Which Kayak carrier should I choose for my vehicle?

Which Kayak carrier should I choose for my vehicle?

When selecting a kayak carrier for your vehicle, the first step is to ensure you have a suitable roof rack or crossbars, as these are essential for mounting the carrier. If your vehicle does not currently have a roof rack, our team is available to assist you in selecting the right one. While most kayak carriers are designed to be compatible with a wide variety of roof racks, certain models are brand-specific depending on their mounting style (T-track or clamp).

Given the extensive range of kayak carriers available, it’s important to consider key features that will best suit your needs. These include the method of loading, ie; side or rear loading, lift-assist capabilities, bar mounting style. When selecting the right carrier, consider how many kayaks you’ll be transporting and their weight. Features like lift-assist or padded cradles can significantly ease the loading process, especially with heavier kayaks. Security is equally important, so choose a carrier with secure tie-down points or built-in locks to keep your kayak safely in place during transport. 

To help narrow down your options, here are some of our staff’s top picks based on various needs:

Paddle Cradles: Rhino Rack Nautic Paddle Carriers (570/580 or 571/581)

For those seeking a straightforward and reliable solution, the Rhino Rack Nautic Paddle Carriers are an excellent choice. The Rhino Rack Nautic Kayak Paddle Cradles provide a secure and stable solution for transporting your kayak. Available in models 570/571 (clamp mount) and 580/581 (T-track mount), these cradles are designed to fit a variety of roof rack systems. Their side-loading design allows for easy loading and unloading, while the padded cradles protect your kayak from scratches and damage. Ideal for carrying one or two kayaks, these cradles offer a compact and space-efficient way to transport your watercraft safely.

Lift Assist: Yakima ShowDown or Thule Hullavator

If ease of loading is a priority, both the Yakima ShowDown and Thule Hullavator are exceptional lift-assist carriers that reduce the strain of loading heavier kayaks. The Yakima ShowDown features a simple tilting mechanism that brings your kayak to waist height, allowing you to load it with minimal effort. It’s particularly ideal for transporting kayaks up to 36.3kg, with the load assist reducing effort by up to 45%. On the other hand, the Thule Hullavator is a premium option with a dual-arm lift-assist system, enabling effortless loading and unloading. Its gas-assisted arms lower the kayak to waist height, making it ideal for those who frequently transport heavier kayaks up to 35kg, with the gas struts taking up to 18kg of the kayak's weight. Both options also feature integrated load straps for added security during transport.

J-Cradle/Stacker: Rhino Rack J-Style Cradle or Nautic Stacker

For those who need to transport multiple kayaks, the Rhino Rack J-Style Cradle and Nautic Stacker or Yakima BigStack offer versatile and secure options. The J-Style Cradle is particularly space-efficient, holding two kayaks side-by-side in a vertical position. This design is perfect for vehicles with limited roof space, and an optional extension allows for the transport of more kayaks if needed. If you’re looking to stack kayaks vertically, the Nautic Stacker or bigstack is an excellent choice. These systems allow you to carry multiple kayaks stacked next to each other, making it ideal for larger vehicles or when transporting three or more kayaks.

Your budget will also influence your choice but rest assured, there are quality carriers available across a range of price points. Ultimately, the right carrier will depend on your vehicle, the size of your kayaks, and how often you plan to transport them. Whether you need a simple, cost-effective solution or a premium, lift-assist model, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit. 

Updated on: 16/09/2025