We spent 37 busy hours closely checking out kayak roof racks of all kinds – from numerous manufacturers. What we discovered can literally save you hours of your own painstaking research and quite possibly – hundreds of dollars of your hard-earned money. Equally important, it can spare you the endless frustration of having chosen a roof rack for your kayak that just didn’t deliver as you expected. You can jump straight to our top-rated roof rack here.
A quality roof rack is important because it provides the means to safely carry your kayak wherever you want to go with peace of mind. In this article we review ten of the most popular kayak racks designed specifically to help transport your equipment securely, with the least hassle.
Contents
How We Selected The Best Kayak Roof Rack
We checked out virtually every rook rack we could find and assessed its overall performance and reliability. Some of the factors we consider most important include the following:
- Is the brand well recognized?
- Is the rack easy to set up and remove?
- What is the maximum size of kayak it can carry?
- Can this rack carry more than one kayak?
- Is it affordable?
The Best Kayak Roof Racks
# 1. Yakima Jaylow J-Craddle Kayak Roof Rack
Yakima is a major player and one of the top roof rack manufacturers. Their Jaylow kayak roof rack makes a good choice when you need to carry one or two kayaks. Weight capacity comes in at 80 pounds for a single kayak (which is more than the average) and 210 pounds for two (one of the larger limits available).
The Jaylow can hold one kayak in the J-rack (sloped) position or two kayaks in a vertical position. According to Yakima, Jaylow is one of the more aerodynamic (and therefore mileage-friendly) kayak racks on the market today. Yakima engineers have developed a small tubing system that allows the rack to be lightweight – yet very strong at the same time – to carry a substantial load. By the way, the Jaylow weighs in at just 11 pounds.
This design has been upgraded to now include slide rails for easier loading and to protect the paint finish on your car. There’s also easy release handles to enable quicker and easier unloading.
Yakima’s Jaylow roof rack should fit just about any size or shape of roof rails. Multiple settings are available to accommodate a wide variety of configurations.
Perhaps the biggest advantage of the Yakima Jaylow is that it folds down and out of the way. So you can drive your vehicle with the rack still installed, without worrying about low entrance-ways, like underground parking garages all seem to have. A folded down rack when not in use also gives you slightly better gas mileage, thanks to improved aerodynamics.
The Jaylow ships fully assembled and only needs to be installed on your car. And it’s fairly fast to install. Included are heavy duty straps and tie-downs for one kayak. If you’re planning to use this for two, you’ll need to purchase a secondary set of straps.
The Good (What Buyers Like Most)
- Multiple settings to fit various roof racks
- Lightweight an easy to maneuver
- Aerodynamic – folds down when not in use
- Extra padding provided on contact points to protect your kayak
- You can lock it down to the rails
- Good price point
The Not So Good
- A little difficult for smaller people to load their kayak
- It’s SKS lockable, but you need to purchase the locks as a extra purchase
- Rubber/plastic coating protecting the metal clamp can wear off too easily – leaving exposed metal that can scratch your kayak and car
If you want to know more about the Yakima Jaylow, read our detailed product review: Yakima Jaylow Kayak Roof Rack Review: Solid and Reliable.
# 2. Thule Hull-a-Port XT Kayak Roof Rack
The Thule Hull-a-Port can handle any kayak up to 75 pounds in weight and 34 inches wide. This kayak rack is made from rust resistant steel tubing that is remarkably strong. This rack is also clearly marked, indicating the correct position for your kayak making it easier to install the first time.
Thule is a brand that has been around for a long time (since 1942 to be exact). There’s no doubt they make quality kayak racks. And they’re not afraid to stand behind them with a limited lifetime warranty.
What’s In The Box? Two J-racks (one set), Straps for one kayak, Instructions manual.
The Hull-a-Port XT is a J-style rack designed to be installed on the top of most cars. The J-rack holds a single kayak in a vertical position. But it can also accommodate 2 kayaks at the same time in the stacker position. Thule’s Hull-a-Port XT can support one boat up to 75 pounds or two boats with the combined weight of 130 pounds or less.
It also folds down when not in use, making it much more convenient. In the retracted position, the roof rack measures about 5 inches high. So you should have just enough clearance to fit in the garage at home and for any other low clearances.
Hull-a-Port consists of two vertical J-mounts (which install separately) to the front and rear cross rails. Your kayak sits on top of padded bars, providing adequate protection. There’s also a ratchet strap system to secure the bow and stern and keep everything tied down tight.
Thule roof racks are designed for just about any type of roof, although you will need some sort of rack – whether it is factory installed or an aftermarket purchase. This means it easily fits AeroBlade, AeroBlade Edge, and SquareBar. But it’s also “universal”. So it should fit practically any vehicle.
You can lock the Hull-a-Port to the roof rails with Thule’s one key system. But you’ll need to purchase that locking device separately, since it’s not included.
Once your kayak has been unloaded from the Hull-a-Port, you can then have it fold down smoothly, with the pull of a lever.
The Good (What Buyers Like Most)
- Easy loading of one or two kayaks
- PFD lever (Pull, Fold, Done) allows for easy overhead clearance
- Instructions are clear and understandable
- Nice to be able to lock down the carrier to the rack
- Easier to use than some roof racks
- Features new and improved straps and tie- downs
- Folds down making it more compact when you’re not carrying a kayak
- Looks pretty slick (definitely NOT an eyesore)
The Not So Good
- Provided straps slip into top spacer easily enough – but could slip out if not held with tension
- You really need two people to properly secure the kayak
- Package should ship with ratchet straps for both the bow and stern – instead of tie-downs
- Doesn’t work particularly well for an inflatable kayak
If you want to know more about the Hull-A-Port XT, read our detailed product review: Thule Hull-A-Port Roof Rack Review: Awesome Quality
# 3. JDM Auto Lights Universal Roof Rack
The JDM kayak roof rack is a solid build that can hold some of the heavier kayaks out there. In fact, this carrier is capable of securing kayaks with a total weight of up 265 pounds. Yet, despite its large capacity the JDM rack is surprisingly lightweight.
JDM is unlike most manufacturers who provide racks designed to accommodate two kayaks, but only supply enough straps for one – these guys supply everything you need for two boats. So it’s no wonder that out of nearly 300 customer reviews, the JDM Auto Lights Car Top Mount scores an impressive 4.0 out of 5 possible stars.
It’s constructed from heavy-duty steel that is rust resistant. JDM also offers a wider mouthed J-bar, which makes for easier loading and unloading. It also boasts a universal design – so it should fit virtually all crossbars out there.
What’s In The Box? 4 kayak racks (two pairs), 4 tie-down straps, Universal mounting hardware, Instruction booklet.
Once installed properly, the JDM kayak roof rack is solid as a rock. There’s no movement of your kayaks and no buckling at all. You get a secure tie-down that gives you peace of mind, whether you’re driving a few blocks to the lake – or venturing for miles. The JDM roof rack is also a less expensive alternative to higher-end J carriers.
The Good (What Buyers Like Most)
- Straps hold the kayak tight, keeping it securely in position
- No rattle or noise when driving
- JDM gives you a lot of rack for the money
- Seems durable like it should hold up for a long time
- Solid build quality that’s up to the job (even with heavier kayaks)
- Can’t beat the value
The Not So Good
- Metal can bend if you tighten the ratchets too tight
- Not as fast to unload kayaks as some competing roof racks
- Protective foam can fall off if not duct-taped on
# 4. Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack
Malone’s Downloader is one of the most universal car racks available these days. It’s compatible with nearly every type of cross-rail out there. It’s easy to use and it folds down when not in use. This means you won’t have to worry about your car when parking underground, or even getting it through the garage door at home.
It also comes with oversize padding to protect your kayak. This low-profile carrier ships with all the hardware you need to get up and on your way quickly and easily.
The Malone downloader has a built-in angled lip to help you load the kayak more easily. This clever design also helps protect the paint job on your car. This rack is engineered to carry your kayak on its side.
It’s Malone’s practical design that sets it apart from most other racks on the market. It’s Malone’s Jawz technology that allows this kayak rack to securely fasten to almost all round, square, and oval shaped, factory installed roof racks.
Included with the Malone Downloader is everything you need to securely fasten one kayak to your vehicle’s roof. Loading and unloading is quick and efficient.
It comes with 60 mm and 70 mm mounting bolts to install to various thicknesses of cross bars. In the event that your existing rails are just too thick, you may have to switch out the bolts at a local hardware store or Home Depot. No big deal. And the problem is solved – just like that.
Malone carriers can handle kayaks up to 75 pounds and the oversize padding provided protects during loading and transport. There’s also a bow and stern attachment for added stability. And a built-in board ramp to assist you when loading your kayak. Fold-down technology means that you can leave the rack on and simply lower it down to drive when not carrying the kayak. This means you can leave the racks mounted all season long, which makes it that much more convenient.
Not surprisingly, the Malone Downloader folding J- style universal car rack scores an impressive 4.4 out of 5 possible stars from well over 300 customer reviews online. That’s a solid indication of a quality product.
Malone racks are made in the United States. And that accounts for it’s slightly elevated degree of quality. These are solid racks that are built to quality tolerances. Even buyers who have left the racks installed the whole summer have not noticed any obvious deterioration.
The Good (What Buyers Like Most)
- Seems heavier duty (more solidly built) than other folding styles
- Protective nylon sleeve on the bar is nice touch (presumably it will help keep the extra padding in place)
- Connects to the rails quite easily
- Straps are contoured to hold round, oval, or square rails
- Seems to be one of the sturdiest roof racks
- Built-in ramp helps you slide the kayak up into the cradle
- Easy to install
- Solid build quality
- Smart design allows for easily sliding the kayak on and off
- Folding mechanism works really well (so you can leave the rack on your car all season long)
The Not So Good
- In fold-down position, the rack adds about 6 inches of height to the vehicle
- Carries the kayak on its side
- With wide, rounded cross bars, some customization may be required to secure loads
- Bow and Stern straps are tie-downs (ratchets would have been better)
# 5. Handirack Universal Inflatable Roof Rack
The Handirack (made by top rack manufacturer, Malone) features a slight variation from the standard kayak roof rack. It’s designed to be used on cars that don’t already have roof racks. It’s the simplest solution and the most cost-effective. For the occasional kayaker, the Handirack may be the perfect solution.
The Handirack functions in as two inflatable pockets that allow you to strap your kayak to the top your car. These supports are made from a rugged and durable nylon and it inflates in just minutes with the included, double-action pump. Five G-ring anchor points help you connect the straps to your car.
What may be most surprising about the Handirack roof rack system is that it features a weight capacity of 180 pounds. It also comes with a one-year guarantee. And the budget pricing makes it a low-risk purchase.
These inflatable, cushioned racks strap to the interior of the car. You then shut the doors around them. There are also bow and stern straps provided to securely tie down any kayak. Since it’s an inflatable system, you simply deflate and remove when you don’t need to use the racks. The provided storage bag makes it easy to carry inside the trunk of your car.
Malone’s Handirack system provides plenty of flexibility. It’s great for the occasional kayaker who may not be interested in a more permanent roof rack. It’s also great for carrying other equipment like paddle boards or surfboards. It’s also ideal for the odd home renovation project, like when you need to strap lumber or other building materials to the roof of your car.
You might think (as I did at first) that this inflatable roof rack system is only suitable for short, local trips. But those who’ve taken it on long hauls find it equally effective on both thousand mile journeys and quick trips to the lake.
As temporary pads, these ones are clearly the best on the market. These inflatable pillows protect both the car and the kayak. If you’re uncertain about your kayaking future and you simply need something that will get the job done now – this is the most cost effective solution.
What’s In The Box? Two Handirack twin air filled cushions, Two 3 meter tie-down straps, One High-volume double-action hand pump to inflate each pillow, Printed instructions, Drawstring travel bag for easy storage in your trunk.
Handirack is designed for most major brands of vehicles. In fact, it fits virtually any car or truck – with the exception of soft top convertibles. It’s extremely lightweight, yet remarkably strong, totally portable – and easy to store.
It’s right in line with Malone’s perspective that everything it makes needs to be simple to sell, simple to install and simple to use for buyers. It’s the best option for anyone who doesn’t want to install a permanent roof rack. So it’s perfect for the occasional kayaker.
The Good (What Buyers Like Most)
- Made from good-quality fabric
- Provided straps are strong
- Inflatable air chambers provide a soft cushion on your car’s rooftop (it even works on sun roofs)
- Seems solid and stable at highway speeds of 60 to 70 mph
- Pump ships with two nozzles (these come attached, so they are much harder to misplace)
- Pump is lightweight and works very well
- Very versatile rack (this alone is a huge advantage most other racks simply can’t match)
- Looks great and works admirably
The Not So Good
- Can only transport one kayak at a time
- You need to constantly monitor the pressure in the air chambers (items can move as the pockets compress)
- Black material gets hot in the sun
- Straps provided are not the ratchet type (so it’s harder to tighten them down)
- Straps run inside the cabin of your car and can hold water and drip during rainstorms
# 6. Thule 834 Hull-a-Port J-Style Kayak Roof Rack
Thule’s 834 Hull-a-Port kayak carrier is one of the number of Thule products we’ve featured in our top 10. That’s an indication of this brand’s popularity among kayakers. This particular roof rack can manage kayaks up to 34 inches wide and weighing up to 75 pounds.
The 834 Hull-a-Port is made from extra strong steel that also has a rust resistant coating for added durability. And it features Thule’s PFD lever (which stands for pull, fold, and done) simplifying the loading and unloading procedures. The frame is marked for perfect placement of your kayak and two ratchet straps are provided to ensure a safe and secure tie-down. Thule also offers a limited lifetime warranty. So if you’re thinking you’re going to need to replace your roof rack in a year or two, this warranty is something you may want to keep in mind.
This kayak carrier is made from two individual J-shaped mounts which install separately. Padded bars are provided to protect your kayak and the ratchet strap system ensures a secure load every time.
Designed to fit all of the Thule rack systems with round bars, the 834 also fits most factory racks as well. Both the bow and stern are easy to secure with the provided ratchet straps. What it all boils down to is a rack system that’s as quick to remove as it is to install.
This model scores are respectable 3.5 out of an available 5 stars – although the number of customers reporting is a relatively small sample at less than 60.
Interestingly, the wide-mouthed J-profile offers easier loading and unloading of virtually any type or brand of kayak. This racking system provides a stable environment and yet its space-saving design permits you to also use your roof for other cargo when traveling.
Thick, plush all weather pads provide adequate protection and the durable rust resistant coating should stand up to many years of use.
What’s In The Box? Two J-shaped racks (one complete set), Two heavy-duty tie-down straps, Two bow and stern straps, Hardware to connect and secure everything.
These racks are completely removable you can either attach the kayak carrier from the roof racks – or you can remove the roof racks with the carrier attached – as long as it’s not a factory installed roof rack. One thing to be aware of however is that these racks do not fold down. So they may not fit your garage door opening.
The Good (What Buyers Like Most)
- Well made product
- Manufactured by a reputable brand
- Sturdy and sold steel construction with heavy duty plastic/resin
- Easy to install
- Works well in every way
- Not he cheapest –but worth every penny
The Not So Good
- Need to be removed after each use due to the height (this rack does not fold down)
- Bolts are just a little bit too short for some racking systems
- Directions are not very helpful (surprising, considering the vast experience of the manufacturer)
# 7. Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Roof Rack
Simply put – the Hullavator Pro kayak rack is awesome. It’s a lift-assisted system that is easier on the body and naturally, has become a favorite among kayakers – particularly those of us who are getting a little older. With about 50 buyers reporting, the Hullavator averages a solid 4.4 out of a possible 5 stars.
The Hullavator allows for waist level loading – something that virtually no other carrier offers. This means that you’re able to strap the kayak into place at a comfortable position. Then, simply slide it up to your roof and secure it.
It’s a brilliant design that protects your back, your car, and your kayak – all at the same time. Plus, it provides a secure hold that’s absolutely safe. If you prefer to get your exercise on the water, rather than struggling to mount your kayak to your car – this one is for you.
Gas struts provide welcome assistance in lifting the kayak into place by taking care of about 40 pounds of the kayak’s total weight. Multiple pads are included to protect the finish of your kayak. It’s not cheap though. And once you use this system, chances are you’ll have difficulty reverting back to any other manual kayak carrier.
How It Works? With the Hullavator, the rails extend over the side of the car. This is done to protect the finish. The rack hangs in place over the side, allowing you to put the kayak on and then strap it up at a comfortable height. Once connected, the lift assist helps guide it into place on the roof. Then you lock it into position. Tie down the bow and stern straps (which both come with quick-adjust “tensioners”) and you’re good to go.
Another interesting thing about the Hullavator is that it has wider cradles to accommodate larger kayaks – up to a full 36 inches wide. The weight capacity is set at 75 pounds.
You can lock it down to the roof rack by using Thule’s one key lock cylinder. But you should know that this is only available as an add-on purchase. Frankly at this price point – those locks should be included.
This system is designed for one kayak only and it carries it in a horizontal style. It’s lift and load capabilities are a whole lot easier – particularly after a full day out on the water. It should be noted that once you have the system set up correctly – it’s easy for one person to load and unload most kayaks. But getting the cradles installed properly usually requires two sets of hands.
Chances are, you’ll only complain about the price once. Once you use this system you’ll fall in love with it. It just makes life so much easier that you wonder how you ever manage without it. You’ll be convinced that it’s worth every penny.
The Good (What Buyers Like Most)
- Does what it’s intended to do and it does so extremely well
- Ingenious design
- High-quality construction (as one would expect from Thule)
- Saves energy and wear and tear of the body (makes going kayaking solo much more feasible particularly for older kayakers)
- Makes loading and unloading to a higher vehicle easier than ever
- With its single pin design, it’s easy to install and remove the Hullavator as required (this likely means you’re more likely to use your kayak more often)
The Not So Good
- It’s pricy
- Requires two people to set up initially
- Directions are inadequate (they provide drawings but no photographs – so you can’t really see how the system should look on your car)
# 8. Thule DockGlide Kayak Roof Rack
The Thule DockGlide is made to fit a single kayak and load from the back to the front onto the roof of any vehicle. It features pivoting pads, something that makes it extra easy to get your kayak up on the roof – without a lot of hassle.
Set up the two independent pivoting saddles at the back of the vehicle. Then, set the kayak on these saddles to align it correctly. Then all you have to do is simply slide the kayak up onto the roof.
The DockGlide system can accommodate kayaks up to 36 inches wide and 75 pounds in weight. It fits a variety of Thule rack systems and round bars, as well as most factory car racks. And it conforms to a limitless range of hulls.
The pivoting saddles make it easy to load and unload any kayak it helps glide it into position – to center the kayak on the vehicle.
Made from high-impact nylon and stainless steel, the DockGlide allows you to more easily load your kayak by yourself – without doing damage to your vehicle or your boat.
It’s a good idea to use a thick blanket on the ground, as you lean your kayak onto the pivoting saddles (a shipping blanket works great here – but any thick padding will do). Then simply align the front and hoist the kayak up as you slide it forward, carefully working your way to the end.
The Good (What Buyers Like Most)
- Assembled in the US from US-made and imported parts
- Pivoting saddles are especially helpful in accommodating different sizes of kayaks and getting them on the vehicle’s roof easily
- Wider storage capacity (up to 36 inches)
- Felt-lined saddles make it easier to load and unload (and it protects the kayak too)
- Solid build quality (consistent with Thule’s reputation for quality products)
- Strong and durable
The Not So Good
- A little expensive
- Some kayak hulls do not fully sit firmly between the saddles
- Instructions are difficult to follow
# 9. Yakima Showboat 66 Load Assist Slide-Out Roller System
There’s no doubt that Yakima is right up there with one of the top roof rack manufacturers today. One of the things that make Yakima stand out is their limited lifetime warranty.
Yakima describes the system having 2 cross-bars. But really, this system comes as depicted in the picture. What I think is that by cross-bars they are referring to the bar structure of this system. What we all know as cross-bars on the roof are the bars that go from one door side to the other. These do not come in this system. But aside from this clarification, this is an awesome rack system.
It’s a racking system that works well with both kayaks and canoes. It connects easily to virtually any existing crossbar – whether it’s round or square-framed. Or simply use those provided. Large pads help protect the surface of your vessel while the Yakima Showboat stores it securely on your roof, no matter how bumpy the road happens to get.
Showboat’s rear assisted rollers help get heavier kayaks on and off – without damaging either the kayak or the car. Although mostly universal, the Yakima Showboat 66 is not an ideal match for every car – particularly those with rear hatchback-style openings. It also does not use SKS locks – so securing the carrier to the rooftop may pose more of a challenge.
The Yakima Showboat 66 scores a 3.9 out of 5 possible stars – a respectable showing – on a small sampling of about 20 customers.
The package comes with everything you need: two 66 inch bars and corrosion resistant steel racks, fully assembled. Right out-of-the-box, figure on it taking about 30 minutes to install the complete system.
The Good (What Buyers Like Most)
- Makes easy work of both loading and unloading
- Securely holds kayak in place
- Smart design means you only have to lift one end of the kayak part way (once it hits the extended load roller, loading is almost effortless)
- Quiet driving (no excessive noise)
The Not So Good
- A little expensive
# 10. The Kayak Wing – Sea Kayak Roof Rack
This roof rack may be the ideal sea kayak carrier. It’s lightweight – yet sturdy and reliable. It comes with a five year warranty against breakage. It’s made right here in the USA – so that tells you something about the build quality right there.
One slight drawback is that it’s only recommended for kayaks up to 30 inches in width. And while the quick straps are sufficient, it would be more useful and somewhat safer if the strap had a ratchet attached to it.
While The Kayak Wing fits most vehicles – it probably isn’t the best option for every single vehicle out there. For example, the maximum crossbar width is 3 1/4 inches. If yours is larger, you’ll need to choose one of the other models. It’s also suggested that the minimum clearance between the car roof and the crossbar be 1 1/2 inches.
All accessories are included in the package and no tools are required to install this to your vehicle. It’s best suited for kayaks with a V-shaped hull. Padded wings support the kayak and the strap is the main security what holds it in place.
While some users report that road noise as problematic, others have solved that problem by placing a towel between the kayak and the strap. Others use a Velcro strap and install it perpendicular to the tie-downs. This prevents it from flapping around in the wind.
How It Works? The V-shape on one side the wing should be mounted facing the rear of the car. The idea is to load the kayak forward – from the back of the car. Simply place the kayak on the rear wing and then slide it up and over the forward wing. Adjust until it’s positioned perfectly and tie it down.
The Kayak Wing is a quick and easy carrier. Most users are able to be up and on their way in about five to 10 minutes – if you need to install the wings first. But it could be just a minute or two if your wings are already in place.
The Good (What Buyers Like Most)
- Ideal for sea kayaks
- Easy to install on the car
- Heavy-duty straps hold tight (one buyer reports that after more than 1000 miles of driving, the kayak stayed strapped into position)
- Simple design that’s easy to use – all you do is slide it up and on and then strap it down (that’s all there is to it – may be the easiest way to haul a kayak)
- Loads easily (one person can load and unload without difficulty)
- Instructions for installation are easy-to-understand
The Not So Good
- Strap lacks a ratchet (so you have to tie it down)
- Buckle could be better protected with a neoprene sleeve that covers it on both sides
- Knobs that tighten the wings to the rack are difficult to turn
The Verdict
There are plenty of kayak roof racks out there. But choosing the best one for you can be difficult. We’ve narrowed it down to the top ten kayak roof racks. Our best overall pick is the Yakima J-Low.
But if your budget isn’t limited, you should consider the Thule Hullavator for the sheer convenience and effortless loading and unloading. And if you simple want a budget option that will do the job surprisingly well, we recommend the Malone Handirack. It’s also perfect for anyone who only gets out a couple of times each season.
You can choose confidently from among any of the racks we recommend. But there’s no “one size fits all” solution. However, you are now armed with additional knowledge. When you select one of our recommendations, you’ll likely save yourself a lot of time and aggravation.
Last but not least, now that you have narrowed down the kayak racks for your car… Are you also in need of a new kayak? Check out our top selection of the best fishing kayaks!