Firewire Boss Up
The Firewire Boss Up is Dan Mann’s high-performance midlength designed for surfers who want exceptional paddle power, down-the-line speed, and a board that handles everything from fun, waist-high runners to solid overhead surf with confidence. Loosely inspired by Mann’s famous Seaside & Beyond and elements of his performance shortboard designs, the Boss Up blends glide and maneuverability into one incredibly versatile shape.
If you're looking for a midlength that isn’t just about cruising — but actually lets you turn hard, pump through sections, and surf aggressively — the Boss Up is one of the most refined options available today.
Who Is the Firewire Boss Up For?
- Surfers wanting a high-performance midlength with tons of built-in speed.
- Those coming from shortboards who want more foam without losing maneuverability.
- Midlength riders wanting something with more bite, response, and hold.
- Travelers looking for a board that works in a huge range of waves.
Design Features
Streamlined Midlength Outline
- Sleek, pulled-in nose for control in tight pockets and late drops.
- Refined midsection gives it glide and smooth projection.
- Squash-style tail for strong drive and tighter turning radius.
Rocker Profile
- Moderate entry rocker — easier paddling and early wave entry.
- Neutral mid rocker — generates effortless speed.
- Performance tail rocker — helps it carve and control in powerful surf.
Bottom Contours
- Single concave under the chest for lift and acceleration.
- Double concave through the fins for drive and bite.
- Light vee exiting the tail for smooth rail-to-rail movement.
Fin Setup
The Boss Up is commonly built with a 5-fin setup:
- Thruster: best control and pivot in powerful surf.
- Quad: maximum speed and hold, especially in running points or clean reef waves.
Construction Options
Most Firewire Boss Up boards come in lightweight, durable constructions such as:
- Helium: super light and lively flex pattern.
- Ibolic: faster pop and enhanced strength.
- Volcanic: basalt cloth for superior durability and controlled flex.
Ideal Wave Conditions
- Knee-high cruising with tons of glide.
- Shoulder-high, playful waves where you want to carve.
- Solid overhead surf where extra length helps you commit.
- Perfect for point breaks, reef setups, and open-face beach breaks.
Sizing Notes
Choose your Boss Up size based on your surfing style:
- Shortboarders: go 1–4 inches longer than your daily driver.
- Midlength riders: ride shorter for performance, longer for glide.
- Returning surfers: choose higher volume for wave count and easy paddling.
Not sure? We’ll size it perfectly for your height, weight, and local waves.
Compare the Boss Up
- Firewire The Gem – More traditional longboard feel.
- Firewire Groove – A more subtle, user-friendly midlength.
- Shop All Midlengths
Shipping & Pickup
We ship Firewire surfboards nationwide with live UPS rates. Typical ranges:
- Under 5'11": $65–$120
- Over 5'11" or 21"+ wide: $150–$240
Free pickup options:
- Los Angeles in-store pickup
- Free Central Coast pickup (Santa Barbara, Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Lompoc)
Buying from Rider Shack supports a small, surfer-owned, family-run core surf shop.
Firewire Boss Up FAQ
Is the Boss Up good for beginners?
It’s best for intermediate and advanced surfers. Beginners may prefer a soft-top or a more stable, flatter midlength.
What construction is the Boss Up available in?
Most models come in Helium, Ibolic, or Volcanic, depending on availability and size.
Is the Boss Up a longboard alternative?
Yes — it paddles nearly as well as a longboard but surfs far more aggressively and turns tighter.
What fin setup works best?
Thruster for control and tight turns. Quad for maximum speed and hold.
Does the Boss Up work in overhead surf?
Absolutely — it was designed with feedback from surfers riding it in strong, open-face waves.
