The Dominator II is an exciting evolution of a classic favorite, revisiting the staple design that has been a key part of Firewire’s lineup—and many surfers’ quivers—since 2008. This updated version enhances the original’s versatility and performance, making it better suited for a wider range of wave conditions.
The most noticeable change is the shift from a round tail to a squash tail, which offers a blend of smooth rail-to-rail transitions and improved release during turns. The rails have been subtly refined to be more performance-oriented, providing sharper control and responsiveness without sacrificing the board’s forgiving nature. The bottom contour features the familiar concave under the front foot, which then transitions into a subtle double-barrel concave with a V exit in the last five inches, helping to maintain drive and fluidity out the tail.
While the designer traditionally favored round tails for smoothness, the squash tail on the Dominator II proves it can deliver both seamless transitions and added turn release, striking a perfect balance for performance-oriented surfers seeking versatility.
Pros:
Updated squash tail offers a mix of smooth transitions and turn release
Refined rails enhance control and responsiveness
Bottom contours balance drive and fluidity for versatile performance
Works well across a wider range of conditions compared to the original
Maintains the forgiving feel that made the Dominator a classic
Cons:
Squash tail may feel less traditional for surfers who prefer round tails
Not a radical redesign—subtle updates may not appeal to those seeking a completely new feel
Best suited for surfers comfortable with mid-performance shortboards
Summary:
The Dominator II builds on the legacy of the original with smart refinements that boost its versatility and performance. Its squash tail and refined rails provide a fresh take on smooth, flowing turns with added release, making it a reliable choice for surfers who want a clean, modern update to a proven classic. Perfect for those looking to ride a board that excels across many conditions without losing its signature forgiving nature.
