A person putting kayaks on roof of a red jeep.

Watersport Carriers for Vehicles

Watersport Carriers by Type

KAYAK CARRIERS

Thule SUP Taxi stand-up paddleboard carrier.

STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD CARRIERS

Yakima universal foam block rooftop canoe carrier.

CANOE CARRIERS

Thule Double-Decker rooftop surfboard carrier.

SURFBOARD CARRIERS

Yakima DoubleHaul rooftop fly rod carrier.

FISHING ROD CARRIERS

Rack Attachments & Mounting Systems

ROOF RACKS

Thule Xsporter Pro adjustable height truck bed ladder rack.

LADDER RACKS

LOAD ASSISTS

Watersport Carrier Guides & Tips

"Roof-Mounted Watersport Carriers" guide.

"How to Strap a Kayak to a Roof Rack" guide.

"How to Tie Down a Kayak (Without a Roof Rack)" article.

Explore Expert Info

Watersport Carriers

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Help Articles

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Expert Answers

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Highly Rated Brands

At etrailer.com, We Make Watersports Transport Easy—From Kayak Racks to Paddleboard Carriers.

Haul your kayak, paddleboard, canoe, or surfboard securely with roof- or bed-mounted watersport carriers built for all kinds of vehicles. Choose from J-style, saddle-style, stacker, and foam block carriers that work with most crossbars and roof racks. We also carry load assist systems, fishing rod carriers, and roof racks to complete your setup. Whether you're paddling solo or heading out with a group, our watersport transport gear makes loading easier and your ride safer—from driveway to dock.

With over 75 years of assisting our neighbors and customers, over 1 million photos and videos taken to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need, and over 35 thousand installations completed, we’ve got the product know-how and experience to help you make the right choices for the job at hand.

How can I transport my kayak securely?

The best way to transport your kayak depends on your vehicle and how often you hit the water. J-style save space and hold your kayak at an angle, while Saddle-style carriers let your kayak ride flat for easier loading. If lifting is a challenge, load assist carriers help raise and lower the kayak with minimal effort. Many options mount to existing crossbars for a secure fit.

What's the best way to carry a stand-up paddleboard on my vehicle?

Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are large but lightweight, so the key is keeping them secure without damage. Foam block SUP carriers offer a simple, budget-friendly option, while dedicated SUP roof racks provide padded support and easy tie-downs. If you have a truck, tailgate pads can safely transport a paddleboard without needing roof racks.

Can I carry multiple kayaks or paddleboards on my roof rack?

Yes. Stacker racks can carry up to 4 kayaks upright, and some J-style carriers allow side-by-side loading. SUP pads also let you stack multiple boards—just check your roof rack's weight rating before loading up.

How do I choose between a roof rack and a trailer for my watersport gear?

If you're carrying one or two kayaks or boards, a roof rack is a great space-saving option. But if you regularly haul multiple kayaks, canoes, or heavy gear, a watersport trailer makes loading easier and eliminates the need for overhead lifting. Trailers also reduce wind resistance compared to roof-mounted gear, which helps on long trips.

What’s the best way to transport fishing rods safely?

Fishing rods can be tricky to transport without tangling or breaking. Roof-mounted rod carriers keep rods secure and organized for easy access, while truck bed rod holders offer a convenient way to transport them in a pickup. If you need extra storage for tackle and gear, a cargo box or hitch-mounted carrier can help keep everything secure and out of the way.