Are you planning on going kayaking this weekend? That’s great? But how are you going to get the boat to the lake or the launch? If you have a fixed hull kayak, you need a roof rack system for your car to haul the boat to and from the launch.
Roof racks are essential equipment, and most kayak owners get so lost in buying the boat and their gear that they forget about the roof racks. Fortunately, we have you covered. We compiled this review of the best kayak roof rack systems for your vehicle.
We have models to suit any vehicle make and model. Whether you have a truck, SUV, sedan, or hatchback, there is something in our review to meet your transportation requirements.
Contents
Our Top Picks
- The Best Overall Kayak Roof Rack – IKURAM J-Style Folding 4-in-1 Kayak Roof Rack
This 4-in-1 folding J-style kayak cradle is a great choice for car owners with OEM roof racks and crossbar systems installed as standard equipment.
These J-cradles seat your kayak securely on the roof for easy transport. They offer you a folding design with oversized tubbing and pads for the ultimate roof rack technology. - The Best Premium Kayak Roof Rack – HYPERAX Iridium M Kayak Carrier
If you own an SUV, this roof rack system is the best premium model available for your vehicle. You get a chemically treated and coated carbon steel alloy frame for superior strength. There are plenty of ways to tie down your kayak or add J-cradles. You get a fairing-mounted at the front to improve the aerodynamics of this kayak roof rack. - The Best Kayak Roof Rack – WooWave Kayak Roof Rack Pads
The WooWave is the ideal affordable solution to moving your kayak around. These roof rack pads have durable covers and plush padding to secure your kayak without damaging the car to the boat. They install in minutes, and you get a carry bag included with your purchase.
Kayak Roof Rack Reviews
The Best Overall Kayak Roof Rack- IKURAM J-Style Folding 4-in-1 Kayak Roof Rack
If you have an OEM crossbar system on your vehicle, or you already have a roof rack system for your car, it’s time to upgrade it for your kayak with these J-style folding cradles from IKURAM. These J-cradles feature design and construction with high-grade anodized aluminum that’s corrosion-resistant. The tubing features dense oversized rubber padding to prevent scratching your kayak when loading.
Install this system to any roof rack crossbar, with square, round, rectangular, and aero bars compatibility. The cradles feature a 4-in-1 folding design allowing you to fold them flat when not in use to increase overhead clearance.
- 【Maximum Kayak Protection】: Maximum protection for kayaks and stand-up paddle boards thanks to the oversized, thick and all-weather rubber saddles and padded upright, which can stop the kayak from rubbing and getting damaged effectively, that is the Best-in-Class TopGuard padding.
- 【Universal and Easy Mounting Design】: This J-Cradle will fits to square and the most oval shaped factory installed cross rails quickly and easily, and this kit includes everything you need to transport one kayak vertically on the roof of your car, four 25×2800 mm heavy-duty straps with a break strength of 750 lbs are also included.
- 【Not For a Single Use】: Made from high quality anodized Aviation Grade Aluminum Alloys, lightweight, durable and rust-resistant, that can be really water-proof and anti-corrosion for longer time, which means you can reuse it every year, save your money and save the world.
- 【Quick Raise and Fold Design】: Come with quick fold down design, which can be quickly raise or fold when not in use using the convenient front release handle to increase the overhead clearance, and the J-bars can also be easily locked at different angles with this handle to suit different shapes of kayaks.
- 【Multiple Carrying Functions Design】: Carry up to two kayaks or standup paddle boards due to the multiple position design and the oversized padding and acrylic fabric sleeves that transforms from a J-cradle to different configurations to maximize your roof space. The Native Paddle Holders comes standard of, which can help you perfectly position your paddles while transporting kayaks.
The locking tab on the base allows you to position the cradle in any position you like to suit any kayak design. The bars on the J-cradle are around 8″ taller and 5″ wider than most other models from leading brands. The IKURAM J-cradles come with two native paddle holders fitted to the roof rack to make transporting your paddle easier.
These cradles come with an outstanding 220-lbs load capacity rating, making them ideal for carrying any size kayak. Overall, it’s tough to beat the value and utility you get from this system, and it’s our best overall choice in this review.
What We Liked
- 4-in-1 folding action.
- High-grade anodized aluminum materials.
- Oversized all-weather saddles to prevent scratching.
- Tool-less assembly.
- Universal fit to misty roof rack systems.
The Best Premium Kayak Roof Rack –HYPERAX Iridium M Kayak Carrier
If you have an SUV, then the HYPERMAX Iridium M kayak carrier system is our top pick for the best premium kayak roof rack in this review. This frame features alloy and carbon steel construction for an incredibly strong, durable, and sturdy roof rack for your vehicle. This model has a 200-lbs load capacity and compatibility with round, rectangular, aero, and wing crossbar systems.
The alloy/carbon steel frame of the HYPERMAX features a specialized anti-resistant E-coating treatment process for optimal corrosion resistance and scratch resistance. This model comes with two individual key locks and two keys to ensure that no one steals your roof rack when you’re not around, and at this kind of price tag, that’s an important feature.
- HEAVY-DUTY BOX BEAM CONSTRUCTION: Made from high tensile strength carbon steel, the rugged rack can hold up to 200lb distributed weight. The surface has gone through a special anti-resistant E coating treatment and powder coating process, protecting the rack from natural elements and scratches (Note: The exact weight limit depends on the strength of your car roof and roof bars, please be advised to contact your car dealer before installing).
- COMPATIBLE WITH MOST CROSS BARS: The carrier frame can be fitted on round bars, rectangular bars, aero bars, and wing bars (up to 3.5” in width and 1.75” in thickness).
- LOCK AND LOAD: The roof rack carrier comes with 2 individual key locks to be securely held in place. Comes with 2 keys to ensure extra security.
- METAL WIND FAIRING INCLUDED: By directing the airflow upwards, the metal wind fairing effectively reduces drag for improved fuel consumption and enhanced aerodynamics. It is also resistant to rock and stone chips.
- SECURE WITH FREE CARGO NET: The ultra-strong webbing keeps small or bulky items from falling or moving around. It’s designed to keep luggage, camping gears, golf carrying bag, and other equipment securely in place with its 14 reinforced hooks. NOTE: Bow and stern tie down straps for kayaks and canoes are sold separately.
The front of the HYPERMAX comes with a treated steel fairing to allow for optimal aerodynamics and less drag on the racking system when driving. The coating on the fairing is resistant to chipping and scratching. The HYPERMAX also includes a webbing net for securing other items to the frame.
Overall, this roof rack system is the ideal premium choice in this review and a must-have item for SUV owners.
What We Liked
- Durable alloy/carbon steel frame.
- Treated and powder coated for corrosion and scratch resistance.
- Universal crossbar compatibility.
- Wind fairing included.
The Best Budget Kayak Roof Rack –WooWave Kayak Roof Rack Pads
If you’re looking for an affordable roof rack on a budget, you can’t go wrong with the WooWave universal padded roof rack system. This model provides an easy setup and fitment to any vehicle. It’s ideal for lightweight kayaks, allowing you a simple setup and transportation of your boat without the need to install a traditional roof rack system.
The WooWave roof rack system ratchets into place using a durable nylon strap that goes under the roof into the cabin. The large EPE grade foam pads feature UV-resistant ballistic nylon covering, with bungee cords and MOLLE straps securing other tie-downs. The pads measure 33-inches in length, making them ideal for fitment to most vehicles.
- SAFE AND HIGHLY DURABLE: The WOOWAVE roof rack are made of grade EPE foam padded interior, UV resistant ballistic nylon cover exterior, bungee cord end straps. The high quality material for long term durability. And it can be used in any season, even in winter. The length of the roof rack is 33 inches
- UNIVERSAL AND OPTIMAL FEATURES: The car roof racks are made with a universal design to fit nearly every vehicle. Securely transport your kayaks, surfboards, longboards, stand up paddleboards, snowboards, canoes and other outdoor cargo on your car roof with the strong straps
- PROTECTION AND SECURITY: The soft rack pads are aerodynamically designed to protect your cargo when secured to roof racks. They are the perfect choice for the outdoor activities. Easy and safe to convey the cargo when you drive your vehicle to the beach or ocean. The kit is lightweight and compact for easy storage
- EASY TO USE: You can fully tighten the convenient and flexible strap and then buckle it, fit tightly around the cross bars on the car. The two waterproof polyester straps with padded metal buckle deliver optimal performance for outdoor applications in terms of break strength, UV resistance, water resistance and abrasion resistance
- CONSIDERABLE AND FAVORABLE SERVICE: We will provide you with satisfactory after-sales protection. If the roof rack gets damaged, just feel free to contact our customer service team with a photo, we are willing to replace it FOR FREE
The pads come with an aerodynamic design to reduce drag when driving, and you get a carry bag included with your purchase. The WooWave Kayak padded roof rack system offers you an affordable choice, and it comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.
The WooWave offers you convenient tightening of the flexible strap, buckling it tightly around the roof pillars. The two polyester straps are waterproof, featuring a padded metal buckle delivering excellent break strength, UV, water, and abrasion resistance. This model is ideal for kayakers on a budget, and it’s a great choice for a low-cost roof rack system.
What We Liked
- Affordable.
- Easy to install and remove.
- Large foam pads with weather-proof covers.
- Strap ratcheting system.
- 1-year warranty.
AA-Racks X35 Truck Kayak Rack
Do you need a kayak roof rack system for your truck? AA-Racks brings you this complete system with everything you need for carrying your kayak to and from the water. This lightweight powder-coated steel frame secures to the rim of the load bin without the need for drilling into the chassis.
The installation and takedown of the system are simple and only take a few minutes. When it’s ready to go, you have a roof rack frame capable of supporting two kayaks for a fun day out on the water. You secure the frame to the truck using the eight C-clamps included in the kit. The AA-Rack system has universal compatibility with any truck model or load bin size.
- Non-Drilling X35 Truck Rack with 8 C-Clamps included, NOT COMPATIBLE with trucks with Utility Track Systems
- Easy Installation - Fast setup and take down when not in use
- Heavy Duty Extended bolts added for extra security
- Heavy Duty Securing Ratchet Straps tight on your kayak, Canoe, 16 Ft long (4 Pack), 2200 Lbs Tested, easy and safe for your transport. Ratchet Kayak and Canoe Bow and Stern Tie Down Straps Adjustable Rope Hanger (1/4" x 10', 4 pcs, 300 LBS/Pair)
- 2 Pair of Kayak J-Racks (4 racks for 2 kayaks)
You get a complete strapping kit featuring four heavy-duty 16-foot ratchet straps capable of handling loads up to 2,200-lbs. AA-Racks include ratchet bow and stern tiedown straps, and an adjustable rope hanger. The frame is fully extendable in width, and you can set it up for any length.
After setting up the frame, you can install the J-style carry cradles on the racks. AA-Racks include four J-cradles, allowing you to carry two kayaks at a time. The J-cradles feature thicker powder-coated steel tubing than most brands, using 7/8″ tubing compared to the 6/8″ tubing found in other products.
You also get thick 40mm foam padding on the J-cradle frames to prevent scratching and a reinforced base for optimal stability when carrying your kayak.
What We Liked
- Universal fit to most trucks.
- Strong, adjustable steel frame.
- 2 x J-cradles included.
- All tie-downs and ratchet straps included.
- No drilling for installation.
Malone VersaRail Cross Rail Rack
Malone gets a final mention of this universal roof rack system. The “VersaRail” bare roof cross rail rack system is a great choice for a user-friendly system that’s easy to set up and use. When ordering the Malone VersaRail, you get a complete kit included with your purchase. Malone gives you the wrench required to install the system to your roof, but other than that, it’s pretty much a toolless setup.
The bar and support struts feature design and construction with a black plastic design reinforced with steel struts. The crossbars on the system have a rectangular shape, and they are compatible with many J-style racks, including the Malone model we’ll mention next in this review.
- No additional tools required (wrench provided)
- Corrosion resistant load bar coating
- Rectangular shape fits most rack accessories
- Delivered complete and ready to install - 135 lb. load capacity
- 75 lb. pull strength vacuum tower bases - 1. 5" wide safety attachment straps
To fit the rack, you use the over-size suction cups on the base of the support struts. The suction cups provide plenty of strength to securing the roof rack system, offering you 75-lbs of suction. However, Malone takes it a step further. They include 1. 5″ wide safety attachment straps that ratchet down to secure the roof racks to the car.
The belt goes under the roof inside the car’s cabin, allowing you to tighten it from inside the vehicle. This Malone system comes with a 135-lbs load capacity, and it’s suitable for carrying a single kayak on your car.
What We Liked
- Universal fit to most makes and models.
- Intelligent roof strap and suction system.
- Lightweight reinforced plastic construction.
- Delivered ready to install.
Malone Downloader J-Style Universal Kayak Carrier
If you decide to settle on the Malone VersaRail system, or you already have a roof rack system on your car, check out this Malone J-style carry cradles. These cradles fit the VersaRail, any other round, square, or aero roof racks, and most OEM models. The JAWZ mounting hardware lets you set up the J-cradles on any roof rack system in minutes.
The J-Style carrier cradles feature a built-in boarding ramp, making solo-loading of your boat that much easier after a long day in the water. The cradles come with a fold-flat design, increasing the overhead clearance of your vehicle while reducing aero drag when driving without the kayak on the racks.
- J-style kayak carrier with built-in boarding ramp for easy loading
- Fold down technology increases overhead clearance. Compatible with the MPG351 Telos Load Assist
- Oversized padding protects boat during transport
- JAWZ mounting hardware fits round, square and most factory oval cross rails, includes both 60mm and 70mm pre-coated mounting bolts;Cam style load straps with buckle protectors
- Dimensions:Length: 17",Width: 6",Height: 19.5",Load capacity: 75 lb
The Malone J-style kayak carriers come with a complete accessory kit included with your purchase. You get 60mm and 70mm pre-coated mounting bolts, along with cam-style loading straps with buckle protectors. Malone also includes ropes and hooks to secure your kayak to the racks.
The lightweight aluminum frame connects to the molded cradle, folding flat with a click of the tabs located on the base of the J-cradle. The cradle floor features rubber padding, and there’s EVO foam on the aluminum upright to prevent scratching your boat.
These J-Cradles are a must-have item if you go for the Malone VersaRail, and they’re a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their existing OEM or aftermarket roof rack system.
What We Liked
- Built-in boarding ramp for easy loading.
- JAWZ mounting hardware is compatible with many other roof rack systems.
- Oversized padding to protect your kayak.
- Cam straps with ratcheting kit included.
INNO Kayak Roof Rack System
Are you looking for a complete kayak roof rack system? This model from INNO gives you a universal roof rack you can use on any vehicle. The INNO offers you a versatile roof rack system for kayaks, SUP, sailboards, and surfboards. Carry it to the beach or the lake securely with this roof rack system.
The INNO has enough space for a single kayak, using a built-in strap system to secure your boat to the racks. You get rubber-coated pads to prevent the lashing from slipping or damaging the kayak. The adjustable corner pads let you secure the boat to avoid scratches occurring in transport.
- Versatile - this rack supports kayaks, canoes, and wind/Paddle/sail/SUP/long and short boards.
- Protection - Rubber Coating on the straps and adjustable corner pads help protect your boat and boards from scratches and scuffs during transport.
- Easy loading - loading and unloading your boats and boards is easy with the floating strap system that keeps the buckles elevated.
- Universal mount - this rack features a universal mounting system, fitting square, round, Aero and most factory bars.
- Secure - the featured ratcheting straps connect over boat or boards and tighten with integrated hand knobs to secure gear.
The floating strap system on the INNO provides easy loading and unloading, keeping the buckles elevated for easy tightening and loosening of the fastening straps. The INNO features a universal mounting system that fits most OEM brands, with compatibility and easy fit to round, square and aero bars.
Secure your kayak in place by ratcheting down the straps with the built-in ratcheting system featuring integrated hand cranks. This system fits all bars with spreads wider than 24-inches, and you get a lock and key system preventing theft of the roof racks when you’re not around. INNO includes two board pads to avoid scratching the kayak on the racks.
What We Liked
- Floating ratcheting strap design.
- Universal fit to most makes and models.
- It fits aero, square, or round bars.
- Lock-and-key system included.
HUIMENG Kayak Roller
There’s nothing worse than trying to load your kayak by yourself after a long day in the water. Your arms feel like spaghetti from all the paddling, and now you have to hoist this beast onto the roof racks. Fortunately, some clever people designed a solution to this problem.
The HUIMENG kayak roller system is the perfect solution to your loading problem. This rolling system offers you a universal fit to any vehicle, with an intelligent 4-strap system for secure fit and setup of the roller.
- ⛵ SAFETY:Both sides are equipped with rollers, which can effectively prevent the kayak from drifting and causing danger during installation.
- ⛵ MATERIAL:Heavy-duty aluminum frame with padded eva foam to avoid scratching or damaging your car when installing the kayak on the car
- ⛵ CONVENIENCE: One person can load a kayak or canoe on the roof of the car, which is convenient and fast
- ⛵ FIRMNESS:4 adjustable straps are used for fixing, the stable right-angle structure is more reliable
- ⛵ WIDE APPLICATION: SUV Load Assist for Kayaks, Canoes, Can be used to install on most vehicles, please note that the height of the booster should not be higher than the roof rack to make it easier to install the kayak
The lightweight aluminum frame is easy to assemble and offers corrosion resistance for saltwater locations. You get plush EVO foam pads stopping contact of the aluminum frame to the car body and the rear window. The suckers on the bars sit securely on the back window, offering you a right-angle design with superior stability.
The roller bar at the top features a large, thick pad to prevent damaging the kayak when loading. There are two large rollers allowing easy loading of the kayak onto the racks, and you’ll find it makes the job of solo-loading your kayak a breeze.
The HUIMENG kayak roller offers you a 220-lbs load capacity, and it’s more than capable of handling and requirement you throw at it. If you often find yourself going on solo trips, then this roller system is a must.
What We Liked
- It makes easy work of solo loading the kayak.
- Secure right-angled structure.
- Intelligent strap installation.
- Sucker cup bar.
- EVO foam padding.
Other Best Selling Options
- KAYAK CAR TOP CARRIER A simple, low-cost solution to carrying your kayak ITEM CONDITION: BRAND NEW QUANTITY: 2 PAIRS.
- SECURITY FEATURES:in order to ensure that customers have a good trip and safe, this product USES the loose to prevent the installation of the screw, each 2 sets of Mounting hardware.Before and after the configuration has 10 feet long ratchet rope.1 inch wide, 10-foot long, blue and high quality belt buckles can be maintained for a long time without breakage and safety and reliability，The strongest factory tested tie down straps: 600 lb break strength
- FEATURES: Steel design with adjustable padding for carrying strength and kayak protection Wide mouth J bar offers easier loading and unloading Quick on/off hardware ensures fast installation and removal Optimally sized J style carrier leaves roof space All surface rust-resistant coating and hardware for longer product life Includes all mounting hardware and 2 straps Accommodates kayaks up to 36" wide and 100lbs Will fit most factory or aftermarket square,oval and flat crossbars.
- EASY INSTALLATION:Mounting hardware design USES 2 PCS in order to protect your car bar, will not scratch you.Will fit most factory or aftermarket square and flat crossbars.
- Please note: This product is not suitable for installation on circular cross bar with diameter less than 1.2 inches.The roof and crossbar must have a 3-inch space reserved to ensure smooth installation.If any parts are missing from the package, please contact the seller's customer service immediately.
- KAYAK CAR TOP CARRIER A simple, low-cost solution to carrying your kayak ITEM#: KAYAK-RK-J(2SET) CONDITION: BRAND NEW QUANTITY: 2 PAIRS
- This Kayak Carrier designed mounts to virtually all crossbars and load bars on the market. The carrier secures the kayak on its side, consuming minimal space on the load bar. As shown in the pictures we put the Kayak Rack on the Ladder Rack Bar.(sold separatly). A maximum of 4 sets of kayak racks can be mounted on a full size truck. Save your space.
- Features: Steel design with adjustable padding for carrying strength and kayak protection Wide mouth J bar offers easier loading and unloading Quick on/off hardware ensures fast installation and removal Optimally sized J style carrier leaves roof space All surface rust-resistant coating and hardware for longer product life Includes all mounting hardware and 2 straps Accommodates kayaks up to 36" wide and 75lbs. Compatible with most crossbars and load bars. Powder-coated finish for rust resistance
- PLEASE CHECK MEASUREMENTS BEFORE PURCHASE.
- Multiple Uses: They are designed to be used to transport water sports equipment such as kayaks, canoes, surfboards, ski & snow boards, windsurfing boards and various small sailboats
- Exterior Design: Adjustable foam pads and rubber bottom base are made of high-quality materials that are non-slip, water-resistant and sun-resistant. Smaller diameter nozzles and pre-drilled holes in the tube are for better tube alignment and splicing, making the rack more stable and sturdy
- Excellent Craftsmanship: The racks are made of 1.5mm thick steel tube, and the 4 straps (8" length) can accommodate a 36" wide and 75lbs kayak. The surfaces of the racks are finished with a high quality smooth black paint that is resistant to all weather conditions and has a longer lifespan
- Applicable Size: The J-Bar racks fit most factory or market roof rails such as oval, square, and flat except round crossbars (old crossbars are within 2.5" wide and 1" thick). Crossbars are thicker than 1" or wider than 2.5" will not be mounted properly
- Convenient Operation: **Instructions are not included** This J-Bar Rack can hold 2 kayaks and includes 4 racks, 4 straps and universal mounting accessories. Just attach the kayak to the side of the rack, taking up minimal space on the cross bar
Kayak Roof Rack Buyer’s Guide
Buying a kayak and dreaming about adventures on the lake or ocean is a thrilling experience. While most kayakers spend hours going through accessories and options to enhance their kayaking adventure, they rarely think about how they’re going to transport the boat from the dealership to their home.
Roof racks are an essential item for kayak owners. Without them, you can’t take your boat anywhere. Sure, if you have an inflatable, you can just deflate it and pack it in the trunk of your car. However, owners of solid hull kayaks need roof racks to carry the kayak to and from the launch.
This buyer’s guide unpacks everything you need to know about choosing the right roof rack system for your vehicle.
Why Should I Buy a Kayak Roof Rack?
Kayak roof racks are essential equipment. There are several advantages roof racks bring to the kayaking experience.
- They make it easy to transport your kayak to any location using any vehicle.
- They mitigate the risk of damage to the kayak and your vehicle.
Roof racks are available from several brands. They’re an affordable investment in your gear and vital for any hard-hull kayak owner.
How do Kayak Roof Rack Systems Work?
A kayak roof rack provides you with a means to carry your boat around. They are easy to install, and most models don’t require any permanent fixture to your vehicle. It takes just a few minutes to set up the roof racks on any car in most cases.
Roof racks have several components.
The tower or feet – The base of the system connecting to the crossbars and fixing to the rails or gutters on the vehicle’s roof.
The crossbars – The crossbars run across the width of the roof from one side to the other. You’ll place the kayak on the crossbars and secure it in place using tie-downs.
The Carrier – If you want the best transportation experience for your kayak, purchase a carrier. A J-style cradle carrier lets you load and secure the boat fast.
The roller – If you load your kayak yourself, a roller system helps you load the boat to the roof racks.
The tie-downs – Most models come with a set of tiedown straps to help you secure the kayak to the roof racks.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Installing Kayak Rook Racks to Your Vehicle
Installing your kayak roof rack system is easier than you think. All you need is a few minutes, and you’ll have everything ready to go. Most kayak roof rack systems feature tool-less installation, so you don’t need to carry anything with you to set it up. Here is our step-by-step guide to setting up your kayak roof racks.
Step 1 – Locate the Correct Mounting Position on the Car Roof
You’ll need to buy the right roof rack system for your vehicle. We have options in our review to suit any car. There’s a roof rack system in our review to fit your vehicle, from SUVs and trucks to hatchbacks and sedans.
If you’re setting it up on a sedan or hatchback, you’ll need to position the roof rack towers, so they offer the best support possible. In most cases, you’ll set the rear roof rack tower just inside the rear pillar of the chassis. Open the back door, and you’ll see where the pillar meets the roof. Position the front tower around halfway between the top edge of the roof and the rear edge of the door.
Most sedan models come with suction feet for the towers, allowing a secure fit to the roof. Others secure to the gutters – check your product for manufacturers’ installation instructions.
If you’re setting the roof racks up on a truck or SUV, you’ll position the roof rack system around the top edge of the load bin. SUVs typically have a roof rack system installed as OEM equipment. However, you’ll need a system like the HYPERMAX to bolster the carry capacity and strength of the OEM roof rack system.
Step 2 – Secure the Carry Cradle
Set up the J-style carry cradles to the roof rack. These systems fit in place without the need for tools. Some models come with locks for the roof racks and the cradles, preventing thieves from stealing your equipment while you’re out on the water.
Step 3 – Mount the Kayak to the Roof Rack
With the roof rack system in place, mount the kayak to the cradles on the racks and tie the boat down using the ropes and bungee cords included with your set. If you’re kayaking alone, it might be a good idea to buy a roller system for the car’s rear. These rollers help you load the boat solo to the roof.
How Do I Choose the Right Kayak Roof Racks for My Vehicle?
You’ll need to answer the following question when choosing the right roof rack system for your vehicle.
- How many kayaks am I transporting?
- Do I want cradles or just a standard roof rack configuration?
- Do I need a roller system to assist with loading?
- How does the roof rack system mount to my vehicle?
- Is it a permanent or removable roof rack system?
- What budget do I have for the roof rack system?
- Where can I store the roof racks when not in use?
What are the Types of Kayak Roof Rack Systems?
Several roof rack systems are available to fit any vehicle from any manufacturer. Here are the four most common roof rack systems; you’ll find all of them available in our review.
Complete Kayak Roof Rack Systems
Complete kayak roof rack systems come with the tower, crossbars, and a J-style cradle to secure the boat. Some systems might only include the tower feet and the crossbars, requiring you to add to the system with straddlers, J-cradles, or your choice of loading options.
The Malone VersaRail system coupled with the J-style cradles in this review would be an example of a complete roof rack system ideal for any kayak.
J-Style Cradle Carrier Systems
J-style cradle carriers offer you a way to easily secure and carry your kayak. The boat sits in the cradles, and you tie it down. These systems are not independent, and they require you to set them up on your existing base roof rack system. However, they offer universal attachment to round, rectangular, and aero OEM roof rack systems.
Look for models allowing for flat folding of the cradle to increase overhead room. All models in this review are excellent choices for J-style cradles that usually come with tiedown kits included in your purchase.
Saddlers and Rollers
Saddlers and rollers are loading systems designed to assist you with getting the boat onto the roof racks without any help. After a long day paddling, the last thing you want to do is battle to load the kayak. In your exhausted state, you might drop the boat and damage the hull.
Pad Roof Rack Systems
Padded roof racks are a low-cost choice for carrying your kayak around. These racks are long, wide, thick pads that sit across the roof. They are lightweight and do the job of carrying a single kayak anywhere you need to go. Most models come with carrying bags and are easy to set up in minutes.
Kayak Roof Racks FAQs
Q: Do kayak roof racks fit universally to all car models?
A: Yes, the roof rack models in this review offer you universal fitment to any vehicle. They can clamp to round, square, rectangular, and aero-style crossbars and almost all OEM crossbars. You’ll find something in our review that fits your vehicle.
Our recommended systems come with adjustable widths and lengths to let you configure them to any vehicle in minutes. The roof rack systems in this review are removable and easy to install, with most of them offering a toolless setup.
Q: Can I use a kayak roof rack on a Minivan or SUV?
A: Yes, all of the kayak roof rack models in our review offer you a universal fit for any vehicle. Whether you have an SUV, sedan, hatchback, or truck, we have a roof rack system to suit your vehicle in our review.
Q: Can I put my kayak directly on the roof racks?
A: Yes, you can place your kayak directly onto the roof racks. However, it’s not a great idea. We recommend getting some pads for the crossbars to prevent scratching the kayak during transport. Many of the products in our review of the best kayak roof racks feature integrated padding included with your purchase.
Q: Where can I buy the best kayak roof racks?
A: We recommend you buy your kayak roof racks from Amazon. Amazon has the best selection of top roof rack brands and the best prices. You’ll find it cheaper on Amazon than you will at a retail store. Amazon offers fast, free shipping to Prime members, and they give you buyer protection on your order.
The Best Kayak Roof Racks – The Verdict
After reading through the reviews of the best kayak roof rack systems, you probably have a good idea of which model is the right choice for transporting your boat. We have options to suit any vehicle and any budget. Some of the products in this review work in combination with each other.
For instance, taking the Malone VersaRail system and the J-style cradles combined with the HUIMENG roller system is a great way to give yourself all the leading equipment for carrying your kayak. If you’re still on the fence with your decision, why not go with one of our top picks?
- The Best Overall Kayak Roof Rack – IKURAM J-Style Folding 4-in-1 Kayak Roof Rack
- The Best Premium Kayak Roof Rack – HYPERAX Iridium M Kayak Carrier
- The Best Kayak Roof Rack – WooWave Kayak Roof Rack Pads
