Best Kayak Rack For Suv In 2024: Our Top Picks

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
IKURAM R Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack of J-Style Folding
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Of The Best: IKURAM R Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack of J-Style Folding

The IKURAM R Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack of J-Style Folding is a lightweight, durable and rust-resistant roof rack that can be easily transported. Designed with a quick fold down design and convenient front release handle to increase the overhead clearance, this roof rack is perfect for kayaks of all shapes and sizes. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack 4 PCS/Set J Bar Car Roof Rack

The Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack 4 PCS/Set J Bar Car Roof Rack is a high-quality roof rack suitable for carrying kayaks, canoes, surfboards, snowboards and SUPs. It is a universal roof rack that is easy to install and comes with four tie down straps. Read Review

3. Best Choice: AVENN Rooftop J-Bar Kayak Rack for Canoe, Skis, Paddleboard

This roof rack is versatile, durable, and easy to install. The J-bars are adjustable for your specific rooftop and can be used for hauling skis, canoes, paddleboards, surfboards, snowboards, wakeboards and other outdoor gear. Read Review

4. Best Economical: Folding Kayak Roof Rack for 2 Kayaks, Heavy Duty Double Kayak Racks

The Folding Kayak Roof Rack features a heavy duty design to carry up to 2 kayaks, canoes, or surfboards. It is designed for easy installation and offers multiple carrying functions so you can transport your gear without the hassle. Read Review

When you have a car and a garage, you tend to keep your car inside. That’s because most garages do not have the space for a standard-sized car. Now if you own an SUV, you know how difficult it is to secure your car. Most manufacturers make their SUVs with limited interior space to cut down costs and increase profit margins. This means that most SUVs aren’t equipped with an under-seat storage compartment or an external cargo carrying system.

Fortunately, modern SUVs are becoming more common these days and many manufacturers have started equipping their SUVs with additional storage compartments including kayak racks. You can keep your kayaks securely stored in the SUV ra by installing one of these SUV kayak rack systems.

We think the product that comes highly recommended for best kayak rack for suv is IKURAM R Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack of J-Style Folding. In case you need more alternatives and more in-depth guidance, you may explore the following.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 IKURAM R Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack of J-Style Folding
Our Score:
9.7
IKURAM R
  • 🛶【Maximum Kayak Protection】: Maximum protection for kayaks and stand-up paddle boards thanks to the oversized, thick and all-weather rubber saddles and padded upright, which can stop the kayak from rubbing and getting damaged effectively, that is the Best-in-Class TopGuard padding.
  • 🛶【Quick Raise and Fold Design】: Come with quick fold down design, which can be quickly raise or fold when not in use using the convenient front release handle to increase the overhead clearance, and the J-bars can also be easily locked at different angles with this handle to suit different shapes of kayaks.
  • 🛶【Not For a Single Use】: Made from high quality anodized Aviation Grade Aluminum Alloys, lightweight, durable and rust-resistant, that can be really water-proof and anti-corrosion for longer time, which means you can reuse it every year, save your money and save the world.
TOP Choice #2 Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack 4 PCS/Set J Bar Car Roof Rack
Our Score:
9.5
Leader Accessories
  • [ UNIVERSAL MOUNTING DESIGN ] – Compatible with most crossbars,such as square, factory and aerodynamic crossbars,Except the round bar.
  • [ HEAVY DUTY CONSTRUCTION ] – The racks are made of 22mm diameter and 1.5mm thick steel tube, 8.5 "widening design, stronger than else. Black Powder-Coated Steel for Durability & Rust Prevention Plus Long-Lasting, can resist all weather condition and use for a long life.150 Lbs Tested, easy and safe for your transport.
  • [ REDUCE SCRATCH DESIGN] – Foam Padding and Rubber Pedal design to reduce scratch of your kayak and prevent the canoe or kayak from rubbing.
  • [VERSATILE USE] This J-bar style rack can also be used for hauling skis, canoes, paddleboards, surfboards, snowboards, wakeboards and other outdoor gear.
  • [EASY INSTALLATION] This rooftop rack includes all of the mounting hardware that you need to install it on your vehicle.
  • [WEATHER RESISTANT] This carrier is coated in weather-resistant epoxy powder. This heavy duty hauler can hold up to 150 pounds and features a rubberized base, offering additional protection and grip.
  • WIDER & TALLER DESIGN - Our kayak roof racks are 31.5" wide & 19.7" tall (10% bigger than competitors) so it can accommodate larger kayaks or canoes up to 40"W/110 lbs per side (total 220 lbs). Extra 4 integrated paddle holders on the racks will allow you to carry 2 more paddles.
  • SOLID & DURABLE MATERIAL - The kayak racks are made from 22 mm diameter, 2 mm thick (20% thicker than others') anodized aviation-grade aluminum. Different from other rooftop racks adopting foam sheath, we use undeformable and waterproof rubber sheath to make it last for years.
  • QUICK RAISE & FOLD DESIGN - With a convenient release handle, the double kayak racks can be easily raised from 0° to 180° to suit different shapes of kayaks so that you can lock them to the ideal angle. Or you can detach and fold it flat when not in use for easy conceal in the trunk.
  • 【 Folding Design 】Foldable J bar cradle design is going to save most place of your car roof top. And minimize the height of car roof to allow your car to fit in parking garages and not have to remove. Folding J bar function is going to minimize vibration and noise when you don’t need to use it.
  • 【 Heavy Duty Construction 】Universal design with heavy Duty steel material makes the Rack light Weight and Durable. 0.3'' soft cushions attached to each bar to prevent kayak from rubbing and damage.
  • 【 Universal Installation Design 】Compatible with most crossbars,such as square, factory and aerodynamic crossbars,Except the round bar. Easy Install with Installation Guide. Quick on Hardware Ensures Fast Installation. Installation Guide provided.
  • KAYAK CAR TOP CARRIER A simple, low-cost solution to carrying your kayak ITEM#: KAYAK-RK-J(2SET) CONDITION: BRAND NEW QUANTITY: 2 PAIRS
  • PLEASE CHECK MEASUREMENTS BEFORE PURCHASE.
  • Features: Steel design with adjustable padding for carrying strength and kayak protection Wide mouth J bar offers easier loading and unloading Quick on/off hardware ensures fast installation and removal Optimally sized J style carrier leaves roof space All surface rust-resistant coating and hardware for longer product life Includes all mounting hardware and 2 straps Accommodates kayaks up to 36" wide and 75lbs. Compatible with most crossbars and load bars. Powder-coated finish for rust resistance
  • ✅ Max Protection For Your Kayak Accessories: With large, thick, weatherproof rubber saddles and a padded upright, the Epomaking kayak car rack prevents scratches and damage to your kayaking equipment, ski board, or canoe accessories.
  • ✅ Wide Kayak Roof Rack For 2 Kayaks: This double kayak carrier accommodates kayaks 42-inch wide, up to 100kg/220lbs, and keeps them secure on the vehicle roof, making a reliable car roof rack, truck rack, SUV kayak rack, or jeep kayak rack.
  • ✅ Foldable Kayak Carrier For Easy Transport: This kayak J rack adjusts to support a kayak at different angles and keeps it in place with two strong 25×3000mm straps and a fixing buckle. A simple lever folds the system flat when not in use, improving gas mileage.
  • SECURITY FEATURES:in order to ensure that customers have a good trip and safe, this product USES the loose to prevent the installation of the screw, each 2 sets of Mounting hardware.Before and after the configuration has 10 feet long ratchet rope.1 inch wide, 10-foot long, blue and high quality belt buckles can be maintained for a long time without breakage and safety and reliability,The strongest factory tested tie down straps: 600 lb break strength
  • Please note: This product is not suitable for installation on circular cross bar with diameter less than 1.2 inches.The Amazon default warranty is 30 days, but we can offer 60 days.If any parts are missing from the package, please contact the seller's customer service immediately.
  • KAYAK CAR TOP CARRIER A simple, low-cost solution to carrying your kayak ITEM CONDITION: BRAND NEW QUANTITY: 2 PAIRS.
  • Complete Set for One Kayak Rack- Contains one pair of racks, two safety straps, and all needed pieces for set up. Can accommodate kayaks up to 36" wide and 75lbs
  • Travel With Ease - Taking a Kayak, Canoe, or Surfboard on your next adventure has never been so easy. Simply Mount the J-Bars on the crossbars, and secure the Kayak with the included straps
  • Padded Design For Additional Protection - Kayak Carrier Set is made durable in its steel design, but is also padded to ensure no damage is done when transporting your kayak or canoe
  • 【Protection Design】Heavy Duty Steel Framing with adjustable padding for carrying strength and kayak protection during transport, ensure no damage is done when transporting your kayak or canoe. All surface rust-resistant coating and hardware for longer product life.
  • 【Easy to Install】Quick on/off hardware ensures fast installation and removal. Fit for most factory or aftermarket square,oval and flat crossbars (Not fit for round). PACKAGE INCLUDE: 4 x Kayak Rack, 4 x Heavy-Duty Tie-Down Straps, Universal Mounting Hardware.
  • 【Durability & Strong Support】PIRIPARA Kayak roof rack are made of sturdy and high quality alloy steel. Come with 2 Pairs(4pcs) kayak rack, can hold 2 kayaks. Total load capcity up to 150 lbs.

What to Look For in a best kayak rack for suv?

Buyers are frequently hesitant to purchase best kayak rack for suv. Certain factors should be considered while making a significant purchase. Our understanding and expertise with best kayak rack for suv will assist you in making the right decisions.

Please take the following points into consideration before selecting best kayak rack for suv:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

We constantly update the list of best kayak rack for suv as new data becomes available. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our website regularly.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any queries or concerns with best kayak rack for suv. If you ask, we'll do our hardest to help you in any way we can!


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio