Bob,
Well the great thing is that you have so many options. If you have never surfed before you will eat something with a little more volume. I'm thinking a happy medium might be somewhere between a baked potato and spitfire. With that, make check out the potatonator. It's a great light wind board but also surfs easy and well in a large variety of surf. Focus on the hybrids and non performance boards for your level and abilities. With your size maybe look at the 508-600 range. I am 215 lbs and can surf the 510 with ease but usually kite a few inches smaller. The spitfire is another great board and will have a bit more performance yet still work very well on those 11m days. For pricing shoot me an email at [email protected]. I'll conmect you with FireWire direct.

"G"

Tom,

Yes you can. Email [email protected] and send your request on any size they have listed. All orders are done online through direct with FireWire. On cost, please email me directly at [email protected]. Thanks Tom.

Al still a lot of boards to choose from in similar shape. Take a look at the spitfire. I have surfed both and they rock in very identical conditions.

Go grab a pickle from a local surf shop...it makes the job easy.

http://picklewaxremover.com/pickle_wax_remover.html

Good question...why not just use the screws that came with your board?

Sorry guys...day to day life jobs sometimes delay in our timing for responses. You both are looking at a few months for full production...we are almost there and have the last proto being tested by Felix I believe. They should be about 1-2 lb lighter then the current kite construction.

Also, the custom board strapless option will be available around the time we approve the final strapless board...Jackknife is on the list for a strapless/strapped model (have to review my notes and maybe Brian can confirm). Also need to see what size we decided on.

Mike, regarding carbon on the FST surfboards for kiting...carbon on the foot areas and along the bottom stringer.

works well eh!

Deadcod,

With your size I would look at either the 511 KP1 or the 506 Hellfire. The Hellfire would go upwind a lot easier being that you throw a quad setup in the board or a tri...traditionally unless your a light weight and the wind is strong, the Tri setup won't go upwind as well. Plus you have the double concave working for you as well on the 506 Hellfire. In my experience, the Hellfire is a more versatile board, but everyone's style differs.

Not sure on the weight, but I would definately go for the 506 Hellfire Mark! We are discontinuing the dominator...and have better shapes coming soon. The 501 Baked Potato is due shortly as well!

YUP! That is the plan gents. It will be awesome. We have proto V2 coming out in a few weeks and that should be the final layout. Stay tuned.

I will be honest jibe, The 506 probably has as much low wind or more than the 6 quad due to that double concave on the under deck. Both boards are sweet...but the 506 will be much more versatile. Your call.

I think there are more riders out there that are in your same boat. Once you drop the straps it almost because natural to just get on the board and ride, no matter the conditions. It is always a challenge. Yea, straps can be fun at times, but maybe keep that one FW board in the quiver with inserts...and look forward to a lighter more high performance shape and is your strapless go to.

Thanks Francois

Well, we just have the 506 and 510. I have a proto 508 Alternator that I am zeroing in and it is a great thruster. It is shorter than the Kp1 but .1 more volume and a better outline.

We have a lot of boards we are working on for strapless vs strapped as seen in that link. One other option we are considering very strongly is the ability for any of you riders to purchase any shape, any size, custom...in a kite layout.

The only issue that we see is the lead time for shipping. If you are willing to wait around 2 months for that magical shape...a great thing could be lined up for you. Thoughts?

Yes! We are working on the strapless thing...hang in there. We are aware that riders out there desire light weight boards, but some enjoy the heavier. We are trying to find that happy medium and are developing both types. Stoked you like the Hellfire, great board.

It should be a good add just in time for the new season. Also keep out for a few more models to span our quiver.

Attachment

Attachment South of the border at the 510 Hellfire

Without question as Felix mentions, get the Hellfire. The double concave will show when going upwind and releasing at the bottom turns to go vertical. The board is magic.

*wait. :)

Mike,

I would wait if your a strapless monkey. You will benefit much from the lighter weight and performance if pure surf is what you focus on!

We are looking into the model and it will most likely only be offered in strapless without straps to keep the weight down. Sizing TBD but it will be something usable for all rider types. Stay tuned! We are currently loaded with a few projects and R&D so thank you for your patience.

As Felix and Brian said, try out that Hellfire...its the dominator with more added benefits such as upwind, drive, and all over performance. If your intention is get into the surf more, the Hellfire will help aid in that goal.

YUP! We are working on that. A proto should be testing soon...very stoked on this shape and we think it will be pretty unbelievable under a kiter's feet. Stay tuned for some good stuff in early 2013!

Sorry to hear about that! As B said, get that Hellfire. Greatest all around ride on the line currently. It is so versatile you will be stoked!

All your points are all valid. This is why you can look forward to a few boards in the kite line remaining with inserts and a few without. We will see how the kite population reacts, especially to a lighter and more lively board without strap inserts. Lighter is always better for the most part, but we do understand that those hairy days just feel better knowing that board is locked under your feet. More experienced riders will venture to the strapless models. I myself will never go with straps unless the surf is flat and I just need to get some boosting out of my system. Over time you will see that strapless in big surf can be just as fun as in small. Sometimes a leash as well will keep that board close, sometimes too close :)

Keep a lookout on the future models. We have a proto KP1 out right now that Brian and Felix are testing and it is about 1-2 pounds lighter than the current production insert model. Whether his board withstands the brunt of kiting, only time will tell, but we can assure you we are testing as much as possible to find that magic formula. Keep in mind, Firewire is dedicated to building a board that lasts where the owner can rely on this board for many seasons. We don't want to compromise weight with strength, but at the same time there is a fine line and a realistic point where a board will snap under certain conditions. We are trying to zero in that recipe so that you riders get the best product possible.

Enno,

Try an NSI package on that hellfire. The wave lace from Dakine also works well. Make sure your put pads on your deck prior to screwing in for extra protection.

Birdz,

We are working on the weight issue...so stand by. We have some good stuff coming. Some boards are meant to be strapless...some strapped. Regarding the screw issue...we will take a look at that and correct the problem....if there is one. I have had no issues if I put on straps (which is rarely). Hellfire does rock!

Hey boys,

Hellfires perform insane in the surf, all sizes, shapes, and girth :) It is my primary board as I am also 6'5" and 210-215 lbs. The 506 Hellfire works nearly as well in lighter winds, but that 510 will get you that extra planing. The concave on the bottom really helps with upwind. In my personal opinion, I would ride this over any other board in our quiver because it is so versatile...but Felix and Brian are hooked on the KP1! It is personal preference...but if you got some weight on yourself...steer towards the hellfires! You will surprised even with the 506 how well it does.

The 600 quadraflex also does awesome in light winds...and is somewhat comparable to the hellfire in that respect. If you are interested in this board...we are dropping them for $500 each...so shoot us a PM if interested.

Cheers!

As Brian said we would cover different models as a lighter strapless model but still keep a few bombproof for those who demand the straps/weight for gnarly conditions.

That is the perfect world Stayfan. There is a balance we must achieve. Most of the kiting world, at least here in the Western states in the US is pushing more towards strapless for the technical tricks and purest stoke similar to surfing. I think most riders out there would be frothing over a board that was lighter, just as strong, more flex, and the traditional Firewire feel we see in the surf lineup.

EFFISK,

That is an interesting remark. I personally have never heard of the empty fin boxes creating any type of drag. You may be correct, but I really don't think they do...being that a 5 fin setup has been going long enough even on the surf side of things. They do make inserts...but again, I really don't think they create a negative force on kiting. I have been using a 5 fin for quite some time and have never noticed it. Enjoy!

BIRDZ,

I wouldn't worry about the fin boxes...future makes standard sizes and they have never changed since the existence of the company. We don't change any dimensions...there has been a few discussions regarding this for some reason. If you buy a fin set from future they will fit properly in the fix boxes. A 5 fin set just has the third center thruster set up fin, but again in the standard size for a thruster setup. If you want to use a different fin in the box that is shallower...you can always add the future fin shim.

definately, no problem. Its a solid board. Suprisingly, the 506 hellfire performs nearly the same kite wise as the 510...just may be a little bit different for surfing. Just do note the kiteboards are a bit heavier than the surfboard due to the bombproof construction we have going. Have fun!

Felix hit it...unfortunately this is why we don't push ridin the surfboards for kiting because the strength for kiting is just not there. You would need to add some carbon or additional strength, but why when we have the kite models built to last who knows how long?

The Dom has more volume but I must say the hellfire is a much more fun and all around better kiteboard...it in my opinion rockets up wind the easiest and works insane from light to high nuking winds. I'm 210 lbs and this is all I ride and haven't touched my Dom in about a year...

Stayfan, read the website for some info on the construction. Cheers!

Stayfan,

Most of the materials are posted on the website...the secret is a firewire recipe I can't disclose...We are constantly working and trying to find something that is lighter and more flexible. We finally found a bullet proof construction, now is the time to refine it and continue to improve.

Maigais,

If the 510 is too small...go to the 506. You will be surprised in the capabilities even compared to the 510...knock those 4 inches off.

Sounds great Jerome! Spread the stoke on the forums!!!

I don't think so...I think you would be fine on the 506...def the 511. Hellfire is a great board...go onto the Firewire surfboard site and plug in your weight/skill level into the volume calc and check it out!

As Felix says...you will go nuts on that 506!!! I AM 6'4" and 215 lbs and use the 506 as my primary board!

Ben,

The KP1 is a great option for your size, but maybe look into the 506 Hellfire as well. It may be a little more versatile in a variety of conditions, from light to heavy in wind and surf. It comes with a 5 fin setup which gives you the option to go a thruster or quad setup. The KP1 thruster is a powerful and traditional surf shape which you will be happy with as well. I would say the Hellfire is ultimately a solid option as a lot of people are stoked on the versatility.

Hey Shredder,

I am 6'4" and about 215-220 lbs depending on the day. I ride the 506 Hellfire mostly, but also have been riding the new 511 Hellfire quite a bit. Surprisingly, the 506's shape and volume outline lets it ride on top of the water magically for the lighter conditions and performs like a dream when powered up in nuking conditions. All in all, the Hellfire in whichever size (take in consideration your abilities) is a choice no rider can go wrong with. I have guys here frothing over the 506. Some riders enjoy a little more foam under their feet. You will be surprised! Also, the upwind ride on the Hellfire is easy pie.

Hellfire. Easy answer. :) Either the 510 or 506 depending on size, but both are a breeze to jibe on. Taj def for more advanced riders and higher wind conditions.

Richard,

The Hellfire is a great crossover board for all conditions. I have ridden the 506 in high winds and large surf and had no issue whatsoever. It formed VERY well and I thought it excelled in those conditions. I have yet to give the 510 a try in solid surf, but I would imagine it performs quite similar as it's younger version...4" longer but not a ton more volume. The little added extra volume really helps with the larger rider and lighter conditions. I have no doubt it will be insane in higher winds and large surf.

Chop is just fine. Foot adjustment is crucial on all strapless boards in chop to balance your weight in each type of condition. They have enough weight to really plow through the chop well. I see no issues with flat water with any of the quiver.

As Brian points out...or let me start over. Ill answer your question. 510 Hellfire :)

As Brian said the 602 is a higher wind board, the Hellfire is a better all around board. Throw it in a quad setup and sore upwind. It can be high performance and push the limits in nuking conditions but also be a great planing board in light wind. Great all around choice and throws airs nice.

They should be here in the US now or quickly...I will follow up and let you know ASAP!

Tony, as Brian mentions below...for sure go with a Hellfire...they are a great crossover for high performance as well as lighter conditions...and don't discount the 510 that just came out...I am 220 LBs and this board is more than enough foam.

I would take this board over the dominator any day...but my personal choice.

Thanks!

Trep1,

prjwebb is right on. Contact Myles and he can give you a good estimate. I know the 510 has just arrived in the US, so Europe is just behind. Any other questions, shoot us a message!

Claudio,

Are you near Huntington? If so, just order direct from the website and the headquarters is here in North San Diego at Firewire. Also, if you are interested, check out the firewire page for a chance to be a Firewire Ambassador which gets you two boards a year at $500 a piece!

I understand the frustration on the strap insert placement...we hopefully resolved a lot of riders issues by increasing the number of holes in the front.

We can't really do custom orders at this time, but the future holds promise for custom boards like the Surf side, but that is a ways out still. It has always been a frustrating thing to ride with straps in those marginal conditions where foot placement does come in hand for going upwind and tacking. For light wind conditions, since I ride in similar...look at the new 510 hellfire for some good volume, and throw the quad setup in for easier upwind tacks.

That is great! tell him to grab a kite!

That would be a great for a wave quiver Slack. Any other questions, let us know!

The Surf and Kite forum have been 'fused' together but they are separate...this thread is in the 'kite' forum.

Slack,

You are preaching to the choir my friend. I am 6'4", 215 lbs and live in Southern Cal...thus I understand the light wind issues. The KP-1 will definitely not be a light wind weapon unless you are a small grom or rider. Even then, a thruster setup will always be worse in light wind conditions for tacking.

Put in this way, I ride the 506 Hellfire in 15-18 mph in the quad setup powered, going upwind. It has plenty of volume and is an all around great board. Although it is a 506, you will find it floats well. I am looking forward to the 510 Hellfire as my new lighter wind weapon...and 4" shouldn't be a big deal because a 510 is still pretty small and snappy.

If you are under 200 lbs, stick with the 506, if you are over, go with the 510. I tested the pro to 510 last year for a solid season and was stoked on it. Everyone will be frothing when they get their paws on it.

There might be some variation in the board lineup for the future, but for now, the Hellfire is the way to go.

Even consider the 506 and 510, meaning using the 506 as a replacement for the KP-1. It all depends on your riding style, but the KP-1 is definitely a wave slayer and will be more happy in top to bottom surf.

If you end up with the KP-1, make sure you get a deviant fin for your thruster setup...it will act like a quad for upwind ability, and be loose off the bottom and off the top...

Cheers.

Claudio,

Thanks for the feedback. At this time I am not sure this would be possible for a custom order. We have over the course of the past year or so adjusted the foot placement to be optimum for riding for all types of riders. There is about 3-4" of play I believe for adjustment which should be enough. The best option to avoid all this anyways is to ride strapless, but obviously not all riders are without straps. The problem with straps in general is that regardless of the conditions, when you set the straps, they are set...unless you come to the beach, unscrew, and move/adjust. This is time consuming thus we feel we have the right placement currently.

We recently increased the number of holes on the front strap to (5) on the front and (4) in the rear to add some more room for adjustment as well.

Do you currently have a FW board and have you tried the strap placement?

Tony,

If you want, contact Firewire direct and they can set you up with a quad 5. It is just a newer model with an added fin box as Brian pointed out...and I think we got some in stock. It is a great board all around. I tend to like the quad for upwind ability and versatility. Let us know if you got any more questions! We are just getting started with the new forum and ambassador program, so if you haven't, sign up!

I second that! Upwind machine!