Kayak Roof Rack

What is a boat roof rack?

How do you use this type of product?

Does every roof rack for paddlecraft use work with every vehicle?

A watercraft car rack is any type of rack that is installed on the top of your vehicle and used for transporting your boat from one place to another. These types of racks can be used for canoes and stand-up paddleboards in most instances, too, although some are specifically shaped for watercrafts only.

Most of the time, these racks are fitted onto crossbars on top of the vehicle. The paddlecraft is then slid into place and tied down onto the rack using tie-downs or straps that are often included with the rack itself.

Roof racks can be used with cars or SUVs. Most trucks don’t need roof racks, since they have enough space to haul a watercraft using different methods instead.

Here are a few requirements to look for in your vehicle when determining whether or not it can be used with boat racks for cars:

• What is the size of your vehicle’s top? Measure it and see if it meets the requirements for the rack you’re considering.
• Do you already have crossbars installed? For the vast majority of racks, you’ll need crossbars first, so be sure you have them or are willing to install them before you go further.
• What kinds of crossbars do you have? Some are round and some are square. Some racks are universal for all types of crossbars, while others can only be used with one type.
• How tall is the rack? Will it make your vehicle too tall to pass under low bridges or drive-throughs?

Now that you know a little bit more about what to look for, read on to find some of the best watercraft roof rack options around.

Best By Category:

MOST FEATURES: The Ecotric Boat Roof Rack J-Bar Rack Set of 4 offers the most features with adjustable foam pads, rubber bottom base, 1.5mm thick steel tube, 4 straps (8 ft length), universal mounting accessories, and a one year limited warranty.
GREAT VALUE: The AA-Racks J-Bar Rack Roof Top Mount is the best value as it includes a 180°folding adjustment motion, reinforced bracket base, full set of mounting hardware, heavy duty securing ratchet straps (16 ft long & 2200 lbs tested break strength), powder coated finish for rust resistance, and all necessary mounting hardware.
BEST FOR BEGINNERS: The Rooftop Universal Paddlecraft Carrier Car Roof Rack Set of Two is the best option for beginners as it has rubber pedals & foam protector, four foldable racks with exquisite craftsmanship, indented tubing design & strong stable pre-punched holes for perfect alignment, 250 lbs rated ratchet pulleys straps (maximum lock tight) and easy to use instructions.

Option #1. Watercraft Roof Rack with J-Bar Hooks

[amazon fields=”B075Z8XFN4″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

The [amazon link=”B075Z8XFN4″ title=”Boat Roof Rack for Boats, Canoes, and Surfboards”] will ensure your gear is transported successfully. The round, square, oval, and flat crossbars on most cars with roof racks are intended to accommodate this universal fit roof rack mount. This paddlecraft carrier is made of durable steel and is water- and rust-resistant so it can withstand wind, snow, and other weather conditions. Also, it is lightweight, making installation and removal simple.

For securely mounting your paddlecrafts onto the roof rack of your car, this two-pack comprises two cushioned J-bar cradles with tightening knobs, carrier straps, and bow-stern straps. Installation requires no tools because all relevant hardware is provided. By gently cradling your boat in place, the soft cushions on the bars will safeguard the finish of the boat hull. Also, to put your boat into position firmly, utilize the bow-stern and carrier straps.

Even though this product has several outstanding qualities, such its robust construction and universal fit design, there are some possible drawbacks that buyers should be aware of before making a purchase. For instance, flat crossbars may not be as easily contacted by the mounting brackets as rounder ones. Moreover, the accompanying straps are just 8 feet long, which can be inadequate for certain users depending on the size of their watercraft or car.

Despite these potential downsides, this product still has a lot of benefits that make it a fantastic option for shipping watercrafts or other watercraft. Its water-resistant design assures that it will withstand rain or snow without rusting or corroding over time, and its lightweight structure makes installation and removal a pleasure. Also, you can effortlessly connect it to any car with a roof rack thanks to its universal fit design, allowing you to transport your boat wherever you go!

Pros:

• Durable steel construction
• Water and rust resistant
• Lightweight and easy to install/remove
• Universal fit design
• Includes cushioned J-bar cradles, tightening knobs, carrier straps, and bow-stern straps

Cons:

• Flat crossbars may not be as easily contacted by the mounting brackets as rounder ones
• Straps are only 8 feet long

[amazon fields=”B075Z8XFN4″ value=”button”]

Option #2. J-Bar Rack HD Universal Paddlecraft Carrier Holder by ECOTRIC

[amazon fields=”B01F6XJZ8I” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

The [amazon link=”B01F6XJZ8I” title=”J-Bar Rack HD Universal Watercraft Carrier Holder by ECOTRIC”] is a terrific method to travel with your water sports gear. With the help of the four racks, four straps, and universal mounting components included in this set, it’s simple to put two boats on the side of the rack while taking up little room on the cross bar. The racks feature a rubber bottom base that is non-slip, water-resistant, and sun-resistant, and they are built of 1.5mm thick steel tube with adjustable foam padding. Except for circular crossbars, they suit the majority of industrial or market roof rails, including oval, square, and flat (OEM crossbars are within 2.5″ wide and 1″ thick).

In addition to having exceptional construction, the ECOTRIC Boat Roof Rack J-Bar Rack features a superior smooth black paint finish that is weather resistant and has a longer lifespan. It can support a paddlecraft that is 36″ wide and up to 75lbs of weight. You might need to conduct some study before trying to attach the paddlecrafts yourself because it does not come with instructions. Moreover, your crossbars won’t be attached correctly if they are wider than 2.5 inches or thicker than 1.

The ECOTRIC Watercraft Roof Rack J-Bar Rack is still a great option for transferring your water sports gear safely and securely despite these potential drawbacks. Just a few tools are required for assembly, and it takes up little room on the cross bar while offering the greatest stability for your watercrafts or other objects you might wish to transport. Also, because it is made of high-quality materials that are weather-resistant, you may move it without worrying about any harm happening. Last but not least, it is compatible with the majority of roof rails thanks to its universal mounting attachments, so you won’t have to worry about that either!

Pros:

• Non-slip, water-resistant, and sun-resistant rubber bottom base
• 1.5mm thick steel tube with adjustable foam padding
• Superior smooth black paint finish that is weather resistant
• Supports a boat that is 36″ wide and up to 75lbs of weight

Cons:

• No instructions included
• Not compatible with circular crossbars
• Crossbars must be within 2.5″ wide and 1″ thick

[amazon fields=”B01F6XJZ8I” value=”button”]

Option #3. Car Rack & Carriers Universal 2 Pairs

[amazon fields=”B0722PL3PV” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

The [amazon link=”B0722PL3PV” title=”Car Rack & Carriers Universal 2 Pairs”] is a great way to transport your boats and canoes with ease. Two sets of J-shaped racks are included with this item, and they are made to suit crossbars from most brands as long as they are less than 3 1/2″ broad and 1 1/2″ thick. The racks are straightforward to put together, and it couldn’t be much easier to fasten them to the crossbars. The racks also have straps for securing the paddlecrafts, however for longer voyages, it is advised that you use ratchet straps for increased security.

This product stands out from other items of a similar nature thanks to numerous fantastic characteristics. As it can carry a weight of up to 150 lbs, you may transport many watercrafts or canoes at once without any problems. Also, the arms of the rack include adjustable cushioning that helps shield your boats from dents and scratches while in transit. The anti-slip construction of the arms also helps to keep your paddlecrafts stable while in motion.

This product’s lack of anti-theft technology is a drawback, so if you want more protection, you’ll need to buy additional locks or straps separately. In addition, some customers have complained that the bolts that come with the brackets may be overly lengthy, which might result in scratched knuckles when tightening them. Last but not least, several customers have complained that their screws corroded after just a few days of usage in wet weather. If you plan to use these racks regularly in damp locations, you may want to consider investing in higher quality racks instead.

Yet with these possible drawbacks, this device still has a lot to offer consumers looking for a safe, secure, and economical solution to carry their watercrafts or canoes. Your vessels are protected from harm during transit with the adjustable cushioning, and the anti-slip construction makes sure they remain place no matter how choppy the journey is! Also, because to its maximum load capacity, it can easily transport many vessels at once, making it the perfect choice for family vacations or group outings!

Pros:

• Can carry up to 150 lbs.
• Adjustable cushioning protects boats from dents and scratches.
• Anti-slip construction keeps paddlecrafts stable while in motion.

Cons:

• No anti-theft technology included.
• Bolts may be overly long, resulting in scratched knuckles when tightening them.
• Screws may corrode after a few days of usage in wet weather.

[amazon fields=”B0722PL3PV” value=”button”]

Option #4. TMS Paddlecraft Roof Racks for 2 Watercrafts

[amazon fields=”B00873J0YY” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

If you want to carry your boats easily, the [amazon link=”B00873J0YY” title=”TMS Watercraft Roof Racks for 2 Paddlecrafts”] are the ideal option. These dual universal fit carriers are simple to attach on any vehicle since they come with two sets of straps for cars, trucks, and SUVs. Your boat will be secure during transport since the J-bar type carriers are made to hold watercrafts up to 36 inches wide and 75 pounds in weight. Rust-resistant steel construction with adjustable cushioning for further protection and carrying capacity. Fast installation and removal are also guaranteed by the quick on/off hardware.

These racks have a ton of features to choose from. They have a wide mouth J bar that makes loading and unloading easier than ever before, four long straps that assist secure your boats on top of your car or truck. Also, you won’t have to worry about finding the correct fitting for your car because they are compatible with the majority of crossbars and load bars on the market. You’ll also have plenty of roof space following installation because of its perfectly proportioned J type carrier design.

Even while these racks have a ton of wonderful features, there are a few possible drawbacks to be aware of. For starters, they only come with two sets of racks, which is adequate for two paddlecrafts, so you’ll need more units if you want to move more than two watercrafts at once. Make careful to thoroughly verify dimensions before making a purchase because they might not fit all original or aftermarket round, square, oval, or flat crossbars without modification.

Despite these small flaws, the [amazon link=”B00873J0YY” title=”TMS Paddlecraft Roof Racks”] offer a great way to move your boats securely and safely from one location to another. Your watercraft will always arrive in one piece thanks to their adjustable cushioning and rust-resistant coating, which offer further protection against damage during shipment. However, you won’t have to give up too much roof space either because of their perfectly sized J type carrier design, providing plenty of room for other things like baggage or camping gear! So, these racks will ensure that your boat arrives safely wherever you’re going, whether you’re going on a weekend retreat or simply a day trip down the river.

Pros:

• Quick on/off hardware for fast installation and removal
• Wide mouth J bar for easy loading and unloading
• Compatible with most crossbars and load bars
• Rust-resistant steel construction with adjustable cushioning for further protection

Cons:

• Only comes with two sets of racks, so more units needed to move more than two paddlecrafts at once
• Dimensions may need to be modified to fit some original or aftermarket crossbars

[amazon fields=”B00873J0YY” value=”button”]

Option #5. AA-Racks J-Bar Rack Roof Top Mount

[amazon fields=”B07GQQKDHT” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

The [amazon link=”B07GQQKDHT” title=”AA-Racks J-Bar Rack Roof Top Mount”] is the perfect solution for transporting your outdoor gear. To secure your cargo, this heavy-duty steel rack has a rubberized base and foam cushions on the arms that are powder coated to withstand corrosion. The movable arm may be adjusted from 0 to 180 degrees to fit the hull of your paddlecraft, and each J-bar can be folded down to accommodate your automobile into parking garages without having to remove it. It also includes two 16-foot-long, 2200-pound break-strength ratchet straps that can carry 150 pounds of stuff, including watercrafts, canoes, paddleboards, and other outdoor equipment.

This rack is made to attach to practically any kind of crossbar, whether it be factory-installed or aftermarket, including square, trapezoidal, and oval-shaped bars (excluding round shapes). The crossbar has to have installation clearance of at least 1.8″ from the height of the roof. When you drive at a fast speed or quickly stop, an anti-slip strap retainer maintains the strap in place to prevent the watercraft from slipping. Also, each pole has 40mm of foam connected to it to reduce friction and damage while transporting your boat properly.

Make sure you verify the specs before buying, as this product’s size constraints may prevent it from fitting in some vehicles. Also, because of its size and weight, some users could find installation challenging.

In spite of these possible drawbacks, this device has lots of benefits for people searching for a simple solution to transport their outdoor equipment. Because of its robust design, your goods will remain safe even while you’re traveling at a fast pace or making abrupt stops. It may be adjusted to your needs thanks to the adjustable arm, and its folding shape makes it simple to pack away when not in use. Also, its reinforced base offers additional defense against sun and water damage so you can rest easy knowing your paddlecraft will be protected throughout travel. This item is likely to offer a dependable solution, whether you’re going on a fishing trip or just need a simple way to move your canoe from one spot to another!

Pros:

• Heavy-duty steel rack with rubberized base and foam cushions
• Adjustable arm from 0 to 180 degrees to fit the hull of your watercraft
• Includes two 16-foot-long, 2200-pound break-strength ratchet straps

Cons:

• Size constraints may prevent it from fitting in some vehicles
• Installation could be challenging due to size and weight

[amazon fields=”B07GQQKDHT” value=”button”]

Option #6. Rooftop Universal Boat Carrier Car Roof Rack Set

[amazon fields=”B07PBDRXFZ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

The [amazon link=”B07PBDRXFZ” title=”Rooftop Universal Paddlecraft Carrier Car Roof Rack Set”] is a great choice for anyone looking to transport their watercraft or canoe. Two sets of J-shaped carriers are included in this package, each consisting of 1.5 mm thick steel tubing, which makes them exceptionally sturdy and capable of supporting up to 150 lbs of weight. The bars are covered with a premium glossy exterior paint that is weather-resistant, guaranteeing that they will last you for a very long time. Real rubber and foam are also used to create the foam cushioning and rubber base cover, making them non-slip and UV/water resistant. Without removing the racks, your car can fit in parking garages thanks to the four folding racks, and the indented tube design guarantees precise alignment when installed. Last but not least, the 250 lbs. rated ratchet pulley straps ensure that your boat or canoe is securely fastened for transport.

This product stands out from other universal paddlecraft roof bars on the market thanks to a number of excellent characteristics. First off, the bars’ 1.5mm thickness makes them far stronger than those on previous versions. Also, unlike some other models, this one’s paint is of a very good caliber and can withstand any weather conditions, so you won’t need to worry about it rusting or flaking after only one or two usage. Also, the connecting piece that connects the two bars is depressed out of the same bar to ensure a precise fit every time, which makes installation considerably simpler than with other models that take longer because of poor manufacturing practices or subpar components. Last but not least, these racks fold down low enough to allow you to enter parking garages without first removing them!

One drawback of this product is that it does not include enough straps to fit a single 30″ wide watercraft, therefore you may need to buy extra straps. Also, some customers have complained that it is difficult to tighten or loosen the clamps during installation since they don’t always spin in the same direction. Finally, because it’s a Chinese device, it could not last as long as more costly brands, but it should still be enough for occasional usage for a year before needing upgrades or new components.

Yet, even with these small flaws, this product still has a lot going for it over its rivals, including its strength and longevity even under adverse weather conditions due to its thick steel tubing and

Pros:

• 1.5mm thick steel tubing
• Weather-resistant glossy exterior paint
• Non-slip foam cushioning and rubber base cover
• Four folding racks for parking garages
• 250 lbs. rated ratchet pulley straps

Cons:

• Not enough straps to fit a single 30″ wide boat
• Difficult to tighten/loosen clamps during installation
• Could not last as long as more costly brands

[amazon fields=”B07PBDRXFZ” value=”button”]

Option #7. Yakima JayLow Rooftop Mounted Paddlecraft Rack

[amazon fields=”B00FUHDYZQ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

If you want to transport up to two boats on your car, the [amazon link=”B00FUHDYZQ” title=”Yakima JayLow Rooftop Mounted Watercraft Rack”] is the ideal option. The Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs included with this rack (which fits the majority of crossbars) will help you secure your gear. The integrated cam lever makes it simple to change the upright position and, when not in use, folds flat for improved clearance and less drag. It comes already constructed out of the box and only takes around 10 minutes to install without the need of any tools.

This rack is intended to hold one boat in a J-cradle configuration (up to 80 pounds) or two paddlecrafts stacked vertically (up to 110 lbs. combined). It has extra-padded contact points that protect you and provide you a firm hold while you’re traveling, and it can be locked with SKS Lock Cores for further security (sold separately).

Because the clamps are made of plastic and the tightening bolts are made of steel, there is a risk of the clamping components breaking if you overtighten the product. Also, the upright can only be adjusted to a maximum of 0 degrees, not 180 degrees, which may make loading long or large boats more challenging.

Despite these small flaws, this rack has several benefits that make it a great option for securely and safely transporting your watercrafts. It requires no tools for installation and has a flexible design that makes it simple to change the upright position. During traveling, the additional padding on the contact points protects you and gives you a firm grip. For increased security, you may lock it using SKS Lock Cores (sold separately). You can be confident that your equipment will remain secure throughout transit thanks to the Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs that are supplied. This rack will assist you in getting your boats there safely whether you’re traveling a small distance down the river or a lengthy distance across state boundaries.

Pros:

• Fits majority of crossbars
• No tools required for installation
• Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs included

Cons:

• Clamps are made of plastic and tightening bolts are made of steel, risk of breaking if overtightened
• Upright can only be adjusted to a maximum of 0 degrees

[amazon fields=”B00FUHDYZQ” value=”button”]

Option #8. Thule 835PRO Hull-a-Port Pro Rooftop Paddlecraft Carrier

[amazon fields=”B00152TUUI” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

If you want to carry your watercraft and belongings with ease, the [amazon link=”B00152TUUI” title=”Thule 835PRO Hull-a-Port Pro Rooftop Boat Carrier”] is the ideal choice. This high-performing, user-friendly paddlecraft rack has a wide mouth J-profile for easy loading and unloading, thick all-weather cushions for optimal watercraft protection, and tough straps to keep your boat securely fastened while in transit. The 835PRO is a great option for any vehicle because it is made to accommodate all Thule rack systems, round bars, and the majority of OEM racks.

Also, this carrier has a special folding design that reduces wind resistance while not in use, increasing gas mileage. Two straps with buckle protectors and two ratcheting bow and stern tie downs are also included for enhanced security. In addition, installation requires no tools at all! Your paddlecrafts will be snug and safe during transit thanks to the adjustable padding and steel construction.

Despite the Hull-a-Port Pro Rooftop Paddlecraft Carrier’s 835PRO’s abundance of wonderful features, there are a few possible drawbacks to take into account. For instance, this carrier can only hold watercrafts that are no wider than 34 inches and no heavier than 75 pounds. Also, the J-profile design could make it challenging to put bigger or heavier boats onto the roof of your car by yourself.

The 835PRO Hull-a-Port Pro still has several advantages that make it a wonderful option for transporting your stuff safely and securely, despite these potential downsides. When not in use, its collapsible shape makes it simple to store, and its adjustable cushioning guarantees that your boat is protected to the fullest extent possible during travel. Also, the installation is quick and easy thanks to the quick on/off hardware, allowing you to be on the water more quickly. This carrier will consistently deliver dependable performance whether you’re embarking on a solitary vacation or inviting pals along.

Pros:

• Wide mouth J-profile for easy loading and unloading
• Thick all-weather cushions for optimal watercraft protection
• Tough straps to keep your boat securely fastened while in transit
• Folding design reduces wind resistance while not in use, increasing gas mileage
• Two straps with buckle protectors and two ratcheting bow and stern tie downs included for enhanced security
• Installation requires no tools at all
• Adjustable padding and steel construction keeps boats snug and safe during transit
• Collapsible shape makes it simple to store when not in use
• Quick on/off hardware allows you to be on the water more quickly

Cons:

• Can only hold paddlecrafts that are no wider than 34 inches and no heavier than 75 pounds
• J-profile design could make it challenging to put bigger or heavier boats onto the roof of your car by yourself

[amazon fields=”B00152TUUI” value=”button”]

Option #9. Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack Paddlecraft Carrier with Bow and Stern Lines

[amazon fields=”B07V4N9YWM” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

Anybody wishing to carry their watercraft should choose the [amazon link=”B07V4N9YWM” title=”Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack Boat Carrier”]. This carrier has two J cradles that can each hold a paddlecraft and is intended to accommodate any car with a “bare roof” when used with the rails that Malone offers. If you have a rack with rails over the roof, it also includes attachments that wrap around the square rails. The carrier is simple to use and assemble, and it should easily fit an Ascend H10 watercraft.

There are several benefits offered by this carrier. It has adjustable cushioning for increased protection against scratches and dents as well as bow and stern lines for enhanced security while carrying your boat. The carrier is also composed of sturdy plastic that won’t rust or corrode over time.

Regrettably, this product has several drawbacks. Although it might be simple to use and set up at first, several customers have complained that after just a few hours of usage, the plastic covering the metal brackets that secure below the crossbars started to peel off. Because of this, the carrier moved while the paddlecraft was being transported, making it challenging to secure the watercraft while driving. Moreover, tightening the carrier did nothing except exacerbate the problem.

There are still many advantages connected with this product despite these problems. To begin with, its movable cushioning offers additional defense against dings or scratches while carrying your boat securely and safely. For those who enjoys taking their watercrafts on excursions, its sturdy plastic design guarantees that it won’t corrode or rust over time. As a result, it’s a terrific long-term investment. Also, the bow and stern lines on your paddlecraft add an added layer of safety while you’re driving, ensuring that your watercraft will remain in position no matter how choppy the road becomes.

Pros:

• Adjustable cushioning for increased protection against scratches and dents
• Bow and stern lines for enhanced security while carrying boat
• Sturdy plastic design won’t rust or corrode over time

Cons:

• Plastic covering the metal brackets that secure below the crossbars started to peel off
• Carrier moved while paddlecraft was being transported, making it challenging to secure the watercraft while driving

[amazon fields=”B07V4N9YWM” value=”button”]

Conclusion

There are a lot of roof racks out there, and they all have their own strengths, weaknesses, and features. Each one can bring something different to your boat hauling experience and help you move your watercraft from place to place. But which paddlecraft rack for car use is the best option for most vehicle needs? Here are our top three recommendations:

Pick your favorite of these options listed above and get ready to haul your watercraft with ease!