What Are The Differences In Hobie Mirage Drives?

Hobie's line of Mirage Drive kayaks has grown and evolved over the years. Entry priced models make a quality, fin style pedal drive available to a wider audience. At the high end, the MirageDrive 360 delivers the ultimate in boat control and maneuverability. This article will help you select a kayak with the best MirageDrive for your needs.

Kick-Up fin technology

Underwater hazards like tree stumps, boulders or sharp transitions to shallow water have always caused problems for boaters. For pedal drive fin style kayak users, running into a hazard could result in a bent mast; the rod that extends down from the front of the fins. Hobie has developed kick-up fin technology that automatically protects the drive when you bump into an underwater hazard. This technology is available on all current Hobie MirageDrives. No other pedal, fin style kayak comes with anything like this. The kick-up fin feature is exclusive to Hobie MirageDrives.

Turbo fins

Turbo fins add more power and speed to the Hobie MirageDrives. Turbo fins come standard on the higher end kayak models, and can be upgraded on any of the other Mirage models.

Hobie Kayaks MirageDrive descriptions

How the Hobie MirageDrive works
This animation shows a MirageDrive in action. The fin drive mimics the way penguins swim. Hobie invented this technology and has refined it for nearly three decades. Currently there are 3 versions of the MirageDrive. No other pedal or fin style drive on the market can even come close to the quality and functionality a Hobie drive.

MirageDrive GT with Glide Technology and Kick Up Fins.
The GT MirageDrive is based on the original Hobie drive, but much improved. It propels your kayak forward as you pedal. This drive is used on entry level kayaks from Hobie. Glide technology delivers smooth, efficient pedal power. Kick up fins prevent damage to the fins and drive mast. No other fin style kayak drive has the kick up fins feature.

MirageDrive MD 180 with Kick Up fins.
The 180 has levers which change the change the direction the fins are pointed in to add reverse functionality. Instead of wide turns or using a paddle to reverse direction, you pull a cord to shift forward or reverse direction. It's fast and easy. Kick up fins are included.

MirageDrive 360 Technology with Kick Up fins.
Move your kayak in any direction easily - forward, backward, sideways and every degree in between. It's the ultimate in boat control for kayak anglers who need to hold a spot or position their kayak perfectly to target fish. Available exclusively on the Pro Angler 12 360 Series and Pro Angler 14 360 Series.

Hobie Kayaks MirageDrive Guide

We've listed the entire Hobie Kayaks line models and what drive(s) are included. If you have any questions, call us at 651-429-3333 or use chat on this website, we'll answer any questions.