FIREWIRE MACHADO XTRA CADO HELIUM - MID LENGTH

Rob Machado Mid Length Xtra Cado by Firewire Surfboards

The Xtra Cado by Firewire Surfboards is the midlength evolution of the Machadocado, designed by Rob Machado for those who want a board between a shortboard and a longboard, with plenty of glide without sacrificing performance.

It maintains the spirit of the original model, but "stretched out": more length, a straighter outline, and volume well distributed under the chest for easy paddling and catching waves with very little effort.

More speed and glide

The straight outline generates speed in soft sections and helps hold the line when the wave lacks push. The forward volume clearly improves paddling and gets you up sooner, ideal if you don't want to fight for every takeoff in everyday surf.

Bottom designed for easier turning

It features a deep single concave that transitions into a double concave with vee between the fins, a combination that makes the board plane early and transition from rail to rail very smoothly. This means it isn't the typical "egg" midlength that only goes straight: it allows for wide carves and tighter turns when you put pressure on your back foot.

Wide but responsive tail

The wide squash tail provides stability and speed out of the flat sections of the wave, while the rails thin out significantly towards the back to maintain sensitivity and response in turns.

Result: a very stable board for catching waves that still responds when you want to link long turns or push hard in the critical section.

Light and durable Helium construction

Helium technology combines a stringerless EPS core with wood rails, achieving a very high strength-to-weight ratio and controlled flex. It feels fast and lively in small waves, resists pressure dings, and holds up well to frequent use.

Range of sizes and volumes

It is available in approximate sizes between 6’6” and 7’6”, with volumes ranging from just under 40 liters to just over 50, covering everyone from lightweight surfers to heavier or less experienced riders.

For an intermediate surfer, a 7’0” size around 42-44 liters usually provides the ideal balance between easy paddling and maneuverability.

Fin configurations and wave type

It comes with 5 Futures fin boxes to use as a quad, twin, 2+1, or thruster, adjusting the character depending on the day:

• Quad for more speed and glide
• Thruster for a bit more control and precision
• 2+1 for a balance between speed and control

It is designed for soft or mushy waves from 0.2 to 1.2 m, but it remains fun when the swell picks up, provided the waves aren't too vertical.

*Rob Machado's recommendation: Seaside Quad fins for the Xtra Cado

If you are looking to buy a Firewire midlength surfboard that helps you catch plenty of waves, surf with ease, and enjoy yourself even when the conditions aren't perfect, the Rob Machado Xtra Cado Helium is one of the most complete options in the current catalog.