Yakima Kayak Rack

What is the Yakima company like?

Is this company trusted by its customers?

Do they make other items, or are car racks their specialty?

The Yakima company makes more than just racks for watercrafts, but it does focus on transportation vehicle racks for a variety of different sports equipment. Their boat roof racks are some of their best-selling items, but they’re certainly not the only ones worth taking a look at.

Here are a few more facts about Yakima:

• This company also produces hitches and cargo boxes, and it even makes items for your base camp, such as awnings, tents, and more.
  • If you’re looking for all the gear you need to get out there and enjoy nature while keeping active the whole time, you can’t go wrong choosing items from Yakima.
• The company has been around for decades, and it began focusing more on kayaking needs at the end of the 1970s.
• It became more widely recognized at the 1974 Summer Olympics and has been a trusted name in the sporting world ever since.
• Customers love and support this company, and in turn, the company supports them as well.

If you’re looking for some of the best paddlecraft roof racks available from the Yakima brand name, you’ve come to the right place.

Below, we’ve gathered information to help you choose the perfect roof rack for your boating needs. No matter what type of vehicle you might have, you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for among the Yakima products listed below.

And best of all, those products will be backed by a company that cares about the satisfaction and safety of its customers, too.

Read on to find out more about Yakima watercraft rack options.

Best By Category:

MOST FEATURES: Yakima – BowDown Roof Mounting System for Boats. It has a built-in ramp system, HullGuard padding to protect the boat, SteelCore construction steel tube frame, and includes Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs.

GREAT VALUE: Yakima KayakStacker Rooftop Boat Rack with Tie-Downs. It has non-scratch vinyl-coated steel posts, versatile “arrow” top hook for quick tie down, fits car rack systems with round and square crossbars, and includes Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs.

BEST FOR BEGINNERS: Yakima – HandRoll Rooftop Mounted Paddlecraft Rack for Vehicles, One Set of Mounts. It has universal mounting hardware that fits most roof racks, built-in load assist with durable rubber rollers to guide the boat into place, includes all necessary hardware and straps to secure gear, and tool-free installation.

Option #1. Yakima KayakStacker Rooftop Watercraft Rack with Tie-Downs

[amazon fields=”B000N7XBC4″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

If you wish to move many boats at once, the [amazon link=”B000N7XBC4″ title=”Yakima KayakStacker Rooftop Boat Rack with Tie-Downs”] is the ideal option. Boat tying down is made simple and quick with this rack’s non-scratch, vinyl-coated steel supports and adaptable arrow-top hooks. To protect your boat and car, it comes with heavy-duty straps and coated metal buckles that suit both round and square crossbars. Up to four boats may be transported using the KayakStacker at a maximum weight of 80 lbs each. Also, it is pre-assembled, so there is no need to worry about a challenging installation procedure.

Whitewater, fishing, leisure, or ocean paddlecrafts all work well with the KayakStacker. With its powerful straps and tie-downs, it helps with loads while still being tool-free to install and collapsible when not in use. Moreover, it works with SKS locks for enhanced security.

Although the Yakima KayakStacker is a great option for carrying many watercrafts at once, there are a few possible drawbacks to take into account. For starters, given the height of the car or truck they’re driving, it could be challenging for one person to mount the boats by themselves. Also, in order to install the stacker properly, you might need to stand on the vehicle seats or a step stool.

The Yakima KayakStacker is still a great option for people searching for a dependable solution to transport several paddlecrafts at once, even with these potential limitations. Because of its compatibility with SKS locks and heavy-duty straps, your boats will be kept safe throughout transport. Also, when not in use, its collapsible shape makes storage simple. You may feel secure knowing that your kayaking excursions will be risk-free and hassle-free thanks to the integration of all these elements into one product!

Pros:

• Non-scratch, vinyl-coated steel supports and adaptable arrow-top hooks for easy boat tying down
• Heavy-duty straps and coated metal buckles that suit both round and square crossbars for protection of boat and car
• Pre-assembled, so no challenging installation procedure
• Compatible with SKS locks for enhanced security
• Collapsible when not in use for easy storage

Cons:

• Could be challenging for one person to mount the watercrafts by themselves due to height of car or truck
• Might need to stand on vehicle seats or a step stool to install properly

[amazon fields=”B000N7XBC4″ value=”button”]

Option #2. Yakima HandRoll Rooftop Mounted Paddlecraft Rack for Cars

[amazon fields=”B01N14U5DD” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

If you want to move your boats easily, the [amazon link=”B01N14U5DD” title=”Yakima HandRoll Rooftop Mounted Watercraft Rack for Cars”] is the ideal option. It fits most crossbars with a minimum spread of 24 inches and comes with one pair of mounts (two are required to carry gear). The integrated load assistance function offers sturdy rubber rollers that support guiding your boat into position and rotate to fit the contour of your boat for a safe grip. To guarantee that your equipment is securely fastened, all required hardware and straps, such as Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs, are included. It can be installed quickly and easily without the use of any tools, and it works with SKS Lock Cores (sold separately).

With so many functions, this rack is the best option for carrying paddlecrafts. Most roof racks, including square, round, factory, and aerodynamic bars, may be mounted on it thanks to its universal mounting hardware. The rubber rollers include a built-in load assist that helps you position your boat while also conforming to its contour for a safe grip. You can be confident that your boat will remain in place during travel since it also locks firmly onto the roof rack using SKS Lock Cores (available separately). Moreover, all required hardware and straps are provided, eliminating the need for additional purchases.

Although this product has many wonderful advantages, there are also some possible drawbacks. Due to its universal mounting hardware design, for instance, it might not suit all roof racks or automobiles. Also, because of its size and weight, it could be challenging to install on some types of automobiles (6 pounds). Finally, if you want additional protection when moving your paddlecraft, you will need to buy SKS Lock Cores separately as they are not included.

The [amazon link=”B01N14U5DD” title=”Yakima HandRoll Rooftop Mounted Watercraft Rack for Cars”] nonetheless has many benefits that make it worthwhile to take into account in spite of these possible drawbacks. Its universal mounting gear makes it compatible with the majority of roof racks, and its integrated load assist feature lets you secure your boat without exerting additional effort. Also, you don’t need to worry about buying any other products or accessories because all required hardware and straps are provided. Moreover, due to its lightweight construction and compatibility with SKS Lock Cores, it is easy to install and provides additional security.

Pros:

• Fits most crossbars with a minimum spread of 24 inches
• Includes Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs
• Built-in load assist helps you position your boat while also conforming to its contour for a safe grip

Cons:

• Might not suit all roof racks or automobiles
• Could be challenging to install on some types of automobiles (6 pounds)
• SKS Lock Cores not included

[amazon fields=”B01N14U5DD” value=”button”]

Option #3. Yakima JayHook Rooftop Mounted Boat Rack

[amazon fields=”B01MYELN7M” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

If you want to move your paddlecraft easily, the [amazon link=”B01MYELN7M” title=”Yakima JayHook Rooftop Mounted Watercraft Rack”] is the ideal option. With its universal mounting gear, this rack can be quickly and simply mounted to most roof racks and is intended to suit any style of boat up to 80 pounds. The sturdy cushioned contact areas offer grip and security, and the J-shaped cradle makes loading and unloading your paddlecraft simple. No tools are needed, and installation takes only a few minutes. Moreover, Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs are included, providing you with everything you need right out of the box.

Also, this rack has a ton of features that set it apart from the competitors. It is compatible with the majority of roof racks on the market because of its minimal crossbar spread of 24″. Heavy strength straps and bow/stern tie downs are also included for further security while transporting your watercraft. Furthermore, this rack weighs only 10.5 pounds, making it simple to transport when necessary.

Although this rack has many wonderful characteristics, there are also some possible drawbacks that should be taken into account before buying. For starters, the installation plugs are only good for one usage; if they break or disappear, you will need to contact a Yakima dealer for replacements, which might not always be easy or available. Also, unlike some other versions on the market, this rack cannot be folded, which may make storage more challenging in some circumstances.

The [amazon link=”B01MYELN7M” title=”Yakima JayHook Rooftop Mounted Boat Rack”] still provides a lot of benefits that make it worthwhile to take into consideration when making your next purchase despite these possible negatives. It can be mounted on the majority of roof racks now on the market thanks to its universal mounting gear, and because to its lightweight construction, it is portable when required. Also, its cushioned contact areas offer grip and safety when traveling, letting you know that your paddlecraft will be kept secure throughout transit. This rack is the perfect answer for anybody seeking for a practical method to transport your watercraft without compromising on quality or convenience thanks to all these qualities put together!

Pros:

• Quick and simple installation
• Compatible with most roof racks
• Includes Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs

Cons:

• Installation plugs are only good for one usage
• Cannot be folded for storage

[amazon fields=”B01MYELN7M” value=”button”]

Option #4. Yakima JayLow Rooftop Mounted Boat Rack

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

For individuals who want to move their watercrafts with ease, the [amazon link=”B00FUHDYZQ” title=”Yakima JayLow Rooftop Mounted Paddlecraft Rack”] is the ideal option. With one watercraft in a J-cradle configuration (up to 80 pounds) or two boats stacked vertically, this rack can accommodate up to two boats (up to 110 lbs. combined). Most crossbars with a minimum spread of 24″ will fit, including Yakima SteamLine and round, square, factory, and aerodynamic crossbars. 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. Installation takes merely a few minutes and requires no tools. Also, it’s ready to use right out of the box!

The extra-padded contact areas on this rack, which is composed of sturdy plastic, offer protection and a firm grip when traveling. Also, it comes with all the straps and hardware (such as Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs) required to secure your equipment. It may be fastened to the base rack with SKS Lock Cores for increased security (sold separately). You may choose between whitewater, leisure, ocean, or fishing paddlecrafts to transport with the JayLow.

Although while this product has many wonderful features that make moving your watercrafts more simpler than ever before, there are a few drawbacks to be aware of. The clamps are made of plastic, which makes it easy to overtighten them and risk damaging them. Moreover, the clamping components will continue to flex as the knobs turn indefinitely. Second, if you wish to carry two boats at once, you’ll need an additional set of straps. Last but not least, it may be challenging to climb the Jaylows alone with a 52-pound boat since it demands considerable muscle and coordination.

Yet, this product still has a ton of benefits that make it worthwhile to take into account for your next excursion despite these possible negatives. It offers load help and is compatible with SKS locks for increased security. Heavy-Duty Straps & Tie-Downs are also included in the kit. Also, thanks to its adaptable design, you can easily alter the upright position while it folds down when not in use for improved clearance and less drag. This item can be precisely what you need for your upcoming outdoor adventure thanks to its sturdy design and simple installation technique!

Pros:

• Accommodates up to two boats (up to 110 lbs. combined)
• Extra-padded contact areas offer protection and a firm grip when traveling
• Comes with all the straps and hardware required to secure your equipment
• Compatible with SKS locks for increased security
• Adaptable design allows you to easily alter the upright position
• Folds down when not in use for improved clearance and less drag

Cons:

• Clamps are made of plastic, which makes it easy to overtighten them and risk damaging them
• Clamping components will continue to flex as the knobs turn indefinitely
• Additional set of straps needed if carrying two paddlecrafts at once
• Challenging to climb the Jaylows alone with a 52-pound paddlecraft

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

Option #5. Yakima BowDown Roof Mounting System for Boats

[amazon fields=”B0012SA4QY” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_class=”aligncenter”]

If you own a watercraft or boat and want to carry it easily, the [amazon link=”B0012SA4QY” title=”Yakima BowDown Roof Mounting System for Boats”] is the ideal option. When not in use, this system folds down for greater aerodynamics and roof clearance while supporting one boat or boat weighing up to 80 pounds. With a minimum crossbar spread of 24″, its universal mount is compatible with the majority of crossbars (Yakima round, square, factory, and aerodynamic bars) right out of the box. The top-of-the-line HullGuard padding safeguards your boat while traveling, and the integrated ramp system makes loading and unloading your boat simple. This system is simple to install and has a superb steel tube frame made by SteelCore construction that requires no tools for assembly or installation. For enhanced security, SKS (Same Key System) locks are offered (sold separately).

Many characteristics make this system unique compared to other paddlecraft carriers on the market. Because to its J-cradle design, which keeps your watercraft on its side and takes up little roof space, you can load the boat swiftly and effortlessly in just a few minutes. The BowDown comes with bow and stern tie-down straps for stability as well as an integrated boat ramp system that makes it simple to carry your paddlecraft onto the rooftop. EVA foam is also used by the device to shield your boat from dents and scratches while it is being transported.

Despite the fact that this product has many wonderful characteristics, buyers should be aware of a few potential drawbacks before making a purchase. For instance, SKS locks are not included with the BowDown; if needed, they must be ordered individually. Also, some customers might discover that the SteelCore frame weighs too much to fit on their car’s roof rack. Last but not least, even though this item is made to suit the majority of crossbars right out of the box, certain customers could require extra adapters based on their particular arrangement.

Despite these potential negatives, the product still has a lot of benefits that make it worthwhile to examine. The BowDown is appropriate for whitewater, recreational, oceanic, and fishing adventures alike since it can carry any kind of watercraft up to 80 pounds. Moreover, Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs are included, allowing you to relax knowing that your vessel will be kept safe throughout transit. Also, you won’t have to worry about any damage happening while traveling because to its sturdy, cushioned contact areas, which offer protection and grip!

Pros:

• Folds down for greater aerodynamics and roof clearance
• Supports one boat or boat up to 80 pounds
• Universal mount compatible with majority of crossbars
• HullGuard padding safeguards boat while traveling
• Integrated ramp system makes loading/unloading simple
• SteelCore construction requires no tools for assembly/installation
• J-cradle design takes up little roof space
• Bow and stern tie-down straps for stability
• EVA foam shields boat from dents/scratches
• Heavy Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie Downs included

Cons:

• SKS locks not included, must be ordered separately
• SteelCore frame may be too heavy for some car roof racks
• May require extra adapters based on particular arrangement

[amazon fields=”B0012SA4QY” value=”button”]

Conclusion

Now that you’ve had a chance to check out some of the best Yakima roof racks for watercrafts on the market today, it’s time to pick your favorite and get it installed! With the right roof rack, you’ll be well on your way to a comfortable and safe experience every time you transport your paddlecraft.

How can you find out whether or not a Yakima car rack can be used with your car? Here are some tips to help you get started:

• One of the best ways to find out whether or not a Yakima product will work for your vehicle is to use the company web site’s specialized matching tool. This will allow you to plug in your vehicle’s information and find products that are compatible with it.
• If you prefer not to use this tool, however, you can find these offers that work with your vehicle by measuring. Measure your vehicle’s roof, and if you have crossbars already installed, measure the distance between them as well. From there, you can compare these measurements to the size of the racks you’re looking at.
• Check the information on the roof rack’s sales listing, or look on its packaging if you are viewing the rack in person. You can sometimes find suggestions about vehicle makes and models this way, as well.
• Don’t forget to consider the number of boats and weight of these choices you need to haul, too. Keep in mind, however, that you may not be able to bring along more than one watercraft, depending on the size and power of your vehicle.

Choose the rack that fits your vehicle best. Even if there are multiple racks that could work, look for the one that best matches your vehicle first, followed by your needs. These tips can help you narrow down your selection and find the perfect roof rack right away.