J-Style Kayak Carriers for 2017 Nissan Rogue and 2023 Nissan Pathfinder

Updated 08/15/2025 | Published 07/04/2025

Question:

Curious about folding J cradles for my 2017 Rogue and 2023 Pathfinder both with factory crossbars. Seems like all 3 Thule, Yakima and Kuat have their potential shortcomings. Reading customer experiences across the net. XTR, Jaylow and 4 v2. Keep mine on most the year so trying to keep uv /elements damage in mind. Coming from padded folding Hull a Port 835pro which has been solid and I like the piping/padded looks but pads weather. So after all that mostly curious about Kuat. Seems like many places are out. Is this due to popularity/awesomeness or have flaws or quality control or new knowledge made them currently less desirable? Do magnets hold or do the flap/slap over road bumps?

asked by: Todd

Expert Reply:

Hi Todd; the Kuat Class 4 V2 Kayak Roof Rack # KU33VR would be a good choice for a carrier you keep on a majority of the time. They're newer, have a lot of great features, and I have only heard good things about them.

If I had to guess, I would say places are out based on the time of year. Kuat may have also had an unexpected takeoff with these and they aren't keeping up with production demand. Their brand name alone tends to make things popular. The magnets will keep them from flapping around when you hit your typical road bumps.

What kind of kayaks do you have?

expert reply by: Robin H

Kuat Class 4 V2
(click to enlarge)

Robin H.

8/15/2025

Hey Todd, did you decide to go with the Kuat Class 4 V2 for your kayaks? I'm curious to know how it's working out for you, especially since you keep it on most of the year. Your feedback could really help others in a similar situation!