Kayaks, paddleboards and surfboards are too long to comfortably carry inside a vehicle. Hauling a trailer is one option, but it’s cumbersome and requires a vehicle with a tow-hitch. A rooftop kayak rack
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Kayaks, paddleboards and surfboards are too long to comfortably carry inside a vehicle. Hauling a trailer is one option, but it’s cumbersome and requires a vehicle with a tow-hitch. A rooftop kayak rack is the most convenient way to transport watercraft to the water. Mounting a kayak to the roof of a car frees up interior space and reduces the chance for scuffing hulls and chipping paint.
There are kayak carriers designed to fit different vehicle roof setups. A temporary inflatable or foam pad system is the only option for use on naked roofs, those without rails or crossbars. Premium rooftop kayak racks — including saddles, J-cradles (they carry the kayak on its side) and stacker styles — mount directly onto crossbar systems.
A stacker-style rack is the best option for hauling more than two kayaks. J-style racks allow for side loading and take up the least roof space. Saddle-style carriers are the most secure choice, fully supporting the hull during transit.
The five products selected below include options for all roof setups. Here are this year’s best kayak carriers:
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