This is the first line of the response from Hobie when I asked why our fins literally fell apart on the first use this season. I actually laughed out loud at that response.

We have Hobie Mirage drive Outback kayaks which we really enjoy, but the stock fins they come with are very small and not very powerful. We upgraded to the “Turbo” fins and what a difference in speed – almost twice as fast with the same effort. Mind you, these are not inexpensive toys, the yaks are 1500 and the fin set upgrade a bit under 150. I kind of expect them to have been researched out a little when it comes to the rubber compound and use in the tropics. I guess not.

So, would I recommend them? Absolutely- they are a great boat toy and good exercise to boot.

The caveats being- there are very few dealers or places to get replacement parts outside of the US. Get at least one or two sets of hardware and now that I know this, get extra fins as well. Luckily I am still a packrat of the highest level and kept those old stock fins- I replaced the turbos for now with those and next stateside trip for Kelly or myself, will pick up additional units.

One last thing- do not expect any kind of customer service from Hobie. They do not understand anything outside the USA.

This is the next and last line from the Hobie email

“There isn’t really a solution for someone who’s having the kayak out in that kind of elements.
New sprockets and fins are easily obtained from any dealer – the warranty is for 2 years.”

And the original request I sent in to them
“My wife and I each have Mirage Outbacks and love them- But.... We are cruising sailors and have our kayaks on racks outside of our lifelines. We have had custom bags made to cover them when not in use and to hold paddles, seat, and Mirage drive. They have been kept in those for over four years now.

We are really good about washing every piece down with fresh water after every use. We upgraded both of our fin sets to ST Turbos and this season when we pulled them out, the fins are actually deteriorated, like the rubber compound just broke down. On my wife's, it actually pulled the mast right through the front of the fin! On mine I am starting to see the same degradation.

Luckily we still have the original fin sets as we are in Costa Rica and there is no way to get replacement Turbos. BTW when trying to retrofit a V2 mast, you will not be able to! It will end up spinning out the captive nut before it comes loose. I just drilled out the tip of the original size fins and now have about 2" of stainless rod poking out. Better than nothing I guess.

What have you heard about the fins breaking down like this?
Awaiting an answer,
Hobie Ambassador to Costa Rica Dan Freeman”

I am a huge proponent of proper customer service- something is wrong, you fix it- and if you can’t try to help in some way.

I just wish someone else would come up with a comparable product – I would switch in a heartbeat.

Just a little rant