Is there a more Innovative Water Sports company then Hobie? Racking my brain for the 15 hour flight returning home from the USA Eclipse launch, I was left feeling that there isn’t, and I am unlikely to see any other brand transform the ocean, the lakes, and the rivers into a playground the way Hobie has. In an evolving world so full of LED screens, social media and passive devices, it sometimes feels like the terms “innovation” and “technology” have to be linked to some Electronic device. What a breath of fresh air to see a company whose technology and innovation gets us back to the outdoors.
I have just got back from the Hobie World dealer meeting and launch of its all new Mirage Eclipse stand up boards, in San Diego, California.
With more than 60 years in the water sports game Hobie has never lacked in experimentation and innovation. With the MirageDrive which has revolutionised Kayaking and Kayak fishing to the early days of shaping surfboards, Hobie has been at the forefront of fun on the water. Whats the next step?
There is no doubt that stand up paddle boarding has been one of the fastest growing water sports over the last few years, Its is only natural that Hobie combine the MirageDrive pedal driven system with a stand-up paddle board.
A natural stepping motion cycles the underwater fins that efficiently power the Eclipse at a easy pace. Just like the kayak MirageDrive the fins fold against the hull for shallow water and beaching. Pick up the pace and the board responds with ease, the composite-epoxy hull pierces the water while the square tail and flat bottom make for a super stable ride. By squeezing special leavers on the handlebar, the board turns and handles for even the most inexperienced users. the adjustable handlebars move from 36” to 43” to allow for a large range of rider heights.
Large EVA deckpads provide traction and comfort, and there is plenty of room for extra gear on the stern, which can be secured via Cargo Bungees.
Eclipse accessories that will become available include a protective board bag and a cart that makes transportation to and from the water a breeze. A cup holder and universal phone mount are available as well.
Cruising around Mission Bay on the 10-5′ model it was obvious straight away how stable and user friendly these boards are. At 90kg I thought I might be more suited to the larger 12-0′ board, but the 10-5′ had plenty of flotation and stability and held its own for pace against the larger 12-0′. The steering levers were very responsive and the board quickly returned to straight tracking as soon as released. The pedal system allowed for a great range of movement, moving forward on the pedals gave a firmer shorter stroke and moving back allowed me to get plenty of pace up and get the heart pumping.
A quick swap to the larger 12-0′ board, I was off again. It only takes a small adjustment on the handlebars to set the height which lets you really dial in the most comfortable and ergonomic position, making it very comfortable if you plan on putting in some big sessions on the water. I felt very comfortable on the 12-0′ board with even more stability then the 10-5′.
The 12-0′ will definitely be the board i will be taking the kids or dog out on, or even take a rod out for a fish. I could walk around the board with confidence and getting on and off at the beach the board hardly shifted.
Hobie have come up with a product suitable for a wide range of age groups and skill levels. A product that will inspire adventures, exploration and fun! If its friends looking to gain fitness or a family looking to see what’s around that next bend of the creek, this craft will meet the challenge.
With the introduction of the Mirage Eclipse it doesn’t feel like anyone at Hobie is looking at slowing down! Bring on the innovation, and have a Hobie Day 🙂
HWS now has stock on display in store and available for demo!! give us a call on 49477899 or contact us here to arrange a demo or secure a board!
