Buy roof racks that are made to fit your vehicle. Kayaks create wind resistance and will put a lot of pressure on your roof racks driving 65 mph down the highway. Not all kayaks are made for J hooks so be sure check with your kayak manufacturer which type of kayak rack mount you should use.
- Use roof rack pads to keep kayaks from slipping
- Use quality cam straps
- Watch videos on how to strap down kayaks securely
- Use front and rear ropes in case of roof rack failure
- Putting the kayak on your vehicle is hard
- Don't overtighten the straps holding your kayak
- Use locking cables for security
Roof Racks
If your vehicle has OEM roof racks, get one. Otherwise there are several aftermarket roof racks available from trusted brands that will work great for transporting your kayak on the roof.
If you are transporting one kayak, kayak mounts may not required. Use roof rack pads and secure your kayak directly to the roof racks. The pads will help keep the kayak from slipping. Be sure to wrap the straps around the rack close to the kayak. The straps will keep the kayak from sliding to the left or right.
Roof Rack Kayak Mounts
Although not required, adding kayak mounts on your roof rack will make loading and securing your kayak easier. There are two types of kayak racks designed to fit on top of your car or trailer. J-Types are the most popular because they allow you to easily fit two kayaks on almost any car. But not all kayaks are designed to work with J Types. Bigger, heavier sit on top kayaks are often too large and require that you use the other type of kayak mount, saddle type mounts.
Recommended Roof Rack
Choosing a kayak rack and mount will depend upon individual needs. However, there are several aftermarket brands that will secure your kayak and handle about anything you can throw at them. If you are in need of a temporary solution, the Yakima instant roof racks are a great solution.
NO PLANNING NEEDED: Straps on top of almost any vehicle and is great for carrying boats, boards, skis, ladders and other long, flat loads
EASY TO INSTALL: Secures easily through door frames with integrated straps; Includes 2 Heavy Duty Straps and tie-down rope; Installs in just 10 minutes
DURABLE DESIGN: Thick structural padding protects your roof and your gear; Double-latching buckle adds extra security for peace of mind; Carries up to 80 lbs of gear
COMPATIBILITY: Not compatible on vehicles equipped with sliding doors, gull wing or falcon style doors; 36” load width; 14’ long max boat length
WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK GUARANTEE: Covered by our Limited Lifetime Warranty
Kayak Roof Rack and Mount Videos
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Kayak roof rack and kayak mounts for sale...
To make your life a little easier, we’ve selected the most popular roof racks and mounts used for fishing kayaks.