Kayaking is a popular outdoor activity that offers a great way to explore the natural beauty of water bodies. However, loading and unloading a kayak can be daunting, especially if you’re doing it alone. Fortunately, kayak rollers can make this task effortless and stress-free.
These rollers are designed to make it easy to load and unload your kayak onto your car roof rack on your own! These rollers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. But they all share the same goal: to make your kayak loading easier.
A kayak roller works by providing a smooth surface for the kayak to slide on, making it easy to move the kayak onto the roof of your vehicle. It also helps to reduce the risk of damage to the kayak and the car during the loading and unloading process. Kayak rollers are particularly useful for people with larger or heavier kayaks, as they make it much easier to manage the weight and size of the kayak.
In this article, we will review the five best kayak rollers on the market that will make your kayak loading effortless. We will examine their features, advantages, and downsides, as well as provide recommendations on the best use cases for each product.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how a kayak roller can make your kayaking experience more enjoyable. And you’ll also find maintenance tips and guidelines for choosing the best one for you.
Top 5 Kayak Rollers For Loading Your Kayak Effortlessly
One of the essential tools for kayakers is a kayak roller, which makes loading and unloading a kayak onto a car roof or trailer much easier.
Transporting and loading kayaks onto vehicles can be a challenging task, especially for solo paddlers. This is where kayak rollers come in handy, as they help to make the loading process effortless and efficient.
And choosing the right one may seem tricky. Because here, you’ll need to consider several factors, such as size and weight, vehicle type, and personal preferences. So, to make it easier, we’ve compiled a list.
Here will be discussing each of these top 5 kayak rollers in detail, including their features, pros, and cons, and critically analyzing which one might be the best option for different kayaking needs and preferences.
Let’s dive in;
Sherpak Suction Boat Roller
As an avid kayaker, I’ve had the pleasure of trying out a variety of kayak rollers over the years. But when it comes to my favorite, hands down the Sherpak Suction Boat Roller by Seattle Sports is at the top of my list. This outstanding roller makes loading and unloading your boat a breeze and ensures that your kayak is kept secure and safe during transport.
Because of its quick and simple loading and unloading, it’s on my top. It also features adjustable straps to fit boats up to 18 feet long, so you don’t have to worry about buying a new one every time you upgrade your craft.
Another thing to appreciate about this roller was the suction cups that attach to the car’s roof securely and hold on tight even when driving over bumps and gravel roads.
The closed-cell foam gently cradles your boat during loading and unloading, preventing any scratches or damages. Best of all, it only takes a few minutes to get the job done! With its reliable suction cups and foam padding, you can trust that your kayak will stay secure throughout transportation.
This lightweight roller simply fits into most vehicles with ease, allowing you to take it anywhere you go. With a folded size of only 2.75″ x 27″ x 6.75″, it takes up minimal space in the trunk or backseat.
In addition, its adjustable design makes it suitable for most vehicles regardless of size or shape – no more struggling trying to fit an oversized item into a small car!
Features Of the Sherpak Suction Boat Roller:
- The Sherpak Suction Boat Roller is made of high-quality materials, including stainless steel and high-density plastic, to provide durability and longevity.
- It features two suction cups that can be easily attached to the car’s roof, providing a stable platform for loading and unloading kayaks and canoes.
- The roller’s dimensions are 2.75″ x 27″ x 6.75″, making it compact and easy to store when not in use.
| Model | Sherpak Suction Boat Roller |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Dimensions | 2.75” x 27” x 6.75” |
| Product Weight | 2.14 lb. |
| Compatibility | Cars, SUVs, and trucks. |
| Material | Stainless steel, high-density plastic |
| Construction | Aluminum |
| Color | Silver |
Pros:
- The Sherpak Suction Boat Roller is easy to use and does not require any additional tools or equipment.
- The suction cups provide a secure and stable attachment to the car’s roof, reducing the risk of damage to the vehicle and the kayak or canoe.
- Its compact size makes it easy to store and transport.
- This 2lb. roller is lightweight and easy to carry, making it a great choice for solo kayakers.
Cons:
- The suction design may not work in wet or windy conditions.
Codinter Kayak Roller
The Codinter Kayak Roller is the perfect accessory for any kayaking enthusiast. This heavy-duty C-type aluminum bar is specially designed to create a slight shaking between the metal tube while also providing a reliable mount capacity of up to 220 lbs.
With an item weight of just 2 pounds, this bar is lightweight and easy to attach to any kayak or boat rack. The Codinter Kayak Roller makes loading your kayak onto the top of your vehicle much easier and more secure than ever before, even if you’re short on height.
Features of the Codinter Kayak Roller
- The Codinter Kayak Roller is made of high-quality materials, including aluminum and rubber, to provide durability and longevity.
- It also features two heavy-duty suction cups that can be easily attached to the car’s roof, providing a stable platform for loading and unloading kayaks and canoes.
- The roller’s dimensions are 17.05″ x 8.15″ x 4.84″, making it long enough to support larger kayaks and canoes.
- With a weight of just two lb., it can support up to 220 pounds of weight, making it suitable for most kayaks and canoes.
| Model | Codinter Kayak Roller |
| Dimensions | 17.05” x 8.15” x 4.84” |
| Product Weight | 2 lb. |
| Compatibility | Cars, SUVs, and trucks. |
| Material | Aluminum, rubber |
| Color | Silver |
Pros:
- Codinter’s kayak roller is also easy to use, with adjustable straps and suction cups making it a very convenient choice.
- This roller design reduces the strain on your back and arms, making loading and unloading much easier.
- The load assist feature provides support when lifting and carrying the kayak, making it much easier and safer.
Con’s:
- The suction cup may not be strong enough for some heavier items.
Malone Channel Loader
The Malone Channel Loader is a well-designed and durable kayak roller that provides an easy and efficient solution for loading and unloading kayaks and canoes. It features a strong steel construction that provides a secure grip that won’t slip, even with heavier kayaks.
With its adjustable wheel locks, it can be used with a variety of different trailers. And it’s extended frame and V-shaped roller ensures it will fit most SUVs, sedans and hatchbacks.
What makes this product stand out is its drilled holes at 0- and 90-degree positions, which make the suction cups overlap, providing an even stronger grip.
However, with a total weight of 3.5 lb., it’s a bit heavier.
Features of the Malone Channel Loader
- The Malone Channel Loader is made of durable materials, including aluminum and stainless steel, to provide stability and longevity.
- It features an adjustable channel that can be used to guide the kayak onto the roof of the car, providing a stable and secure platform for loading and unloading.
- The channel loader is compatible with most factory and aftermarket crossbars, making it a versatile option for kayakers with different types of vehicles.
- Its 9″ x 16.5″ x 4″ scopes make this easy to store when not in use.
| Model | Malone Channel Loader |
| Dimensions | 9” x 16.5” x 4” |
| Product Weight | 3.5 lb. |
| Compatibility | Cars, SUVs, and trucks. |
| Material | Plastic |
| Color | Silver and Black |
Pros:
- The Malone MPG367 is highly customizable, allowing you to configure it according to your specific needs.
- Multi-position channel loading for different kayaks
- Adjustable for different vehicles
Cons:
- Some users report having difficulty lining up the channels with their kayaks
TOURFUN’s Kayak Roller
TOURFUN’s one is fourth on our list.
This kayak roller is the perfect solution for quickly and easily loading and unloading your kayak. Constructed from heavy-gauge aluminum tubing, this durable system includes foam padding for a comfortable grip. The bright blue color adds a pop of style to your vehicle or trailer.
An hourglass shape rolling resistance helps keep your kayak safe while being loaded, and its environmentally friendly soft foam design has no chemical smell.
Best of all, the suction cup install marks on the rear window are easily removed and leave no permanent marks. However, for best results, make sure your window is absolutely clean before attaching TOURFUN’s Kayak Roller.
Features of the TOURFUN’s Kayak Roller
- It is adjustable, allowing for flexible and precise positioning of the device.
- It features an adjustable width design that can be used to fit most vehicles, including SUVs and cars, providing a stable and secure platform for loading and unloading.
- The product also includes heavy-duty suction cups that provide a strong and secure attachment to the vehicle, reducing the risk of damage to the vehicle or the kayak.
- The product’s dimensions are 8.1″ x 17″ x 4″, making it easy to store when not in use.
| Model | TOURFUN’s Kayak Roller |
| Dimensions | 8.1” x 17” x 4” |
| Product Weight | 1.9 lb. |
| Capacity | 220 Lb. |
| Compatibility | Cars, SUVs, and trucks |
| Material | Heavy Gauge Aluminum |
| Color | Blue |
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to move when necessary.
- It has a good grip, allowing it to stay secure while in use.
- Secure platform for loading and unloading kayaks and canoes, reducing the risk of damage to the Vehicle or the kayak.
Con’s:
- Sometimes, you might find it difficult to remove it from the Vehicle once it has been attached.
Overall, the TOURFUN Kayak Roller is best suited for kayakers who frequently transport their gear and are looking for a versatile and easy-to-use kayak roller option.
Canoe Roller By Wgwioo
The Canoe Roller by Wgwioo is the perfect solution for mounting canoes or kayaks to your car top or car glass.
With a size of 29”×8.7” and a weight of 3.3 lb., this would be a perfect kayak roller for extended use. Plus, the support bar has two different angles you can position in order to give you the best angle for loading, while the foam rollers protect your hull from damage during transport.
Features of the Wgwioo Canoe Roller
- It is compatible with most Vehicle
- However, this one is relatively expensive compared to other mounting options on the market.
- The adjustable width design allows the Canoe Roller to fit most vehicles, providing a stable and secure platform for loading and unloading.
| Model | Wgwioo Canoe Roller |
| Dimensions | 8.7” x 29” x 4” |
| Product Weight | 1.9 lb. |
| Capacity | 220 Lb. |
| Compatibility | Cars, SUVs, and trucks |
| Material | Aluminum and Foam |
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Limited compatibility
- The suction cup may not securely hold the device for long periods of time.
How to find the best kayak roller for your vehicle?
When it comes to choosing the best kayak rollers to make your loading and unloading experience effortless, there are several factors to consider. First, consider the size and weight of your kayak.
Secondly, consider the type of vehicle you have. Some rollers are designed to work with specific types of vehicles, such as SUVs or cars with roof racks. Make sure the rollers you choose are compatible with your vehicle.
Another important factor is personal preference. Some rollers have suction cups, while others have straps, and some are designed to work with specific types of kayaks. Consider what features are important to you and your specific needs.
Durability is also an important factor to consider. You want to choose rollers that are made from high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear. Additionally, ease of use is important. You want to choose rollers that are easy to install and use, even if you’re loading your kayak alone.
Learn To Use Kayak Rollers Properly To Make Kayak Loading Effortless
Using kayak rollers is a great way to make loading and unloading your kayak effortless. But it’s important to use them properly to ensure that your kayak is secure and to prevent any accidents or damage to your kayak or vehicle.
Here are some tips on how to use kayak rollers properly:
Positioning The Rollers
First, you want to position the rollers on your vehicle. If you have a roof rack, you’ll want to position the rollers along the bars of the rack.
However, if you don’t have a roof rack, you can use suction cup rollers or attach the rollers to foam blocks that can be placed on your vehicle’s roof. Make sure the rollers are positioned evenly on both sides of the kayak to ensure stability.
Attaching The Kayak
Once the rollers are in position, you can attach the kayak to the rollers. To do this, place the kayak on its side next to the vehicle, with the cockpit facing the rear of the vehicle. Then, slide the kayak onto the rollers, ensuring that the kayak is centered on the rollers.
Safely Moving The Kayak
Once the kayak is on the rollers, you can move it into position on your vehicle’s roof. This should be done carefully and slowly to prevent any accidents or damage. You can either lift the kayak and move it into position or use a strap or rope to pull the kayak into position. Make sure the kayak is securely attached to the rollers and that it doesn’t shift during the process.
A few additional Tips for Using Kayak Rollers Effectively
- Use the appropriate size rollers for your kayak. If the rollers are too small, they won’t be able to support the weight of your kayak, while rollers that are too large will make it difficult to position the kayak correctly.
- Make sure the rollers are properly attached to your vehicle. If the rollers come loose during the loading process, they can cause damage to your kayak or vehicle.
- Always use straps or ropes to secure the kayak to the rollers. This will ensure that the kayak doesn’t shift or fall off the rollers during the loading process.
- Use caution when moving the kayak into position on your vehicle. If you’re not comfortable lifting the kayak, use a strap or rope to pull it into position instead.
- Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the rollers, including weight limits and proper placement on your vehicle.
By following these tips and using kayak rollers properly, you can make loading and unloading your kayak a breeze. With practice, you’ll be able to use kayak rollers with confidence, ensuring that your kayak is safe and secure during the loading and unloading process.
Maintain Your Kayak Roller To Ensure Longevity
Proper care and maintenance of kayak rollers are essential to ensure they remain in good working condition and last for a long time. Neglecting the maintenance of your kayak rollers can result in damage or failure, leading to difficulty in loading or unloading your kayak.
Clean Your Roller Regularly
Dirt, sand, and debris can build up on the rollers, causing them to become less effective over time. To prevent this, clean the rollers regularly with soap and water.
Store The Rollers Properly
After use, rinse off the rollers with fresh water and store them in a cool, dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.
Lubricate The Rollers
Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the rollers to ensure they move smoothly and avoid any unnecessary friction.
Check The Suction Cups
If your kayak rollers have suction cups, check them for any signs of wear or damage. However, if find some, replace any damaged one immediately.
Check The Straps
If your kayak rollers have straps, check them for any signs of wear or damage. Besides, replace any damaged straps without any delay!
Finally, investing in a high-quality kayak roller is a wise decision for anyone who wants to make loading and unloading their kayak easier and more convenient. Each of the kayak rollers reviewed in this article offers unique features and benefits that cater to different preferences and needs. So, why not invest in one of these top-rated kayak rollers and enjoy effortless kayak loading?
