10 Best Kayak Roof Racks 2024 in the US

1.

Lift-Assist Design: Eases the process of loading and unloading a kayak with gas-assist struts that lift and lower 40 lbs of the kayak's weight.

2.

Waist-Height Loading: Features double extending arms that allow for kayak loading and unloading at waist height for convenience and reduced strain.

3.

Padded Support: Offers 8 touch points of padded support to ensure maximum protection for the kayak during transport.

4.

Corrosion-Resistant Cradles: Includes expandable kayak cradles that are corrosion-resistant, accommodating a wide range of kayak sizes.

5.

Durable Construction: Constructed with aluminum and double coated steel for long-lasting durability and performance.

1.

Dual Position Design: Enables carrying up to two kayaks by transforming from a J-cradle to a two boat stacker position.

2.

Integrated StrapCatch: Facilitates easy strap management during kayak loading.

3.

Foldable Upright: The upright section of the rack folds flat when not in use for convenience and reduced wind resistance.

4.

Pre-Assembled: Ready to use straight out of the box, saving time on installation.

5.

Lockable to Load Bars: Can be securely locked to load bars using Thule’s One Key System Lock Cylinders for theft protection (lock cylinders sold separately).

1.

Load-Assist Mechanism: Tilts down 26 inches from roof rack height, offering 30-45 percent weight assistance for easy loading and unloading.

2.

Versatile Capacity: Capable of carrying one large kayak or two stand-up paddleboards, supporting a total weight of up to 80 lbs.

3.

Universal Crossbar Fit: Equipped with universal mounting hardware, it fits most roof racks with a minimum crossbar spread of 24 inches.

4.

Padded Protection: Features felt-covered cradles that protect and securely transport your kayak or boards, with all necessary tie-down straps included.

5.

SKS Lock Cores Compatibility: Compatible with SKS Lock Cores (sold separately) for added security of your gear.

1.

Versatile Kayak Carrying: Carries 1 kayak in J-cradle or 2 vertically.

2.

Tool-Free Installation: Fully assembled for easy setup on various bar types.

3.

Adjustable Fit: Integrated cam lever for secure and tailored kayak fit.

4.

Compact Design: Folds flat for a sleek profile when not in use.

5.

Secure Support: Includes straps and tie-downs, with optional SKS Locks.

1.

Heavy Duty Construction: Made with 22mm diameter, 1.5mm thick steel tube and 8.5" width for enhanced strength, coated with black powder to prevent rust and withstand all weather conditions.

2.

Folding Design: Features an ergonomic quick release for easy folding and raising, allowing the racks to lay flat when not in use for garage clearance without removal.

3.

Scratch Prevention: Equipped with foam padding and rubber pedals to protect your kayak from scratches and prevent movement during transport.

4.

Universal Mounting: Designed to fit most crossbars, including square, factory, and aerodynamic types, except for round bars, ensuring wide compatibility.

5.

Multipurpose Use: Comes with 4 additional tie-down straps, making it suitable for transporting kayaks, canoes, surfboards, ski boards, snowboards, and SUPs.

1.

Quick Release Fold-Down Frames: Enables low clearance and easy storage when not in use.

2.

Universal Mounting Adapters: Compatible with a wide range of load bar designs for versatile use.

3.

MultiRack Extension Modules: Allows for carrying additional SUPs and canoes.

4.

SUP Insert Pads: Provides cushioning and protection for the hull during transport.

5.

Two Lengths of Mounting Bolts: Ensures a better fit across different bar sizes.

1.

Versatile water sport carrier: Transports kayaks or stand up paddleboards

2.

Multiple carry options: Single kayak in J-style or saddle, two SUPs in saddle

3.

Maximum protection: Thick rubber saddles and padded upright

4.

Integrated StrapCatch: Easily manage straps while loading

5.

Universal mounting hardware: Fits most rack systems, quick tool-free install

1.

Versatile Transport: Capable of carrying kayaks or stand-up paddleboards with multiple configuration options.

2.

Multiple Carry Options: Supports single kayak in J-style or saddle mode, two kayaks in stacker mode, and two SUPs in saddle mode.

3.

Protective Padding: Equipped with thick rubber saddles and padded uprights to ensure maximum protection for your watercraft.

4.

StrapCatch Integration: Features an integrated StrapCatch for easy strap management during loading.

5.

Foldable Design: Can be folded down flat when not in use for convenience and reduced wind resistance.

1.

Effortless Loading: Tilting mechanism and Vortex bar extension for easy loading of kayaks, canoes, and other cargo.

2.

Compatibility: Works with existing roof racks like Rhino Rack Vortex Bars or Heavy Duty Bars, with adjustable tilt for added maneuverability.

3.

Comprehensive Kit: Includes telescoping bar, hitch mount, crossbar, strap/sling kit, fitting kit, non-slip mat, and load stops.

4.

User-Friendly Design: Simple lowering for leverage and adjustable crossbar stops for convenient loading.

5.

Vortex Bar: Comes with a Rhino-Rack Vortex bar for additional accessory options.

1.

J-style Design: Creates more room on the load bar for additional gear.

2.

PFD Lever: Enables rapid folding for improved overhead clearance.

3.

Kayak Compatibility: Accommodates kayaks up to 34 inches wide and 75 pounds in weight.

4.

Easy Loading: J-profile design simplifies the process of loading kayaks onto the carrier.

5.

Quick Mounting: Features quick on and off hardware for fast installation and removal.