Channel Islands - Dumpster Diver 2

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FLEX & FEEL		USER FRIENDLY
FLOW		PADDLING
SPEED		CARVING
RAIL TO RAIL		POCKET SURFING

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Where to Buy Boards:
https://cisurfboards.com/collections/ect

In this episode, Noel puts two stock Dumpster Diver 2 surfboards head-to-head to break down the real differences in construction. Both boards are the exact same dimensions and feature the same Team Light 4S/4 glass job, built with polyurethane foam and polyester resin—making this a true apples-to-apples comparison. 

After extensive testing at Waco Surf, Noel finds that the Dumpster Diver 2 in the new ECT Carbon construction delivers noticeably better durability against pressure dents, along with a touch more pop, projection, and drive compared to the standard Team Light PU/Poly version.

Noel wraps up by explaining why this construction is a game-changer for surfers who love the classic PU/Poly feel underfoot. With ECT Carbon, you still get that familiar Team Light feel—but with far fewer pressure dents, longer-lasting pop, and improved durability over the life of the board. Watch the full episode to hear Noel’s full breakdown of this innovative construction and decide if it’s the right upgrade for your next board. Enjoy!

Noel's height 5'9" and weight 165 lb
Stock Board DIMS: 5'6" x 19 1/8 x 2 5/16 (26.5L)

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Where to Buy Vaer Watches: Surf n' Show (15% off) https://www.vaerwatches.com/pages/surfnshow

Where to Buy Boards:
https://cisurfboards.com/products/dumpster-diver-2

Where to Buy Fins:
https://surfnshow.com/collections/lightning-series-fins

Where to Buy Dane's Fins:
https://cisurfboards.com/products/dane-dd2-3-fin 

In this episode, Noel Salas and his crew review the "Dumpster Diver 2" by Channel Islands Surfboards, a model designed by Dane Reynolds. Noel tested the board in stock 5'5" dimensions across three different constructions: Spine-Tek, XTR 10, and a P/U poly with Team Lite glassing.

Noel found the 5'5" XTR 10 to be extremely light, loose, and responsive, with the twin plus trailer fin set emerging as the best configuration. He felt the XTR 10 provided a lot of pop and projection in turns. Meanwhile, the Spine-Tek construction allowed for smooth transitions between turns, making it an easy board to surf, with just the right amount of flex for Noel's weight. The P/U poly, on the other hand, offered speed and stability underfoot, with great drive. In fact, Noel stated that the "Dumpster Diver 2" might be the best Channel Islands board he’s surfed in the wave pool.

Others in the group also shared their thoughts. Eric Petersen found the "Dumpster Diver 2" to be fast and lively in flat, mushy conditions, primarily riding it in knee- to chest-high waves. Asa Cascavilla thought the board had a great sweet spot, connected turns really well, and felt lively underfoot. Ian Macpherson from Wooly TV rode the board in both small and larger surf, preferring its performance in oversized waves, which was an interesting surprise.

Overall, Noel described the "Dumpster Diver 2" as a good paddler, with extra width under the front foot aiding down-the-line speed. Designed as a high-performance So-Cal surfboard, it features medium rails that add to its versatility. For a deeper dive into Noel’s fin setups and more details, viewers are encouraged to watch the full review. 

Noel's Height 5'9" and weight 172 lb
Board Dims:
XTR10 Stock 5'5" x 19 x 2 1/4 (25.3L)
Spinetek Stock 5'5" x 19 x 2 1/4 (25.3L)
PU/Poly Stock 5'6" x 19 1/8 x 2 5/6 (26.5L)

Asa's height 5'10" and weight 165 lb
Spinetek Stock 5'5" x 19 x 2 1/4 (25.3L)

Eric Petersen's height 5'8" and 180 lb
Board Dims:
XTR10 Stock 5'8" x 19 1/2 x 2 7/16 (29.3L)

Ian's height 6'1" and weight 195 lb
Board Dims:
PU/Poly Stock 5'11" x 20 1/4 x 2 5/8 (34.0L)

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