When it comes to water sports that are fun and easy to learn, paddle boarding is one of the top contenders. The Hobie Mirage Stand Up Paddleboard allows you to have fun while on the water, but still gives you a killer workout as well. This is not just a stand up paddle board – it’s a stand up pedal board!!
It’s a great alternative to the kayak because your legs get a workout too. It’s easier to balance on than a surfboard – you can ride the waves and stay secure with a handle to hold onto at the same time.
Of course, what we really like about this craft is that the handle and MirageDrive are removable, so if you want to paddle instead of peddling, that’s fine too.
Hobie has built a solid reputation over the years as a provider of high-quality, innovative products. The price for this board is in the slightly higher range so you might be wondering if it’s worth it. In this review, we’ll answer that question and more.
Hobie’s promotional video
Features
• Length: 10 feet 6 in
• Width: 33.5 in
• Materials: Advanced Composite Epoxy
• Weighs: The hull weighs 43.2 lbs as is, and 54 lbs when completely rigged
• Capacity: Holds up to 225 lbs of weight
• Type of hull: Displacement hull, which makes it easier for the hull to cut through the water
• How Many People It Can Hold: 1
• Handlebar: Aluminum alloy and can be removed if you’d prefer to paddle
• Colors: Yellow or Blue
• Accessories Available: Yes
What You Get
When you purchase the Mirage Eclipse, you’ll get the board and a cover. You can also get a cart with wheels if you like as an add on accessory. If you don’t want to peddle, you’ll have to buy your own paddles.
Who is This For?
The company markets it as best for recreational use. That said, if you’re entering a fun race, this model should perform well. It’s highly stable and easy to put together, so it’s perfect for newbies. If you’re a more advanced paddler, you’ll like the different feel of the paddleboard.
It’s great for the person looking for a little more versatility too. Perhaps today you’ll want to peddle, but tomorrow you’ll want to paddle. It’s easy enough to convert the board to suit your mood.
It’s stable on the water, but we’d recommend looking at a model with a planing hull if you’re planning on using it for yoga. It will work equally well for tweens, teens, and adults. For kids younger than seven or so, it’s probably a little too big.
If you’re on the taller side, or the huskier side, the twelve-foot model that Hobie offers might be a better fit for you.
How Simple is It to Use?
You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to get the board up and running, but you probably are going to need to look at the instructions to learn how to convert it for paddling. If you’re happy as it is, set up is a breeze.
After setup, all you need to do is get it on the water, step onto it, and start peddling.
The steering controls are simple to operate – just turn left or right, depending on the direction that you want to go.
This is not a blow-up board, so it will take up a little more space when it’s being transported. That’s not a bad thing, though, because it means maximizing your workout time. It has gear tie downs and a kick up rudder that make transporting a breeze.
The rudder is one innovation that we really like here. It folds up as you start to approach the shore, which means that you can ride right onto the beach without damaging your rudder.
If you love fishing, you’ll love this board – the tie-down section makes it easy to attach your gear. It can be used for other gear you might have as well if fishing isn’t your thing.
Build Quality and Performance
This is a high-quality item. The composite epoxy is scuff-resistant and will stand a fair amount of abuse. It can be used in fresh water or salt water, as you prefer.
The MirageDrive on the bottom of the board is built to last, as is the handlebar.
Performance-wise, this won’t disappoint. It gets the job done in style.
What do Users Think?
The feedback has been great. Users love the clean lines and the versatility of the design. The tie-down feature is also useful, and the displacement hull allows you to get a little bit of extra speed.
It’s not going to be the ideal option for professional racers, but it is perfect for those wanting to compete for fun. It’s no slouch in terms of performance, but it was built mainly for recreational use.
Pros
• Excellent workout
• Moves through the water with ease
• Simple, pleasing design
• Can be converted to use paddles with it
• Durable
• High-quality materials
• Easy to use
• Fun for the whole family
• Easy to transport
Cons
• In the higher price range
• Not inflatable, so it takes up more room when transporting
The Final Verdict
Overall, this is an investment, but a good one. It’s highly durable and will last a long time. The versatility of the design makes it ideal as a family craft. If dad wants to paddle, he can. If the kids want to peddle, they can do that too.
The only problem that we foresee is that everyone is going to want a turn, which means it’s probably a good idea to get at least a second board if you’ve got a family.
If you’re on your own, this is more than enough board for you. With useful features like the tie down section and the foldable rudder, it will carry you through a range of different situations.
Overall, this is a craft that is built to last. You’ll get a workout in the great outdoors, and you’ll have fun at the same time. It’s a win-win.
