[amazon bestseller=”Thule Watercraft Rack” items=3 grid=3 button=none]
Our Choice Recommendation
[amazon box=”B00152TUUI” template description_items=3 description_length=115]
[amazon box=”B00152TUUI,B079Z8NPSP,B006LA81T0,B07MXVGKRM,B07MXXZF73″ grid=3 button=none orderby=”price” order=”desc”]
What is the Thule company like?
Do they make more than just the Thule boat rack product line, or is this line the star of their catalog?
Should you consider this paddlecraft rack for transporting and hauling your watercraft?
Thule is a company that was built by active people, for active people. This company prides itself on creating products that make it easier to get out and move, whether that’s for sports, hobbies, or just for fun.
These choices available from Thule largely revolve around roof racks for vehicles. These racks can be used to haul bikes, canoes, watercrafts, and much more. However, the company also makes other products, including luggage, tents, awnings, bike trailers, child bike attachments, and strollers.
If you’re looking for a quality brand name that can help you get out in nature and enjoy your time while you’re there, Thule may be the brand for you. Of course, if you’re searching for the perfect roof rack to bring your boat along, Thule can help you with that as well.
In this article, we’ll show you some of the best Thule rack selections for paddlecraft purposes. Take your time, look through the options, and see which one may work with your vehicle as well as your watercraft for your next adventure.
Read more about Thule boat carrier options below.
Option #1. Thule Hull-A-Port Paddlecraft Carrier 834
[amazon fields=”B006LA81T0″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]
For a traditional J-bar style watercraft roof rack that doesn’t come in over budget for most customers, consider the [amazon link=”B006LA81T0″ title=”Thule Hull-A-Port Boat Carrier 834″ /]. This is a basic carrier that functions well and provides plenty of durability for all of your upcoming travels. This option features plenty of width to support boats of several sizes without taking up too much room on top of your vehicle.
Pros
- The rack is made from rust-resistant metal.
- This offer features padding for protecting your paddlecraft’s hull and finish.
Cons
- The included straps are too short for many paddlecrafts and may need to be upgraded.
- The included bolts may not be long enough for all existing vehicle crossbars.
Option #2. Thule Hull-A-Port XT Watercraft Rack
[amazon fields=”B079Z8NPSP” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]
The [amazon link=”B079Z8NPSP” title=”Thule Hull-A-Port XT Boat Rack” /] allows you to bring along two watercrafts stacked next to each other or a single paddlecraft in a J-bar configuration, depending on your needs. The included hardware makes it easy for this rack to fit the majority of existing crossbars, thanks to its near-universal design. This choice is also possible to lock this rack into place on your crossbars, as long as you have an additional locking mechanism for use with roof racks.
Pros
- This option can support up to 130 pounds between both boats, and up to 75 pounds for just one watercraft.
- It’s quick and easy to fold the roof rack flat when it’s not in use.
Cons
- Some customers report issues mounting this rack to round crossbars.
- Very large paddlecrafts may not fit well on this roof rack.
Option #3. Thule Compass Boat/SUP Carrier
[amazon fields=”B07MXVGKRM” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]
The [amazon link=”B07MXVGKRM” title=”Thule Compass Paddlecraft/SUP Carrier” /] provides more than one option when you’re looking to bring along your watercraft on an adventure. You can use this rack in a traditional J-bar style for one boat, or you can unfold it on both sides and bring along two watercrafts at the same time with the “stacker” function. Both options provide plenty of padding and durability to keep your paddlecraft safe and protected while making sure it stays in place on top of your vehicle, too. This is a good roof rack for anyone who sometimes needs to bring multiple boats on a single trip.
Pros
- This offer comes with universal hardware and is designed to fit almost all crossbars without needing an adapter.
- The rack can be folded up or down as needed in just a few seconds.
Cons
- The included tie-down straps are not very good quality and may need to be updated.
- The padding may tear easily over time.
Option #4. Thule Hull-A-Port Pro Rooftop Watercraft Carrier
[amazon fields=”B00152TUUI” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]
When you’re looking for a roof rack that has a lot of padding to keep your boat safe and secure at all times, look no further than the [amazon link=”B00152TUUI” title=”Thule Hull-A-Port Pro Rooftop Paddlecraft Carrier” /]. This J-bar shaped roof rack secures your watercraft in place and can be folded up or down depending on how and when you need to use it. This choice also includes tie-down straps that can be adjusted with a ratchet mechanism, which helps keep everything even more secure than ever before.
Pros
- The rack is fitted with a lever that makes it quick and simple to fold or unfold it on the go as needed.
- This option fits most round crossbars without the need for an adapter.
Cons
- The included screws may strip and become damaged easily.
- The carriage bolts may be hard to tighten on installation.
Option #5. Thule Hull-A-Port Aero Boat Carrier
[amazon fields=”B07MXXZF73″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]
The [amazon link=”B07MXXZF73″ title=”Thule Hull-A-Port Aero Paddlecraft Carrier” /] mounts onto the Thule brand square crossbar adapter, which is sold separately. This offer secures firmly to the crossbars and stays in place without wobbling around, even while you’re driving at higher speeds. The rack can be popped up into the correct position for use and then folded flat again when it’s not needed, so you don’t have to worry about it getting in the way when you pass under low bridges or drive in a parking garage. This is the highest-end Thule roof rack model and is a great addition to any vehicle.
Pros
- The carrier locks onto your crossbars with an included key, so you don’t have to be concerned about anyone stealing your watercraft.
- This choice features plenty of padding to protect the hull of your boat.
Cons
- This option may take a little time to install the first time, especially without any prior experience.
- This is the most expensive roof rack on our list and may be over budget for some.
Conclusion
There are a lot of good choices when you’re looking for a paddlecraft roof rack from Thule. This company makes several models that are designed to work with various vehicles, so you never have to worry too much about being able to find something that matches your existing car, crossbars, or watercraft.
These options are readily available and easy to install, which makes them even more beneficial. And since they last a long time, they’ll be a part of your experiences and journeys for years to come, keeping you and your boat safe and providing convenience wherever you go.
But why should you consider Thule over other brands on the market? What really sets it apart? Aren’t these offers from this company the same as those from any others?
Although it’s possible to buy paddlecraft roof racks from many different brands and companies, Thule is a brand that cares about its products. These racks are built to last and come from a company full of people who care about making products that work. If you’re looking for a roof rack backed by some integrity and quality customer service at the same time, Thule is the way to go.
And, as an added bonus, you can always stock up on other items needed for your outdoor adventures from the same brand!
5 Essential Tips for Installing Paddlecraft Rack From Thules
- Make sure to read the instructions carefully before beginning installation. This will help you understand the process and ensure that you install the rack correctly.
- Check your vehicle's roof for any damage or rust before installing the rack. If there is any damage, it should be repaired before installing the rack.
- Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts and screws during installation. This will ensure that they are properly tightened and secure.
- Be sure to use anti-seize lubricant on all metal parts of the rack. This will help prevent corrosion and make it easier to remove in the future.
- Test out your watercraft rack after installation by loading a boat onto it and driving around at low speeds. This will help you make sure that everything is secure and working properly.
ALSO: Consider investing in a locking system for your Thule paddlecraft racks, as this can provide extra security against theft!
More Information For Readers
If you want to transport your boats safely and securely, these are a great choice. With so many models to choose from, you can find the perfect watercraft rack for your car and your needs. Thule's racks have adjustable straps that make it easy to keep your boat in place and give it extra protection from road debris and other dangers. The racks also have locks built in, so you can be sure that your paddlecrafts will be safe while you move them. Also, many of the models are made to be easy to put on most vehicles without the need for any special tools or changes. If you have a Thule paddlecraft rack, you won't have to worry about your valuable cargo while you're on the water.
Usage And Application: How Can They Be Used?
These racks may be used in three ways. First, they are an excellent method to safely and securely carry your watercraft. The racks have adjustable straps that may be adjusted to keep the boat securely in position during travel. Second, while not in use, they serve as a simple storage solution for your paddlecraft. This protects it from the outdoors and keeps it from taking up important storage space in your garage or shed. Finally, these racks make it much easier to launch and retrieve your watercraft. This is especially beneficial if you're going on a single trip because you won't have to worry about bringing the boat down to the sea. These items, with their adaptability and ease, are an excellent tool for any serious paddler searching for a dependable means to move his boat.
The Cons: What To Know
After talking about the pros of these racks, it's important to think about the cons. First, these racks can be very expensive and may not be in everyone's budget. Also, they are usually hard to install and require a certain level of technical knowledge to do it right. This can be hard for people who have never put up a rack before or who don't know how to use tools. There are some practical ways to deal with these problems, which is good news. For example, you could look into buying used Thule racks on online marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist, which would save you a lot of money. Also, there are many helpful tutorials online that show step-by-step how to install a Thule rack. With this information, even people who have never installed a rack before should be able to do it themselves with little time and effort.
What Considerations Should Be Used To Evaluate Them?
The main quantitative metrics for evaluating these racks are durability, simplicity of installation, weight capacity, and security. The materials used in construction and how well they hold up over time are used to determine durability. The ease of installation of a rack is assessed by how fast and easily it can be put on a vehicle. The weight capacity of a rack is determined by how much weight it can safely sustain without affecting its structural integrity. Finally, security evaluates the rack's ability to prevent theft or unintentional detachment while in use. All of these considerations must be made while considering whether these racks are the best solution for your needs.
Firsthand Experience: What to Expect
These racks are a great way to safely and securely move your watercrafts. They come in many different styles, like roof racks and hitch-mounted carriers, so you can find the one that works best for your car. Roof-mounted racks are great for cars with limited space, while hitch-mounted carriers are better for transporting multiple boats because they are more stable and secure. With Thule's patented locking system, you can be sure that your paddlecrafts will be safe on the way to your destination. Also, their adjustable straps make it easy to secure watercrafts of different sizes without having to buy extra equipment. All in all, Thule's boat racks make it easy to move your boats in a safe and reliable way.
Here are the steps for using these racks in general: First, make sure that the rack you've chosen will work with your car. Next, follow the instructions to attach the rack to your vehicle. Third, tie the boats to the rack with straps or bungee cords to keep them in place. Fourth, make sure that all the buckles and straps are tight and secure. Fifth, tighten the straps so they fit well but are not too tight. Lastly, when moving your paddlecrafts on a rack, be careful and go slowly. If you follow these steps, you will be able to use this type of rack safely and successfully.