So you have bought a kayak or thinking about buying one? Now you need to figure out how to transport it. The right kayak rack will make this easy. We are going to cover the various types of kayak racks and by the time you are done reading, you will know which one is best for you!
What are the different types of kayak racks?
- J-Bar Kayak Racks
- Saddle Kayak Racks
- Hitch Mount Kayak Racks
- Foam Block Kayak Racks
- Roller Kayak Racks
- Stacker Kayak Racks
- Lift Assist Kayak Racks
1. J-Bar Kayak Racks
How Do They Work?
J-Bar or J-Cradle kayak racks are the most popular type of kayak carrier for a variety of reasons. They allow you to transport your kayak on its side, securely cradled in a J-shaped frame. I can tell you that J-cradle kayak racks offer several advantages for kayakers on the go.
These racks feature a padded frame that cradles your kayak on its side providing a secure and stable platform for transporting your kayak. The J-cradle design allows the kayak to sit lower on the vehicle which helps reduce wind resistance and is more fuel efficient than some other kayak racks.
The cradle design is easy to load and unload as you can slide it into place rather than lifting it fully on the roof of your vehicle.
Who Are J-Bar Kayak Racks Best For?
J-Bar kayak racks are perfect for those who own a one kayak and want a secure and stable way to transport their kayak.
They are also an excellent option for kayakers who want to transport a few kayaks on their vehicle. By cradling the kayak on its side, their design saves space on your roof rack allowing you to transport multiple kayaks.
The J-cradle design is compatible with a wide range of kayak shapes and sizes, making it a versatile option for those who own multiple kayaks or may want to get a different kayak.
Pros and Cons of J-Bar Kayak Racks
Pros:
- Space-saving design: The J-bar is designed for kayaks to be transported on their side. This saves space on the roof of the vehicle allowing for multiple kayaks to fit on the roof of their vehicle.
- Secure: The J-bar design securely holds the kayak in place, reducing the risk of damage to the kayak or shifting around while driving at highway speeds.
- Versatile: J-bar kayak racks are compatible with a wide variety of kayak designs and lengths. This making them a versatile option for those who own multiple types of kayaks.
- Easy loading and unloading: The J-bar design makes it easy to load and unload the kayak. This saves your back from injury and makes it fairly easy to load and unload your yaks.
Cons:
- Limited capacity: While J-bar kayak racks are a good choice for transporting a single kayak or multiple kayaks on the roof of your vehicle, they are not be suitable for transporting large or heavy kayaks, and may not work well on all vehicles.
- Require additional equipment: J-cradle kayak racks require crossbars to attach them to.
- Wind resistance: While the J-bar design is fairly efficient as far as wind resistance they not as good as a hitch mount where the racks are behind the vehicle.
- Height restrictions: J-bar kayak racks add height to the vehicle, so you must consider whether you will pass under low-clearance areas such as parking garages and of course your garage!
2. Saddle Kayak Racks
How Do They work?
Saddle kayak racks are another popular roof rack option that is designed to securely transport kayaks on the roof of your vehicle.
Unlike other types of kayak racks that use foam blocks or straps to hold the kayak in place, saddle kayak racks use a “cradle” system that conforms to the shape of your kayak. This system keeps your kayak held in place firmly reducing the risk of damage to your yak or vehicle.
Saddle kayak racks come in a variety of shapes and sizes making them adaptable to fit just about any type of kayak. They are particularly good option for kayaks with a curved or uneven bottom.
Installation of a saddle kayak rack is pretty easy and can be done with some simple tools. Most of them can be attached to roof racks or crossbars with minimal effort. Once you have it installed the rack can be adjusted to fit your specific kayak and secured with straps.
Maybe their best feature is how stable they are when transporting your kayak. The cradle system keeps your kayak in place securely meaning your kayak won’t move around or shift while driving at highway speeds. You can rest assured your kayak will still be on your car when you arrive!
Saddle kayak racks are also versatile allowing you to transport several kayaks of different types and sizes. They are an excellent choice for kayakers who frequently transport their boats on the roof of their vehicle.
Who Are Saddle Kayak Racks Best For?
Saddle kayak racks are an excellent option for frequent kayakers who have long and/or thin kayaks. Unlike other types of kayak racks that need straps or blocks to hold the kayak in place, saddle kayak racks use a “cradle” system that conforms to the shape of the kayak.
Saddle kayak racks are best for kayaks with a deep “V” or uneven bottom which are not as easy to transport with other types of kayak rack systems. The cradle system evenly distributes the weight of the kayak across the rack.
They can be easily adjusted to fit a wide range of kayak sizes and styles. This makes them a versatile option for kayakers who own multiple boats or frequently rent different models.
I would say if you are a serious kayaker who wants a stable platform combined with of ease of use, a saddle kayak rack is a your best choice.
Pros and Cons of Saddle Kayak Racks
Pros:
- Stability: Saddle kayak racks use a cradle system to hold your kayak securely in place, reducing the risk of damage to your kayak and vehicle during transport. You can be assured your kayak stays in place and move or shift around on long trips or rough terrain.
- Adaptable: Saddle kayak racks are versatile and can be easily adjusted to fit nearly any type of kayak. This makes them a a good choice for kayakers who own multiple boats.
- Easy to install: Saddle kayak racks are easy to install and use. They can be mounted on most roof rack systems with minimal tools or skills.
- Even weight distribution: The cradle system distributes the weight evenly across across the rack reducing the risk of damage to your vehicle.
Cons:
- Price: Saddle kayak racks are more expensive than other types of kayak racks such as J-racks or foam blocks. With the added stability and versatility I would say the extra cost is worth it.
- Inefficient use of space: Since saddle kayak racks keep your kayak horizontal they take up more space on your roof than a J-cradle kayak rack. This limits you to two kayaks at most.
- Limited weight capacity: Saddle kayak racks may not be the best option for larger and heavier kayaks. Be sure to check the weight capacity of the rack before you buy it.
- Requires crossbars: Saddle kayak racks require crossbars to attach to so if you don’t already have them you need to take this additional expense into account.
3. Hitch Mount Kayak Racks
How Do They work?
Hitch mount kayak racks attach to a hitch receiver on the back of your vehicle. They’re designed to provide a secure and convenient way to transport your kayak.
There are several different types of hitch mount kayak racks available but they all work in a similar way. The rack itself consists of two arms that extend out from the hitch receiver, with padded cradles on each arm to hold your kayak securely in place. They usually include straps or other tie-downs to provide stability during transport.
To use a hitch mount kayak rack, you simply slide your kayak onto the cradles keeping it centered and balanced. Then use straps or tie-downs to secure the kayak to the rack. Once everything is in place, you’re ready to go!
A hitch mount kayak rack is easy to use. Unlike roof mount kayak racks which require you to lift your kayak onto the roof of your vehicle, hitch mount racks allow you to load your kayak at waist level. This is a huge benefit if you have a heavy or lengthy kayak, especially if you have back problems or just unable to lift your kayak to roof level.
Who Are Hitch Mount Kayak Racks Best For?
If you love kayaking, you need a reliable way of transporting your kayak. That’s where hitch mount kayak racks come in. These racks attach to your vehicle’s hitch receiver and allow you to carry your kayak safely and securely behind your vehicle.
Unlike other types of kayak racks, which may require you to lift your kayak onto the roof of your vehicle, hitch mount racks allow you to simply load your kayak onto the rack at waist level. This means you won’t have to strain your back trying to lift a your kayak onto roof of your vehicle. This makes them an ideal solution for women or the elderly.
Hitch mount kayak racks have security that other types of racks simply can’t match. By attaching your kayak to the hitch receiver of your vehicle, you’ll know that it’s securely fastened and won’t come loose during transport. You can also lock the kayak to the rack making it difficult to steal.
Pros and Cons of Hitch Mount Kayak Racks
Pros:
- Easy to use: Hitch mount kayak racks are generally quite easy to load and unload, since you don’t have to lift your kayak onto the roof of your vehicle.
- Versatile: Most hitch mount kayak racks can accommodate a variety of kayak sizes and styles, making them a good choice for kayakers with different types of boats.
- Security: By attaching your kayak to the hitch receiver of your vehicle, you can be confident that it won’t come loose during transport. Many hitch mount racks also include locks or other security features to deter theft.
- Affordable: Compared to other types of kayak carriers hitch mount racks are often a cheaper solution, especially if you already have the hitch receiver.
Cons:
- Limited ground clearance: Depending on the height of your vehicle and it’s design, a hitch mount kayak rack can reduce your vehicle’s ground clearance.
- May block rear access: Since hitch mount racks attach to the hitch receiver on the back of your vehicle they can block access to the trunk, truck bed or rear cargo area.
- Requires a hitch: In order to use a hitch mount kayak rack you’ll need to have a hitch receiver. If you don’t already have a hitch, this will be added expense you need to factor in.
- May affect gas mileage: Since the kayak is mounted vertically it will create drag and reduce your gas mileage. It’s usually not too significant though.
4. Foam Block Kayak Racks
How Do They work?
As the name implies they use foam blocks to support your kayak on top of your vehicle. They’re popular choice with kayakers who want an cheap, easy to use way to transport their boats.
To use a foam block kayak rack just place them on top of your vehicle’s roof. You’ll use two blocks, one at the front and one at the back to create a stable base for your kayak.
Once the foam blocks are in place you lift the kayak on the roof of your vehicle and position it on top of the blocks. The foam blocks will provide a stable surface for your kayak to rest on.
Then to secure your kayak, you’ll use a combination of straps or tie-downs to secure it. You’ll run a strap over the front and one over back of your kayak, then run the straps through your vehicle’s doors and tighten them down to secure them.
Who Are Foam Block Kayak Racks Best For?
- Casual kayakers: If you only go kayaking a few times a year or if you’re just getting started, a foam block kayak rack is a decent choice. They’re cheap, easy to use and they don’t require any special tools or equipment.
- Kayakers on a budget: If you’re looking for a way to transport your kayak on a budget, foam block kayak racks are good option. You can often find complete kits for less than $50.
- Limited storage space: If you don’t have a lot of storage space to store your kayak carrier, foam blocks are ideal. They’re lightweight and take u very little room so you can keep them in your trunk or back seat.
- Kayakers with small/lightweight kayaks: Foam block kayak racks are best for short or light kayaks. They are not as secure as other types of kayak racks. If you have a longer or heavier kayak, you should use a J-rack or saddle-style rack.
Pros and Cons of Foam Block Kayak Racks
Pros:
- Affordability: Their biggest advantage is they are cheap! There is no cheaper way to transport your kayak.
- Lightweight and easy to store: Foam block kayak racks are light and you can store them almost anywhere.
- Gentle on kayaks: Foam block kayak racks provide a soft and surface for your kayak to sit on. This prevent scratches and dings to your yak.
- Easy to install: Foam block kayak racks are easiest solution to use and don’t require any tools. They can be quickly and easily attached to the roof of your vehicle using simple straps and tie-downs.
Cons:
- Limited security: They are not as secure as other types of kayak carriers, like J-racks or saddle racks. They can provide a stable base for your kayak, they will not be able to hold your kayak as securely when transporting them.
- Time-consuming to set up: Setting up a foam block kayak rack will take more time than other types of carriers. You need to carefully position the foam blocks on your vehicle’s roof and secure it with the tie down straps.
- Limited weight capacity: Foam block kayak racks are only suited for short or light kayaks. If you have a heavier kayak, you should use a different type of carrier.
- Less convenient: Foam block kayak racks are not as convenient as other types of carriers. You’ll need to take more time to properly set up and secure your kayak. If you are a frequent kayaker you should use another solution.
- Damage to vehicle roof: If there is any sand on the bottom of your yak, there is a good chance it will scratch the top of your car, especially if you hit any bumps.
5. Roller Kayak Racks
How Do They work?
Roller kayak rack are also known as kayak saddles with rollers are a kayak carrier designed to make it easier to load and unload your yak. They have two pairs of padded saddles that hold your kayak securely in place with a pair of rollers that allow you to easily slide your boat onto and off of the rack.
The saddles are mounted on a metal or plastic frame that attaches to the roof of your vehicle using straps or suction cups. The rollers are located at the front and rear of the frame and they help to guide your kayak on the rack. This makes it easier to load and unload your yak.
Roller kayak racks are a perfect solution for someone who needs to load and unload their kayaks by themself. They are a good option if you have a long or heavy kayak that you have have trouble loading.
Who Are Roller Kayak Racks Best For?
Roller kayak racks a great solution for solo kayakers who are not able to lift their kayak by themselves. The rollers make it much SO much easier to slide the kayak on and off the rack, even by yourself.
Roller kayak racks are ideal if you have a long or heavy boats that are difficult to lift on a roof rack by themselves.
The padded saddles that your kayak sit on hold your kayak firmly in place so it doesn’t shift or slide when transporting it. This helps to reduce the chance of damaging either your yak or vehicle.
If you have a wide kayak or it has an unusual shape, it may not fit well on a roller kayak rack. Roller kayak racks are typically more expensive than other types of kayak carriers.
Pros and Cons of Roller Kayak Racks
Pros:
- Ease of use: Roller kayak racks make it easier to load and unload your kayak. The rollers allow you to slide your kayak on and off the rack even if you’re alone. This is a huge big advantage if you’re on your own and unable to lift your kayak by yourself.
- Security: The padded saddles on the rack will hold your kayak securely in place. This keeps your kayak safe and secure while you are transporting it.
- Ideal for heavy kayaks: If you have a larger or heavier kayak that is difficult to lift on a roof rack, a roller kayak rack is an excellent option. The rollers allow you to slide the kayak on the rack easily, reducing the injuring yourself or damaging your kayak or vehicle.
Cons:
- Cost: Depending on the rack, they can be more expensive than other types of kayak carriers. If you’re on a tight budget they may not be the best solution for you.
- Less versatility: Roller kayak racks may not be suitable for every kayak. If you have a wide kayak it may not fit well on it.
6. Stacker Kayak Racks
How Do They work?
Stacker kayak racks are designed to allow you to carry multiple kayaks on a single roof rack. They consist of two or more padded vertical posts that hold your kayaks in place. They’re a great solution for someone who needs to transport two or more kayaks.
Stacker kayak racks are useful for families or a group of friends who have multiple kayaks. They’re also a great option for kayak rental companies since they make it possible to transport multiple kayaks at once.
Who Are Stacker Kayak Racks Best For?
Stacker kayak racks are best for anyone who needs to transport multiple kayaks at once. They’re especially useful for families or groups. With a stacker kayak rack you can easily transport two to four kayaks on a single roof rack.
If you have a kayak rental company or outdoor activity center where you need transport multiple kayaks, they will reduce the number of vehicles needed to transport the kayaks.
Stacker kayak racks are versatile and adjustable making them suitable for a wide variety of kayak lengths and weights. The padded posts can be moved up or down to accommodate different hull shapes and sizes.
Pros and Cons of Stacker Kayak Racks
Pros:
- Transport multiple kayaks: The primary advantage of a stacker kayak rack is that it allows you to transport multiple kayaks on a single vehicle.
- Versatility: Stacker kayak racks can be adjusted to fit a wide variety of kayak shapes and sizes. The padded posts can be moved up or down to accommodate different hull shapes and sizes.
Cons:
- Loading and unloading: Stacker kayak racks are more difficult to load and unload than other types of kayak carriers. You need to lift the kayaks on the rack and then position them between the posts. This can be challenging if you’re doing it by yourself or if you have a heavy kayak.
- Security: Stacker kayak racks so not offer the same amount of security as other types of kayak carriers. Since they use straps that can be cut, your kayaks can be stolen. If you’re concerned about theft of your kayaks a saddle or hitch rack is a better option.
7. Lift Assist Kayak Racks
How Do They work?
This type of kayak rack is designed to help you load and unload your kayak from the roof of your car or SUV with little effort. They are equipped with a hydraulic lift system that allows you to raise and lower your kayak effortlessly making it easy to load and unload your yak.
They eliminate the need for heavy lifting and awkward maneuvering when loading your kayak onto your vehicle’s roof. This is incredibly helpful for someone who has difficulty lifting a kayak by themself.
They feature adjustable cradles or straps to securely hold your kayak in place while you’re driving. This prevents any damage to your kayak or vehicle and they will stay secure even when driving over rough terrain.
Who Are Lift Assist Kayak Racks Best For?
If you’re someone who dreads the hassle of getting your kayak on and off your car then a lift assist kayak rack is the perfect solution for you. These racks are designed to make loading and unloading your kayak easy, even by yourself.
With a lift assist kayak rack, you no longer have to worry about hurting your back or damaging your car or kayak as you lift it on the roof of your car. The hydraulic arm of the rack does the heavy lifting for you so you can easily load your kayak on your vehicle.
Pros and Cons of Lift Assist Kayak Racks
Pros:
- Easy to load and unload: The primary advantage of lift assist kayak racks is that they make it very easy to load and unload your kayak. The rack does the heavy lifting for you so you don’t hurt yourself loading the kayak.
- Saves time: With a lift assist kayak rack you can quickly load and unload your kayak even if you are by yourself.
- Accommodates heavier kayaks: Lift assist kayak racks are perfect for heavy kayaks that are hard to lift on your own.
- Safety: Since you can do it with little effort, there is little risk of injury loading your kayak.
- Allows anyone to kayak: Since a lift assist kayak rack allows you to lift a heavy kayak with little effort, they are perfect for women or elderly kayakers.
Cons:
- Expensive: The huge downside of lift assist kayak racks are they are expensive. If you’re on budget they are not going to be an option for you.
- Maintenance: Lift assist kayak racks have moving parts that require maintenance and are more complicated so there are more things to break.
- Limited compatibility: Not all lift assist kayak racks work with with all vehicles so be sure that the rack you looking at is compatible with your car or SUV.
