Whether you want to go kayaking or simply want to bring your favorite craft for a long trip, you can easily install a kayak roof rack for your SUV. There are many options available for different types of kayaks. Some people opt for J-racks, while others go with crossbar pads.
But if you’re going to be carrying multiple kayaks, it’s best to go with a rack that can stack and carry more than one kayak.
As there are several different modes in the market, it is not so easy to choose the most suitable kayak roof rack for your SUV. Therefore, it’s important to know the advantages as well as downsides.
To help you out here, we’ve compiled a list of top kayak roof racks that suits your SUV. And we didn’t forget to include essential guidelines!
Let’s begin,
There are a few ways to do this. The most common way is to use a Yakima or Thule rack system. You can also use a roof rack or cargo box.
There are a few ways to secure a kayak to the top of an SUV. One is to use bungee cords or rope to secure it to the vehicle. Another is to use a mount that attaches to the vehicle’s roof.
The most effective way to get a kayak on top of an SUV with one person is to first attach the kayak’s securing strap around the vehicle’s bumper and then attach the kayak’s securing strap around the person’s waist.
Once the straps are securely attached, the person can climb onto the kayak and then lean back, providing enough leverage to lift the kayak onto the SUV.
Top Kayak Roof Rack For SUV
When looking for the perfect kayak roof rack for your SUV, there are a few things to consider. The rack should fit securely without taking up too much space, it should be able to hold a variety of kayaks and not be too heavy or cumbersome to carry, and it should be easy to install.
The Yakima Kayak Roof Rack is a great option for those looking for a versatile and affordable rack. However, here we’ve listed the top 7 kayak roof rack for SUVs. This includes pros as well as downsides.
DrSportsUSA Universal Kayak Rack
The DrSportsUSA Universal Kayak Roof Rack is a temporary mounting system for your inflatable kayaks. The system includes metal buckles and waterproof polyester straps that snugly wrap around your roof and secure your kayak.
It comes with universal adapters and 50 mm bolts to secure the rack in place and also includes a carry bag for the kayak. It can be installed quickly and easily. It’s easy to install, and it includes instructions for installation.
For more support and noise reduction, the carrier has adjustable mounting and double-folding J bars. You can also adjust the angle with the nylon handle, and the locking knob is easy to open.
It is easy to use and features adjustable padding for a comfortable fit. It’s made of strong and durable 25mm OD aluminum and has an adjustable pad for added safety. It’s also adjustable so that you can find the perfect height for your kayak.
Yakima SweetRoll
There is nothing better than the Yakima SweetRoll Kayak Roof Rack for SUVs when it comes to transporting your canoe, kayak or SUP. There is a spring-loaded base that adapts to almost any shape of the boat hull, along with saddles that adapt to those shapes.
In addition to the tie-downs at the stern and bow, the saddles are spring-loaded. Moreover, there are no tools that you need to install the SweetRoll, and it is compatible with a wide range of vehicles.
The SweetRoll is designed with ease in mind. Its spring-loaded base and integrated rollers make loading the kayak easy. The SweetRoll can fit almost any kind of kayak, so you won’t have to worry about it being too big or too heavy.
Unlike other racks, you can easily install this one on almost any crossbar without the use of tools. It is also convenient for loading and unloading your kayak, and it will not take up valuable space on your vehicle.
The SweetRoll is ideal for those who frequently travel with their kayaks. It features an aerodynamic lid, which gives the kayak a sleek, stylish look. Plus, it’s made with heavy-duty steel and features a dual-sided opening for easy access to your gear.
With all of these features, it’s easy to see why it’s a popular choice for many drivers. Whether you need to transport your kayak on a road trip or just take it out for a paddle, the Yakima SweetRoll is a versatile, easy-to-use roof rack for your SUV.
Rhino Gear
A worthwhile option for those of you who wish to carry more than just a kayak is the Rhino-Rack system. With the Rhino-Rack system, you can also add cargo boxes as an optional accessory. Besides being able to carry luggage in cargo boxes, you can also use this for carrying cargo!
This Rhino-Rack Euro Square Bar Roof Rack System features an extruded aluminum track, UV-stable glass-reinforced nylon feet, and a Lifetime Warranty. You can also opt for Rhino-Rack’s Vortex StealthBar Roof Rack, which has a maximum load capacity of 176 pounds and comes in silver or black.
It’s easy to load the kayak from the side or back of the vehicle with the Rhino-Rack Nautic 570. The pads on this rack swivel 180 degrees and have a locking mechanism for extra security. Aluminum construction makes this rack able to hold different hull shapes and makes the process easy. With its collapsible hinge, you can take it off when you’re done kayaking.
Rhino-Rack T-Loader As An Alternative
Additionally, it is important to mention that Rhino-Rack T-Loader is another good rack option that is equally as good.
This Rhino-Rack T-Loader is perfect for kayakers that need to load and unload their kayaks quickly and easily, and if they want to load the rack quickly and efficiently, they can do it with one hand. It not only comes with adjustable crossbars, but it also comes with a Vortex bar, which greatly enhances its maneuverability.
Moreover, the truck is equipped with two load stops, and these are very useful, especially during loading when maneuvering the truck.
Malone HandiRack
Whether you have a single kayak or multiple kayaks, the Malone HandiRack Top Kayak Cargo Roof Rack For SUV is the ideal way to transport them. As an added bonus, this kayak carrier comes with an anchor point that is strong and reliable and won’t rust or corrode.
You can easily mount this carrier to most vehicles’ crossbars without having to use any tools. This roof rack also includes everything you will need to get up and run quickly, in addition to being easy to install.
Furthermore, it includes tiedown straps and stacking blocks to protect your kayaks while they are being transported.
In short, the Malone HandiRack is portable and lightweight, and you can set it up in minutes. It holds a wide variety of kayaks and other gear, including ladders. It also tucks away in a tote bag, so you can easily store it in your trunk. The Malone HandiRack is the ideal kayak rack for a variety of vehicles and will save you money in the long run.
There is a gas-assisted loading system on the Malone HandiRack Top Kayak Cargo Rack for SUVs. Thanks to this system, kayaks up to 40 pounds can be loaded. After the kayak has been loaded, you can secure it to the roof of your vehicle.
As an added bonus, you can also use the paddle and life preserver that are included within the kayak. As for its ease of installation, the Malone HandiRack Top Kayak Cargo Rack For SUVs is quite excellent.
Alfa Gear
The Alfa Gear Top Kayak Roof Rack for SUV is an affordable and durable option for your car or SUV. It is padded and multi-foam padded to protect your kayak or canoe from damage and is equipped with extra-long straps for added security.
Atop the Alfa Gear roof rack, you can carry a canoe or kayak and all of your other sporting gear. The Alfa Gear top kayak roof rack is compatible with all types of kayaks, and models of vehicles.
The rack doesn’t add much height to your car or SUV, so your vehicle can fit comfortably. And thanks to its fold system, you don’t have to remove it before taking it with you.
This rack is equipped with all necessary straps, oversized padding, and nylon covers and is very easy to install. It also comes with a couple of lengths of PP rope for extra safety. And while it might not be the most affordable option on the market, it’s definitely worth considering.
With an Alfa Gear kayak SUV roof rack, you don’t have to worry about vibrations. Unlike other rooftop kayak racks, this system features heavy-duty fabric straps that support up to 400 pounds. It is compatible with several makes and models, including minivans and SUVs without rooftop bars.
Aside from this, you can even purchase one for your car. This rack will protect your car, kayak, and paddleboard from damage.
Which Kayak Roof Rack Is For Your SUV?
Depending on the size of your kayak, you can choose between kayak-specific racks and roof racks that are compatible with your vehicle. Some racks can be adapted to the shape of your car’s crossbars, while others will use different kinds of rails.
If you’re not sure what type of rack you need, you should go through the details to find the right one for your vehicle.
First, think about what kind of kayak carrier you need. You can get everything from temporary pads to J-cradles and stackers.
Kayak carriers come in all shapes and sizes depending on what you need them for, so make sure you pick one that fits your roof and crossbars. When set up right, kayaks add up to 80 pounds to an SUV.
Most kayak roof racks for SUVs are made of metal, and they’re easy to attach to any vehicle without roof rails. There are usually adjustable straps that thread through the cab of the vehicle. Using them to carry multiple kayaks improves fuel efficiency and reduces drag.
You can also carry various sports gear on them. Besides, you might want to consider the SweetRoll, which is compatible with many crossbars. Moreover, you can install it in seconds.
In addition, these racks have rust-resistant coatings to keep your kayak’s hull from rusting. Since they’re made for multiple kayaks, you don’t have to worry about going over your car’s legal limits.
Everything You Need To Know Before Buying A Kayak SUV Roof Rack
The most common questions that people ask about kayak roof racks are: What is their lifetime guarantee? What are the advantages of this product? What are the advantages of folding them flat? Is their installation process easy? And most importantly, do they fit their vehicle’s roof size?
Here are some of my answers to those questions. The following guide will help you make the right decision.
SUP Roof Racks For Kayaks Are Modular
Most of the kayak roof racks on the market today are designed with the J-cradle in mind. These racks are side-loading and sit at a 45-degree angle on the vehicle’s crossbars. The design also leaves more room for other adventure gear. J-cradles can be a great option for vehicles with narrow roofs. However, if you have a wide roof, you may need a different type of rack.
Different Types And Shapes Of Kayak SUV Roof Rack
There are several types of kayak roof racks available for SUVs, including folding roof racks and cradle racks. Some are removable, while others are permanent fixtures that stay inside the vehicle.
Another type of kayak roof rack for SUVs is called a saddle rack. It features two interconnected crales that are adjustable to fit the width of your vehicle. Despite being fast, your kayak won’t move on the saddle rack because there is so much surface area. With its multiple crates that can be installed vertically, the saddle rack can accommodate more than one kayak.
Many come with travel bags and load straps, while others are designed to slide on and off the roof. The cradles have low-profile designs and will not reduce fuel economy. Kayak roof racks for SUVs are an excellent option if you want to take your kayak on a road trip.
Fold And Flatten To Reduce The Roof Height
Owning a kayak roof rack has lots of benefits. Typically they attach to crossbars on your roof and are secured to built-in roof rails. Some models are welded directly onto your vehicle’s door frame. In either case, a kayak roof rack provides a stable place to transport a kayak. The racks themselves can be customized to fit your needs.
They usually come with a rubber pedal design, foam gasket, and full crossbar protection. Most kayak roof racks will also have tiedown straps with ample length for secure mounting. Once installed, the kayak roof rack will take less than an hour to fold flat and will reduce the height of your SUV’s roof by approximately ten inches. You might want to go for a different option if your SUV doesn’t have a roof bar.
Consider The Roof Of Your SUV
Kayak roof racks have a lower profile than other roof racks and are the safest way to transport a kayak. The racks are not only cheap and easy to install, but they’re also the most aerodynamic.
Some roof racks are designed to fit one kayak, while others can accommodate two kayaks side-by-side. With a narrow SUV, you might only be able to fit one kayak, but you can mount two kayaks side-by-side.
Make Sure The Rack Fits Your SUV
Before buying your kayak roof rack, make sure that it fits your vehicle. Rack manufacturers usually list the kinds of vehicles their racks fit. Depending on the model, some are for cars, while others are for trucks and SUVs.
To make sure your new kayak roof rack will fit your car, check the manufacturer’s compatibility list. Almost all roof racks are universal, but some are specific to certain types of crossbars.
Installing A Kayak Roof Rack To Your SUV
Kayak roof racks for SUVs are designed to hold as many kayaks as your vehicle’s roof can accommodate.
You can easily install the racks by following a few simple steps. First, you should mount the racks to the crossbars on your vehicle’s roof.
Once installed, you can tie down your kayak with straps. If you want to take your kayak with you on the road, you can also attach a truck bed extender.
Advantages Of Having A Kayak Roof Rack For SUV
These kayak SUV roof racks are durable, rustproof, and lightweight. Because they’re long, you have to be careful not to dent your car. You can install them yourself too!
Most Of The Offers a lifetime guarantee
Consider the manufacturer’s warranty before you install a kayak roof rack on your SUV. Despite some manufacturers offering warranties, reputable brands offer excellent customer service and lifetime warranties.
Don’t bother looking here if you’re worried your kayak won’t fit in your SUV.
A wide variety of features come with the Kayak roof rack for SUVs. Besides being sturdy, it can handle up to 80 pounds of kayak weight. The kayaks are padded to prevent scratches, and they have a bow and stern tie-downs to keep them in place.
Allow You To Carry Other Things Too
They fit most cars and come with a lifetime warranty. And you can use them for more than kayaks, too. In addition to transporting kayaks, you can also use the BedXTender for transporting larger items. When you don’t have a roof rack, you can use the Tirol soft rack, which has straps that go through the windows.
In conclusion, a kayak roof rack for your SUV can provide you with plenty of storage and a place to carry your kayaks without taking up a large amount of space. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the great outdoors without having to take your car. If you’re looking for a way to improve your outdoor experience, consider adding a kayak roof rack to your vehicle.
