Palm x Hobson Eclipse RM Surf Kayak

Performance roto-moulded plastic surf kayak

The Palm x Hobson Eclipse RM takes the proven high-performance shape of the original Hobson Eclipse and reimagines it in a tougher, more accessible roto-moulded construction. Developed through a collaboration between Palm Equipment and Hobson Kayaks, the Eclipse RM is built for paddlers who want surf-specific performance without the fragility or higher price tag of composite construction. It’s aimed squarely at paddlers who want one kayak capable of handling surf, tide races, and river waves with equal confidence.

At its core, the Eclipse RM retains the hybrid surf–river DNA that made the original Eclipse so popular. Its extended planing hull gives it excellent speed across flat sections and into wave take-offs, allowing paddlers to catch waves earlier and generate more drive through turns. Compared to shorter, more competition-focused surf kayaks, the Eclipse RM feels faster and more forgiving, with smoother acceleration and more stability when linking features. This makes it particularly appealing to paddlers moving into surf from whitewater or looking for a versatile second boat.

The hull is designed to plane quickly and hold speed, while the pronounced rocker keeps it loose enough for steep drops and responsive directional changes. Sharp rails and low rear edges bite effectively into the wave face, creating powerful carving turns and controlled cutbacks. Whether you are trimming down the line, snapping off the lip, or driving through a bottom turn, the Eclipse RM delivers a connected, energetic feel. Its longer waterline also makes it highly effective in tide races and fast-moving river waves where speed and positioning matter just as much as manoeuvrability.

One of its standout features is the flexible fin setup. The Eclipse RM includes three fin boxes and a full set of plastic fins, allowing paddlers to tune the kayak to suit conditions and style. Run it as a thruster for maximum hold and drive in bigger or steeper surf, switch to twin fins for a looser and more playful feel, or remove the fins entirely for a highly releasable river-surf setup. This adaptability is one of the biggest reasons the Eclipse RM stands out as a genuine crossover design rather than a single-discipline specialist.

Comfort and outfitting are a major upgrade point on the RM version. Palm’s adjustable Action seat, Lite backrest, adjustable thigh braces, and Keeper footrests make it easy to dial in a secure fit at the water’s edge. This practical outfitting not only improves comfort over long sessions but also allows for precise body connection, which is essential for edging, rolling, and driving the kayak aggressively on a wave. The rotomoulded polyethylene shell also means the boat can handle repeated impacts, rocky shore launches, and shallow river use with far less concern than a composite build.

The Palm x Hobson Eclipse RM is best suited for intermediate to advanced paddlers, but its forgiving balance of speed and stability also makes it approachable for ambitious improvers. It offers much of the performance of a high-end surf kayak, packaged in a rugged construction that encourages more experimentation and less worry about damage. For paddlers who want a true crossover craft capable of handling almost any moving water environment, the Eclipse RM is one of the most versatile surf kayaks currently on the market.