Firewire "Dominator 2.0" Surfboard Review by Noel Salas Ep.112
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- Опубліковано 4 жов 2024
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In this episode I put the "Dominator II" by Firewire Surfboards through the paces.
Surfboard Dimensions:
Stock 5'4" x 19 3/8 x 2 1/4 (25.9L)
My Height 5'9" and weight 160 lb or 72.57 kg
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God damn Noel, some of those backhand bottom turns are tight, quick and precise running the quad setup. By far the best I've seen in ages of the boards you've had under your feet. Dan Mann can have my money for this latest creation of his. Great review again Noel.
Hey Noel, thank you for your work with Aaron. I got this board based on the reviews, and now I finally understand the expression magic board. I'm a weekend warrior who has been surfing for 10+ years, including traveling around the globe. This is the best board I have ridden; everything works for my surfing style in several conditions. Also, I dialed my volume and dimmed it based on your episode about volumes. Thanks for your passion for the sport and for helping all of us around the globe with unique content. Really appreciate!
Yewww!! Stoked you found a magic carpet. Good on ya for dialing in your volume. Cheers for the kind words.
Dominator 2. still your favourite board in 2023? Think I might get a one soon
@@tezf6883 Yes
Noel, your explanations regarding fins are always top notch. Love how you went out of your way to make the thruster work. Thanks for that. There is so much to learn and to be reminded of on your channel. Much appreciated! You definitely looked best on the quad. The twin plus trailer looked a little soapy but I can imagine it feels super fun. Keep shredding!
I have the original Dominator, it took my surfing to the next level, wasn't ideal when waves were hollower, but that's now what it was designed for. I think the Dom 2 is next on my list, quad setup.
Review is spot...I just spent 5 days in a row surfing this from knee to waist to solid head high waves it it just performs so well. The board has this amazing pop and squirt, a new feeling Ive never experienced quite like it. Allows me to surf more aggressively n be more radical...I started focusing more on rear foot placement n it makes a big difference. It really excels in more solid waist to chest n has speed and float to make it they the flat sections.
Have you found the need to customise the traction pad to get it closer to the leash plug?
I did not have to given my pad was v shaped in the back and was also a two piece
@@Sailnboard cool, thanks!
I'm eager to hear what you think of the Glazer
Same here!
Same same! (I have one - love it :))
just take it under my harm in my local surf shop, feels great...would like a review too...
Great review Noel 🤙🏼
Same here!
What an amazing little board! 🔥Thanks for pointing the 💎 out Noel! 🤙🏻🏄♂️
Love to hear a comparison of the Dominator 2.0 to a CI Rocket Wide. Florida surf mainly. 1-5ft, beach brake. I'm 5'8 180lbs struggling to find a new shortboard.
have this board and was riding it as a thruster and quad in shoulder high and below and wasn't very happy with it. watched this review and pivoted to the Twin + Stabilizer and as Noel reported....that was next level. Faster than the quad setup with the stability for top/bottom surfing. Thanks for the R&D Noel!
what twin set did you use?
I feel like your feet were not in the sweet spot
Holy shit thank you! I just bought this board and you're right! I've experience a lot of tightness with my thruster setup. Now that I look closer I can see that my pad is a bit far forward.
Just got one last week. Surfed a few days ago 1-2 ft beach break with 30 mph offshore. It worked pretty good and was carrying speed until the end of the wave through flat sections. Cant' wait to see surf it on better days.
I put in the rasta quads and I just felt like it tightened up the tail too much for me, with the tail being pulled in and with the contour set up, it made sense for me to put in a thruster set up to compliment that tail set up, I put in the Craig Anderson Black Sticks and it went well
Hi Noel , I'm 63 , 5' 9 and 165 lbs intermediate surfer . Although I keep really fit I'm finding with age surfing just gets harder and harder each year . So as the years roll on by my board's length and volume has been increasing . I know the days of me riding a 5' 8 or 5 ' 10 Dom 2 are behind me so I'm thinking of maybe a 6' 2 . I've surfed a friends Dom 2 in 6' 4 and I really liked it but I reckon I could go down a little . I'm curious about your thoughts regarding ageing surfers and board sizing as its a path we'll all go down eventually . Love the reviews bro 🤟
@@TomMilo-u3h I hear you… a lot of my friends are going up a bit in length and volume as they get older. I think going up a little at a time is a good idea. I say get the 6’2” Dom so you have more maneuverability compared to the 6’4”. If you need more paddle and stability and the 6’4” felt loose and easy to turn quickly then go 6’4”
dude I was just wishing you would do a review on this board earlier this week and look what we got here!?!?!?
I was always on the fence between medium and large fins since I am 77-76kg. I bought the 5 fins setup and it's going mental on the D2! really fast and pivots great, I am really happy with the purchase. In addition, Noel is an awesome dude and went above and beyond with his product service, so every fin has some of that amazing personality magic!
Yewww!! So stoked you like my fins. Thank you for the kind words too
@@NCsurfer607 yes, the pivot quad
@@NCsurfer607 Absolutely… watch the review
Awesome review as always bro - I’m stoked to get my hands on one this week and see how it goes. Looks like a good step up from the puddle jumper HP with a bigger wave range and more performance. Good to hear it goes sick as a quad too! 🤙
Another awesome board review from Noel. It could be very interesting to compare the Dominator and Spitfire side by side.
Thanks for so much valuable content Surf and Show team!
My spitfire (eps) is small wave only. Anything chest+ is super unstable. Granted I’m nowhere near Noel’s level.
@@Ibanezmusic1 couldn’t agree more with you Daniel. In fact, I ended up not surfing the Spitfire at all. It is a board design for very specific waves. Anything other than waist to chest high glassy and the board will not go well. Not too mention that the foam in the front make this board to have a tendency for sinking the tail a bit too much. Or maybe it’s just me, I suck at surfing if you are to compare me with Noel haha!
Nice ripping Noel ! I switch boards pretty frequently but you switch ALLOT & make it look easy
Ridden mine twice, love the board. Noel said to use L performer front and M quad reactor rears and the board flys. Main thing I noticed that's neat is when you push up on the board to stand up its very stable and easy to pop up. Riding a 5'8 30L get one guys if you want and ez paddler and a board that does what you want to do on the wave :)
Hey Eric! what size are you? do you feel that you are missing a groveler or would this one cover you in the smallest mushy waves? cheers!
The Noel Salas checker fins look 👀 INSANE! Must get some immediately (if not sooner)
Since your surfing is very consistent, I think it will be super interesting to watch your fin comparison with a spilled screen. Sick video cheers
Hey Noel,
Love the content. Just got your back pad and can’t wait to get a surf in on it.
After a few years away from the water I came back about 3 years ago and got a seaside 5’11. Replacing a 1st gen dumpster diver 6’0 35L~. The seaside has been a lovely experience but really starting to feel like the board is not responding to me the way I am wanting. For reference I am 6’5 200lbs.
I am feeling like it’s hard to get good rail engagement unless I am super hard on the tail. But then if I do that, I feel like the board is almost bogging down and I lose the speed and drive of the board. I know I need to be a better surfer haha and get better at moving my back foot forward and back as needed. But surfing top to bottom even moderately front footed on the dumpster diver was much easier.
Would you say a dominator 2 6’2 37.8L be good option for me to get the float and stability I need as a bigger guy while still retaining enough performance on those knee-shoulder days in SoCal? Sorry for the rant, thanks for all that you do for the community!
Excellent review. Covered everything!
I find this board needs pretty groomed surf. Youre surfing pretty prime conditions here.
My experience has been the domintaor is so stiff its a tough board to surf when conditions have wobble shitty winds or some lump to contend with. My normal pu boards in similiar dims help correct my mistakes then.
@@AnonYmous-vu1lw Most EPS/Epoxy builds struggle in choppy surf. A PU/Poly will always feel better in messy surf.
probably my next short board. been missing my Activator ever since it snapped in half and no longer in stock. thx for the review!
You know your stuff mate,,looks like a great beach break board,,
Totally. Just tried it last week in 1-2 ft beach break. It's a gem.
it would be helpful to see your pop up into the waves to see how you read things and angle.
Hope to got one this christmas! :D
Nice review !!
Can you do the glazer too please!
Thanks
Waiting for Firewire to send boards. I ordered the Glazer months ago.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 can you compare it against the dominator 2.0?
When riding quads the configuration gives hold and drive.. You can ride upright fins front and back. Just a thought.. I'm guessing you already know 😂
I have a phantom thanks to you and love it. I’m wanting a fast board in the smaller stuff that will perform well. D2 up against the Medina. Break it down for me Noel. I would get either board in the same construction/dims as yourself (the 5’6 Medina not the 5’8).
I’m guessing the Medina might hold up when the waves get a bit bigger but not sure. Thanks for the extra Stoke you give us all mate 🏄♂️💙🤙
Uber driver was on my mind but I think these other options would be better going off your reviews as well. 🤔
Tough one.. both boards are insane! The D2 has a bit more exit rocker so it will handle 6’ surf better. The Medina carries more speed down the line but the D2 get in the lip quicker. I like the Durability of the HE tech and it’s really versatile with fin set ups. I say D2
great reviews! Can you try list the three top best groveler you’ve tried in the last 2-3 years? In maneuvers, speed, loose, responsibe.. thank you!
You can go to our website and click on my Favorites for the last 3 years. Here is the link to our site. Just click on Favorites and it’s broken down from year to year and you compare boards side by side. surfnshow.com/collections/2020-favorites-surfboards
I have this board for a few weeks. The quad was really fast but didn't have the bite/hold for the speed. As a thruster it's still fast and holds well. As a 2 plus 1 twin, simply heaven. The 2 plus 1 has the speed and the hold and is really more responsive for me. I tried it with MR twins and the new Mick Fanning twins and the Mick's were insane for speed and control. No matter the fin configuration this board is the magic board you never owned. BTW, I did place the traction pad as far back as I could to still be able to access to the leash plug.
Hey Ken. Thanks for your thoughts on this board. Do you prefer the MF twins+1 instead of MR's?
@@gugagusti I actually picked up some Machado 2 plus 1 fins and prefer them. The side fin's are slightly smaller than normal twins and the trailer fin is slightly longer than the MR and MF. It's like a thruster and twin fin combined. Hard to explain but I feel you get attributes from both. If I had to choose the MR's or M F's I'd go with the mf's
@@smacker360 Nice, I'll try the RM ones! Thx bro
Dom 2 Still your favourite board in 2023? Are you still riding the machado 2+1 in the Dom 2
@@tezf6883 I have 2 now and also have a RNF 96. The dominator 2 is the board I always go to so yes and still use the Machado 2+1. IMO, you can't go wrong with the Dominator 2, it's good in everything we get in Fl and holds it's own on the bigger days, ie. couple feet overhead.
Would having a Sci-fi 2.0 make this kind of redundant (cover same wave range)?
KInda.... however the Sci-Fi 2.0 is more difficult to surf and needs more of a wave to go good. This D2.0 is a sick 1 board quiver from 1-6' surf and I would choose it all day long over the Sci-Fi 2.0. Just saying.... the D2.0 is way faster and very nimble in tight little pockets. When you get into 5-7' surf the Sci-Fi will offer more hold in the pocket and traction off the bottom.
Hi Noel, thank you so much for the great reviews you make! I should find a new daily driver and I have sorted the options in three boards.
If building a one board quiver, which one would be the best: Dominator 2, Mini Ghost Squash tail, or Phantom?
If building 2 boards quiver (groveller + one board listed above) would you then choose the same board as well?
I am 187 lbs, 6’2 intermediate weekend worrior, surf in Europe.
Dominator 2 is my 1 board quiver… if you add a second board I say Phantom
Noel have you tried the Dan Mann fins as well as the FCS II H4 fins. Just wondering how they go. Seen a review of the Dominator II where they enjoyed the Machado Keel thruster setup as well. Reminded me of you twin/trailer setup. Great review as always.
I have tried any of those other fins. Sounds like the D2.0 is pretty versatile so get your favorite fins in there and give it a shred.
This board looks sick! Definitely my next one.
I would like to see a new shortboard model that you can't rip on. I'm guessing it doesn't exist.
I've converted to foiling 100% but this board makes me want to surf again.Great review Noel 🤙🏽
Great review !!! I would you compare it to the CI Neckbear II ?
NB2 is a good comparison.... the D2.0 is smoother from rail to rail with more flow but the NB2 is faster down the line due to it's wider tail block. The D2.0 has more hold off the bottom and through roundhouse cutbacks due to it having more tail rocker and a pulled in tail.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 im going to sell my nb2 and buy this board.they do something in the nb2 .the feens they took them 2 santimiter to the midel of the board.it means when you stand on the pad the feen is not under your heel.this what make the nb2 so unique.great review
Hi Noel How do it compare of astro pop and hydra? Which one will work well in 1-2' Beach break pocket?
Hydra does not go good in hollow waves due to the low rocker but it flies in 1-3' mushy waves and it will go faster compared to the AP and D2.0. The AP carries more speed 1-3' surf better compared to the D2.0 but the D2.0 can do turns in the pocket that the AP and Hydra can never do due to outline and rocker. You are trying to compare two Grovelers to a Daily Driver / Small Wave Performance board.
Always love your reviews and surfing...have the thinner rails taken anything out of the paddling power of the orginal Dom...aging surfer here with chronic golfers elbow tendonitis so i dont wanna lose anything off the paddle
Not sure... I never had the privilege to rodeo the OG Dominator
This board is magic.
What the difference between this board to the spitfire?thx
I have spitfire second hand that i going to buy but this review kill my mind.
Sorry I never tried the Spitfire. I have no opinion....
I've never surfed the Dominator 2.0, but I have a heluim Spitfire for some time and love it. It's fast, loose and fun. It turns really easy and glides with ease through flat sections.
It doesn't shine in hollow waves, as it tends to slide a bit.
But for general south CA waves it's super fun and pretty versatile.
@@rafamellinsosurfe402 i know.thx for the info.bro
@@surfnshowreviews7777 hey .if i ride the d2 in pu.is he be like this epoxy? I mean pu on this board will be the same as this construction?
@@rafamellinsosurfe402 what the wave rang for spitfire?
Thanks for the great review as always. Will you consider reviewing Sharpeye Modern 2.5?
Hey noel saw this video a couple days ago on the patreon page. Figured I would ask the question here for everyone to see. I am about to pull the trigger on a pyzel phantom xl in eps in almost the same exact dims as the dominator 2 at 6.0. as these two boards are favorites of yours which would you choose to be the better option in waist to slightly overhead conditions and why? Thanks for the reviews and great info! You make everyone want to get your favorite boards!
Both boards are epic!!! The Phantom is best in 3-7’ surf... it’s fast and likes to carve. It’s a great paddler and easy to surf with good foam under the front foot and chest.
The Dominator 2.0 Groveles better in 1-3’ surf.... it pivots fast and gets into the lip faster. I would say the Dominator 2.0 offers a bit more performance and it can be surfed more radical compared to the Phantom.
The Phantom is a bit more user friendly due to it being more stable with its wide point more front from center.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks for the input!
Noel, my deep respect for explaining so well to the community. For this particular Board, what are the exact model of fins your recommend. I do not want to get the wrong one.....
You want my 5 fin set. Hit the link below to check them out.
surfnshow.com/products/momentum-series-5-fin-set
Awesome review!
Nice show Noel. Looking forward yiur thoughts on the new Mashup board (mix of the seaside and the dominator).
Working on this review now
@@surfnshowreviews7777 woow!! Great!
Hello. Dominator 2 or sharpeye 72 FT for daily driver? Got a mini ghost round tail. Doesn’t hold when it turns on. 31 ltrs. Ghost 31.5ltrs holds in anything. Thinking Dominator in 30ltrs or Sharpeye 72FT 30.5ltrs. Am 10.5 stone average to good surfer.
The 72 offers more performance and hold off the bottom but I like the D2 better
Noel, your reviews make me want to buy every board you review. However, this one is it... I am 5’9 -170. I am old school in my thinking and because of you and what I’ve learned about volume and liters over dimensions. I am completely confused on what size board to get. Based on FireWire calculations I should be on 28.4L. I’ve always had 6’0 to 6’10’s for my Shortboards. Would you recommend the 5’7 at 29.8 or go 5’8 at 30.1? I am a happy Patreon...! Thanks for all you do. ✌🏼
Welcome to the family and thank you for the kind words. Here are some liter ranges according to skill level at your weight.
Pro/Expert = 27-29L
Advanced = 30-32
Intermediate = 33-35L
Do you have any idea what the volume might be onone of your 6’0” boards?
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Stoked... thanks for the response. My current shortboard is a little heavy volumed at 36V
@@jeffnoviello8316 The 5’9” or 5’10” will suit you better as they will be way more responsive compared to your 36L 6’0”.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 it’s done then. I’m on the hunt for the 5’9. You taking the time to respond speaks loudly to me and I’m sure many others. Mad respect. Thanks for what you do and see you in the water. 🤙🏼
Hi Noel, thanks for the reviews. I picked up a dominator 2. I don't have the funds to get a 2+1 and 5 fin set up. What do you recommend? Future box's and surfing beach breaks around HB and Oceanside. I'm probably and intermediate surfer. Thanks so much. Mike
@@mikedemaster5301 Get a set of my Pivot Twins + 1. Here is the link…
surfnshow.com/products/twin-fins-p-twin-1
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel, I'll let you know how it goes once we get swell.
Nice review. Board does look tidy.
as always, great stuff, Noel!
could you please share your thoughts on how the Dominator2 compares with other similar boards?
I wonder how do you feel about the D2 vs the Hydroshort or the Phantom. any thoughts?
thanks!
The Hydroshort surfs like a longer board compared to the D2.0. The Hydroshort is not a Groveler... it needs a wave to go good. The D2.0 will get into the lip way quicker and fits In tighter transitions better and it’s faster down the line with better flow compared to the Hydroshort
The D2.0 is quicker rail to rail compared to the Phantom. It will also get vertical easier due to it's wide point being back further compared to the Phantom. The Phantom will carve better and paddle better as it carries more foam under the chest and front foot. I believe the Phantom is easier to surf unless you get the D2.0 on the higher side of the liter range then it will offer a bit more control and be easier to surf.
Sick review Noel! I’m having a hard time deciding between the 5’8 and and 5’9. 31 liters is my sweet spot. I’m trying to get as much wave range as possible (Waist high beach breaks up to overhead and hollowish) so leaning 5’9. Do you agree? Was it a good float for its liters? Love the reviews 🤙
Go 5’9”
What does grovel mean?
And what are the major differences/improvements from the original dominator?
Groveling is surfing smaller weaker waves on a short board, when others may choose a longboard
@@gregschexnayder5630 Awesome. Thanks for that. That is a great word/usage. So glad I now know this. I’m sure I’ve groveled many a wave, unsuccessfully I might add.
@@gregschexnayder5630 Thank you for helping me
Hi Noel! Would you recommend going a bit lower volume due to lighter board on firewire? Or stay at your normal number?
Stay. Roughly normal.. you can go down 1/2 liter.
Look at the bobble in the bottom turn. Just snother Skimboard with fins. Youd be better off with a lil more length and narrow width.
Hey Noel,
like always awesome reviews, any thoughts on the D2 vs Seaside? Thanks
No comparison... D2.0 is a Daily Driver the surfs more like a HPSB. Seaside is a Fish. D2 will out surf the Seaside all day long in the pocket by design. The Seaside is faster down the line
@@surfnshowreviews7777 nice wouldn't be a bad idea to have both, thanks =D
Another great review thanks Noel, any chance you could review a pure groveler like the twice baked? Seems that Dan has some unique and interesting ideas, like shifting the wide point further back in combo with serious concaves and thinned out rails, to make a wide flat board perform differently to most. Would be great to get your take on it?
I tried his Chumlee and it would not do a legit turn. Sorry not feeling the Twice Baked
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel, in a way I guess that is a review or at least a point of view. It would be nice to surf on any given day at the best time and tide, but for weekend warriors like myself who can only manage a quickie in the evenings or take what's on offer on the weekends, a groveler is the only way to stay fit and stoked in less than ideal conditions. That said, if I want to know what goes best in better waves, I'll come here and to be clear I don't blame you for not wanting to surf crappy gutless waves on any board. looking forward to trying the dominator 2.0 in some better waves, cheers...
Hi!
great job as always!
I love the seaside 5:7 33,6 liters. I am 189 cm and 77 kg. 39 years old. Surfing in Sweden with a full thick 6/5 mm wetsuit. But also traveling a lot. The seaside is a favorite a I even have 5:9 for weaker waves.. I surf the holy grail when waves are getting a little to big or hollow for the seaside. But I am not as much in love with the holy grail as with me seaside. I have tested the cymatic and I am thinking about buying that board. But maybe dominator 2 would be an even better option. Would the cymatic be better compliment, work better when waves are bigger more hollow faster compared to dominator? I would say I am an intermediate surfer.
Hollow and faster waves I would go Cymatic
Hi Noel, what's the main difference between the Dominator 2.0 and Puddle Jumper HP? Which one would you go for?
Dom 2 offers way more performance and has a better wave range. I would go D2.
Noel, how would the Dominator 2.0 stack up against something like Uber Driver? Looking for a hybrid shortboard for when we get better swell in VB
Yes
Yes?
@@josephjones9783 ahaha
@@josephjones9783 The Dominator 2.0 is faster and has more flow compared to the Sub Driver. I like the Dominator better due to it fitting in tighter pockets better. The D2 is a better Groveler
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for clarifying, I’m gonna look at picking up one of these, look like they fixed everything wrong with the 1st gen
Hey noel awesome vid again if you had to pick a daily driver one board quiver are you going with the hs holy hyptp or the dominator 2.0 ?
@@Undergroundffn Both boards are epic. I say Holy Hypto for more performance in the pocket. For more speed down the line I say D2
@@surfnshowreviews7777 oh yup ok is the holy hyptp forgiving to surf tho kinda like the hyptp how ypu can just jump on and surf?
@@Undergroundffn The OG Hypto is easier with its hybrid outline. The HH is easy to surf compared to HPSB’s.
Hello Noel! Thanks for your videos! Helps a lot!
What are the main differences between D2 and the Spitfire?
Awesome review as always Noel. Love the outline on this board. I have No Brainer and love that board as well. What are the major differences between the two in your opinion? For reference i am riding a stock No Brainer at 5' 6" and 28.7 liters.
No Brainer carries more down the line speed but the D2.0 is excellent top to bottom in the pocket. The No Brainer has to be surfed hard off the tail to surf a 3-5' wave in the pocket well. I think the No Brainer is best in 1-3' Surf and when it gets over 3' I want something else. The D2.0 is mental in 2-6" surf and I would even enjoy surfing it in 1-2' mushy waves due to its quickness from rail to rail.... I also like how short it is so I can get it in the lip quickly.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Mahalo for your reply! I do agree that the No Brainer commands you to surf it off the back foot in waves with more pocket/juice. Makes sense since it has a really flat entry rocker- if there is any entry rocker at all lol.
Appreciate your response and insight. D2.0 definitely looks like a one board quiver. In that case, might need to find a way to get 2 of them lol. Have a good one.
Nice review. I've had the old one for years. A 6'2". Since I have vastly improved. I'm 5'11" and 160 pounds. Was thinking of getting the 5'10". What do you reckon. Love the twin set up with the trailer. Thanks.
Your Liter Range is roughly 31-33.
Dude, where do you surf? You local wave always looks so clean and peeling nicely 👌
obviously el porto
@@vznquest hahahahahaha
Hey mate great review as always. Just wondering where you got your board stand from?
Alright I’ll be the first to ask. This or Flat Earth for typical SoCal beach break? Obviously dom2 is more versatile for fin options. Is the wave range the same or will the D2 grovel better?
I'm pretty sure the twin will grovel better based on the fins alone but if you're talking about the kind of SoCal beach break close outs I have to deal with the dominator will probably be better at going vertical on the lovely one turn waves.
great review - definitely on my radar - was the 3 fin set up as good as the other 2 when you fixed the pad?
It offered better pivot but it lacked a bit of flow and speed compared to the Quad and Twin + Trailer.
Hi Noel,
Another great review as always! Already bought the Ultra Joe because of your review on that board, and I love riding it, Thanks! Now I am looking for slightly more performance and want to take my surfing to the next level (I am an intermediate surfer and want to make my turns more critical and better in the pocket surfing). I mostly surf waves in the 1-6ft range (in Portugal), and the DM2 seems perfect for that 2-5ft beach break range which I surf 80% of the time (I own a Lost Rocket V3 5.8 28.55L for the 3-7ft range and an Ultra Joe 5.7 30.9L for the 1-4ft range), I weigh 157lbs and am 5.8 and I am doubting for quite a while already if I should get the DM2 in 5.6 (28L) or 5.7 (29.4) (according to the Firewire website I should ride approx. 30L, but that is a general measure for all their boards). I never surfed Helium but I think you mentioned it adds another 0.5L (feeling-wise). If it would not add this 0.5L I would have opted for the 5.7 but I don't know if this extra buoyancy in Helium2 tech prevents me from making sharper turns as it sits on the surface a bit more. I am currently still leaning towards getting the 5.7 (catching more waves/paddling), my question however: will I still get enough performance out of the 5.7, I don't want it to feel too clunky. And is there not too much overlap with my Lost Rocket V3?
Maybe there is barely a difference between the DM2 5.6/5.7 and I am overthinking it, but I am set on making the right decision because this one completes the quiver :)
Appreciate the review in any case, helpful already, thanks!
The 5’6” at 28L will float like your Rocket....28.5L. The 5’7” will float like 30L. If your Rocket floats you good and you catch a lot of waves then you could easily surf the 5’6”.The 5’7” will offer a bit more stability with a little more width and rail line. Go with your gut here... if your leaning towards the 5’7” then get it.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for the quick reply and advice Noel! Appreciate it. Would you say if you compare the Rocket and the DM2 same liters, would the DM2 be more responsive (easier to turn) due to the ultra-light Helium 2 tech?
@@stolkkj Easier to turn for sure but more from the board design. The D2 is fast and loose.... the HE tech is light so it will be easier for you to turn it quickly there too.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Sounds great, excited to surf the DM2!! Sounds loose and lively. Thanks for helping me out there. 🤙
Noel, which would you choose out of the JS BB3 and the Dom 2.0? How do they compare?
The D2 blows doors on the BB3. The D2 is faster, smoother rail to rail, and shreds 2-6’ surf compared to the BB3. The BB3 is a bit sluggish compared to the D2.... the BB3 does not grovel well and I think the stock dims on the BB3 are a bit long for it to fit in 2’ surf.
Hi Noel hope ur doing very well...think this would be perfect for me ans love the review...I'd like to set it up as a quad and use ur momentum series quad set up...could you direct me to the link to the front and rear quad fins!!!! Keep up the fantastic work!!!!!
Absolutely... here’s the link! Cheers
www.shopsurfnshow.com/collections/fins/products/momentum-series-5-fin-set
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thank you x!
Top review always super clear! Im thinking about adding this dominator 2 or a holy grail to my quiver, I mostly ride hk but at advance level, now looking for something more vertical, someone has owned both?
I like the D2 better. It’s silky smooth, pivots quickly, and super easy to shred.
I hope to see your momentum fins for us large guys. 200+
Working on it.... prototypes coming soon.
Great review Noel thanks for your work! Was thinking of getting Medium JJF tech flex thruster for this board, what you think?
Sure... I like the Jon Pyzel 5 fin set or my 5 fin set better... silky smooth. You can check them out here.
www.shopsurfnshow.com/collections/fins/products/momentum-series-5-fin-set
how would you compare it to the Hayden Shapes holy grail?
Need a board to go with my Firewire 5'8 seaside. what do you recommend, and what size (6'1, 80kg +6mm wetsuit, intermediate)?
Was thinking 5'11 or 6'0 dominator, since I like the 5'8 seaside with it's high volume (35.4L).
I would say 33-35L is a good range for you at your weight and skill level in a 3/2mm full suit. Since your wearing so much rubber stay on the higher side like 35-36. Similar volume to your Seaside.
I like the Dominator 2.0 better than the HG. It’s quicker in the pocket and it’s faster down the line. The D2 also has better flow rail to rail... just a smoother ride.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thank you for taking the time to reply! 😊
Love the review!!
Question- on a regular size day at your home surf break for a free surf, what board are you grabbing? Modern twin? Dominator 2.0? Just curious....
Hi, Noel. When you removed the pad, did you used any particular product to remove any glue that may have stayed in the board?
Yes... I like a solvent called Goo Gone. It’s a spray you can find at most stores. Get the Pro Formula.... it’s good stuff and it will not hurt the board. After you get all the glue off you need to lightly sand the board surface to remove the Goo Gone solvent.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you so much for spreading the knowledge. Love this show...keep it going ✌
man that was a great review. Not sure which would be better for NJ surf, the original or this one? When I asked you about the Sci fi 1 and 2 you suggested the original Dominator. which do you think?
Dominator 2
Dom 2 or Driver XL? What ya wreakon Noel.
D2 is my choice
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks man, I just thought my debit card has changed so I havent been re-newing my patreon membership. On it now.
Hello noel, as always thank you !!!
I have a question how can I get a small fins, like the one you use in the twin fins AKILA configuration min13:46 .
since I try to search in the future, and they do not sell trailer.
Thanx bro!!! keep surfing!!!
Any trailer will work... it’s just to stabilize the board and keep it from sliding. You can use a plastic fin if needed.
Chances are a local shaper can you help you with board selection. Unless you surf lowers everyday.
Hi Noel, just wondering which board you like more, Pyzalien 2 or the D2. I’m having trouble deciding which one to get for mostly 3-5ft beach breaks.
I like the D2 better... both boards are sick though.
Sold! Needed that confirmation - time to grab one 🙌
Picked my D2 up yesterday! Too bad we have no swell on the east coast of Australia right now though...
Hey Noel, one more quick question... Would you say the Dominator II has a range more similar to the Gremlin or the Phantom by Pyzel?
Tye D2 is better on the lower range 2-6’ range. The Phantom is better in 3-7’ surf
How does it compare to the hydroshort, seems like they both have the same wave range?
D2 will grovel way better in 1-2’ mushy waves. The Hydroshort needs a wave to go good.... its best in 3-6’ surf.
Hey Noel ,This looks a great board ,Iam about 103 kilos,56 years old and want a good paddling board I've been riding a 6'8 sunfish for 10 years (and been surfing for 37 years) which is about 47 litres,i want a board that can handle some solid 5-6 foot steep drops and have hold in the barrel but still want a board that I can use on 2 to 3foot days. What board would you recommend and what's the best board you've tested?
The D2.0 is epic... not sure how you will like EPS.... it feels a bit different than PU/Poly. I think you will like the D2 and also have a look at the Phantom by Pyzel. The Phantom is best in 3-7’ surf and the D2 is best in 2-6’ surf.
Nice oneeee yewww. What board you d pick between this and Rocket Wide spinetek ? :)
I like the D2 better.... it’s faster and smoother rail to rail. I also like the durability of the FW HE tech.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 whaooo big statement here then !
I miss the inclusion of FCS Fins. I think the majority of your followers would use FCS. Have you tried to get FCS to offer your fins?
You can get our HP Keels and our MS-R in Two Tab to fit your FCSII plugs. We will offer Two Tab on our Neutral Template and Quad Rears after the first of the year.
No I have not talked to FCS about doing our fins....
Hey Noel, I've got a Dominator 2 and love it! Just got a CI Fishbeard and was thinking of adding a round tail to the collection. What's your pick for a round tail for waves chest to a bit over head high?
Cheers!
Driver 2.0
Hey Mark, I’m going to by ci fishbeard and dominator 2,0. What is your spot where you surf - is it beach break? Thank you.
Hey Mark. Is a spot you surf - beach break ?
Hi Noel, I'm heading to Costa Rica for 2 weeks. I took a 5'10 quiver killer to Nicaragua last year and really liked it. I also just got a 5'8 dominator 2 and have been really enjoyingit as well. Any suggestions on which I should take? Flying jet blue so only 1 board ALLOWED in the bag. Looking to have fun, thanks!
Dominator 2 without a doubt
Awesome thanks so much for doing this, it is really appreciated!
Hey Noel , I’m 145 lbs would I still go large performers up front or mediums? Along with medium reactors quad rears ?
I say medium front fins and medium quad rears
Finally bought your quad fin setup wow the search is over for the best fin setup felt so smooth and playful in transition should of made this move an year ago
@@NCsurfer607 Yewww… so stoked you like them. Thank you for posting
What surf stand are you using? Also, great content as always!!!
It’s sold by Boardraxx.com
Curious how you feel about this board vs the Pyzel Gremlin?
@@alegzable D2 offers more performance in the pocket. The G grovels better
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks a lot for answering! Seems I need both :D
@@alegzable Great 2 board quiver for 1-6’ surf
What fcs fins would you recommend for this board ?
Hi Noel,
I'm looking for something more performancy to sit above a Lost Hydra. Would you recommend this or something like a Pyzel Phantom?
Same! But with the Seaside. Love to see your thoughts here Noel
@@coreybyrum I have a Seaside and Dominator II. I think the D2 has a better upper end than the Seaside, and is more like a traditional shortboard. I surf my Seaside so much that when I first got the D2 it seemed long and narrow. Both are the same volume.
The D2 paddles really well and is quite fast and easy to surf. I surfed the D2 for most of the run of swell we've had the last couple months and it went really good. Today was the first time I surfed it in smaller waves (waist to chest high), and I would've definitely picked the seaside instead.
I haven't tried the Phantom, but I had an OG Pyzalien. The Pyzalien was PU, and could handle chop/wind better than the D2. The D2 is a bit faster and easier to paddle. I really like the Seaside and D2 for southern CA waves.
I would pick the SS/D2 combo over the Pyzalien since I think the D2 has a better lower range, and if the waves are smaller than expected (which is usually the case here), the D2 would handle it better. I think to maximize wave range a Seaside/Pyzalien or Phantom combo would be better.
Hey Noel, got the 5’7 dominator 2 recently.
Only had a few sessions on it. I’m 5’10 weighing 65kg / 143 lbs, intermediate surfer.
After watching your review I decided to get the quad setup (endorphins KS1) but struggling to get much pivot from the board.
Just wondered if it was due to poor foot placement as I’ve moved the pad as far back as you did in case I wanted to run the thruster setup and just not getting it right when popping up or if the fins are a little too stiff for me.
Yet to try it as a thruster but given I’m surfing weak 2-4 ft, 9s period swell, in the carribean thought I’d test the quad setup first for more lift.
Or do you reckon I just rip the pad and have one just for the quad setup a bit further up.
Try a Thruster set up before you rip off the pad
Hi Noel,
Thank's for the great reviews.
I was wondering if the new dominator was a good bet coming from a subscoarcher at 32,5 lt. i'm looking for something more sparkling and fun to use, something defenetely more dynamic.
I'm also considering changing my Bottomfeeder for the low range.
Do you think a Seaside 5'8 will cover me from grovelling to head high, or should I go for Hydra/puddle jumper and than chosing in between the seaside and D2 for better surf?
Thank's
The D2.0 and Seaside is a sick two board quiver.
@@surfnshowreviews7777 hi Noel, Thank's for the reply.
Can t wait to surf them!!
After watching this review it sounds like everything I’m looking for in a board,
If i ride a 6’1 phantom with 34.5L
Should I get the d2.0 around the same liters or go lower or higher? I’m 6’0 and weigh 170
I can catch waves with the phantom relatively easy
You can go roughly the same... your liter range is roughly 32-34
Hi Noel, frothing on the D2 and probably overthinking about sizing it so wanted to consult with you about it.
I am 77kg intermediate and riding JS BB3 5’11 32.1L (PU) and Seaside 5’7 33.6L. both boards have the center point forward from center, while the D2 has it back. So I am a little concerned about paddling.
Contemplating between D2 5’10 33L vs 5’11 34L.
Thank you!
Go 5’10” for sure
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thank you!
@@surfnshowreviews7777 Just ordered from Firewire!
One more question, if you were to choose one set of fins which one would you choose? Quad/thruster/2+1?
Thanks again.
@@jose2x784 If you are a Quad guy then I would choose my 5 fin set. Silky smooth and very fast. Do you them being a 5 fin set you can go Quad or Thruster. Check them out here…
surfnshow.com/products/momentum-series-5-fin-set
@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks for the help, took a look at your fins, what is thier ride number on Futures?