The Automatic Kayak Loader - Complete Buying Guide 2024
By, Sarah CombsUpdated
A kayak loader is a piece of equipment that enables you to load your kayak with greater ease. The loader has a platform on the front of it which you step into and then pull out. When you’re done, you lock the door to keep out the water and dirt, and store it away when not in use.
There are several different types of kayak loaders on the market today, so it can be difficult choosing which one is best for your needs. However, with a little research, you should be able to find one that fits your needs perfectly. Keep reading this article for more information about different types of kayak loaders and how they can benefit you in various ways.
Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through 18 hours to get such results for readers. These studies are based on customer star reviews and interviews about their feelings when using the product. When it comes to finding the automatic kayak loader, we believe Thule Hullavator Pro Rooftop Kayak Carrier is a worth product to buy. If you're looking for additional options and more in-depth advice, you may check out the following.
RELATED: Are you looking for the right best kayak cart? We cover all options. To pick the best one for you, please compare quality, price, and customer reviews.
Our Top Picks
TOP Choice #1
![Thule Hullavator Pro Rooftop Kayak Carrier]()
- Lift-assist kayak rack designed to easily load and unload on your own
- Product Weight: 39.7 lbs
- 8 touch points of padded support for maximum protection
- Includes bow and stern tie-downs for transporting 1 kayak
- Corrosion-resistant kayak cradles expand to fit wide kayaks
TOP Choice #2
![YAKIMA - JayLow, J-Style Fold Down Rooftop Kayak Carrier, 2 Boat Capacity]()
- Fits most crossbars: Compatible with Yakima SteamLine and round, square, factory and aerodynamic crossbars; Minimum crossbar spread of 24"
- Easy install: Comes fully assembled out of the box; Tool-free installation in about 10 minutes; Refer to Yakima Fit My Car Tool to ensure compatibility
- Versatile design: Integrated cam lever allows you to adjust the upright position with ease; Rack also folds flat when you're not using it for better clearance and reduced drag
- Carry up to 2 kayaks: Fits 1 kayak in J-cradle position (up to 80 lbs.) or 2 kayaks in a vertical, stacked position (up to 110 lbs. combined)
- Includes straps: Includes all the necessary hardware and straps (Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs) to secure your gear; SKS (Same Key System) locks sold separately
- Padded protection: Smooth molded pad hugs and protects your board from scratches and dings; Always pad between boards if carrying multiple
- Carry 1 boat: Complete system that includes rear saddles with integrated rollers to easily load and carry 1 boat up to 80 lbs.; Tilting paddles fit most types of boats Fits most crossbars: Compatible with Yakima round, square, factory and aerodynamic crossbars; Minimum crossbar spread of 24"
- Easy install: Comes fully assembled out of the box; Tool-free installation in about 10 minutes; Refer to Yakima Fit My Car Tool to ensure compatibility
- EASY INSTALL: Comes fully assembled out of the box; Tool-free installation in about 10 minutes; Refer to Yakima Fit My Car Tool to ensure compatibility
- Take it easy: Loading a boat never looked so easy; Spring-loaded base automatically adjusts to boat and integrated rollers let you slide it on with ease; Includes all required straps and tie-downs
- Load your bike fully assembled with the front wheel on (some fenders may need to be removed); This upright mount holds your bike as your secure it for easy loading
- Carry almost any type of bike to your next ride (including disc brakes, thru-axles and full suspension); Fits 20" to 27.5” wheels with tires up to 3” width and 29” wheels with tires up to 2.7” width
- Holds your bike by the front and back wheel for zero frame contact; A great option for carbon fiber bikes and custom paint jobs; Aerodynamic design won’t hold you back
- Requires a roof rack with a crossbar spread between 16" and 48"; Fits Yakima round, square, factory or aerodynamic crossbars; Fully assembled out of the box and easy, tool-free installation
- Want more peace of mind? Add 2 SKS (Same Key System) locks (sold separately) to lock your bike and the mount to the base rack (not included)
- Oversized padding protects boat during transport
- JAWZ mounting hardware fits round, square and most factory oval cross rails, includes both 60mm and 70mm pre-coated mounting bolts;Cam style load straps with buckle protectors
- Dimensions:Length: 17",Width: 6",Height: 19.5",Load capacity: 75 lb
- Fold down technology increases overhead clearance. Compatible with the MPG351 Telos Load Assist
- J-style kayak carrier with built-in boarding ramp for easy loading
6
![YAKIMA, EXO SwingBase, Hitch-Mounted Base Rack for EXO System]()
- Adapts to your adventures; The EXO Cleat system and SpeedKnobs let you easily change out EXO components so you can bike today, ski tomorrow and camp this weekend, all with one system
- Keeps your gear at hand; This hitch-mounted system makes accessing gear easy; Its swing design provides quick access to your vehicle’s trunk too
- Need more storage space? Add on the EXO TopShelf (sold separately) for a second tier of storage so you never have to compromise your weekend goals
- Turn your 2” hitch into the ultimate gear-hauling foundation; The EXO SwingBase acts as a base for all other EXO components (sold separately); For use with class III and IV hitch receivers only
- Easy to install and folds away when not in use; Includes a HitchLock for added security and features folding accessory arms so you can leave it on your vehicle at all times
- PADS - Pivoting large 3" x 8" flexible cradle pads provide both extra stability, padding and grip to ensure your kayak, canoe or paddle board travels safely to and from your destination, avoiding scratches or abrasions.
- MORE FEATURES - Built in security hardware is theft deterrent. The leg bolts require a special tool (included) to loosen.
- EASY & SECURE - The Nautic 581 comes complete with 4 rubber pads designed to cushion your kayak for side mounting ease. For added security and theft deterrence, we've made the cover plate both hidden and lockable, securing cradles to crossbars.
- EXPERIENCE the very latest in kayak carrying technology with the Nautic 581 side Loading Kayak Carrier. Rhino-Rack's Nautic 580 is designed by US engineers with first-hand kayaking experience and features the next generation in design and technology.
- Rhino-Rack MasterKey compatible.
8
![Malone SeaWing/Stinger Combo Saddle Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier with Load Assist Module]()
- Universal-fit Jawz mounting hardware fits round, square, and most oval crossbars
- Extends 22 inches behind carrier then slides forward for easy loading
- Combo kayak carrier with sliding, padded V-block frame
- Cam-style load straps and buckle protectors secure kayak in place
- Supports up to 70 pounds; measures 27.5 x 4.5 x 6 inches (W x H x D)
- Ultimate assist for all Kayakers makes it feel like there's someone there to help you load your kayak.
- Universal Mounting System mounts to square, round, and most factory crossbars
- The foldable L shape arm that mounts between the front and back bars of your roof rack, allows for easy loading while preventing the cars' body coating and mirror from being damaged.
- Requires existing crossbar system to be present
10
![Yakima - ForkLift Fork Mount Bike Carrier for Roof Racks, 1 Bike Capacity]()
- ROOF RACK REQUIRED: Crossbar spread minimum of 16" and maximum of 42"; Fits Yakima round, square, factory and aerodynamic bars; Simple tool-free installation and removal
- PROTECT YOUR GEAR: Add SKS (Same Key System) locks (sold separately) to secure your bike to the rack and the rack to the vehicle
- FITS MOST DISC BRAKES: Fits bikes that use standard 100 mm x 9 mm quick release front hubs; other hubs (such as thru-axles) require adapters
- ADJUSTABLE LENGTH: Sliding wheel tray is easy to adjust and allows for a wide range of bike lengths; Carries 1 bike up to 35 lbs.
- NO FRAME CONTACT: ForkLift holds the bike by the front axle and the rear wheel; No frame contact means your bike's paint doesn't get scratched
What to Look Through Prior to Selecting the automatic kayak loader?
You may be aware that purchasing something is not actually an easy action. Your everyday life will be affected if you choose the most fantastic product. What variables, though, will make this acquisition successful? Whether you're seeking for automatic kayak loader to meet your needs, you'll be wasting your own time.
Nevertheless, it would be preferable if you weren't so worried. We've enlisted the help of a team of professionals to investigate automatic kayak loader, and we've provided accurate data.
There seem to be several important considerations to make. But only a few of them are really concentrated. Here are some crucial reviews while purchasing automatic kayak loader:
Type Of Kayak Roof Rack
You can choose from many different types of roof racks for kayak cars. Each one offers advantages and disadvantages. These are the main kinds:
J-cradles are used to carry kayaks along their sides
To transport kayaks upside down, saddles
Foam blocks are lightweight,, and great for short trips
You should not have any trouble choosing the right kayak car roof rack. Are you still unsure where to begin? It's easy! These are our top five kayak roof racks that we have tested and recommended.
J-cradles are used to carry kayaks along their sides
To transport kayaks upside down, saddles
Foam blocks are lightweight,, and great for short trips
You should not have any trouble choosing the right kayak car roof rack. Are you still unsure where to begin? It's easy! These are our top five kayak roof racks that we have tested and recommended.
Rack Height
To load or tie down kayaks, you must be able reach the roof rack. You will find some racks higher than others. Make sure that your roof rack is accessible from the right height or you have an alternative way of lifting yourself, like a step stool.
Vehicle Make And Model
No matter what size vehicle you have, there is a kayak rack for it. You must ensure that your roof rack will fit and securely attach to your vehicle. You should also ensure that the roof rack you plan to buy will attach securely to your car's existing roof bars.
Load Straps
Without proper support, kayaks may move on carriers. Most kayak carriers come with basic straps or tie-downs to secure the various points of the kayak to the rack. You can purchase either included straps or built-in ones for kayak carriers. Others come as a separate unit so that you have control over the securing supports to be used with kayak's forward and stern tie downs.
The Number Of Kayaks
Roof racks can hold one kayak while some others can accommodate two. Look for racks that can accommodate your transportation needs, so you have the ability to take as many kayaks with you as possible.
Padding
Padding on kayak carriers is essential for protecting the kayak's surface during transport. A kayak carrier typically has padding on the bottom to protect it during transport. While foam blocks offer more protection than thicker padding like foam blocks it can be difficult to fold the carrier (if possible) or store the cradle. You can add padding around the buckle protectors and factory crossbars/mountingbolts.
Cradle Or Saddle
Protection is dependent on the design of the contact point between kayak and carrier. Kayaks are often awkwardly designed and lengthened. The style of the saddles or cradles will have an impact on how your kayak performs in various driving conditions. You will prefer aluminum and steel with lots of padding.
Price
Kayak roof racks can be much more affordable than kayak trailers but still come at a cost. Be realistic about your budget and stick with it. To safely transport your kayak, you don't necessarily need to buy the best kayak roof rack. You can actually get just as much use out of a lower-priced roof rack than if you spend more.
RELATED: We collect data on 9,145 evaluations from consumers provide everything to pick best canoe rack for truck in 2024 for you.
FAQs
How Do You Lift And Carry A Kayak By Yourself?
Standing on your left side, the kayak's bow (front) should face you. The stern (rear), should be facing you.To pull the kayak toward you, bend your knees.
Place the bottom of your kayak on your bent leg, and then lift it up to your thighs.
Move the cockpit's rim away from your body and lift it up onto your right shoulder.
Slowly raise the kayak to standing position, with your right shoulder supporting it. You can now carry the kayak to your destination.
These steps will work for kayaks loaded atop cars. To load the kayak from the right side, you will need to stand in front of it and use your left hand to lift the kayak onto the shoulder.
What’s The Best Way To Transport A Kayak?
Because they are more stable than temporary block systems, crossbar roof racks make the most efficient way to transport a kayak. Roof racks should be fastened at the crossbars, as well as between your vehicle and your kayak's bow or stern. Composite kayaks, which are made of rotomolded plastic (plastic), can be carried upside-down or on the edge. However, they should be transported on the hull. By ensuring that the kayak is not too tightly lashed, cradles reduce chances of it being damaged. They are great for kayak transport in bad weather or at high speed.Is A Temporary Foam Rack Or Permanent Roof Rack Is Better?
Each rack has its advantages. You don't have to think about many factors when purchasing temporary foam racks. They can be damaged if they aren't as sturdy as the other types of racks. The installation is also difficult.Permanent racks, on the other hand are extremely durable and efficient. They also offer a simple and easy loading process.
How Far Apart Should Roof Racks Be For A Kayak?
It's simple. The answer is simple. If you have a sit-on top kayak, align the cross bars and the kayak cups. The plastic could warp if the bars are moved too close together. It is not recommended to place the bars too closely together.How Many Kayaks Fit On A Roof Rack?
Standard roof racks are capable of accommodating 2 kayaks. These can be further secured for safety purposes. This is the largest capacity available and the preferred choice by most. There are also roof racks available that will hold up to four kayaks. These can be stored in the vertical or sideways position.You may be able to fit a few more kayaks in regular 2-kayak roof racks. However, we do not recommend this. You can buy additional fasteners to attach more kayaks. However, it is not guaranteed that you will not damage any of your gear.
Should Kayaks Be Transported Upside Down?
To prevent water from leaking, kayaks must be carried with their cockpit facing downward when travelling in adverse weather conditions. A cockpit seal is recommended for kayaks that must be transported upright.The figures we've presented here aren't all of them. Alternatively, we continuously update it as new information becomes available. It's advisable to keep in mind the points we discussed related to buying guide.
We always appreciate your feedback and handle it with the utmost importance. As a result, the most up-to-date data will come to your mind as soon as possible. You are supposed to contact us and give us your reviews as well as problems so that we will try to support you. Hope you have a pleasant shopping experience!
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About Sarah Combs
