If you’re looking for a convenient and space-saving solution for transporting your kayak, a folding kayak rack might be just what you need. These racks are specifically designed to fit on top of your vehicle and securely hold your kayak in place while on the road. However, before purchasing a folding kayak rack, there are a few factors you should consider to ensure you get the best one for your needs.
Firstly, consider the size and weight of your kayak. Different racks have different weight capacities and sizes, so it is important to find one that can safely support your kayak. Secondly, evaluate the compatibility of the rack with your vehicle. Make sure it fits your car's roof type, and there is enough clearance to open the doors and trunk. Thirdly, check the ease of assembly of the rack. Most folding kayak racks are easy to install, but some models can be more complicated, especially if you need to do it frequently.
Are you tired of tying your kayak to the roof of your car, only to worry about it flying off on the highway? Perhaps you’re worried about damaging your car's roof or your kayak during transportation. Do you want a solution that is easy to use and store in your car when not in use? If so, a folding kayak rack might be the perfect solution for your needs. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know when choosing the best folding kayak rack for your next adventure on the water.
10 Best Folding Kayak Rack
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The product is ideal for transporting up to two kayaks on the rooftop of vehicles.
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This product is ideal for transporting kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards on the roofs of cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and other vehicles.
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The product is ideal for transporting kayaks, canoes, boats, surf skis on the roof of a car with crossbars.
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This product is ideal for transporting kayaks and other small watercraft on top of a car.
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The product is ideal for carrying kayaks on car racks with added safety of bow and stern lines.
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The product is ideal for transporting kayaks, canoes, surfboards, and SUPs on the roof of a vehicle.
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Ideal for transporting kayaks on a car roof with included bow and stern lines, and versatile J-style folding design.
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It is ideal for transporting kayaks, canoes, ski boards, surf boards, and SUPs on SUVs, cars, trucks, trailers, and other vehicles with crossbars.
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The product is ideal for transporting kayaks on the roof of various types of vehicles.
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The kayak and canoe carrier is ideal for holding kayaks and canoes on various vehicles, including SUVs, trucks, and sedans.
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1. Yakima, Jaylow Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack For Vehicles, Carries Up To 2 Kayaks
Looking for a reliable kayak carrier that can transport multiple kayaks with ease? Look no further than the Yakima JayLow Kayak Carrier!
This versatile carrier can hold up to two kayaks at once, with the option to transport one kayak in a J-cradle position weighing up to 80lbs, or two kayaks in a vertical, stacked position weighing up to 110lbs combined. Plus, it fits most crossbars, including Yakima SteamLine and round, square, factory and aerodynamic crossbars, with a minimum crossbar spread of 24 inches.
Included with the carrier are all the necessary hardware and straps, including Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs, to securely fasten your gear. Please note that SKS (Same Key System) locks are sold separately.
The JayLow Kayak Carrier also boasts a versatile design, featuring an integrated cam lever that allows you to adjust the upright position with ease. Plus, when you're not using the carrier, it folds flat for better clearance and reduced drag.
Installing the carrier is a breeze, as it comes fully assembled right out of the box. Additionally, the tool-free installation process takes only about 10 minutes. To ensure compatibility, be sure to refer to Yakima Fit My Car Tool.
Experience hassle-free and secure transport of your kayaks with the Yakima JayLow Kayak Carrier.
2. Foldable Kayak Carrier For Car Roof
The Folding Kayak Car Top Carrier is the ideal solution for transporting kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards in a simple, low-cost manner. Say goodbye to the hassle of removing your carrier when entering the garage, thanks to the folding capabilities of this carrier that require no tools. Simply fold it down and go.
This Kayak Carrier can be mounted to almost all crossbars and load bars available on the market, except for round bars. The carrier holds your kayak securely on its side, taking up minimal space on the load bar and freeing up space elsewhere.
The Steel design with adjustable padding ensures that your kayak is protected during transportation, while the wide-mouth J bar makes loading and unloading a breeze. The quick on/off hardware ensures fast installation and removal, making it easy to switch from one vehicle to another. The J style carrier is optimally sized, leaving ample roof space for other items.
The carrier features an all-surface rust-resistant coating and hardware, ensuring a longer product life. The package includes all the necessary mounting hardware, two straps, two kayak racks, two plates, four screws, and four nylon star screws. The rooftop kayak racks fit most crossbars, including oval bars, square bars, and factory crossbars, but do not fit round bars.
The thick steel tube and two tie-down straps provide double security when loading kayaks, ensuring that your kayak remains safe and secure during transportation. The kayak racks are made of 1.5mm thick and 1.18" diameter tubes, providing strong and sturdy support for your kayak.
3. Kayak Rack With Ratchet Tie – Easy Mounting.
The Kayak Car Top Carrier offers an affordable and straightforward solution for transporting your kayak. The product is brand new and comes in a quantity of two pairs. To ensure safety, the product utilizes loose screws, and each set of mounting hardware includes ten feet long ratchet rope, with a break strength of 600 lbs.
The carrier features a steel design with adjustable padding to protect your kayak during transportation. The wide-mouth J bar makes it easier to load and unload your kayak, while the quick on/off hardware ensures fast and easy installation and removal. The J style carrier is optimally sized, leaving roof space for other accessories, and is rust-resistant coated and includes all mounting hardware and two straps. The carrier is capable of accommodating kayaks up to 36" wide and 100lbs, fitting most factory or aftermarket square, oval, and flat crossbars.
The mounting hardware design includes two pieces and is equipped with EVA stickers to protect your car bar from scratches. The product is suitable for most factory or aftermarket square and flat crossbars, but it is not recommended for installation on circular crossbars with a diameter less than 1.2 inches.
Please note that the Amazon default warranty is 30 days, but the seller offers a 60-day warranty. If any parts are missing from the package, customers are urged to contact the seller's customer service immediately.
4. Malone Downloader 2-Pack With Speed Lines (2 Sets Of Malone Downloader J-Style Universal Car Racks)
The J-Style Kayak Carriers with Boarding Ramp by Malone are an innovative solution for transporting your kayaks with ease. The set includes two carriers with built-in boarding ramps, making it effortless to load your kayak onto your vehicle's roof rack. The fold-down technology increases overhead clearance when the carriers are not in use, making it easier to park in low-clearance areas.
The carriers come equipped with oversized padding to protect your boat during transport, ensuring that it stays in top condition. The JAWZ mounting hardware is designed to fit round, square, and most factory oval cross rails, making it versatile and easy to install. The set includes both 60mm and 70mm pre-coated mounting bolts, cam style load straps with upgraded buckle protectors, and SpeedLine (MPG309) ratchet style tie downs as an added upgrade, providing you with everything you need for a secure and safe transport.
The carriers have a load capacity of 75 lbs and measure 17" in length, 6" in width, and 19.5" in height. They are built by Malone, a trusted brand known for its high-quality outdoor gear. The carriers are compatible with the MPG351-XL Telos XL Load Assist, making it even easier to load and transport your kayaks.
5. Malone J-Pro 2 J-Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier With Bow And Stern Lines
Looking for a durable and reliable kayak carrier that can withstand years of use? Look no further than this top-quality steel kayak carrier! Made from high-grade, corrosion-resistant steel, this carrier is built to last, making it the perfect choice for avid kayakers who demand the very best.
Thanks to its universal JAWZ mounting hardware, this carrier is incredibly versatile and can be used with round, square, and even factory oval cross rails. This makes it easy to install and ensures a snug and secure fit every time, no matter what kind of vehicle you have.
In addition to its rugged construction and versatile mounting hardware, this kayak carrier also comes with a range of useful accessories to help you transport your kayaks safely and securely. These include bow and stern safety tie-downs, two 12-foot cam buckle straps, and both 60mm and 70mm pre-coated mounting bolts.
Best of all, this kayak carrier comes with a limited lifetime manufacturer's warranty, giving you peace of mind and ensuring that you can enjoy your kayaking adventures for years to come. So why wait? Invest in the best and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of kayaking whenever and wherever you want!
6. Kayak J-Bar Rack With Tie Straps
The Double Kayak Rack is a set of four racks designed to help individuals save cargo space and ensure the safety of their kayaks during long drives to their destination. The heavy-duty rack is made of steel construction with a power-coated finish, making it strong and resistant to rust. It is important to note that this rack is not compatible with round bars.
With a maximum lock tight on the kayak or canoe, the rack can safely carry up to 8 ft long and 150 lbs tested, making it easy and safe for transport. The rack also features an extra foam padded design that reduces any scratch and prevents the kayak or canoe from rubbing against the rack during transport.
The multi-purpose use of this car roof rack makes it a versatile addition to any outdoor enthusiast's gear. It is easy to install, and users can carry a variety of equipment, including kayaks, canoes, surfboards, ski boards, snowboards, and SUPs.
In addition to the rack, the set includes four additional tie-down straps, making it convenient for users to secure their equipment in place during transportation.
7. Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier With Bow And Stern Lines
This J-style kayak carrier is an excellent choice for those who want an easy and efficient way to transport their kayak. With a built-in boarding ramp, loading and unloading your kayak becomes a breeze. The fold-down technology increases overhead clearance, making it easier to store your kayak when not in use.
Additionally, this carrier is compatible with the MPG351 Telos Load Assist, which can further simplify the loading process. The oversized padding ensures that your kayak stays safe and secure during transport, providing peace of mind as you travel.
The JAWZ mounting hardware is designed to fit round, square, and most factory oval cross rails, making it versatile and easy to use. The carrier includes both 60mm and 70mm pre-coated mounting bolts to accommodate different types of cross rails. The cam style load straps with buckle protectors are also included, ensuring that your kayak stays securely fastened to the carrier during transport.
Measuring in at 17 inches in length, 6 inches in width, and 19.5 inches in height, this carrier has a load capacity of 75 pounds, providing ample space for most kayaks. Overall, this J-style kayak carrier is a reliable and convenient option for transporting your kayak with ease.
8. Foldable J-Bar Kayak Mount With Straps
The AA-Racks Folding Kayak Roof Rack is the perfect solution for transporting kayaks on your outdoor adventures. With its folding J-hooks, this kayak roof rack is designed to occupy the least amount of space possible, allowing your car to fit in parking garages without any issues.
Constructed of heavy-duty powder-coated tubular steel, this kayak carrier is built to last. The extra-thick foam padding covers the full range of each bar, providing ultimate protection for your kayak during transportation. The rubber bracket base and reinforced hardware add extra security on the road, giving you peace of mind while you enjoy your water sports or kayak fishing.
The 180° folding adjustment motion, together with the reinforced bracket base and the full set of mounting hardware, make this kayak rack able to fit most types of crossbars, such as square, trapezoidal, and oval-shaped crossbars, excluding round shapes. Please note that the crossbar should be at least 1.8" from the height of the roof to have enough installation clearance. The crossbars shown in the pictures are not included.
To provide extra security, the Heavy Duty Securing Ratchet Straps come with the kayak rack. With a break strength of 2200 lbs, these 16 ft long straps can secure up to 150lbs of weight, perfect for transporting your kayak or canoe. The two-pack of ratchet straps is designed for one pair of kayak rack.
The AA-Racks Folding Kayak Roof Rack is easy to use. Simply install the kayak rack to your Vault Cargo roof rack rails for an easy kayak transportation solution. Strap the kayak and other accessories to the roof racks with tie-down straps, and tie the bow and stern to the front and rear of the vehicle for extra safety. Pull and push the kayaks to make sure they are firm and sturdy.
9. Universal Mount Kayak Rack By Rhino-Rack
The Rhino-Rack Kayak or Canoe Roof Rack is the perfect solution for transporting your watercraft while saving space for other roof rack accessories such as luggage boxes, baskets, and gear. This J-style rooftop carrier is designed to securely transport your kayak or canoe on the side, allowing you to maximize the space on your roof.
With 2 included abrasion-resistant padded straps, you can easily tie down your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for maximum protection during transport. The Rhino-Rack Stow-It (ASIN B08PQ41QRY) multi-purpose holder (sold separately) is also available to mount your paddle on the roof.
Made from high-quality power-coated steel, this Australian-designed and engineered kayak roof rack is built tough for maximum strength, rust resistance, and long life. Its thick rubber saddles and pads also help prevent any damage or rubbing to your watercraft.
This kayak roof rack is designed to accommodate a variety of watercrafts, including kayaks, some canoes, stand-up paddleboards (SUP), and inflatables, with a weight capacity of 99 pounds (45 kg). It is important to check for proper fitment prior to travel and to use tie-down straps on the bow and stern.
The Rhino-Rack Kayak or Canoe Roof Rack is compatible with most roof rack bars, including Rhino-Rack Vortex, HD, Euro, Heavy Duty, and most elliptical, square, and round bar styles, including designs from Yakima, Thule, Rola, and others. It also fits Pioneer Platform Accessory Bars.
This kayak roof rack is suitable for carrying any kayak style, including fishing kayaks, inflatable kayaks, touring kayaks, recreational kayaks, river kayaks, and sit-on-top kayaks, as well as various styles of SUP stand-up paddleboards, including recreational and touring models.
Rhino-Rack is so confident in the product engineering and quality of this kayak roof rack that they offer a full 3-year warranty. They believe there’s an adventurer in all of us and strive to create world-ready outdoor gear that helps make adventure inclusive for everybody. They also care deeply about preserving the landscapes we love and work hard to minimize their environmental impact.
Whether you’re a beginner, enthusiast, or veteran explorer, the Rhino-Rack Kayak or Canoe Roof Rack is the perfect accessory for your next adventure. With its durable construction, maximum protection, and easy-to-use design, it's the ideal solution for transporting your watercraft with ease and confidence.
10. Foldable J-Style Kayak Carrier: Universal & Heavy-Duty
The Folding J Style Kayak Carrier is the perfect solution for transporting your kayak or canoe safely and securely on your roof rack. This innovative carrier is designed to transport your watercraft on its side, saving valuable space on your roof rack. The cradle is also foldable for easy storage when not in use.
The Kayak Carrier is designed for universal mounting, and can be mounted to most elliptical and round bars, such as the Vortex bar and other aero bars. However, it is not suitable for use with square bars. It can accommodate a wide range of watercraft, including sit-in kayaks, fishing kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, wakeboards, surfboards, and many others.
Maximum protection for your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard is ensured with the two included abrasion-resistant padded straps. The carrier also features convenient built-in paddle holders with rubber straps on the backside, and two bow and stern straps for added security. This carrier is built tough, with high-quality powder-coated steel for maximum strength, durability, rust resistance, and long life. The thick rubber saddles and pads prevent the kayak from rubbing or being damaged during transportation.
The Kayak Carrier has a multi-carry design, which accommodates a variety of watercraft sizes and styles, including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and some canoes. It has a maximum weight capacity of 132 pounds (60 kg), and comes with a 2-year warranty. This carrier requires 14 inches of crossbar space when deployed.
For those who need to transport multiple watercraft, the S512X Arm Extension (sold separately) can be added, enabling you to carry two kayaks side by side. Depending on your crossbars, you can carry up to four watercraft using two S512 carriers and two S512X extensions. This makes the Kayak Carrier the most versatile kayak carrier on the market.
The Rhino-Rack Kayak Carrier is also designed with space-saving in mind. Unlike other watercraft holders with rigid designs, this carrier folds down when not in use to improve aerodynamics and reduce fuel consumption and noise. The space-saving design also enables you to mount other accessories, such as a luggage carrier, to carry extra gear.
This premium J Style Kayak Carrier is suitable for any vehicle with oval or round bars. For those with square bars, fit kits are available for purchase separately. The Rhino-Rack Kayak Carrier is the ideal choice for adventure seekers who want to explore the great outdoors while keeping their watercraft safe and secure during transportation.
At Rhino-Rack, we believe that there is an adventurer in all of us. That's why we create world-ready outdoor gear, born and proven in Australia. We believe life is better when we make space for adventure.
Best Folding Kayak Rack FAQs
Are there any safety concerns with using a folding kayak rack?
When it comes to using a folding kayak rack, there are some safety concerns that you should consider. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the rack is installed correctly and securely on your vehicle. This will help to prevent any accidents or damage to your kayak or vehicle while in transit. It is also important to check the weight capacity of the rack and ensure that it can safely support the weight of your kayak.
Another safety concern to consider is the folding mechanism of the rack. Make sure that the folding mechanism is sturdy and reliable, as a faulty mechanism can cause the rack to collapse while in use, putting both your kayak and other drivers on the road at risk.
Lastly, it is important to use proper tie-downs and straps to secure your kayak to the folding rack. This will help to prevent the kayak from shifting or falling off the rack while in transit.
In summary, as long as you take the necessary precautions and ensure that the rack is installed and used correctly, a folding kayak rack can be a safe and convenient option for transporting your kayak.
Can a folding kayak rack be used for other watercraft, such as canoes or paddleboards?
Yes, a folding kayak rack can be used for other watercraft, such as canoes or paddleboards. The main thing to consider is the weight capacity of the rack and the size of the watercraft being transported. Most folding kayak racks have weight capacities ranging from 75 to 150 pounds, so it is important to ensure that the weight of the watercraft being transported does not exceed the weight capacity of the rack. Additionally, the size of the watercraft should be taken into account to ensure that it fits securely on the rack and does not shift during transport. Some folding kayak racks may also come with adjustable straps or padding to accommodate different types of watercraft. Overall, as long as the weight and size of the watercraft are within the limits of the rack, it can be used for transporting a variety of watercraft.
Can a folding kayak rack fit multiple kayak sizes and shapes?
Yes, a folding kayak rack can fit multiple kayak sizes and shapes. The key is to choose a rack that is adjustable and has flexible arms or supports that can be moved to accommodate different kayak sizes and shapes. Many folding kayak racks are designed with this in mind and can be adjusted to fit kayaks of varying lengths and widths.
It's important to ensure that the rack you choose is compatible with your kayaks and that you have enough clearance between the kayaks and the roof of your vehicle. Additionally, it's a good idea to check the weight capacity of the rack to ensure that it can support the weight of your kayaks.
Overall, a folding kayak rack can be a versatile and convenient solution for transporting multiple kayaks of different sizes and shapes, as long as you choose the right one and follow proper installation and safety guidelines.
How does a folding kayak rack compare to a traditional roof rack?
A folding kayak rack is generally a more convenient and compact option than a traditional roof rack. With a folding kayak rack, you can easily fold it down and store it when not in use, which is great if you have limited storage space. Additionally, a folding kayak rack is usually easier to install than a roof rack, which requires more time and effort to put on and take off.
However, there are some downsides to a folding kayak rack. First, it may not be as sturdy as a roof rack, which can be an issue if you plan on transporting heavy or bulky kayaks. Additionally, a folding kayak rack may not be as versatile as a roof rack, which can be used to transport a variety of different items, not just kayaks.
Overall, if you have limited storage space and only plan on transporting kayaks, a folding kayak rack can be a good option. However, if you need a more versatile and sturdy option, a traditional roof rack may be a better choice.
How easy is it to install a folding kayak rack?
The ease of installing a folding kayak rack largely depends on the specific product you purchase and your level of experience with DIY projects. However, in general, most folding kayak racks are relatively easy to install and do not require any special tools or equipment.
First, you will need to determine the proper location to mount the rack on your vehicle's roof or hitch. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and use any included mounting hardware. Once you have the rack in place, you can then unfold it and secure your kayak to the rack using straps or bungee cords.
If you are unsure about the installation process, it may be helpful to watch instructional videos or seek advice from a professional. It is also important to remember to always follow safety guidelines and never exceed the weight limit of the rack or your vehicle's roof capacity.
How much weight can a folding kayak rack support?
The weight capacity of a folding kayak rack can vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer. However, most folding kayak racks are designed to support a weight capacity of 75-150 pounds. It is important to check the weight capacity of the specific model you are interested in purchasing and ensure that it is suitable for your needs. Overloading a kayak rack can result in damage to your vehicle or the rack itself, as well as potential safety hazards while transporting your kayak. Additionally, it is important to properly secure your kayak to the rack using straps or other tie-downs to prevent it from shifting or falling during transport.
What are the best features to look for in a folding kayak rack?
When looking for a folding kayak rack, there are several features that can make it stand out from the rest. Firstly, the rack should be sturdy and durable enough to hold your kayak securely in place during transportation. It should also be easy to install and fold down for storage when not in use. Look for a rack that has adjustable straps or padding to protect your kayak from scratches or damage. The rack should also fit your vehicle properly, so it's important to check the compatibility with your car's make and model. Another feature to consider is the weight capacity of the rack, as this will determine the size and weight of the kayak that can be transported safely. Finally, look for a rack that is versatile and can be used for other outdoor equipment such as bikes or skis. By considering these features, you can find the best folding kayak rack for your needs and enjoy hassle-free transportation of your kayak to your favorite waterways.
What brands offer the best folding kayak racks on the market?
There are several brands that offer high-quality folding kayak racks on the market. One of the top brands is Yakima, which offers a wide range of kayak racks that are both durable and easy to use. Their SweetRoll and JayLow racks are particularly popular among kayakers. Another great brand is Thule, which is known for its sturdy and reliable roof racks. Their Hullavator Pro and DockGlide racks are excellent options for those looking for a folding kayak rack. Malone Auto Racks is another brand that offers a variety of folding kayak racks, including the popular Stax Pro2 and the J-Pro2. Other notable brands include Rhino-Rack, TMS, and Sea to Summit. When choosing a folding kayak rack, it's important to consider factors such as compatibility with your vehicle, ease of use, and weight capacity.
What is the price range for a high-quality folding kayak rack?
The price range for a high-quality folding kayak rack will depend on various factors such as the brand, material, weight capacity, and design. Generally, the price for a good-quality folding kayak rack ranges from $100 to $500. If you are looking for a basic, budget-friendly option, you can find some models for under $100. However, these racks may not offer the same level of durability and stability as the higher-priced options. On the other hand, if you are looking for a premium, heavy-duty folding kayak rack that can support multiple kayaks, you may need to spend upwards of $500. It's important to consider your specific needs and budget when choosing a folding kayak rack. Additionally, it's always a good idea to read reviews and compare different brands to find the best option for you.
What materials are the most durable for a folding kayak rack?
When it comes to choosing the most durable materials for a folding kayak rack, there are several options available. The two most common materials used for kayak racks are aluminum and steel. Both materials are known for their strength, durability, and resistance to rust and corrosion.
Aluminum is a lightweight material that is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it an excellent material for kayak racks. It is also easy to maintain and clean, and does not require any special coatings or treatments to keep it in good condition.
Steel, on the other hand, is a heavier material that is also very strong and durable. It is often used in heavy-duty applications, such as industrial and commercial settings. Steel is also resistant to rust and corrosion, but requires regular maintenance to prevent rust and maintain its appearance.
Other materials that can be used for kayak racks include wood, plastic, and composite materials. However, these materials are not as durable or long-lasting as aluminum or steel, and may require more maintenance and upkeep over time.
Ultimately, the choice of material for a folding kayak rack depends on the user's needs and preferences, as well as the intended use and environment of the kayak rack.