Hobie Mirage Eclipse step-propelled SUP

Hobie's new Mirage Eclipse is the world’s first leg-powered stand up board and is said to be as easy to propel across the surface as walking. You just step on and go!

"We adapted our time-tested MirageDrive to work with our industry leading stand up paddleboards," explains Director of Engineering Jim Czarnowski.

The Mirage Eclipse brings the advantages of a Mirage-drive pedal-powered kayak to the stand-up world.

Hobie says its so welcoming there’s virtually no learning curve, that modest winds are no impediment, and that the Mirage Eclipse is stable and quick, with sleek handlebars that enhance balance. Intuitive fingertip rudder controls are said to make the Mirage Eclipse nimble and easy to steer.

"We designed the Mirage Eclipse so anyone from a beginner to a more athletic expert user can all have a great experience," Czarnowski says.

THREE MODELS STEP OUT
There are two models, the Mirage Eclipse 10.5 and 12.

The larger version is 12 feet (3.63m) long and 35 inches (87.50cm) wide, rated for 275 pounds (125kg). The hull weighs 48 pounds or almost 22kg.

The 10.5 is 33.5 inches (83.75cm) wide and ten and a half feet long. The capacity for the more compact model is 225 pounds (102kg). It weighs about 5 pounds (2.25kg) less than the larger model.

Both boards are said to be eye-catching, constructed of glossy but tough Advanced Composite Epoxy (ACX), and with 65 years of boardsports heritage behind their quick and stable displacement design.

Both models boast sleek, water piercing bows. Square tails and flat bottoms enhance stability. Choosing between the 10.5 and 12 comes down to capacity needs as well as storage and transport considerations. The 12, with its extra length, is a bit quicker.

MIRAGE EXCLIPSE FEATURES
The fins that power the Eclipse fold against the board for beaching or use in shallow water.

The handlebar adjusts from 36 to 43 inches (90cm-107.5cm) in height to accommodate riders from children to tall adults. It is removable in seconds for transport and storage.

The durable moulded rudder kicks up in the shallows, removes in moments, and can be locked into place to use Eclipse as a traditional stand up paddleboard.

A large EVA deckpad covers the expansive standing area, providing high traction cushioned footing. It extends all the way to the stern to protect the deck.

There’s said to be plenty of room for the family dog or to stash gear under the included cargo Bungee. Additional features include a leash attachment, hull vent and stern handle.

Optional accessories
include a protective board bag and a cart with light duty wheels or sand tyres. A cup holder and universal phone mount are available to keep riders refreshed and ready to capture every memory.

RIDING FEEDBACK
Riding the Mirage Eclipse is said to be an exhilarating new experience. The boards glide across the water with ease and precision. Steering is via finger-controlled squeeze triggers.

Czarnowski reckons you look cool and feel cool when you’re cruising on the Mirage Eclipse. The new class of SUP is also playful and accessible, while the legwork is obviously beneficial to your fitness.

Local Hobie stockist The Sailing Scene in Mona Vale, Sydney, says inquiring is already running hot. The dealer is estimating pricing of between $3300 and $3500 landed and is taking advance orders for delivery around the world in coming months. More at the Hobie Mirage Exclipse website.