Kayak Carrier Recommendation for a 2013 Kia Soul

Updated 06/23/2014 | Published 06/20/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 49" Long - Qty 2

(2749)

$239.98

Custom DK Fit Kit for 4 Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Roof Rack Legs - Naked Roof

(3330)

$100.24

Malone SteelTop Roof Rack - Square Crossbars - Raised, Factory Side Rails - Steel - 50" Long

(502)

$152.95

Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Legs for Vortex Aero Crossbars - Naked Roofs or Fixed Mounting Points - Qty 4

(8961)

$234.99

Yakima SweetRoll Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Clamp On

(36)

$328.95

Question:

I have a 2013 kia soul and want to know what i can purchase to carry a kayack on roof. I am female so need something that is easy to use.

asked by: Carolyn B

Expert Reply:

We have several different kayak carrier options for your 2013 Kia Soul, but most of them require a roof rack with crossbars that run side to side, so we will want to start there. If your Soul has a bare roof, then you could install a roof rack like the Rhino-Rack Roof Rack, # RRVA126B-2, # RRRLKVA, and # DK237. If your Soul has the factory side rails, then you could use the Malone part # MPG201.

Once you have the crossbars, you can choose a kayak carrier. I like the J-Style kayak carriers, like part # S510. You will have to lift the kayak up, but the J-style carriers hold the kayak in place well and they make it easier to tie the kayak down to the crossbars and carrier better than simply setting the kayak on the crossbars. I have attached a video review of this carrier for you to check out.

Another carrier that you may be interested in is the Yakima SweetRoll Kayak Carrier, # Y04074. With this carrier, your kayak would be loaded from the rear of the vehicle. The rear supports have a wheel that make it easy to slide your kayak on and off of the roof. I have attached a video review of this carrier for you to check out as well.