Hobie Kayak Specs

New technologies in kayak-propulsion systems create alternative ways of kayaking beyond the traditional double-bladed paddle. The Hobie Cat Company began manufacturing surfboards in the late 1950s and then catamaran sailboats in the late 1960s. In addition to its original line of products, Hobie now produces a range of traditional paddle kayaks, foot-pedal kayaks and a variety of kayak accessories, including electric motors and sails, as of 2011.

  1. Identification

    • Hobie makes most of their kayaks with a hard shell of seamless polyethylene, though they also produce a small line of kayaks with an inflatable hull. All Hobie kayaks have a closed deck with adjustable, padded seats and self-draining scuppers designed to keeps paddlers dry. Most models include molded cup-holders, cargo areas with tie-downs and paddle storage on the kayak's deck. Hobie's sure-grip handles on the front and rear of the kayak are designed for easier pulling and portaging.

    Paddle Kayaks

    • As off 2011, Hobie produces five hard-shell kayak models designed to be used with the traditional double-bladed paddle. The five designs, called the Lanai, Maui, Quest, Kona and Odyssey, range in length from 9 feet to 14 feet and weigh between 40 pounds and 57 pounds for the single-person kayaks, and 60 and 69 pounds for the kayaks that can fit up to three people. The single-person paddle kayaks can hold up 325 to 350 pounds, while the larger, multi-person models have capacities of 450 and 540 pounds.

    MirageDrive Kayaks

    • Hobie's Mirage series of hands-free kayaks eliminates the need for a double-bladed paddle. According to Hobie, the MirageDrive system propels the kayak quietly with foot pedals connected to underwater flippers. Hobie makes six hard-shell kayaks and three inflatable kayaks with the MirageDrive system for crews of up to two people. Hobie's Mirage kayaks come available in lengths ranging between 9 feet and 14.5 feet, weighing between 48 and 75 pounds and having weight capacities between 225 and 600 pounds. The pedals are adjustable to fit a wide range of users, and the drive system can be removed to allow for traditional kayaking with a paddle.

    Electric Motor and Sail Options

    • The Mirage series of kayaks can be upgraded to fit a line of electric motors and sails designed specifically for Hobie kayaks. The electric motor, called the eVolve, is powered by German-engineered technology called the Torqeedo and runs on a waterproof lithium-manganese battery. The eVolve motor mounts at the stern or the middle of the kayak and can be run while pedaling the kayak at the same time. The MirageDrive also frees up kayakers' hands to operate Hobie's optional sailing package that includes a two- or three-piece mast and sail with battens and lines. The pedal system acts as the keel or centerboard needed for upwind sailing.