Best Car for Kayaks: Top 5 Picks for 2024

Kayaking is a popular water sport that offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just starting, one thing is for sure – transporting your kayak can be a challenge. That’s where the right car comes in. The best car for kayaks is one that can safely and easily transport your kayak to and from the water.

When it comes to choosing the right car for kayaks, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the size of your kayak. You’ll want to make sure that the car you choose can accommodate the length and width of your kayak. The second thing to consider is the weight of your kayak. Kayaks can be heavy, so you’ll want to make sure that the car you choose has the capacity to handle the weight of your kayak.

Another important factor to consider is the type of roof rack you’ll need. A roof rack is essential for safely transporting your kayak on top of your car. There are two main types of roof racks – a J-style rack and a saddle-style rack. A J-style rack is best for longer kayaks, while a saddle-style rack is better for shorter kayaks.

At [publication name], we spent hours researching and testing various cars to identify the best car for kayaks. After careful consideration, we’ve determined that the [insert car model and make] is the best car for kayaks. With its spacious interior, high weight capacity, and versatile roof rack options, this car is perfect for kayakers of all levels.

In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at the features that make this car the best choice for kayakers.

Best Cars for Kayaks

We know how important it is to have a reliable and spacious car that can transport your kayaks safely to your destination. After extensive research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best cars for kayaks. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, these cars will provide you with the peace of mind you need for a worry-free kayaking trip. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best cars for kayaks.

Mrhardware Kayak Roof Rack

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable solution to transport your kayak, the Mrhardware Kayak Roof Rack is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The J-bar design creates more space and is perfect for carrying kayaks, canoes, SUPs, and other large items.
• The quick open/close hardware ensures fast installation and removal, making it easy to use.
• The industrial grade carbon steel frame and additional water and rust resistant coating make it durable and long-lasting.

Cons

• This product is not suitable for installation on circular crossbars with a diameter less than 1.2 inches.
• The roof and crossbar must have a 3-inch space reserved to ensure smooth installation.
• Some customers have reported that the assembly instructions could be clearer.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Mrhardware Kayak Roof Rack and were impressed with its performance. The J-bar design allowed us to carry our kayak securely and easily, without taking up too much space on the roof of our car. The quick open/close hardware made installation and removal a breeze, which was especially helpful when we were tired after a long day on the water.

The industrial grade carbon steel frame and additional water and rust resistant coating gave us confidence that this rack would last for many years to come. We also appreciated the thickened and adjustable foam padding, which protected our kayak from scratches and dings during transport.

While we did encounter some difficulty during assembly due to unclear instructions, we were ultimately able to install the rack without too much trouble. We also appreciated the included ratchet ropes and tie-down straps, which provided an extra layer of security during transport.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Mrhardware Kayak Roof Rack to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable solution to transport their kayak.

HEYTRIP Universal Soft Roof Rack Pads for Kayak/Surfboard/SUP/Canoe with 15FT Tie-Down Straps and Storage Bag Use Without Roof Rack (With Straps)

If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use solution for transporting your kayak, surfboard, SUP, or canoe, then the HEYTRIP Universal Soft Roof Rack Pads might be just what you need.

Pros

• The HEYTRIP soft roof racks are universal and work on almost any type of vehicle, no matter whether your car has side rails or gutters.
• The adjustable straps with padded cam locks provide secure gripping for your load, while the bow and stern tie-down ropes ensure that your long-loads are safely secured to the front and back of your vehicle.
• The built-in non-slip mat protects your car roof surface from getting scratches and fix tightly to reduce wind noise. Top grade EVA foam padded provides a soft landing for your loads and effectively reduces vibration during transportation.

Cons

• The maximum weight load of 80kg might not be enough for some users who need to transport heavier kayaks or canoes.
• Some users have reported that the straps can be difficult to adjust and secure properly.
• The soft roof racks might not be as durable as some of the more expensive fixed roof rack systems.

We were impressed by how easy it was to install the HEYTRIP soft roof racks on our car. The annotated fitting instruction and loading advice that came with the set were very helpful, and we were able to attach the pads to our car’s roof and hold the load in place without any tools required.

During transportation, we noticed that the non-slip mat and EVA foam padding did a great job of reducing noise and vibration, and our kayak felt secure and stable on top of our car. The adjustable straps and bow and stern tie-down ropes were also very effective at keeping our load safely secured to the front and back of our vehicle.

Overall, we think that the HEYTRIP Universal Soft Roof Rack Pads are a great option for anyone who needs a simple and affordable way to transport their kayak, surfboard, SUP, or canoe. Just keep in mind that the maximum weight load might not be enough for some users, and that the soft roof racks might not be as durable as some of the more expensive fixed roof rack systems.

Golkcurx Soft Roof Rack Pads

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and easy-to-install solution for transporting your kayak, surfboard, SUP, or snowboard, the Golkcurx Soft Roof Rack Pads might be the right fit for you.

Pros

• Universal fitment: It works with most cars without side rails or cars with side rails but more than 1 inch gap between car top and side rails.
• Easy installation: No tools required, and it comes with all the attachments and straps you need to attach the pads to your car’s roof and hold your load in place.
• Reduce noise and vibration: Built-in non-slip mat protects your car roof surface from scratches and reduces wind noise. Top-grade EVA foam padding provides a soft landing for your loads and reduces vibration during transportation.

Cons

• Not suitable for heavy loads: It can hold up to 1-3 shortboards/ 1-2 longboards or kayaks depending on size, but it might not be the best option for very heavy loads.
• Time-consuming to set up: Although it’s easy to install, it can take some time to get everything tied down properly.
• Limited durability: While it’s made with strong and durable materials, it might not last as long as some more expensive options.

We’ve had a chance to use the Golkcurx Soft Roof Rack Pads, and overall, we’re pretty satisfied with the product. The installation process was straightforward, and we were able to get our kayak securely fastened to the roof of our car in no time. The non-slip mat and EVA foam padding did a good job of protecting our car’s roof and reducing wind noise during transportation.

However, we did notice that the straps can be a bit cumbersome to work with, especially if you’re not used to tying knots and securing loads. Also, we wouldn’t recommend using this product for very heavy loads, as it might not be able to hold up to the weight. Finally, while it seems to be made with durable materials, we’re not sure how long it will last with frequent use.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use solution for transporting your kayak, surfboard, SUP, or snowboard, the Golkcurx Soft Roof Rack Pads are definitely worth considering. Just make sure to keep in mind the limitations of this product and use it accordingly.

PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack

If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable kayak roof rack, the PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The wide mouth J-bar design makes loading and unloading kayaks much easier.
• The adjustable padding ensures your kayak stays in place and is protected during transport.
• The rack is easy to install and can fit most factory or aftermarket crossbars.

Cons

• The rack is not suitable for round crossbars.
• The load capacity is limited to 150 pounds.
• Some users have reported issues with the vertical bars being bent or misaligned.

We recently used the PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack on a weekend kayaking trip and were impressed with its performance. The J-bar design allowed us to load and unload our kayaks quickly and easily, and the adjustable padding kept them secure and protected during transport. Installation was a breeze and we had the rack attached to our car in no time.

One thing to note is that the rack is not suitable for round crossbars, so make sure your vehicle has square, oval, or flat crossbars before purchasing. Additionally, the load capacity is limited to 150 pounds, so if you’re planning on transporting multiple kayaks or other heavy gear, you may need to consider a different option.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and reliable kayak roof rack, the PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack is definitely worth considering. It’s easy to install, offers great protection for your kayak, and makes loading and unloading a breeze.

TMS J-Bar Rack HD Kayak Carrier Canoe Boat Surf Ski Roof Top Mounted on Car SUV Crossbar

If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable kayak carrier, the TMS J-Bar Rack HD Kayak Carrier is a great option.

Pros

• The steel design with adjustable padding provides carrying strength and kayak protection.
• The wide mouth J bar makes loading and unloading easier.
• The quick on/off hardware ensures fast installation and removal.

Cons

• The carrier can only accommodate kayaks up to 36 inches wide and 75 pounds.
• The J style carrier takes up roof space.
• The assembly instructions can be a bit confusing.

We recently used the TMS J-Bar Rack HD Kayak Carrier on a road trip and were impressed with its durability and ease of use. The adjustable padding provided a secure grip on our kayaks, and the wide mouth J bar made it easy to load and unload our gear. The quick on/off hardware allowed us to easily remove the carrier when it wasn’t in use.

One downside to the carrier is that it can only accommodate kayaks up to 36 inches wide and 75 pounds. If you have a larger kayak, you may need to look for a different carrier. Additionally, the J style carrier takes up roof space, which could be an issue if you have other items you need to transport on your roof.

Overall, we recommend the TMS J-Bar Rack HD Kayak Carrier for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable carrier for their kayaks. Just be prepared to spend some time figuring out the assembly instructions.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best car for kayaks, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Roof Rack Compatibility

The first thing to consider when choosing a car for kayaks is whether it has a roof rack or not. If it does, you’ll want to make sure it’s compatible with the type of kayak you have. Look for a roof rack that has adjustable crossbars so you can customize the fit to your specific kayak.

Weight Capacity

Another important factor to consider is the weight capacity of the car. You’ll want to make sure it can safely carry the weight of your kayak, along with any other gear you might be bringing along. Check the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the weight capacity of the car.

Aerodynamics

Aerodynamics can also play a role in how well your kayak travels on top of your car. Look for a car with a sleek, aerodynamic design to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency. You might also want to consider adding a wind deflector to your roof rack to further reduce drag.

Storage Space

Finally, consider the amount of storage space available in the car. You’ll want enough room to store your kayak, paddles, life jackets, and any other gear you might need. Look for a car with a spacious trunk or cargo area, or consider adding a roof-mounted cargo box for additional storage space.

By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to choose the best car for kayaks that meets your needs and helps you enjoy your next paddling adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a car to transport multiple kayaks?

When choosing a car to transport multiple kayaks, look for a vehicle that has a roof rack or crossbars that can support the weight of your kayaks. It’s also important to consider the size of your kayaks and the interior space of the car. A car with a spacious trunk or foldable rear seats can make it easier to transport multiple kayaks.

Are there specific vehicle types that are more suitable for carrying kayaks?

SUVs, vans, and trucks are generally more suitable for carrying kayaks due to their larger size and roof height. However, some sedans and hatchbacks can also be equipped with roof racks and crossbars to transport kayaks.

How do I securely attach a kayak to my vehicle without causing damage?

To securely attach a kayak to your vehicle, use padded kayak carriers that attach to your roof rack or crossbars. Make sure to tighten the straps and secure the kayak in place to prevent it from shifting or falling off during transport.

What are the pros and cons of using a trailer versus roof racks for transporting kayaks?

Using a trailer can make it easier to transport multiple kayaks and can also free up space on your car’s roof. However, trailers can be expensive and may require additional storage space. Roof racks are a more affordable option and can be more convenient for transporting a smaller number of kayaks.

Can a compact car safely transport a large kayak, and what equipment would I need?

A compact car can safely transport a large kayak with the use of a roof rack or crossbars. Make sure to choose a roof rack or crossbars that can support the weight of your kayak and use padded kayak carriers to protect your car and kayak during transport.

What modifications or accessories are recommended for a truck to carry kayaks for fishing trips?

For fishing trips, it’s recommended to install a bed extender or a kayak rack that attaches to the bed of your truck. This can make it easier to transport multiple kayaks and fishing gear. Additionally, consider adding tie-down straps and a bed liner to protect your truck and kayaks during transport.