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10 Best Kayak Roof Racks 2025 in the UK

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier - Carries 1 Kayak - Roof-Mounted - Lift-Assistance for Easy Loading and unloading - 75lb Load Capacity - Includes Straps and tie Downs

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,444
Compatibility
Load Capacity
Ease of Installation
Compatibility
Installation on Thule aero bars is super easy with clear instructions.
Load Capacity
The Hullavator makes loading and unloading kayaks a breeze, comfortably fitting two 16-foot sea kayaks.
Ease of Installation
Installation on Thule aero bars is super easy with clear instructions.
Ease of Loading and Unloading
Loading a kayak on top of a pickup truck with the Hullavator is a piece of cake, even at 72 years old.
Durability and Material
Thule Hullavator is worth every penny, backed by a true lifetime warranty.

The Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier is a top-tier roof-mounted carrier designed for ease of use, especially for those who may struggle with loading and unloading kayaks. Its standout feature is the lift assistance, which allows users to load and unload their kayak at waist height, reducing strain and making the process significantly easier. This carrier supports a maximum load capacity of 75 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of kayaks.

The double extending arms and 8 touch points of padded support ensure that your kayak is well-protected during transport. The construction is robust, featuring corrosion-resistant aluminum and double coated steel, enhancing its durability and longevity. Additionally, the carrier includes bow and stern tie-downs for secure transportation of one kayak.

However, the product is relatively heavy at 39.7 pounds, which might make initial installation a bit challenging. Also, some users might find the price point high compared to simpler alternatives. Despite these drawbacks, the Thule Hullavator Pro stands out for its user-friendly design and high-quality construction, making it an excellent choice for kayakers looking for a reliable and easy-to-use roof rack system.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,444
Compatibility
Load Capacity
Ease of Installation
Compatibility
Installation on Thule aero bars is super easy with clear instructions.
Load Capacity
The Hullavator makes loading and unloading kayaks a breeze, comfortably fitting two 16-foot sea kayaks.
Ease of Installation
Installation on Thule aero bars is super easy with clear instructions.
Ease of Loading and Unloading
Loading a kayak on top of a pickup truck with the Hullavator is a piece of cake, even at 72 years old.
Durability and Material
Thule Hullavator is worth every penny, backed by a true lifetime warranty.
#3

ASMSW Kayak Roof Rack 1 Pair 4-in-1 for Kayak/Surf/Ski Rack,Folding Adjustable Bilateral J-Shaped Roof Rack with 4 PCS Tie Down Straps On Rooftop Mount on Car SUV Truck Crossbar, Black,Silver

Rating
9.9
Load Capacity
Ease of Installation
Durability and Material
Load Capacity
Holds two sit-on-top kayaks securely, with a handy strap for one-piece paddles.
Ease of Installation
Good value and easy to assemble, making for 'happy days' on the water.
Durability and Material
Sturdy and well-made, with no sharp edges and silicone rubber shrouds to protect from scratches.

The ASMSW Kayak Roof Rack is designed with a 180° folding J-bar, making it highly adjustable and easy to store when not in use. This feature is particularly useful for those with height restrictions in garages. The product is made from high-quality, durable steel that is anti-corrosion, water-proof, and rust-resistant, ensuring longevity. The foam padding minimizes friction between the kayak and the rack, protecting the kayak's surface during transport.

The rack's load capacity is impressive, able to handle up to 158 lbs, which should be sufficient for most kayaks and similar equipment. The inclusion of four tie-down straps enhances security, ensuring your kayak remains firmly in place during travel. Installation is straightforward, requiring just bolts and mounting knobs, and the rack is compatible with most crossbar shapes, including round, square, and oval. This versatility is beneficial for users with different vehicles and gear types, making it suitable for carrying kayaks, paddle boards, snowboards, and more.

However, despite these strengths, there are some considerations. The rack's robust steel construction makes it somewhat heavy at 4.5 kg, which might be cumbersome for some users. Additionally, while the quick-lock design is convenient, it may require some practice to master single-handedly. This kayak roof rack is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a durable and versatile solution to transport their gear securely.

Rating
9.9
Load Capacity
Ease of Installation
Durability and Material
Load Capacity
Holds two sit-on-top kayaks securely, with a handy strap for one-piece paddles.
Ease of Installation
Good value and easy to assemble, making for 'happy days' on the water.
Durability and Material
Sturdy and well-made, with no sharp edges and silicone rubber shrouds to protect from scratches.

Buying Guide for the Best Kayak Roof Racks

Choosing the right kayak roof rack is essential for safely and conveniently transporting your kayak to your favorite water destinations. The right roof rack will not only secure your kayak but also make loading and unloading easier. When selecting a kayak roof rack, consider the type of vehicle you have, the number of kayaks you plan to transport, and how often you will be using the rack. It's important to ensure compatibility with your vehicle's roof and to think about ease of installation and use. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing a kayak roof rack.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to how well the roof rack fits with your vehicle's roof type and existing roof bars. This is important because a compatible rack ensures a secure fit and safe transport of your kayak. Roof types can vary, including bare roofs, roofs with side rails, or roofs with crossbars. To navigate this, first identify your vehicle's roof type and check if the roof rack is designed to fit it. Choose a rack that matches your vehicle's roof configuration to ensure stability and safety.
Load CapacityLoad capacity is the maximum weight the roof rack can safely support. This is crucial to prevent overloading, which can lead to damage to your vehicle or the rack itself. Load capacities can range from around 50 kg (110 lbs) to over 100 kg (220 lbs). To choose the right load capacity, consider the weight of your kayak(s) and any additional gear you might transport. Ensure the rack can handle the total weight to avoid any safety issues.
Ease of InstallationEase of installation refers to how simple it is to mount the roof rack onto your vehicle. This is important for convenience, especially if you plan to frequently install and remove the rack. Some racks come with tool-free installation, while others may require tools and more time. If you prefer a quick setup, look for racks with a simple, tool-free installation process. Consider your comfort level with installation and choose accordingly.
Security FeaturesSecurity features include locks and anti-theft mechanisms that protect your kayak and rack from theft. This is important for peace of mind, especially if you leave your vehicle unattended with the kayak mounted. Some racks come with built-in locks, while others may require additional purchases. If security is a priority, opt for a rack with integrated locks or the option to add them. Consider where and how often you will leave your kayak unattended to determine the level of security you need.
Ease of Loading and UnloadingEase of loading and unloading refers to how simple it is to place your kayak onto the rack and remove it. This is important for convenience and to prevent injury or damage to your kayak. Some racks have features like lift-assist or rollers to make this process easier. If you often load and unload your kayak alone, consider racks with these features. Think about your physical ability and frequency of use to choose a rack that makes this process manageable for you.
Durability and MaterialDurability and material refer to the construction quality and the materials used in the roof rack. This is important for longevity and performance under various weather conditions. Common materials include steel, aluminum, and high-strength plastics. Steel is strong but heavier, while aluminum is lightweight and resistant to rust. Choose a material that suits your climate and usage frequency. If you plan to use the rack frequently or in harsh conditions, opt for a more durable material.