Transporting a kayak out of the water can be really awkward. And not everyone has a trailer coupling to which a boat trailer can be attached for transportation. A kayak roof rack is the solution.
Recognize quality:
We present the best products 2024 in our recommendations. Our guide also contains all the important information. In this way, the highest quality model for roof transportation can be found at the best price.
Contents:
- Top picks: The best kayak roof racks 2024 reviewed.
- Checklist: These features are important.
- Bestsellers: Overview of the most popular kayak roof racks.
- Guide: How to make the right decision.
- FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about kayak roof racks.
The best kayak roof racks 2024 reviewed
1. the best fixed kayak roof rack
The kayak roof rack made of double-coated steel is corrosion-resistant. It is adjustable and therefore also suitable for wider kayaks. The fold-out arms lower the kayak by up to one meter. This greatly simplifies unloading. Tensioning straps at the front and rear of the roof rack are included. The gas pressure springs reduce the weight of the kayak by up to 18 kilograms when lifting and lowering, making it possible to load and unload the kayak alone.
- Gas springs reduce weight
- Made of corrosion-resistant coated steel
- Fold-out arms
- Price
Why we like it:The carrier is made of aluminum and double-coated steel. It is very robust, hard-wearing and comparatively light.
Recommended for: The kayak is easy to put on and take off thanks to the gas struts and lowerable arms. This roof rack is therefore particularly suitable for frequent kayakers.
2. the best kayak roof rack for small cars
The HandiWorld HandiRack is the ideal solution for fast and safe transportation of kayaks and fits on most vehicles.
- Fast assembly
- Protects kayaks from scratches and damage
- Universal fit
- Lightweight and compact
- High load capacity
- Belts in the interior somewhat annoying
- Protective mats recommended to avoid scratches
Why we like it:
The HandiWorld HandiRack proved to be an extremely useful roof rack for kayaks in our test. We were particularly impressed by the quick and uncomplicated installation: the HandiRack is mounted and ready for use within a few minutes.
A major advantage of the HandiRack is the soft material, which prevents scratches and damage to the kayaks.
In our test, we also used anti-slip pads to provide additional protection for the car roof and improve grip.
The compact design of the HandiRack makes it easy to store in the trunk when not in use. The carrying bag supplied makes transportation and storage easier.
Thanks to its universal fit, it is suitable for most vehicle types and offers a flexible solution for kayakers.
Recommended for:
Despite minor disadvantages, such as the belts in the vehicle interior and the need for protective mats, the HandiRack impresses with its versatility and practicality. This makes the roof rack perfect for anyone who regularly needs to transport kayaks.
3. the best iron kayak roof rack
The XGeek kayak roof rack is made of iron and is therefore particularly stable and durable. Screws and straps ensure that the kayak is held securely. The roof rack is of high quality and can be attached to almost all luggage carriers. The sturdy padding serves as scratch protection. No additional tools are required for assembly.
- Inexpensive
- High quality
- All inclusive
- Screws sometimes need to be retightened
Why we like it: The carrier is made entirely of iron, making it particularly robust and durable. The padding is designed to be particularly thick to provide additional protection during transportation, especially for kayaks.
Recommended for: This roof rack is particularly suitable for those who attach great importance to a stable construction.
4. the best kayak roof rack for transporting two boats on one roof
The foldable J-bar can be stowed away easily after use. The kayaks can be secured using straps, hook ropes and canopy loops, which are included in the scope of delivery. Installation is easy thanks to the universal design.
- Foldable
- Universal design
- Price
Why we like it: Thanks to the J-bracket, the carrier can be attached to the roof in a very space-saving manner, so that additional brackets can be attached. Assembly is quick and easy, with the 2 tensioning straps providing additional safety.
Recommended for: This roof rack is particularly suitable for couples or groups with several kayaks.
5. the best customizable kayak roof rack
This roof rack consists of four brackets, two at the front and two at the rear. These can be attached to the car's luggage rack. The angles and positions of the brackets can be individually adjusted and can bear loads of up to 70 kilograms. To protect the kayak, there is sturdy padding and additional lashing straps for extra secure loading.
- Adaptable to different boats
- Additional lashing straps
- Simple assembly
- Pins of the moving parts should be secured
Why we like it: The roof rack can carry a considerable weight of up to 70 kilograms. Thanks to the padding and the extra lashing straps, the kayak sits securely on the roof rack.
Recommended for: This model is perfect for people who own several kayaks in different sizes. Kayaks of all types and sizes can be easily stowed away using the adjustable holders.
6. best soft roof rack
This foam roof rack fits almost every type of car. It is made of multi-layer EVA foam, which prevents vibrations. The soft material protects the kayak from scratches. No tools are required to install the roof rack. A belt holds the roof cushions on the car. The maximum load capacity is around 75 kilograms.
- Foldable
- Soft roof rack
- Versatile
- Twisted at high speed
Why we like it: Foldable and easy to stow, the roof rack is easy to transport and mount.
Recommended for: The soft material makes this roof rack particularly suitable for delicate kayaks.
7. the best stable kayak roof rack
This roof rack from Thule can be mounted without tools and has an anti-theft design. The durable and soft rubber padding protects the kayak during transportation. The tensioning straps are easy to handle thanks to the StrapCatch function. The carrier can be folded and unfolded quickly thanks to the practical handle.
- Locks included
- Soft rubber padding
- Foldable
- Easy to install
- Partially mediocre workmanship
Why we like it: As the carrier is very easy to adjust, it can easily be used to transport two kayaks. The quick, tool-free assembly is also a plus point, as is the easy handling.
Recommended for: For all those who like to play it safe with their kayak, this model is a recommendation. This is because the design is theft-proof and locks are included.
Kayak roof rack Checklist: These features are important
- Weight: The loaded weight of the carrier must match the car. A car roof must not be overloaded.
- Material: Depending on how little the car roof can be loaded, a lighter material such as aluminum must be selected. Or an inflatable model.
- Accessories: Some manufacturers supply storage bags, useful instructions or charging aids.
- Price: If you really want to save money, buy used. However, inflatable models are available for very little money.
Find out more: The best kayaks 2024?
Bestsellers: The most popular kayak roof racks
(**Last update 2024-11-18)
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Buy a kayak roof rack:
How to make the right decision
Buying a roof rack should not be a decision to be taken lightly. Especially for newcomers without experience. After all, safety and comfort are the be-all and end-all of such a product.
Buyers should definitely pay attention to the following features:
The type of carrier: Can a standard model also be used?
Almost any stable roof rack can be used for transportation. The only important thing is that the whole thing is sufficiently padded. This is because the metal can quickly damage the kayak.
If you want it to be particularly stable and comfortable:
A kayak holder such as the Thule Hull-A-Port can be attached to the roof rails. This is an already upholstered bracket with vertical supports. So-called oval hangers are very similar.
These are also padded, upright holders into which the kayak can be placed on the roof. Brands such as Zölzer and Prijon offer several models.
Use: How do I load my kayak onto the car?
Loading is intimidating for newcomers at first. How is such a large boat supposed to land on the roof of a car without dropping it? For a standard vehicle, i.e. an average height, the whole thing works like this:
![How to Transport a Kayak: Solo Loading and Unloading [NO LOAD ASSIST]](https://www.beyondsurfing.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FK90yRHQZFoM%2F0.jpg)
This video shows how it is done on an exceptionally high car:
The dimensions: What dimensions can my roof rack with the boat have?
According to road traffic regulations, kayaks transported on a car may not be wider than 2.55 meters or higher than 4 meters. These dimensions refer to the entire vehicle, i.e. car with luggage rack and boat. The kayak must not protrude to the front. However, it may be up to one meter longer towards the rear of the car.
A tip for long boats:
A red flag can be used. If this is attached to the end of the boat, the rig may be up to 0.5 meters longer. If you only drive short distances, you can transport up to 3 meters more.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers
- 1 The type of carrier: Can a standard model also be used?
- 2 Use: How do I load my kayak onto the car?
- 3 The dimensions: What dimensions can my roof rack with the boat have?
- 4 What is a kayak roof rack?
- 5 What is the best kayak roof rack?
- 6 How does a kayak roof rack work?
- 7 What is important for a kayak roof rack?
- 8 How much does a good kayak roof rack cost?
- 9 What alternatives are there to the kayak roof rack?
- 10 Is there an independent test and test winner for kayak roof racks?
What is a kayak roof rack?
However, all models serve the same purpose: transporting a kayak or canoe to its destination. Safety comes first and certain guidelines according to the StVO must be observed.
What is the best kayak roof rack?
How does a kayak roof rack work?
It is important to familiarize yourself with the new driving experience and always drive carefully with the kayak carrier on the roof.
What is important for a kayak roof rack?
Another important factor is that the roof bars are sufficiently padded. This is the only way to avoid damaging the boat.
How much does a good kayak roof rack cost?
What alternatives are there to the kayak roof rack?
If the water is not far away, a kayak trailer for the bike or a simple boat dolly that is pushed by hand is also suitable. It’s a great way to get some exercise and stay fit out of the water too.
Is there an independent test and test winner for kayak roof racks?
*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.
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