Pedal kayaks were developed in the 90’s to provide a hands-free way of propelling a kayak through the water. The concept was developed to provide a more efficient and ergonomic way of manoeuvring a kayak when doing activities such as fishing or photography.

The first commercially successful pedal kayaks on the market were introduced by the Hobie Cat Company, which pioneered the Mirage Drive pedal-operated fins that propel the kayak through the water. Since then, other companies such as Old Town, Brooklyn, Perception, and Wilderness Systems have developed their own pedal kayaks using similar propulsion systems.

Pedal kayaks are primarily used for recreational purposes such as fishing, touring, wildlife watching, and exercising. The hands-free propulsion system allows users to easily navigate and maneuver in the water, freeing their hands to take pictures, prepare lunch or fight big fish.