Transporting your kayak safely and securely is paramount for any paddling adventure. The right roof rack system not only protects your valuable gear but also provides peace of mind on the road. With so many options available, selecting the ideal carrier can be a challenge, especially when considering factors like vehicle type, number of kayaks, and ease of loading.
Thule has long been a trusted name in vehicle cargo solutions, known for its durable construction and innovative designs. This roundup focuses on a selection of Thule kayak carriers and essential accessories, along with a few notable alternatives, to help you find the perfect system for your needs. Whether you’re a solo enthusiast or frequently travel with multiple boats, there is a solution here for you.
Our Top Picks for Thule Kayak Racks
- Thule Compass Kayak and SUP roof rack
- Thule Hull-a-Port XTR – Kayak j-style roof rack
- PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack 2 Pairs J-Bar Carrier Holder
- TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers
- FORWODE Premium Kayak Roof Rack, 2 Pair J-Bar Roof Rack
- Thule 931100 EasyFold Carrying Bag Bike Carrier
- Thule 854 Water Slide Kayak Carrier Accessory Mat
- Thule 460R Rapid Podium Foot Pack (Set of 4)
- Thule 887 ProRide Kayak Carrier
Thule Compass Kayak and SUP Roof Rack
This versatile carrier is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who enjoy both kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. It is designed to carry two kayaks or two SUPs, making it a fantastic all-in-one solution for water sports. The J-style carrier provides a secure and stable hold, while the universal mounting hardware ensures compatibility with a wide range of vehicle roof racks.
The Thule Compass offers multiple carry options to suit your needs. You can transport a single kayak in the J-style or saddle mode, two kayaks in a stacker configuration, or up to two SUPs in saddle mode. Thick rubber saddles and a padded upright provide maximum protection for your gear, preventing scratches and damage during transit. With a capacity for kayaks up to 36 inches wide and a 130-pound weight limit, it handles most recreational craft with ease.
Thule Hull-a-Port XTR
The Thule Hull-a-Port XTR is a robust and user-friendly J-style rack built for convenience and security. Its dual-position design allows it to function as a single J-cradle or transform into a two-boat stacker, giving you the flexibility to carry one or two kayaks as needed. This pre-assembled unit is ready to use right out of the box, saving you time and effort.
An integrated StrapCatch feature makes loading your kayak a smoother process by managing the straps and keeping them out of the way. When your adventure is over, the upright folds completely flat against your roof bars, maintaining a sleek vehicle profile and reducing wind noise. It also includes a locking mechanism to secure your kayak carrier to the roof rack, providing an added layer of security for your equipment.
PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack 2 Pairs J-Bar Carrier
For those seeking a reliable and cost-effective solution, the PIRIPARA J-Bar carrier set offers great value. This set includes four individual racks, allowing you to transport two kayaks simultaneously. Constructed from sturdy alloy steel, these carriers are built to last and can support a total load capacity of up to 150 pounds.
The wide-mouth J-bar design simplifies the process of loading and unloading your kayak, reducing the struggle of getting your boat onto the roof. The frames are equipped with adjustable padding that provides a secure grip and protects your kayak’s hull from scratches and damage during transport. A rust-resistant coating on all surfaces ensures the product maintains its integrity and appearance over many seasons of use.
TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks
The TMS J-bar carriers provide a simple and economical method for transporting your kayaks. This package includes two pairs of racks, enabling you to carry two kayaks on your vehicle’s crossbars. Their universal fit design allows them to mount to virtually all crossbars and load bars on the market, making them a highly versatile option.
By securing the kayak on its side in a J-style configuration, these carriers consume minimal space on your roof, allowing you to carry other gear if needed. The steel construction is complemented by adjustable padding that safeguards your kayak’s finish. A powder-coated finish helps resist rust and corrosion, ensuring the racks remain in good condition even with frequent use.
FORWODE Premium Kayak Roof Rack
The FORWODE kayak rack set is designed with durability and user convenience in mind. Its frame is constructed from high-strength carbon steel with a thickened tube wall, creating a carrier that is both lightweight and remarkably strong. This robust build allows it to support two heavy kayaks with a total weight capacity of up to 160 pounds.
A standout feature is its folding design, which allows you to adjust the rack from 0 to 180 degrees to better accommodate kayaks of different shapes and sizes. The adjustment mechanism is made from carbon steel, not plastic, for enhanced durability and a more secure hold. The set also comes with a comprehensive kit of straps, including ratchet belts and S-hook pulleys, and even includes a dedicated position for storing your paddles.
Thule 931100 EasyFold Carrying Bag
While designed as a bike carrier bag, the Thule EasyFold serves as a reminder of Thule’s commitment to creating protective storage solutions for all types of gear. This bag is engineered to safeguard your equipment when it’s not in use or during travel. Its compact dimensions make it easy to store and transport.
The bag is constructed from durable materials to withstand the rigors of travel and protect your valuable cargo from dust, scratches, and the elements. Although not a kayak carrier itself, it represents the kind of thoughtful accessory that complements a complete Thule transport system, ensuring all your adventure gear is well cared for.
Thule 854 Water Slide Kayak Carrier Accessory Mat
This accessory mat is a simple yet invaluable addition to any kayak transport setup. Its primary function is to protect your vehicle’s paint job during the loading and unloading process. Placed on the area of your car below the rear kayak saddles, it acts as a shield against accidental contact.
The mat features a non-skid underside and two bar straps that hold it firmly in place on your vehicle, preventing it from slipping while you are maneuvering your kayak. The smooth top surface is gentle on your boat’s hull, providing an extra layer of protection for your kayak as well as your vehicle.
Thule 460R Rapid Podium Foot Pack
The Thule Rapid Podium Foot Pack is the foundation of a complete roof rack system for vehicles with integrated fixed points. This set of four feet is specifically engineered to provide a secure and custom-fit attachment to your vehicle’s roof. The low-profile design offers a sleek, almost factory-installed appearance that enhances your vehicle’s look.
Durability is a key feature, with a tough resin exterior housing internal high-strength steel components. This combination ensures the feet can withstand long-term exposure to the elements and the stresses of carrying heavy loads. For vehicles that support this mounting style, it creates a solid and reliable base for your crossbars and kayak carriers.
Thule 887 ProRide Kayak Carrier
The Thule 887 ProRide is a heavy-duty kayak carrier designed for secure and straightforward transport. It functions as a saddle-style carrier, providing a stable platform for your kayak to rest on. This design is often favored for its ease of loading, as you can simply lift the boat onto the saddles rather than maneuvering it into a J-cradle.
Built with durability in mind, the ProRide features a robust construction that can handle the demands of frequent use. It typically includes features like a secure strap-down system and protective padding to keep your kayak from shifting or getting scratched during travel. As a component of the Thule system, it is designed to integrate seamlessly with Thule crossbars and feet.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Thule Kayak Roof Racks for Secure Transport
Figuring out the right roof rack for your kayak can feel like a puzzle, but it doesn’t have to be. I’ve found that breaking it down into a few key areas makes the process much simpler. The goal is to get your boat from your house to the water safely, without any surprises along the way. Let’s talk about what I always consider before making a purchase.
First, you need to think about your vehicle. Do you already have crossbars, or are you starting from scratch? If you have naked roof rails or a bare roof, you’ll need a complete foot pack and crossbar system first. Thule systems are specific to your car’s make and model, so using their online fit guide is a non-negotiable first step. Once you have crossbars, you can focus on the kayak carrier itself.
Next, consider how you want to carry your kayak. The two main styles are J-cradles and saddles. J-cradles are great because they hold the kayak on its side, which is fantastic for carrying multiple boats or for lower clearance in garages. Saddles, often called roller or stacker styles, support the kayak in an upright position. I prefer saddles for heavier kayaks because loading is often easier, and they put less stress on the hull. Some systems even combine both, offering a roller at the back for easy loading and a J-cradle at the front.
The kayak’s material is a big deal, too. A soft chine or a delicate composite hull needs a cradle with wide, padded surfaces to distribute the pressure. Harder plastic hulls can handle more, but you still want good padding to prevent scratches. Look for features like tie-down points and integrated straps. Thule is great about including robust straps and buckles that won’t fail when you’re on the highway.
Finally, think about your own physical needs. Lifting a heavy touring kayak over your head is no joke. A system with a loading roller or an extendable bar can be a game-changer for your back and your confidence. Also, consider how the racks store when not in use. Some fold down flat, while others are easily removable. If you use your roof for other things, like a cargo box, quick-release functionality might be high on your list. By thinking through your vehicle, kayak type, and personal convenience, you can find the perfect Thule kayak roof racks for secure transport that makes every trip to the water smooth and stress-free.
FAQ
How much weight can a Thule kayak rack hold?
This depends on two things: the weight capacity of your vehicle’s roof and the capacity of the crossbars themselves. Thule’s kayak carriers are built to handle the weight, but your car’s roof is the real limiting factor. You need to check your vehicle’s manual for its dynamic weight limit (the weight it can handle while moving). Thule crossbars typically have a capacity between 100 and 165 pounds. Remember, you have to add the weight of the carrier itself to the weight of your kayak. Always stay well within these limits for safety.
Can I leave my Thule kayak racks on my car all the time?
You can, but I don’t always recommend it. Thule products are built to withstand the elements, so rain and sun won’t destroy them quickly. However, leaving them on all the time will create extra wind noise and reduce your fuel efficiency. It also exposes them to potential theft and unnecessary wear from road salt and grime. If you’re kayaking every weekend, it might be worth the convenience. If it’s more occasional, the quick-release mechanisms on most Thule racks make them pretty easy to take on and off.
What’s the difference between J-cradles and stacker/saddle racks?
This is all about how the kayak sits on your roof. J-cradles hold the kayak on its side, which is a space-efficient way to carry one or two boats. They’re great for keeping the overall height down. Saddle or stacker racks hold the kayak upright on its hull. I find saddles are often easier to load a heavy kayak onto, and they can be a bit more stable for a single boat. Stackers are specifically designed to carry multiple kayaks (usually four) upright in a row. Your choice really depends on how many boats you have and your preferred loading method.
Are Thule kayak racks universal and will they fit my car?
The kayak carriers themselves are generally universal and will attach to any standard crossbar, whether it’s from Thule, Yakima, or a factory option. The part that is not universal is the base system—the foot pack and crossbars that actually connect to your car. Thule makes specific fit kits and foot packs for nearly every vehicle on the road. You must use their online vehicle fit guide to find the exact right parts for your car’s year, make, and model. Getting the right fit is the most important step for a secure setup.
How do I properly secure my kayak to the roof rack?
Proper securing is a two-part process. First, you use the straps that come with the carrier to tightly fasten the kayak to the cradle or J-hook itself. These prevent the boat from moving within the rack. Second, and just as important, you use bow and stern lines. These are separate ropes or straps that run from the front and back of the kayak to your vehicle’s front and rear tow hooks or solid chassis points. These lines prevent the kayak from shifting forward or backward during sudden stops or if the main rack fails. I never hit the road without both sets of ties done up tight.