Hobie's inflatable iTrek 9 Ultralight fits into a carry bag, letting one paddler add short lake trips to a cottage or camper holiday without a hard-shell rack.
A holiday with a lake nearby feels different when a small kayak is part of the luggage. Hobie's inflatable Mirage iTrek 9 Ultralight packs into a backpack, allowing a solo paddler to explore a suitable local waterway without storing a rigid hull at home.
A compact craft for occasional use
Hobie lists a 2.87-metre length and 1.02-metre width, with a fitted hull weight of approximately nine kilograms. The fully rigged weight is about 16.8 kilograms once the seat and equipment are fitted.
The separate MirageDrive GT supplies pedal propulsion, freeing the hands for ordinary steering and observation. The paddler still needs a paddle, launch plan and suitable handling arrangements.
Make set-up part of the routine
The manufacturer's drop-stitch construction is specified for inflation to the approved pressure, with its published design intended to provide rigidity while remaining portable. An appropriate pump, gauge and clean area are practical equipment, not afterthoughts.
A holiday location may provide only a stony bank or a muddy track to the water. Test the carrying route and avoid dragging the inflatable over sharp material.
A short lake itinerary
Choose a modest sheltered loop with an easy place to return, then allow time for a café stop or a walk beside the water. The published carrying capacity is 158.8 kilograms, including the person and all loaded gear.
An attractive distant shore can be a poor destination if wind rises during the afternoon. Check the forecast and water temperature, wear suitable flotation and tell someone when you expect to return.
Dry it before packing
After use, rinse where necessary and let the craft dry before longer storage. An inflatable that returns home wet and folded may be less pleasant to unpack for the next holiday.
The manufacturer image and dimensions come from Hobie Japan's current iTrek 9 page. This is a holiday-use article, not a fabricated new September product release.
Official primary source: Hobie Japan. Independently written by Leisure Boat Guide.
Source
Hobie Japan