quad fin setup. I am 5'11 156lbs, intermediate, surfing Bay Area beach breaks. Looking for confidence and hold in bottom turn but then still some looseness. JJ techflex medium vs. AM1 techflex medium paired with HS quad rears? Is the HS quad large for my size. Have you had time to try the Firewire large? Thanks
woofryfam JJF Techflex will offer good hold and pivot cause they are neutral. The AM1 will offer a little more drive. I would go JJF medium side fins with the QD2 3.75 Flat Foil Quad Rears. The HS Quad Rears will be a bit big for you...
Great review Noel. Got the SKX after your review earlier this year, and I'm gonna pull the trigger on this one too. Btw, any particular reason why you didn't ride it nearly as much as a thruster as opposed to a quad?
David Pham It didn’t have the X Factor for as a Thruster... no really fast and kinda of clunky on the turns. Just didn’t flow like the Quad did. I rode a Thruster set up in 6-8’ surf and 2-3’ surf and footage wasn’t worth watching....
Love the review! I'm a little unsure of what size I'd need. I'm 5.9 187lbs and my skill level is intermediate. Currently on a 5.8 Rusty Dwart and a 5.11 CI high 5. Mainly surfing southern California SD/LA. Thinking 5.7 or 5.8....any suggestions?
Brody Harford I think your High 5 and Dwart are around 33-34 liters so I would go 5’9” on the Cymatic if your other two boards feel good on your paddling and turns. If your other boards feel a little big then go 5’8”.
Ken Barrett PJHP is a Groveler and the Cymatic is more of a performance board... if the waves are 3’ and bigger with some punch then Cymatic all day long..
Hey Noel I’m loving my Seaside but looking to emulate that feeling of speed and hold in a board for waves over chest high. I also love with my Seaside how easy it is to paddle into waves and that early entry is crucial for me. You think the cymatic could be a nice pairing with the Seaside? I currently have a DHD wilko but the different outline and length to the Seaside makes it harder to jump between the boards and looking to have something that’s a better pairing. Thanks again for the great work.
charlie fergusson Yes, the Cymatic is a great pairing for easier adjustment in board sizes. The difficulties of transitioning from board to board is real...
Thanks Noel. And do you think the paddle power and ease of entry into waves is there with the cymatic? Even though it’s continuous rocker, under arm the board the board feels a little flatter than most hp boards.??
@@surfnshowreviews7777 ok good to know. I love the glide of the seaside - it's magic. Any tips for a cruisey yet performance capable board like the Seaside with a shorter outline? Wish Rob Machado would come out with something like this! The Midas? Though seems like they've stopped making this.
Hey Noel, thanks for all the great advice over the years.I love buying through surf station as well. What size cymatic would you recommend for someone having fun on the 5’3 seaside? 150 pounds and 5’8, intermediate plus ability. Thanks again!
A little late to this channel... What size and kind of surf board do you recommend for a beginner who is 6ft tall and 220 to 200lbs(on the good days) and i don't want to look like Johnny Utah learning to surf! ;) Thanks J
Hey Noel great review again been building my new quiver lretty much based on your reviews. Cymantic is on my radar and just ordered a puddle jumper hp for small waves and the cantic for better waves, how do they compare performance wise. Thanks
Hey Noel , thanks for all your time and the information you share with us my friend. I wonna ask you , i am 1.77cm about 80kg(180lbs) and i ride a tomo evo at 44lts which is an incredible surfboard that help me pass to the intermediate lvl , now i wonna reduce my liters and buy a new board , i am torn between buying a tomo evo again at fewer liters , a firewire cymatic or a seaside , i m gonna surf it to medium sized waves around 3 to 6 ft, but a bit hollow and fast , which one of those boards u recommend for me and at what size ? Thanks you very much noel Keep on the hard work
Another great review, thank you. I know this board has been around for a while but could you please please do a review on the Love Buzz by Hayden Shapes?🙏🙏
Love your reviews Noel, I would never mention this normally and I'm not having a go I just thought you might like to know that in America most people are pronouncing Tomo wrong, It's pronounced Tom-Oh, His surname his Thompson so he's nickname would be Thom-oh as in the letter O.
Hi Noel, how did you find the 5'3 for volume, thought you would have gone the 5'4 as closer to what you usually surf, what made you choose the 5'3 and how do you think the 5'4 would go?
ttv74 The 5’3” felt really good... I could sink the rail quickly and it was ultra responsive. I think the 5’4” would have gone good too but maybe a little too buoyant for me because of the EPS foam.
Nice Brother !! Those looked like some Fun waves !! 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽 yeah man then boards with he wide noses are fun fun you have even do a little nose riding lol I call those boards mini longboards lol wicked fun summer boards even in big surf they go good !! There like a one board quiver killer ! Lol
I am a intermediate/advanced surfer 5’11” and 165 lbs. do you think I should go for the 5’4” or go bigger. The 5’4” seems about my literage but I think it would be nice to size up for extra paddling power. What do you think about this board and sizing up?
Hey Noel superb review as usual.Its a pity you havnt reviewed the Omni as id like to see the difference between the two.I would suspect the Cymatic is aimed at the more experienced/advanced surfer while the Omni more Intermediate.
Hi Noel, great review and insane surfing!, how good does cymatic paddle compared to a standard shortboard, for example a 5'9 or 5'10 pyzel amigo which is my reference. I am considering a 5'5 cymatic which would be around a liter more than my amigo
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks Noel, i also liked your review about the modern 2, would you feel there's some overlap between these boards on the low end, or the modern 2 can work much better as a groveler from 1' up to 4?
Hi Noel, I loved your review. Can you compare the Cymatic to the Evo Helium construction? Which do you think will perform better in smaller surf (1-2 Feet)? Which will you command to the less experienced surfer?
Udi Ack I heard the EVO is excellent in 1-4’ surf... the Cymatic needs a bit more wave. I like the Cymatic best in 3-8’ surf. I would not buy the Cymatic as a small wave board.
Hey Noel, best reviews ever! I have a question... I bought a 6'4 Cymatic and it's a truly exciting board - I ride it as a quad with Hayden rears and Pancho sides (17.5'sq). However, even with these large fins I find the board can slide when driving hard on my forehand and even more so backside - I weigh close to 100kg and live in the south west of West Oz. I was looking at trying the Machado Quads - the sides have more surface area than the Panchos - the rears less than the Hayden's but Machado's have more surface area overall... in your learned experience would the Machado's work in this board and give good control? I guess I could gain even more by substituting the Machado rears with the Hayden's. Thanking you in anticipation :)
klaiejah For your weight I would go with the AM Large Tech Flex 5 fin set up. The Quad rears are neutral in template but stiffer in flex compared to the HS Quad Rears. The Machado fins might have to much flex for your weight too... I don’t recommend those for you. That’s if your talking about his speed generating Bamboo fins?
Thanks for the response mate. I was referring to the set developed for the Seaside..... True, I have had bad experiences with very flexy fins - they feel squishy. Between the Seaside or AM2’s? Cheers 🤙🏽
Hey Noel! Great show and reviews!! What`s your experience from the Cymatic and EVO in weaker surf?Wich one would give you best preformance, catchability etc and wich one would you recommend for a weekend warrior?
Sorry I have not ridden the EVO. I hear great things about it though. From what I hear the EVO offers better groveling properties compared to the Cymatic
Hey Noel! In good waves (5 -8 ft), surfing as a quad, do you think this board will work better with the Al Merrick Large or Mick Fanning Large? I have the Al Merricks and thinking to buy the Mick Fannings, also to put on my Lost Round Nose Retro Fish! Thanks so much!! Cheers PS. the Cymatic is the best board i´ve ridden!
Great review. Considering how pricey these boards are I’d like some advice going forward. I have my mind set on getting the 6’4” cymatic. I’m 5’9” and about 240 lbs. I have a tendency to overpower my turns at times. Would you advise to use bigger fins to reduce sliding out?. How are the fin boxes?. I’d hate to use bigger fins and lay into a turn and the fin box cracks. (That’s happened on one of my boards) any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Surf n Show Reviews I just bought a FireWire cymatic in the LFT construction. I noticed small indentions on the stringer on the bottom. Barely noticeable but if you run your hands down the board you can feel slight indentions. The occur about every 2-1/2” and run almost the entire length of the board. I don’t think it’ll make a difference in riding🤞. Have you seen or heard of this before
Hi, always Best review! I am 50 years old, in good physical condition 1.68 x 65 kg, my level is intermediate but I surf a little during the year especially in summer where in Italy the conditions are often mediocre. Usually use fish 6.0 x 20 about 33 liters and it is more than enough volume but perhaps too long for me. In the summer I also surf abroad where the conditions are certainly better. What would you recommend to me between Evo, Revo or Cymatic and what size? Pros and cons? thank you very much
Revo n Cymatic actually need a wave with a bit of push. I hear the EVo is a good small wave board. If the waves you surf are weak then EVo will carry more speed and make smaller waves more fun.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for your advice, I must consider that it will be the only board even in surf trips where I could find better conditions .. I have to think about it. Last question, what size do you recommend for evo and revo?
@@surfnshowreviews7777 height 5.5 feet and 143 lbs. I am 50 years old and I have been surfing for 20 years and my level is intermediate compared to the Italian level. in USA or anywhere else in the world I might seem like a beginner. I still have a good physical shape and a 6.0 33 liters seems very comfortable even in small waves, I feel that I could moderately reduce the length .. thank you very much. Ric
Hi Noel, I keep re watching this review and have decided I have to just get one. I'm 45yrs 6'2 and between 105kg and 100kg if I'm good and healthy. Haha! Intermediate to upper intermediate level if the waves are good to me 😁 mostly surfing smaller 3-6ft beach breaks in Australia. What size cymatic would you recommend for someone my size?
Thanks for this great review Noel, great info and surfing. What would you say the main difference is between going for this board vs say, a Pyzel Phantom, which also is a versatile daily driver and looked great in the footage? personally I like weird boards but the phantom looked so smooth under foot... Cheers again for the great reviews
Hey Noel, great work! Between cymatic and the holy grail: which one would you say has better wave range/ versatility? Im gusseing the HG does better in the 2-3 foot surf mushier waves, you agree? Thanks a lot!
Both boards are epic but neither of them would be my first choice in 2-3’ mushy surf. I like the Cymatic better out of the two boards as a Daily Driver in 3-6’+
ThePokerSurfer Tough one.... 1 liter less can be problematic for intermediate to advanced surfers. The 5’3” might be a little much too.... if your Advanced/Expert then I would go 5’2”. I would rather have a board with a little less float and keep it ultra sensitive compared to a board that’s too buoyant and hard to sink the rail. If your Intermediate/advanced then go 5’3”. Or you could just pass because the fins just aren’t right for you. Cheers... let me know what you choose and how it goes.
Noel, I'm 36 , 5''10 @ 165 living in Florida. I ride a 5'8 Evo @ 35L w/ reactor quads. I'm intermediate(ish) , looking at either 5'8 32L or 5'9 34L Cymatic. Thoughts?
Nice job!! Finally you try a small kind of door shape Tomo!!! I was between a second Vader and a Cymatic, but finally decided for what I know works for me, and with a good discount I get the Vader again. This kind of board allows you go very short but maintaining the same volume that a regular shortboard. I had a Sci Fi in between but it just works on glassy days (almost never) so I sold it. Your Phantom review was impressive as well, between these two designs which ones do you like the most?
Paul Helden Tough question... the Cymatic has such a uniqueness to it that it makes me want to ride it more to get better at it. The Phantom feels like home to me... so easy to surf but epic performance at my disposal. It’s a toss up for me bro to be honest... I had a blast on both and that’s what surfing is to me.... having a good time.
noel your backhand on this board matches your forehand. The show continues to be the best board analysis show around.. i like seeing the evolution as you go through getting board and fins figured out, hangups included.. not everybody is willing to admit to miscalculations, but the process of correcting course is valuable. Thanks for the good work.
David Gough Stoked and thanks for the feedback! We want our show to as real.... my challenges and learning curves can be a little difficult at times but I love it.
I bought this board two years ago after watching a couple of reviews and talking to people but your channel and knowledge really won me over. Two years later I still love it and feel that the board has helped me excel in my surfing. Thanks for a great review and really enjoy your channel!
Cymatic still your favourite board in 2023? Thinking I might get a Cymatic volcanic🌋
I love this board so much that i use it pretty much everyday even in small surf, as long as the waves are a bit punchy this board flies down the line. At first i wasn't really sure about it mainly cause of the bold nose (silly me) and i was hanging more towards the Scifi, but after watching your review i went for the Cymatic and i haven't looked back since.
I also admire your capability to convert all the technical knowledge you have into practice when you take the boards out for a paddle. Thanks heaps for all the reviews!
Cymatic still your favourite board in 2023? Thinking of a Cymatic volcanic🌋
@@tezf6883 Get it. It's a pretty amazing board. I've gone through quite a few hybrid and a few performance shotbatrds over the years and this ones my favorite for those chest plus days.. I snapped the nose on the LFT version a few years back and only recently replaced it with the volcanic and it's way better imho.
Kelly riding at pipe & your review, made me make one, with my take on it. Man I love this design. Such a blast to ride. Thank you for your show :)
Mr. Salas!! The best reviews from a straight shredder. Thank you good sir!!
Just came here to watch this older clip and I think it's the best surfing Noel has done. The board suits him, it looks "right"!
Definitely something about this board that’s special. I never lose my balance on steep drops, it’s fast and it loves big surf . I love it! And it paddles amazing . Great for my older shoulders and heavy frame
Best cymatic review for sure
Thanks Noel
I bought one of these as soon as they dropped that Slater clip on North Shore. I friggen love the board. I'm 6'2" 210-215 and ride the 5'10" / 36.4l. It's got more volume than any of my other boards, yet it feels super light and whippy underfoot. It's crazy. They hide the foam so well and I especially like that I can just grab the nose like a handle when I'm about to turn around for a wave. Stoked on this beast...
Hey mate, how’s it go in the smaller summer waves? They seem geared towards bigger, better surf
Cymatic still your favourite board in 2023? Think I might get a Cymatic volcanic🌋
@@n8dawg85 hey dude, sorry, didn't see this. You score one?
@@tezf6883 Sold her about 3 years ago. Had to cover some house expenses and she was my nicest board and was in demand. I don't know much about the volcanic but i did buy one of those Seaside's when they did a limited run in the wool. Still have it. Anyway, the Cymatic was super fun. I would totally ride one again. My good buddy uses his a couple times/week in San Diego...
@@cwr8618 hey man. Yeh actually i did buy one in late 2020. Love it. I've used it in all kinds of waves and it goes good in everything. Seems to shine around the 4 -6 foot range for me though 🤙
Mine is abit thrashed now so looking for a new daily ride board. Been thinking of trying a Lost Driver 2.0 in PU
Hey Noel, I have just discovered your channel and I must say it is excellent. It is great to see independent reviews by someone who can both surf well, and critically analyse boards. You convey your thoughts beautifully and the comparisons between boards and fins are awesome. Great work 👍
scott cameron Cheers for the kind words and I am glad you found our show too!!!
You should include a clip or two of you paddling into the wave in your reviews so we can see how easily you get in and your technique as well. Happy holidays brotha!
Agree with above....At 63 yrs I can still paddle fairly strong, but would be wary of going at the recommended board length. We're at the same weight so seeing how it paddles for you would be a help.
I weigh 170lbs and my 5’7 paddles well being an inch shorter than me, I did not want to go shorter with less volume
New to the channel. Best best surfboard reviews out there. Your ability allows for proper judgement of these boards. Will recommend this channel.
Great job and thank you.
FD B Thank you for your feedback
I got this board 1.5 years ago surfed with it once and thought I wasn’t ready for it! Recently I grabbed it and wow!!! This board has changed my surfing completely! I have 10 boards and this will be the only board I’ll use from now on. If you’re on the fence about this board get it! It’s amazing. Easy paddle and easy to take off with and fast down the line. I love this board 🔥🔥
Cymatic is so fun
I'm getting a volcanic Cymatic 🌋
@@tezf6883how is the volcanic?
Great review as always came here to see what fins you were riding since your recommendations are always spot on. Can't wait to get some pivot quad rears in her. Such a great board. Rides so different than any other board I've ridden.
Finally a mechanical guy that shreds and has a great understanding of how to break it down. Luv ya work dude. Old shredders RULE :-P Subscribed
Haha man you look like Kelly on this thing
Thanks for going thru All the quad fin set ups.
Noel, great review mate. Personally, I think you look much more at home on some of the more traditional shortboards. The Gamma and MonstaBox have seen your best surfing so far in my opinion. Keep the shows coming. I’ve learnt more about surfing from your board reviews than any other channel or show on UA-cam. Yew!!!
Malcolm Hill Cheers... thanks for the kind words. The Gamma and JS MB go so good. Love those two boards too.
Your the man Noel! This review gets better every time I watch it haha I have a cymatic ordered and coming soon! Ill watch this everyday until it arrives ❤😊 yeeww thanks for the devotion to surfboard reviews
Bro my favorite line in this review is when you said you needed time to get to the lip of the top. You ripping on this board buddy!
Nice review. Great to see you spending so much time on fins. For me, along with fin shape, rake etc is the fin size measurement. Front and back fin size is how I judge my need and the related performance of the fin just as much as shape. I like my all around rear quads to be in the 3.75” range and around 4” range for bigger more powerful waves. But again great review with lots of good info.
William Blaze Stoked you liked it... I like what your talking about on fin height. I am starting to dabble with fin shape according to board rocker. Less rocker more upright fin etc... good stuff. Cheers
I'm a big fan of Future Fins and the ride numbers they give each set of fins. With their composition listed, fin height, fins size and fin shape listed and a ride number from stiff to loose, it really helps in figuring out all the things that make the fins perform as they do. They also do a good job explaining all this with each fin set. With FCS fins I get a little lost because they don't quite provide the same amount of info. This is also why it's great to hear you explaining the FCS fins and what you liked about them. A good review for you to do (if you haven't already)might be to get your favorite board you know very well and try a wide varieties of fins in it (both Future and FCS and any others) and then list your feeling on them or a top 5 for small waves, big waves etc. That I would like to see. Latz
William Blaze Sounds like a sick review. Thanks for the idea... cheers
I had a sci-fi and it was the fastest board I ever had, super awesome board went great. This seems to have addressed any criticism I had of the SciFi. No more digging rail on heavy cutbacks less fussy on foot placement too.
It looks and reminds me of a more technical version of a wakeboard, which makes a lot of sense, lots of movement, loss of extra weight, more thickness in the middle for stability and more cylindrical than the standard shortboard shape which makes it easier for tricks, this is breaking new ground for sure, not more than the first funboards but still, we're heading in a nice direction because surfing needs to keep pushing the boundaries.
Thank you for a great and detailed review on the board and different fins. I'm learming lots of importsnt facts and points to pay attention to. Im farely new to surfing, beginner, looking for a good all-around board. Your reviews are on point, definitely helps when choosing a surfboard. Thanks.
Noel here's my latest fin experimentation:
Didn't like the twin (TOO loose) via EN's, T1's and Pacific Vibrations high performance keels.
Tried it as a quad in many variations (4" and 3.75" trailers) but it was TOO tracky.
Tried the F6's and it was magic!
Ordering the same exact template as the K2.1's from a generric vendor (Pacific Vibrations) however P6's replaced the WCT's as copycats of the K2.1's of the past.
Cymatic is a KEEPER! 5'3 for me @ 150.
Please review the Omni so we get your professional opinions on the differences of two boards that are so similar yet divide so many people.
Gavin Alexander The Omni review is coming soon. I hope to have a couple boards by the end of this week.... we will try to get it done ASAP. Cheers
I'm looking forward to this after your Cymatic review. I am 49yrs, 85kg inter surfer and am on my third Omni, all 5'6s. Best board I have ever had in anything other than grovel, surf it as a quad with performers. I find the Omni butter smooth, but maybe a bit too predictable. Cymatic looks like good upgrade, can't wait for your comparison.
Yes, LFT is maybe most similar to PU but the boards don't last any longer, due in some part because of low quality high volume manufacture. Also because EPS is a sponge after any slight compromise of the skin. Boards yellow prematurely when compared to PU (a poor performer in this respect anyway).
Your show is so far ahead of the competition you could probably consider pay per view....!
Clinton Vargas Thanks for the kind words and posting your comments about your experiences with LFT.
Omni = smooth! Draws out turns; I love mine for cleaner waves. Cymatic gets much more radical; turns so fast. Feels electric. Give it a try!
Great review as always Noel....been waiting for this one. In your opinion, is Cymatic or Sci-fi preferred as a daily driver?
Great tips on the many variables of surfboard designs and fins thanks
The best reviews on the internet. Very informative and in-depth.
And you actually take the boards into the water and test them out in various conditions , rather than just talking about the physics and theory of the board
Any chance you will look at the Evo?
Chad Atkinson I am trying to get the EVO for review... that’s the most requested board for review from our community. Firewire hasn’t given me the boards yet... hang tight.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 How do you think the cymatic stacks up as a daily driver? - or does it need to be more performance-oriented?
Chad Atkinson Is a a fun Daily Driver... 3-8’ it will go good
A few of those waves looks like Slater surfing. Another solid review Noel
This is gotta be one of your favorite boards of all time
Absolutely love your reviews. I'm 6'3 and 195 lbs, intermediate/advanced surfer living in Costa Rica. I'm torn between the 5'8 and 5'9 cymatic at 32.9L and 34.3L respectively. My daily driver is a 33L Dominator 2. Getting a cymatic for better big days and hollower waves as the main wave I surf is a bit soft. If you or any in the community has some insight into if I should size at 5'8 or 5'9 that would be wonderful. The cymatic is also coming out in volcanic construction in the spring which I plan to get it in. Thank you so much!
I say 5’9”
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks so much for your input!
Hi Noel, you have the best Cymatic review around. My last UA-cam video I have referred people to Ep 66. I hope you do not mind. Love your show
Leigh Wilson Thank you!!!
I have owned the Omni 5'8" that was fun and more of a step up board, rides tighter arcs and sticks well in steep faces. I sold it and bought the 5'9" Cymatic. It feels fast, on the edge of control and loose depending on the fins. One of my favorite boards of all time! Next board will either be sizing up to a 5'10" Cymatic or to a 6'0 Sci Fi 2.0.
Cymatic still your favourite board in 2023? Think I might get a Cymatic volcanic🌋
@@tezf6883 Cymatic is magic! I started in 2016 with the Omni, I loved that, but got the Cymatic in 2019 and loved it even more! Very versatile as a daily driver. I like the feel of the LFT but kept damaging mine too easy with the powerful waves here. I want to try a SciFi 2.0 and I need to size up my Cymatic from 5'9" to maybe a 5'10". I heard Firewire will be making there boards in the ibolic contruction in the near future which I think will make the board even better!!
@@MichaelJDay I've got an abolic FRK great board, the construction is much more durable and stronger than LFT and doesn't yellow. I just purchased yesterday, 5'7 Cymatic in the new volcanic construction can't wait to ride it, feels great and super strong, I think the volcanic construction could be replacing helium.
@@tezf6883 Sounds like you're set! I have yet to see the Volcanic Tech in Portugal or Spain. I haven't been able to find it yet. But when I do it'll be time for a new Cymatic. My current Cymatic turned 10 shades of yellow. Happy Barrels!
@@tezf6883 Let me know which construction you prerer...ibolix versus Volcanic Tech.
I`m surfing an Evo in 5`2`` but allways as a thruster ( you can see it in my channel). I was just thinking of buying another Evo but after this review i am confused ! Great review and amazing surfing.
Ricardo Laranjeira I say try something new from Tomo... maybe Cymatic or Omni.
Cymatic feels much more high-performance/advanced than Evo (and I love my Evo) and able to make more radical turns. Requires more precision than Evo, which is very forgiving. Maybe think of the Evo like a steak knife compared to a scalpel (cymatic). Different, but you won't be disappointed. I didn't ride my Evo for 5 months after I got my Cymatic- it was too fun.
@Valentino LuggenDepends how small. Cymatic's rails more foiled (thinned out), making it more high performance- good for punchy beach breaks... but it needs a wave with some push. I wouldn't ride it under waist high, and it really lights up in around chest high waves. Evo does better in smaller/weaker waves. Probably a better paddler with thicker rails, and all that volume packed into a small package- just don't go too big in sizing it. Smaller Evo is better. Tomo MPH boards should come up to your chin to nose on you. Good luck!
@@erikburkett4366 hi, would you say the EVO could be use as a groveler and then Cymatic as HP board?. For my normal shortboard volume around 26-27 liters i was recommended to go lower on the EVO, like a 5'1 or 5'2 (1-2 liters less than my normal volume)and for the cymatic around 5'5, does that make sense? Also, how good does cymatic paddle compared to a standard shortboard, for example a 5'9 or 5'10 pyzel amigo which is my reference.
Hey Noel, great reviews. I'm extremely picky about my boards, so wish I was in your position to try so many! As an ex competitor turned weekend warrior, I have the frustrating task of letting my mind (which is saying "here comes a good section to kill, go big") and body (which is telling my mind to "sod off") work together. So about 8yrs ago I figured the solution would be to go from my usual 27-28L thinner/narrower high performance boards to shorter/wider types with about 2-3L extra. Due to very limited options where I live, I've been through a bunch of local shapes with limited success, so unfortunately no references anyone here could relate to. However some Firewires I've had which you might know are Pyzalien (easy to surf, but super average, boring, a bit "dead"), Spitfire (fast, but too wide for me, terrible on the rail), Evo (uurrghh....dead, boring, most over rated piece of foam ever), Vader (one of my all time fave boards! Currently have two and surf them with heaps of different fin setups in waist high beachies to maxing J-Bay. Not comparable to a high performance stick, but soooo much fun to ride. Board loves being pushed off the rail, which suits my front foot style).
As we all know, each surfer has their own preferences (case in point...Evo!) and that's why I've noticed you keep your reviews fairly free of personal opinions which is great. However just for interest sake, if you could pick two magic high performance boards, which two? To be honest, you didn't look super comfortable on the Monsta8, but the Monsta8 and Monsta Box (for weaker stuff) looks like a safe option for many.
And comparing your surfing in this review with all the others, the Cymatic looks super fun. A great indicator is when a board projects out of foam after a round house or off the top. Kinda get the feeling it'll feel similar to the Vader, just way more "pop"...if that makes sense.
Cheers. Keep up the great work.
Dee H The Cymatic is sick and it performed very well for me. I also like the Driver, Fever, Phantom, and NB2. All of the boards will go good in 3-6’ surf and some can handle 8’ surf too. I think the Cymatic and Weirdo Riper by CI will be right up your alley. I never reviewed the Weirdo Ripper but I had 3 of them and that board is legit performance in 3-8’ surf. Has a lot of foam and you can push hard or not and it goes. The Cymatic does sick turns in tight transitions and I like that. It also drives off the rail very well off the bottom.... feels like your surfing a board 3” longer then you are. Cheers
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for replying Noel. Had another look at your reviews of the boards mentioned and they look good, but the Phantom looks solid! That thing throws buckets of water, looks like wave abuse:)
Bro I thought that was Kelly surfing🤣 I have a 5'7" cymatic now that i switched to quads board feels unreal! I was using reactors and it did feel a little out of control I'm 6'2" and I luv surfing small boards technology now days is awesome!!🤙👏👍
Best show on UA-cam
Hi noel, Best review on the internet for sure, you're doing an Amazing work! Do you think this board will work as a step down from your traditional shortboard design?
Riccardo Sarti Yes... more like a daily Driver. It will struggle to Grovel in 1-2’ mushy waves though.
Noel, try out the White Noiz by Haydenshapes,…. it's the most silky riding board I've ever ridden, and very versatile and solid,…. so free, fast, and super carvy-loose. It felt that way for me from my very first wave, though I found the best fins for it, by far, are all fins F8's, or smaller sides and a larger center fin, such as F6's on the sides and F8 in the back/center fin,… even Futures 3/2/1's for the side fins, and an F8 for the center fin worked great.
Bon Summers That Board looks good to me too. I asked for that board from Hayden months ago... I wish he would send it.
Noel did the white noiz review, wasn't a favourite of his White noiz not bitchin its a 🍋
@@tezf6883 White Noiz is a favorite of Noel's. It's not a lemon. It's the most beautifully smooth riding HPSB board I've ever ridden, and I've ridden over a hundred. Have you ridden the White Noiz? Noel's surfing on it looked great with the more raked fins, such as the Jordy fins. The more upright speed fins didn't ride so special. The board rode very gracefully-carvey as a matter of its shape with the raked fins.
Fantastic review and great surfing! Just when I come to understand surfboards specs I come to a realization, the fins are more complicated and there is way too many of them 😂.
Xainfinen Fins are just as important as Boards.
Indeed, I've been reading more in depth stuff about them in the last hour. Something I neglected before.. Maybe you could do a video about fins one day. What do you think?
Xainfinen I have in the past... and I do a little more on each surfboard review. We will do more fin stuff as we go.
I should've looked in your playlist before asking. I learned all what I needed from your "Surfboard Fin Quiver" video and reading a bit. Thanks ;)
At this point in surfing all these boards, what is your all around favorite board, like the CI "Fever" is to Pat Gudauskas? Something versatile from 2' beach break to 6' northshore?
FREEDOMEDIA Pyzel Phantom
Hi Noel,
For 3-5 ft would you recommend the R8 beta over the JJF large paired with the HS quad rears to loosen things up? Guy at the shop was pushing the rasta quads (medium) as he said the channels add extra hold so you would want a smaller fin. 6'5, 190lbs intermediate. Thanks.
spiffjiff05 I agree with the Medium Fin set up on Tomo’s board even at 190 lb. not sure I would go with the Rasta set. I have the Rasta’s but I have not tried them yet.
The Beta 2.0 have more rake than JJF so it will have more drive and tighten it up as a Quad. The JJF fins are Neutral good pivot and carving. I say get the HS Quad rears and try them with your JJF. If that feels tight or it’s catching then get a Medium set of Beta R6 or AM1. The Rake will give you more hold so you can lay into some turns.
Hi Noel I love all your videos there sick and your such a great surfer! I was wondering if any time soon you would be having a video on the Slater SCI-FI ? Keep up what your doing love your channel
The gaming bros I hope to get a review on the Sci Fi soon. A lot of requests for it lately. Hang tight....
Love this review with all the comparison. Torn between a 5'3 and a 5'4. I feel like the board design wants to be ridden shorter but I worry that I might want more drive in 1 to 3 ft surf. I surf reef points that are usually waist to head high and not very hollow. I'm 5'10 and 150 pounds/68 kg and feel comfortable on a 26 liter hpsb. Noel, would you recommend going up in size for waves with less punch or do you think it would lose performance with the extra volume?
Matt Clem Not sure I recommend this board for 1-3’ surf with no punch. This board does not grovel well. It has too much rocker.... I am concerned the board will feel slow for you even if you size up a little. Now if the waves were 1-3’ and hollow then I would say go 5’3” at 25.4 Liters EPS it will float like 26.
Hola Noel , Your reviews on board is reign supreme no matter which board you are giving a go. Two of my favorite reviews that you have done are this one (cymatic) and the lost sword fish. These two boards are the ones I am most interested in at the moment and I have one question regarding your opinion which of the two would be the closest to a 1 board quiver?? Which would be more suitable for an all-around are giving different wave conditions and sizes? Thanks bro for all your knowledge and insight. Very helpful
christopher curreri Tue Cymatic would be my choice out of these two boards. It will struggle a little in 1-2’ surf but it goes mental in 3-7’+. Swordfish is fun but not a Favorite.
Surf n Show Reviews
yes I understand you... this shape has been calling me and the performance aspect of what it looks capable of is pretty unique. Cymatic it is!!! Now how to get the sizing right for this board. I’m same weight and height as you but your skill level is on another level.
I have a 5’6 christenson fish about (32 liters)
And a Dylan raptor 6’3 step up (33 liters) Given the shape of the cymatic what you recommend??
christopher curreri Go for 32-33 liters. Just go with the liters that feels best out of your two boards
Surf n Show Reviews
THE MAN!!!! based on what you recommend I’m Considering stepping it down to the 30L range to start a nEw chapter in my progression which I feel this board will be a good pivot point to do so....
One last question which is your preferred out of the sci Fi for cymatic?? Or which of the 2 is a more all arounder??
christopher curreri I like the Cymatic way better
super comprehensive review man ! thanks
Noel, Really love the reviews. Super informative and visual. I just have a quick question. What is the name of the rack that you use to present the boards on. I need to order one of those up. Thanks,
Steven Di Palma Board Raxx.com
When are we going to get that Evo review?! The Evo in the new Helium technology would be a review I would love to see!
Eddie Dingle Lots of requests for that review. I will try to get a couple.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks, man! Love your vids. Hoping I see you in the lineup down here in San Diego some time so I can thank you in person.
Eddie Dingle Cheers... we should be down in Oside or Carlsbad this winter. Cheers!!!
Another great review, keep them coming. I currently ride a Cymatic as my daily driver, but it rides a little big for me. I love it in 2-4 but it’s hard to sink the rail in anything bigger. How does the Phantom, maybe even the Holy Grail, compare for our typical break in Orange County/San Diego? Debating sizing down or switching it up. Thanks
Chuck Johnson Both the HG and Phantom are epic. The Phantom paddles really well and surfs like a HPSB. The HG is a sick Daily Driver and I love the FF technology.
Thanks again for another awesome review. I have a question that pertains to body weight. I lost ten pounds over the off season (Florida/summer) and seem to be struggling to sink my rail as well as I did when I was heavier while also wearing a wetsuit. Do you have any tips on how to adjust board liters per 10lbs if weight? At 193lbs in Florida’s gutless waves, 38 liters rode really well for me but feels a bit boaty in anything over shoulder high now. Busting out my 34 liter board for Hurricane Florence tomorrow. 🤙
David Valdes 1 liter per 10lbs. I dropped 10lbs and adjusted my boards by 1 full liter.
Thanks! I just did a simple ratio calculation and came up about the same, think I might be riding my groveler setup a little big to overcompensate and get even more days in. I ride a Sharpeye Modern 2 - Love it! But I might get the next size down this year. It just seemed odd that what feels right in bigger surf for me is so much smaller. Thanks again! I might even go for the Moonbeam next. 🤙
Great review Noal. I am caught between the Cymatic and the DHD 3dx for the Gold Coast. They seem like extremely different boards and the gold coast has not got the same power as your area. I am leaning towards a 3DX but have ridden the Cymatic in the Mentawais and it was incredible even for an amateur/intermediate like me. Would be great to get some feed back.
Thanks
Imagine if you surfed any one of these boards for a year straight, it would be interesting to see the difference in your surfing on a board from start to a year later of connecting with a board.
bodhi tree That would be interesting. There would be no more surfboard reviews. Should we try it?
Ah you got me by the balls there.
awesome review. i own a cymatic. i definitely think sizing down is the key to the board. i ride it about 1 inch less than my normal shortboard and i wish i would have actually pushed down 3-4 inches less. really love the board though. i definitely plan on getting another just sized way way down.
Thanks Noel for a great review, I waited three years to get my cymatic and picked up a 5’7 in Futures two weeks ago. Pretty amped to get into some running surf and feet into the wax. 🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼
How does it feel?
@@salt4life great! Got a few sessions which were crowded and windy. Finally got some glassy waves this past week and the boards great. Surfed from 1-2 foot all the way to 6 foot, really responsive and super quick
Hey Noel,
I just got a cymatic and really loved it in some 5-7 foot walled up point break surf today. I'm in Nova Scotia, and I am going to use the board for good quality points, and hollow reefs.
Can you recommend what fcs2 quad rear fins to buy for the board, that would match up with one of the thruster sets I own?
I've got the Carvers and Matt biolos's in medium.
And the Accelerators and Reactors in large.
I'm 5'8, 150lbs. Oh and the board is LFT.
Thanks! Your vids keep the froth on max for us out here in the far east!!!!
Hi Noel, Great show. Really helps guide finding a board. Pulled trigger on Cymatic! Looking for Quad fin setup. I am 5'11 156lbs, intermediate, surfing Bay Area beach breaks. Looking for confidence and hold in bottom turn but then still some looseness. JJ techflex medium vs. AM1 techflex medium paired with HS quad rears? Is the HS quad large for my size. Have you had time to try the Firewire large? Thanks
woofryfam JJF Techflex will offer good hold and pivot cause they are neutral. The AM1 will offer a little more drive. I would go JJF medium side fins with the QD2 3.75 Flat Foil Quad Rears. The HS Quad Rears will be a bit big for you...
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Awesome, thanks for advice. Could you run QD2 symmetric foil on this board or are rear boxes too close to rails?
woofryfam Try then if you got them...
Great review Noel. Got the SKX after your review earlier this year, and I'm gonna pull the trigger on this one too. Btw, any particular reason why you didn't ride it nearly as much as a thruster as opposed to a quad?
David Pham It didn’t have the X Factor for as a Thruster... no really fast and kinda of clunky on the turns. Just didn’t flow like the Quad did. I rode a Thruster set up in 6-8’ surf and 2-3’ surf and footage wasn’t worth watching....
great thorough review - many thanks
Best review as usual! Thank u
Love the review! I'm a little unsure of what size I'd need. I'm 5.9 187lbs and my skill level is intermediate. Currently on a 5.8 Rusty Dwart and a 5.11 CI high 5. Mainly surfing southern California SD/LA. Thinking 5.7 or 5.8....any suggestions?
Brody Harford I think your High 5 and Dwart are around 33-34 liters so I would go 5’9” on the Cymatic if your other two boards feel good on your paddling and turns. If your other boards feel a little big then go 5’8”.
Thanks man! Love your channel! Subscribed for sure!
Great review thx :) Now I'm sure I'm gonna buy this board, Aloha from France.
On a quicker wave do you like the Cymatic or Puddle Jumper HP better?
Ken Barrett PJHP is a Groveler and the Cymatic is more of a performance board... if the waves are 3’ and bigger with some punch then Cymatic all day long..
Thank you very much. Love your reviews. They're extremely helpful!
Hey Noel I’m loving my Seaside but looking to emulate that feeling of speed and hold in a board for waves over chest high. I also love with my Seaside how easy it is to paddle into waves and that early entry is crucial for me. You think the cymatic could be a nice pairing with the Seaside? I currently have a DHD wilko but the different outline and length to the Seaside makes it harder to jump between the boards and looking to have something that’s a better pairing. Thanks again for the great work.
charlie fergusson Yes, the Cymatic is a great pairing for easier adjustment in board sizes. The difficulties of transitioning from board to board is real...
Thanks Noel. And do you think the paddle power and ease of entry into waves is there with the cymatic? Even though it’s continuous rocker, under arm the board the board feels a little flatter than most hp boards.??
charlie fergusson No... glide is so so... but your transition from board to board will be easy size wise. The Cymatic is good in 3-7’ surf.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 ok good to know. I love the glide of the seaside - it's magic. Any tips for a cruisey yet performance capable board like the Seaside with a shorter outline? Wish Rob Machado would come out with something like this! The Midas? Though seems like they've stopped making this.
charlie fergusson Check our the Swordfish by Lost.
Hey Noel, thanks for all the great advice over the years.I love buying through surf station as well. What size cymatic would you recommend for someone having fun on the 5’3 seaside? 150 pounds and 5’8, intermediate plus ability. Thanks again!
Phillip Dixon Jr I would go 5’4” or 5’5” on the Cymatic. If the waves you surf have some push then go 5’4”
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel. As a travel/wave pool board, would you go with 5'4 or 5'5?
Phil Dixon 5’4”
A little late to this channel... What size and kind of surf board do you recommend for a beginner who is 6ft tall and 220 to 200lbs(on the good days) and i don't want to look like Johnny Utah learning to surf! ;) Thanks J
Your preference on the cymatic vs tomo fish? Trying to figure out which to get surfing in california ocean beach break
Both boards are fun… I like the Cymatic better
Hey Noel great review again been building my new quiver lretty much based on your reviews. Cymantic is on my radar and just ordered a puddle jumper hp for small waves and the cantic for better waves, how do they compare performance wise. Thanks
What is a Cantic? Did you mean Cymatic?
@@surfnshowreviews7777 yes cymantic, sorry
Cymatic got it finally
Hey Noel , thanks for all your time and the information you share with us my friend.
I wonna ask you , i am 1.77cm about 80kg(180lbs) and i ride a tomo evo at 44lts which is an incredible surfboard that help me pass to the intermediate lvl , now i wonna reduce my liters and buy a new board , i am torn between buying a tomo evo again at fewer liters , a firewire cymatic or a seaside , i m gonna surf it to medium sized waves around 3 to 6 ft, but a bit hollow and fast , which one of those boards u recommend for me and at what size ?
Thanks you very much noel
Keep on the hard work
Giorgos Tampaxis I say Cymatic.. liters roughly 35-37 is a good start on your way down.
Surf n Show Reviews Thank you very much , i am buying cymatic right away , i let you know how it goes , i hope i ll love it as much i loved the evo ❤️
Another great review, thank you. I know this board has been around for a while but could you please please do a review on the Love Buzz by Hayden Shapes?🙏🙏
Nicholas Adriaens That Board looks epic. I did ask Hayden to send me a couple for review but no reply on it yet.
Love your reviews Noel, I would never mention this normally and I'm not having a go I just thought you might like to know that in America most people are pronouncing Tomo wrong, It's pronounced Tom-Oh, His surname his Thompson so he's nickname would be Thom-oh as in the letter O.
Peace Soup Thanks bro...
Peace man think Joel Parkinson - Parko - same same but different.
Hi Noel, how did you find the 5'3 for volume, thought you would have gone the 5'4 as closer to what you usually surf, what made you choose the 5'3 and how do you think the 5'4 would go?
ttv74 The 5’3” felt really good... I could sink the rail quickly and it was ultra responsive. I think the 5’4” would have gone good too but maybe a little too buoyant for me because of the EPS foam.
Awesome Noel, you are a font of knowledge, cymatic or driver?
ttv74 If you want to try something new then Cymatic. If you want some more traditional then the Driver... Both boards are amazing.
How does the cymatic compare to the evo? Seems like maybe the evo just paddles better and is better on smaller or slower waves?
I think EVo is more small wave and Cymatic is more good waves like a HPSB.
Nice Brother !! Those looked like some Fun waves !! 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽 yeah man then boards with he wide noses are fun fun you have even do a little nose riding lol I call those boards mini longboards lol wicked fun summer boards even in big surf they go good !! There like a one board quiver killer ! Lol
I am a intermediate/advanced surfer 5’11” and 165 lbs. do you think I should go for the 5’4” or go bigger. The 5’4” seems about my literage but I think it would be nice to size up for extra paddling power. What do you think about this board and sizing up?
Maybe size up max 1L
Hey Noel superb review as usual.Its a pity you havnt reviewed the Omni as id like to see the difference between the two.I would suspect the Cymatic is aimed at the more experienced/advanced surfer while the Omni more Intermediate.
Ryan The Rock We will soon see... I have a couple Omni’s coming for review right now. Stay tuned.
In 3ft- overhead which would you personally rather ride? Cymatic or the neck beard 2?
JP Cymatic
Hi Noel, great review and insane surfing!, how good does cymatic paddle compared to a standard shortboard, for example a 5'9 or 5'10 pyzel amigo which is my reference. I am considering a 5'5 cymatic which would be around a liter more than my amigo
Jorge Garcia The Cymatic paddles the same as a normal board with similar rocker
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks Noel, i also liked your review about the modern 2, would you feel there's some overlap between these boards on the low end, or the modern 2 can work much better as a groveler from 1' up to 4?
Jorge Garcia Modern 2 is a way better Groveler. That’s a good two board quiver.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks and congratulations!, i enjoy your reviews a lot!
Please review the tomo revo
Hey Noel how does it compare to the scifi 2.0? You said to go longer on scifi 2.0 if between sizes, would you say the same for the cymatic?
I would not go longer on the Cymatic. It might catch a bit in the nose area if you go longer
Hi Noel,
I loved your review.
Can you compare the Cymatic to the Evo Helium construction?
Which do you think will perform better in smaller surf (1-2 Feet)?
Which will you command to the less experienced surfer?
Udi Ack I heard the EVO is excellent in 1-4’ surf... the Cymatic needs a bit more wave. I like the Cymatic best in 3-8’ surf. I would not buy the Cymatic as a small wave board.
Hey Noel, great video! Are you running large or medium in the quad FCS setup? Also are the reactor quad rears performance core? Thanks!
Daniel Wark Large side fins and medium Quad PC Rears
Done. Added to quiver.
Noel I forgot you HAVE to try the NVS Cdrive and Pacific Vibrations quad J drives ....... you will never go back to traditionals.
Hey Noel. Thanks for the review. I'm between the cymatic and holy Grail. What one do you recommend
Alex Rodgers Pocket surfing Cymatic, down line and more open face turns or airs the HG.
Subscribed. What a great reviewer!
Hey Noel, best reviews ever! I have a question... I bought a 6'4 Cymatic and it's a truly exciting board - I ride it as a quad with Hayden rears and Pancho sides (17.5'sq). However, even with these large fins I find the board can slide when driving hard on my forehand and even more so backside - I weigh close to 100kg and live in the south west of West Oz. I was looking at trying the Machado Quads - the sides have more surface area than the Panchos - the rears less than the Hayden's but Machado's have more surface area overall... in your learned experience would the Machado's work in this board and give good control? I guess I could gain even more by substituting the Machado rears with the Hayden's.
Thanking you in anticipation :)
klaiejah For your weight I would go with the AM Large Tech Flex 5 fin set up. The Quad rears are neutral in template but stiffer in flex compared to the HS Quad Rears. The Machado fins might have to much flex for your weight too... I don’t recommend those for you. That’s if your talking about his speed generating Bamboo fins?
Thanks for the response mate. I was referring to the set developed for the Seaside.....
True, I have had bad experiences with very flexy fins - they feel squishy.
Between the Seaside or AM2’s? Cheers 🤙🏽
klaiejah AM2’s offer more performance turns, the Seaside Quads offer more speed.
Thanks Noel 🙏
klaiejah did you try the AMs? How did they go?
Great review once again Noel, your surfing on this board looked like it had an extra bit of spark to it!
martinwajda I agree....
Hey Noel! Great show and reviews!! What`s your experience from the Cymatic and EVO in weaker surf?Wich one would give you best preformance, catchability etc and wich one would you recommend for a weekend warrior?
Sorry I have not ridden the EVO. I hear great things about it though. From what I hear the EVO offers better groveling properties compared to the Cymatic
Hey Noel! In good waves (5 -8 ft), surfing as a quad, do you think this board will work better with the Al Merrick Large or Mick Fanning Large? I have the Al Merricks and thinking to buy the Mick Fannings, also to put on my Lost Round Nose Retro Fish! Thanks so much!! Cheers PS. the Cymatic is the best board i´ve ridden!
Ruy Neto The MF fins will offer more hold for sure.
Great review. Considering how pricey these boards are I’d like some advice going forward. I have my mind set on getting the 6’4” cymatic. I’m 5’9” and about 240 lbs. I have a tendency to overpower my turns at times. Would you advise to use bigger fins to reduce sliding out?. How are the fin boxes?. I’d hate to use bigger fins and lay into a turn and the fin box cracks. (That’s happened on one of my boards) any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Jonathan Powell I suggest the Performers in XL for you. The FCSII boxes are pretty strong. You should be good to go...
Surf n Show Reviews I just bought a FireWire cymatic in the LFT construction. I noticed small indentions on the stringer on the bottom. Barely noticeable but if you run your hands down the board you can feel slight indentions. The occur about every 2-1/2” and run almost the entire length of the board. I don’t think it’ll make a difference in riding🤞. Have you seen or heard of this before
Jonathan Powell Nope... first I’ve heard.
Hi, always Best review! I am 50 years old, in good physical condition 1.68 x 65 kg, my level is intermediate but I surf a little during the year especially in summer where in Italy the conditions are often mediocre. Usually use fish 6.0 x 20 about 33 liters and it is more than enough volume but perhaps too long for me. In the summer I also surf abroad where the conditions are certainly better. What would you recommend to me between Evo, Revo or Cymatic and what size? Pros and cons? thank you very much
Revo n Cymatic actually need a wave with a bit of push. I hear the EVo is a good small wave board. If the waves you surf are weak then EVo will carry more speed and make smaller waves more fun.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for your advice, I must consider that it will be the only board even in surf trips where I could find better conditions .. I have to think about it. Last question, what size do you recommend for evo and revo?
@@MrPacianka please give me your height in feet and your weight in pounds
@@surfnshowreviews7777 height 5.5 feet and 143 lbs. I am 50 years old and I have been surfing for 20 years and my level is intermediate compared to the Italian level. in USA or anywhere else in the world I might seem like a beginner. I still have a good physical shape and a 6.0 33 liters seems very comfortable even in small waves, I feel that I could moderately reduce the length .. thank you very much. Ric
@@MrPacianka if the waves are smaller and weak then go EVo… at roughly 33L. It’s a better small wave board compared to the Cymatic, and Revo
Great review once again. 👌
Hi Noel,
I keep re watching this review and have decided I have to just get one.
I'm 45yrs 6'2 and between 105kg and 100kg if I'm good and healthy. Haha! Intermediate to upper intermediate level if the waves are good to me 😁 mostly surfing smaller 3-6ft beach breaks in Australia.
What size cymatic would you recommend for someone my size?
Jimmy Widders Hunt I think 40-42 liters is a good range for you
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks heaps for getting back to me. Great show you have. Definitely the best around! Keep up the Fantastic work 😊
Thanks for this great review Noel, great info and surfing.
What would you say the main difference is between going for this board vs say, a Pyzel Phantom, which also is a versatile daily driver and looked great in the footage? personally I like weird boards but the phantom looked so smooth under foot...
Cheers again for the great reviews
Ben Cole Piper Phantom paddles better and easier to surf. The Cymatic gets in the lip quicker and a bit more radical
Surf n Show Reviews thanks that’s good to know, cheers!
Hey Noel, great work! Between cymatic and the holy grail: which one would you say has better wave range/ versatility? Im gusseing the HG does better in the 2-3 foot surf mushier waves, you agree?
Thanks a lot!
Both boards are epic but neither of them would be my first choice in 2-3’ mushy surf. I like the Cymatic better out of the two boards as a Daily Driver in 3-6’+
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks a lot! In that case would you say that the dominator 2 would be a better choice for the 1-6 ft wave range?
@@pedrowilit Absolutely
Noel question ....... at 150 go with the 5'2? I'm usually comfortable in the 24.7 zone.
5'3 too bouyant?
Again an addictive fan of your vids.
ThePokerSurfer Tough one.... 1 liter less can be problematic for intermediate to advanced surfers. The 5’3” might be a little much too.... if your Advanced/Expert then I would go 5’2”. I would rather have a board with a little less float and keep it ultra sensitive compared to a board that’s too buoyant and hard to sink the rail. If your Intermediate/advanced then go 5’3”. Or you could just pass because the fins just aren’t right for you. Cheers... let me know what you choose and how it goes.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks Noel ....... surfed most of my life 🤙🍻❤
Noel, I'm 36 , 5''10 @ 165 living in Florida. I ride a 5'8 Evo @ 35L w/ reactor quads. I'm intermediate(ish) , looking at either 5'8 32L or 5'9 34L Cymatic. Thoughts?
A Guy and His Guitars If your EVO floats good the go 34 liters on Cymatic
Those boards look like sooo much fun 🤟🤟❤️
Nice job!! Finally you try a small kind of door shape Tomo!!! I was between a second Vader and a Cymatic, but finally decided for what I know works for me, and with a good discount I get the Vader again. This kind of board allows you go very short but maintaining the same volume that a regular shortboard. I had a Sci Fi in between but it just works on glassy days (almost never) so I sold it. Your Phantom review was impressive as well, between these two designs which ones do you like the most?
Paul Helden Tough question... the Cymatic has such a uniqueness to it that it makes me want to ride it more to get better at it. The Phantom feels like home to me... so easy to surf but epic performance at my disposal. It’s a toss up for me bro to be honest... I had a blast on both and that’s what surfing is to me.... having a good time.