When I first saw the Saturn FPK365 inflatable pedal kayak, I had to wonder: could an $800 inflatable really stack up against a $3,000 Hobie iTrek? Hobie is considered the gold standard in pedal kayaks, but the price is steep.
In this review, I put the Saturn FPK365 head-to-head with the Hobie iTrek to see how they compare in pedal drive performance, speed, maneuverability, stability, portability, and overall build quality.
If you’re thinking about buying a pedal kayak but don’t want to overspend, this might help you decide whether saving thousands is worth it.
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The Budget Challenger: Saturn FPK365 Inflatable Pedal Kayak
The first kayak I tested was the Saturn FPK365, which costs about $800. It’s an inflatable pedal kayak designed to be ultra-portable. What really stood out to me was the fin-style pedal drive system, which is very similar to Hobie’s MirageDrive.
I liked that it came with track mounts, D-rings for a motor, a rudder kit, paddles, and even a dry bag. The only thing it doesn’t come with is a seat — but that’s by design. I strapped in a beach chair, and it worked surprisingly well for a budget-friendly setup.
👉 Check the Saturn FPK365 here: Saturn Pedal Kayak – $800 on Amazon
The Gold Standard: Hobie iTrek Pedal Kayak
On the other side of the comparison is the Hobie iTrek, which costs about $3,000. Hobie has been the leader in pedal kayak technology for years, and their MirageDrive system sets the standard. The iTrek includes a premium seat, rigid frame, and all the accessories you’d expect at that price point.
👉 Explore the Hobie iTrek here: Hobie iTrek at EcoFishing Shop
Pedal Drive Performance
When I got on the water, I was honestly surprised. The Saturn’s fin-style pedal drive felt very close to Hobie’s MirageDrive. It wasn’t quite as smooth, but for a fraction of the price, it did a really good job.
Speed & Maneuverability
In terms of speed, both kayaks performed well. The Hobie had a slight edge in steering — I’d give it a 10/10 for maneuverability, while the Saturn felt more like an 8/10. But honestly, unless you’re hyper-focused on precision, the difference isn’t a dealbreaker.
Stability on the Water
One of the biggest tests for me was standing up to fish. I was able to walk around, jump on and off, and move across the Saturn without any issues. It passed the stability test better than I expected for an inflatable. Hobie still feels more rock-solid, but the Saturn held its own.
Portability & Storage
Here’s where the Saturn really shines. Since it’s inflatable, I can deflate it, roll it up, and fit it in the trunk of my car. At under 50 pounds, I was able to carry it with one hand. That’s something the Hobie just can’t compete with.
Build Quality & Durability
The Saturn comes with a reinforced polymer nose cone, thick rudder blade, and solid PVC construction. I even tested it by bumping into my seawall — no issues. The only thing I’d recommend is not leaving it inflated in the sun for too long if it’s not in the water.
The Hobie, of course, has premium materials and a proven track record of long-term durability, which is part of what you’re paying for.
👉 Tip: If you go with an inflatable, do yourself a favor and get a compact electric pump. I used this one from Amazon, and it made setup quick and painless: Electric Inflatable Pump on Amazon
inal Verdict: Is the Saturn a Hobie Killer?
So, is the $800 Saturn FPK365 a true Hobie killer? Honestly, it depends on what you’re looking for.
- If you want maximum performance, premium build quality, and the smoothest pedal system on the market, the Hobie iTrek is still the gold standard.
- But if you’re on a budget, want something that’s easy to store, carry, and transport, and still performs surprisingly well on the water, the Saturn FPK365 is a legit option that saves you thousands.
I don’t think the Saturn completely replaces Hobie, but it’s proof that you don’t need to spend $3,000 to enjoy a solid pedal kayak experience.
🔗 Shop the Gear From This Review
- 🚣♂️ Saturn FPK365 Inflatable Pedal Kayak – Amazon ($800)
- 🚤 Hobie iTrek Pedal Kayak – EcoFishing Shop ($3,000)
- ⚡ Compact Electric Inflatable Pump – Amazon
📺 Watch Next
If you liked this review, check out my other budget showdown:
👉 Does a $500 Skiff DESTROY Fishing Kayaks?
