Hence the roof racks were developed to offer a simple transport option for the kayaks. The racks are designed in a way to be set up on a car or a truck’s roof. This eliminates the need for extra mountings and assists in easy mounting and dismounting of the kayak. Since the racks have to carry the weight of different sizes of kayaks, some factors come into play.
Type of rack: There are various types of racks available to transport your kayaks. They differ from each on the basis of their orientation and stacking abilities. They are designed in a way to fit on the roof cross bars. Various types of racks are saddle types, J-cradle types, or rack pads. Loading and carrying capacity: The overall capacity of the racks matters since it gives us an idea of how many kayaks it can carry at a time. The increase in the number of kayaks ultimately increases the overall load on the kayak. Hence the weight capacity of the rack is also considered to keep the vehicle stable while driving.
Rack material: The rack material also plays an important role in the performance of the roof rack. Various materials have different loading strengths. The most common materials are steel and aluminum. In case of the crossbar’s absence, neoprene pads are also used to bear the load of the kayaks.
By understanding these factors and their connection with the roof racks, the selection process of a roof rack becomes easy. The market for roof racks for kayaks is huge and growing rapidly. We have therefore chosen some good rack options from various trusted brands. A detailed list of these options is discussed below. A “Buying Guide” is also made available to clear any confusion related to the specifications.
Best Kayak Roof Rack List
Best Kayak Roof Rack
1. TMS Kayak Roof Rack
The first product on the list comes from a brand well-known for affordable products. TMS has a wider range of vehicle roof racks that are designed to last long. The TMS J-Bar Roof Rack is made up of alloy steel which offers good strength to the overall body at a lighter weight. This helps the roof rack accommodate a kayak of weight up to 75lbs. This is a J-bar type roof rack that allows easy mounting of kayaks with a maximum width of 36-inch. Since the kayak is kept at an angle on the J-bar rack, it takes less space on the roof allowing space for another kayak. The rack is equipped with adjustable paddings to keep the kayaks away from any type of scratches or damage while transporting. It can be mounted over the roof or the crossbars. Best Features:
The maximum loading capacity of 75lbs J-bar style roof rack for loading kayaks at an angle Accommodates a kayak of width 36-inch Alloy steel construction with safety paddings Quick installation and removal of hardware Compatible with passenger cars and SUVs
Pros:
It takes minimum space on the roof allowing room for another kayak The roof racks allow faster installation and removal of the kayaks The price of this roof rack is lower than many other options
Cons:
The roof rack is not foldable
2. IKURAM Kayak Roof Rack
Ikuram is a manufacturer of premium automobile accessories. It incorporates new technologies into its product development process to deliver innovative solutions. The Ikuram J-Style Roof Rack is multi-functional. Made from aviation-grade aluminum alloy, the pair of roof racks are able to withstand a loading capacity of 220lbs. Kayaks with a maximum width of 42-inch can be easily loaded on this rack. Being a J-style rack, the kayaks can be kept at a 45-degree angle, saving overall space on the roof. Hence the roof rack can carry over 2 kayaks at the same time. The mounting hardware is designed to easily fit the standard-size crossbars of various automobiles. By using thick padded rubber saddles, the kayaks are kept safe from damage during transportation. The foldable design of this unit helps in folding the roof rack when not in use, thereby increasing the vehicle’s height clearance. Best Features:
Pair of J-Style roof bars with a loading capacity of 220lbs Can fit a kayak of maximum width 42-inch Made up of an anodized aluminum alloy of aviation grade Heavy-duty straps with a break strength of 750lbs The maximum carrying capacity of 2 kayaks
Pros:
The thicker rubber paddings of the roof rack help in absorbing shocks and avoid damage to the kayak It is designed for standard roof crossbar sizes and hence compatible with various automobiles The foldable design helps in adjusting the roof rack as per the kayak’s orientation
Cons:
Not suitable for circular roof cross bars
3. DRSPORTS Kayak Roof Rack
DrSports specializes in developing and manufacturing vehicle racks. It has a range of roof racks with different configurations that suit every type of vehicle. These user-friendly racks are designed to offer hassle-free transportation of the kayaks. The DrSports J-Bar Kayak Rack is a foldable roof rack whose height can be adjusted easily This unit is made up of heavy-duty alloy steel material which gives it the required strength to carry a kayak. A pair of these roof racks are able to carry a maximum load of 150lbs. This J-Bar roof rack helps in loading the kayaks in a better orientation to save enough space and allow room for more kayaks. The roof rack is covered with a 0.3-inch soft foam cushioning that helps in absorbing vibration while transporting the kayak. It also offers protection against damage and rubbing of the kayak against the metallic rack. The unit is provided with straps and hook ropes for locking the kayak in its position. Best Features:
Heavy-duty alloy steel construction Pair of J-Bar roof racks with a loading capacity of 150lbs 3-inch thick layer of foam cushion for damage and vibration resistance Compatible with passenger cars and SUVs The maximum carrying capacity of 2 kayaks Locking straps and hook ropes for secure mounting of kayaks
Pros:
The quick removal hardware helps in the fast installation and removal of the kayak When not in use, this foldable roof rack can be lowered without having to remove it The roof rack is compatible with square and oval cross bars
Cons:
Not suitable for circular profile crossbars
4. YAKIMA Kayak Roof Rack
Yakima is one of the leading vehicle rack manufacturers, present in the market for a long time. With an experience of four decades, it studied various challenges related to roof racks and developed its own product range. The Yakima JayLow Rooftop Rack is also a multi-functional model. It offers two configurations to mount a kayak. By using the J-cradle style, a single kayak of 80lbs weight can be mounted. To load 2 kayaks, the stacking style can be used to load 110lbs of weight. The integrated lever helps in adjusting the position of the rack. Covered with paddings, the rack is able to carry kayaks without damaging their surface. The roof rack is compatible with many vehicles since it can fit on a crossbar with a minimum spread of 24-inch. It also comes with various heavy-duty straps and tie-downs to lock the kayak in its position. Best Features:
Foldable rack with multiple comfrigautions The maximum loading capacity of 80lb for 1 kayak in J-style mode For 2 kayaks, the loading capacity increases to 110lbs in stacking mode Fits a crossbar of 24-inch minimum spread Heavy-duty straps and tie-downs included for secure mounting Foam padding for damage resistance
Pros:
The roof rack comes pre-assembled and can be quickly installed on the crossbar The integrated lever helps in adjusting the height of the rack Compatible with round, square and aerodynamic crossbars
Cons:
The base rack lock is not included
5. Malone Kayak Roof Rack
Malone is one of the pioneers in introducing various types of roof racks in North America. It gives priority to providing innovative products to consumers at a good price tag. The Malone Downloader J-Style Roof Rack is designed especially for kayaks with a long bow and stern. This 10-pound unit comes with an inbuilt boarding ramp that assists in easy loading of the kayak. It is able to carry a maximum weight of 75lbs. To keep the kayak away from any type of damage, a thick layer of padding is added over the metallic rack. The foldable design of this roof rack helps in adjusting its height and increases the vehicle’s clearance height when the rack is not in use. The standard 60-7-mm mounting bolts are also provided to help in installing the rack onto the crossbars. The cam-style straps are easy to use and secure the kayak on the rack. Best Features:
Foldable J-style roof rack The maximum loading capacity of 75lbs Foam paddings for vibration and damages resistance Cam-style straps to lock the kayak on the rack Standard 60-70mm mounting bolts to fit the rack on the crossbar
Pros:
The built-in ram helps in boarding the kayak and offers good support to it The foldability helps in adjusting the rack height and increases the overall height clearance of the vehicle It is able to mount kayaks with longer bows and stern
Cons:
Stacking multiple kayaks is not possible
6. MeeFar Kayak Roof Rack
MeeFar specializes in manufacturing cargo-carrying accessories for automobiles. Its cargo management product range is suitable for regular family outings as well as professional adventurers. The MeeFar Roof Rack offers universal compatibility. It is suitable for non-crossbar vehicles and can fit on a vehicle with or without a roof gutter. It is made up of soft materials and a non-slip nylon surface cover mat. This helps in absorbing the transportation vibrations and keeps the kayak away from slipping. The thickness of 3-inch helps in resting the kayak without transferring the load on the roof. A pair of tie-down straps, loop straps, and tie-down ropes are also provided to mount this unit on the roof and secure the kayak. The foldable design helps in storing the foam rack in a storage bag. The installation and removal process is quick as it uses a strapping feature. Best Features:
4-piece foam rack made up of 3-inch thick foam material Non-slip 700D nylon cover mat to offer grip to the kayak Mounting straps and ropes are provided for screw mounting of the kayak Storage bag included
Pros:
The foam rack can fit on a roof with or without gutter Suitable for carrying kayaks, shortboards, and longboards The foldable design helps in storing the rack when not in use
Cons:
Not suitable for heavy loading conditions as the foam rack is installed directly on the roof
7. XGeek Kayak Roof Rack
XGeek provides automobile accessories for outdoor applications. Using its 20+ years of experience, it develops products that cater to consumer needs. Using high-quality materials, its product offers excellent craftsmanship and durability. The XGeek kayak Roof Rack is made up of aviation-grade aluminum brackets. The foam rubber covering helps in the absorption of the vibration and prevents damage to the kayak. The J-style roof rack is capable of mounting a 158lbs load at a time. It has a double-side bearing design that allows the loading of 2 kayaks of 42-inch width. The foldable design of the rack helps in adjusting it up to 180 degrees. This helps in maintaining the vehicle’s roof clearance when the rack is not in use. It is designed in a way to quickly mount the standard crossbars. To secure kayaks in their position, mounting belts, hooks, and straps are provided. Best Features:
Made up of 2.2mm thick aviation grade aluminum alloy tube J-style roof rack with a maximum loading capacity of 158lbs The double-sided bearing frame allows carrying 2 kayaks at a time Suitable for round, oval, and square-shaped standard crossbars Mounting belts, straps, and hooks included Compatible with SUVs, passenger cars, and trucks
Pros:
Foam padding helps in vibration absorption and resists damage to the kayak surface The foldable design can adjust the height up to 180 degrees and helps in lowering the rack when not in use The rack comes with a 6-months guarantee
Cons:
Not suitable for vertical stacking of kayaks
8. JBBCN Kayak Roof Rack
JBBCN develops its products by complying with ISO standards. As a result, the products are compatible with wider vehicles. Pairing this with aggressive pricing automatically grabs the attention of consumers. The JBBCN Kayak Roof Rack is a J-bar style model that offers enough room for 2 kayaks, side by side. Made up of thickened alloy steel, this pair of roof racks are able to bear a maximum load of 150lbs. The surface of the rack is treated with an anti-rust coating to resist corrosion attacks making it suitable for every weather. Kayaks of maximum width up to 36-inch can be easily loaded on this rack. To offer resistance to vibrations while transportation, the rack is equipped with adjustable padding made up of high-density foam. To keep the kayaks locked in their position, heavy-duty ratchet straps are provided on both sides of the rack. It is designed in a way to be mounted on any type of crossbar or load bar of a vehicle. Best Features:
A maximum loading capacity of 150lbs Total carrying capacity of 2 kayaks Thickened alloy steel tube construction for extra strength Ratchet straps and mounting accessories to secure kayaks Adjustable high-density foam padding on both sides of the rack
Pros:
The anti-rust coating helps in using the rack without worrying about corrosion It is compatible with any type of crossbar or load bar due to its universal size The pair of racks are available at a low price
Cons:
The rack is not foldable and hence reduces the height clearance of the vehicle
9. Best Marine Kayak Roof Rack
Best Marine & Outdoors is a newcomer in the kayak accessories market. It proved its ability by introducing various high-quality products. The brand believes in adopting alternate methods to offer quality products at a lower cost. If your vehicle lacks a crossbar, the Best Marine Roof Rack will come to your aid. This unit is a foam rack that can easily haul a kayak. This foam rack can be installed on roofs that are wider than 48-inch. It uses a shock-resistant EPE foam as the base material for the rack which offers strength to the overall rack structure. Hence the rack can easily bear a load of 100lbs. It is covered with a 600D polyester that offers grip to the kayak. To help secure the kayak in its position, two heavy-duty straps are provided that wrap around the kayak. A 15-feet long rope is also provided to lock the bow and stern of the kayak. With minimal mounting points and hardware, it is easy to install this rack on the roof. The dimension of the pad is 2.5-inch thick and 3-inch wide. This makes sure that the kayak won’t rub on the vehicle’s roof during transportation. Best Features:
The foam rack made up of EPE foam and a 600D polyester cover Suitable for roofs wider than 48-inch 5-inch thick and 3-inch wide foam pads A total of 2 heavy-duty straps for secure mounting of kayak 15-feet rope to lock the stern and bow movement
Pros:
This rack is useful for vehicles that do not have crossbars installed Easy and quick installation as compared to other types of roof racks The overall weight of the rack is light
Cons:
The rack is not suitable for passenger cars with lesser width roof
10. Thule Kayak Roof Rack
Thule has been creating solutions to make adventures easy. With over 75+ years of experience, it shares the similar passion of its consumers. As a result, high-quality products have been produced that offer the user a safer experience. The Thule Hullavator Pro Rooftop Kayak Carrier is a uniquely designed model. Made up of aluminum and steel material, this rack comes with a lift. The dually extended arms of the lift can be lowered 3 feet downwards and allows mounting of the kayak from waist-level height. Upon loading, the gas-assisted struts help in the smooth travel of the arms to the rooftop position. This rack can bear a maximum load of 75lbs easily. The lift system reduces 40lbs from the overall weight of the kayak, making it easy to lift it back on the roof. Mounting 1 kayak at a time, the bow and stern can be shrewd by the tie-down rope. A total of 8 padded supports are placed strategically over the rack to offer protection to the kayak during transportation. The cradles are corrosion-resistant and offer support to the kayak when loaded. Best Features:
Roof rack with integrated lift system A maximum load-bearing capacity of 75lbs Dually extended arms with lifting power of 40lbs 8 padded support for maximum protection of the kayak 3-feet downward travel for waist-level loading of kayak
Pros:
The lift system helps in loading the kayak on the roof with minimum efforts The aluminum and double-coated steel construction adds strength to the overall rack Gas-loaded struts ensure a smooth retrieval of the arms to their original position
Cons:
The overall weight of the rack is increased due to the lift system
11. Sportneer Kayak Roof Rack
Sportneer has been successfully blending engineering and sports for professionals. As a result, good quality products were developed that can also be used by non-professional consumers. The Sportneer Kayak Roof Rack is made to last long. This J-style rack has an aluminum alloy construction that offers resistance against fire, water, and rust damage. The frame made up of a steel and aluminum combination can bear a total load of 165lbs. A kayak with a maximum width of 42-inch can easily fit on this roof rack. To make sure the kayak suffers no damage, rubber paddles and EVA sponge puddings are used. Being a J-style rack, the kayak can be placed in an angled manner to make room for other luggage. It is foldable up to 180 degrees, which helps in positioning the kayak. It can also be lowered down fully when not in use, adding clearance to the roof height. The assembly and disassembly of this rack can be done without using any power tools. Best Features:
Aviation-grade aluminum alloy construction Frame made up of aluminum and steel tubes A maximum loading capacity of 165lbs Supports kayaks of width 42-inch Foldable range of 0-180 degree
Pros:
The sponge and rubber paddings help in absorbing vibration and prevent damage to the kayak J-style configuration helps in adjusting the orientation of the kayak and assists in proper weight distribution All weather resistance and fire-resisting property makes it a durable rack
Cons:
Not suitable for roofs without crossbars
Buying Guide For The Best Kayak Roof Rack
Transporting the kayaks to your favorite water sports destination is made easy by the roof racks. This not only allows a less complex way of transportation but also eliminates the need for heavy trailers. A detailed list of such roof racks for kayaks was explained above, along with their specifications. Some concussions might arise due to these specifications and their relationship with the roof racks. Hence we are presenting this buying guide to clear any confusion and help your selection process.
1. Type Of Rack
There are different types of rack layouts available that offer various positions to mount kayaks. These types are further explained below:
2. Saddle Racks
The saddle racks are designed in a way to mount the kayaks in a horizontal position. The design allows extending the rack as per the vehicle’s roof size. This rack is suitable for transporting a single kayak.
3. J-style Racks
The J-style racks are shaped in the form of the letter “J” and help in mounting the kayaks at an angle of 45-degree. The side loading mechanism offers easy loading and unloading of the kayaks. To load 2 or more kayaks, these racks are suitable.
4. Stackers Racks
These racks, as the names suggest, are used to stack the kayaks in a vertical position. The stakes are suitable for carrying multiple kayaks at a time as long as the mounting is secured correctly.
5. Foam Racks
When your vehicle does not have a pre-installed roof crossbar, the foam racks come in handy. They are wrapped around the kayak and then strapped to the vehicle’s roof securely. They offer a temporary resting surface for the kayak and can be installed or removed easily.
6. Loading And Carrying Capacity
The racks can accommodate a different number of kayaks at a time. The carrying capacity determines the number of kayaks a rack can mount. This also depends on the mounting points available for kayaks to secure them while transporting. When mounted, the kayaks put a load on the racks. The weight must be kept under the maximum loading capacity of the rack for various reasons. Overloading shifts the car’s center of gravity and affects the controls. Similarly, overloading can also result in the failure or bending of the rack joints.
7. Rack Material
The rack material has to be strong enough to bear the load of the kayak. The material must possess good shock-absorbing properties since the vehicle exerts these shocks while in motion. The popular choice for rack materials is steel and aluminum. The steel racks are high and tough compared to the aluminum racks. By minimizing the risk of corrosion via metal plating, steel proves to be a good rack material option. Aluminum on the other hand possesses a better strength-to-weight ratio. Even after being lighter in weight, it offers good strength. The corrosion resistance property also makes it an ideal choice for the rack. When the vehicle roof is not equipped with crossbars, racks are made up of soft neoprene or foam material.
8. Vehicle Compatibility
Imagine buying a roof rack for your vehicle and it fails to fit the roof. To avoid this problem, it is important to check the compatibility of your vehicle with the selected option. The compatibility check includes various parameters. Roof crossbars must be checked for compatibility with the racks since most of the racks are mounted on them. The length and the width of the rack as per the kayak dimension must match to ensure secure mounting. Some brands even list the vehicle models that are compatible with their roof racks.
Conclusion
The IKURAM Kayak Roof Rack is the first product on our favorite list. It has a higher load-bearing capacity of over 220lbs that helps in carrying 2 kayaks at the same time. The use of aviation-grade aluminum alloy helps the rack in achieving this feat. It offers enough room for a 42-inch wide kayak to comfortably fit on the rack. Being a foldable rack, it can be lowered as per the kayak’s orientation. Enough paddings are provided to reduce vibrations on the loaded kayaks. The JBBCN Kayak Roof Rack is our second choice from the list. It has a sturdy built quality due to the use of thickened alloy steel. This roof rack can fit 2 kayaks easily due to its high load-bearing capacity of 150lbs. Kayaks of width up to 36-inch can easily fit the J-bar style rack. The high-density foam acts as a cushion to the kayaks and absorbs any type of shock while transportation. Proper ratchet straps and mounting accessories are also provided to secure the kayaks in their positions. This rack offers all the above-mentioned features at a lower price tag making it the most affordable option on the list. The Sportneer Kayak Roof Rack is the last option from our favorites. It is made up of aluminum alloy that resists any type of weather and fire attacks. With a maximum loading capacity of 165lbs, this unit can load 2 kayaks of 42-inch width easily. The foldability of the rack helps adjust the height and orientation of the rack. Using rubber and sponge padding, any damage to the kayak is avoided. Mounting accessories are also provided to secure the kayaks in their positions. All these features are available at a justified price range, making this rack a value-for-money deal.
Comment * Name * Email * Website
Δ
