# 1
Rhino-Rack J-Style Kayak Carrier - Fixed - Universal Mount
I received the roof rack kit sooner then expected. Everything arrived in good condition. The installation instructions where ok and the install went well. This is my 3rd order from etrailer and it will not be the last there customer service is the best I have dealt with in a long time. I have also installed the front receiver hitch the install went well and I am happy with the product
I installed these as soon as I got them and I’ve got to say, there are some extra holes for screws that are a tad misleading and the pieces that secure it to the cross bars don’t seem super secure. For reference, I do have Rhino Rack’s vortex crossbars so this should fit snug. The rubber tops were tough to get into place and I am worried they’ll snap when I go to remove my rack but Rhino Rack has yet to fail me with their products so I bet it’ll work out great!
# 2
Rhino-Rack J-Style Kayak Carrier - Folding - Universal Mount
These racks are so great! The option to fold them down means I can leave them on the car for a few days between kayak trips. They’re very sturdy and we love that they come with the tie down straps, but I wish the hood/trunk anchors were included. Just another order I guess!
Does what I needed it to do: carry my kayaks on my car! Website is great for installation information, too.
# 3
SportRack Kayak Carrier with Tie-Downs - J-Style - Fixed Arms - Roof Mount
Great product. Never have an issue installing and very secure. Work great and look great!
Excellent quality carrier, easy loading and unloading, very happy with the purchase. Thanks a lot Patrick!!!
# 4
Rhino-Rack Nautic Roof Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - Side Loading - Clamp On
I have a pretty big kayak to begin with, it holds it perfectly. Recently , i strapped a smaller kayak on top of mine. I was expecting the worst on this trip. But did not have a problem at all. Quality product.
After attempting to mount the individual rack pieces using the “burglar proof” button head screws with the pin in the recess and the short hex wrench with the hollowed out end I discovered that no real burglar would want the rack but would rather have the kayak so the first thing I did after spending 10 minutes trying to insert the hex into the button head screws with the pin inside the recess and attempting to turn the bolts and continually being obstructed by the support pieces and the paint interference on the bolt heads with trying to get the wrench into the recess I knew it was going to be a long frustrating process so I threw them away and purchased new button head stainless steel bolts and a 4mm extended handle hex wrench to turn them. Smartest thing I ever did. You not only have to mount the rack initially but then you have to put the kayak on the roof and remount all pieces again to fit your boat. All kayaks are different to one degree or another. Having to move the individual support and retighten them with the boat on the rack is even more difficult to do than the initial mounting with these “burglar proof” bolts and hex wrench and you will be happy you threw them away before you started the entire process. Try it for yourself at first and then go get the alternate ones. Worth the little investment and stainless steel will not rust away when you want to remove the rack system in the future. Once the rack is on your vehicle and kayak in rack the tie downs supplied are very good quality. Make sure you use the recommended tie down locations and directions, two kayak body ties and ties at front and rear. Due to numerous kayak hull designs it would be nice to have each support pod have a horizontal swivel built into it so it readily conforms to the hull shape. The overall quality of the system should be the last rack you will have to purchase. I only had issues with the supplied bolts and hex wrench. I gave this rack system a three star because of the bolts and hex tool and the individual pods not swiveling and I haven't at this point transported the kayak anywhere so I am waiting to see how it handles long trips with wind loads and constant loading and unloading performances.
# 5
Yakima JayLow Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style or Post Style - Folding - 1 or 2 Kayaks
The Yakima JayLows are ready to go out the box and very easy to set up. They attached to our vehicle’s factory crossbars with ease and seemed secure on the road with little to no movement with kayaks attached. We haven’t tested them on the highway yet, but I’m confident that they’ll be fine as long as you strap the kayaks correctly and use tie downs. I’m extremely happy with the JayLows and I’m considering purchasing another set if we get a third kayak. I HIGHLY recommend that you watch the videos on setting up and securing kayaks on the racks prior to first use.
These make it easier for one person to load a kayak up on the roof by themselves. We have used them for a whole year and they are holding up well so far.
# 6
Swagman Contour Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Fixed Arms
The product is of good construction but probably due to how it fits on my crossbars it needs additional support. The crossbars for my Honda Pilot are wide blade type and these racks seem more appropriate for narrower square type crossbars. Even with the rack fastened very tightly, the rack can twist back and forth. Last year on a trip across Montana the wind was pretty gusty and it caused the front one to pivot quite a bit and we had to pull off and apply a ratcheting strap over the kayak and under the factory rails to ensure it was held tight and wouldn't move again. This year on the same trip we had bad winds but had a roof rack mounted behind these racks giving it support on the tall side. We had to strap it real good to make sure it didn't move. If we hadn't had that additional support behind it and add'l straps we probably would have had more problems. I think if the top metal bracket had a wider channel to fit our crossbars it would be much more stable. The way it is now it just sandwiches 2 metal plates between my crossbar which allows it to pivot under stress.
Works great I bought 4 and the set up was fast. Everything comes in boxed will packed. Had some issues with shipping date but customer service handled it amazingly. Got my order a week early. Great fit for square bars.
# 7
Thule Hull-A-Port Kayak Carrier w/Tie-Downs - J-Style - Fixed - Side Loading
These are good racks, only its not really easy or friendly to install on the wingbar evo, although it was indicated that it was compatible. I think the screws provided with the adapter kit are a little too short and because of that, the j rack doesn't fit well in the T slot. Too much of a chore for the average person.
This product is excellent. I have transported my kayak on these J Hooks several times going 70+ mph down the highway. It never moves. The bolts that come with it are short. If you have a thick roof rack, you will need longer stainless steel bolts. Make sure you you orient the blue straps with the buckle on top so you can pull down to tighten it up.
# 8
Thule The Stacker - Rooftop Multi-Kayak Carrier
My wife uses these to carry two small kayaks in the roof of her Subaru. They work great and we very happy with the purchase. She also likes finding her car easier in the parking lots, even with the carriers folded down.
No issues after a year would definitely purchase again.
Sgkramar - 07/16/2020We needed a better way to haul around 3 kayaks and after looking at a number of options, we settled on the Thule Stacker setup. Installation is simple and the stackers provide a sturdy option for hauling multiple kayaks. One of the best features is that they fold down when you don't need to use them. My shopping experience with etrailer was smooth and shipping was prompt.
# 9
Thule Hull-A-Port XT Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style or Post Style - Folding - 1 or 2 Kayaks
Fits perfectly and easy to install. etrailer, as always, was the exact right place to order it. Always satisfied with them. My only complaint is the way Thule designed how the straps are held while I’m putting my kayaks up on racks mounted atop my camper shell. The straps won’t stay in the cheesy guides very well. I’ll probably modify them so the straps won’t fall out. I’d suggest wider straps or ditching the little slot where the strap falls out. Very satisfied with the transaction and I do like kayak racks, especially the ease of installation, quality and the very innovative way they fold down.
Spend the money on a product that is going to truly secure your kayak so you do not have to worry while driving down the road. Ditched a no name brand for these and couldn't be happier.
1 year later and no issues, we use are carrier regularly and are very happy with it.
G - 09/12/2020# 10
Rhino-Rack Nautic Roof Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - Rear Loading - Clamp On
Love my Rhino Rack. Installed myself without complication. Thank you etrailer for great product with the best price!
The Rhino Rack cradles, straps and hardware are all good quality and I have no complaints. The only issue I have, and the reason for only a 4 star rating, is the supplied M6 x 40mm Security Head screws are too long for the factory cross bars on my roof rack. When I first installed the cradles if I had tightened the screws all the way, the ends would have dug into the roof and paint, even before I added the weight of the kayak. In checking, I can purchase some M6 x 25mm Security Head screws from Amazon, but frankly part of me feels that for what I’ve already paid for this kit I shouldn’t have to spend another $15 for the correct length screws, plus the package has 20 screws and I only need 8. However, it appears that is exactly what I will have to do. At least they will be stainless steel, rather than the cheaper material the current screws are. Plus I will have extras for when/if the head strips out. I would suggest Rhino Rack consider included in their kit two sets of screws to meet this need. Keep the length they have, Judy add a set of 25mm. I’m still happy with the purchase but not 100%. I do like how the kayak slides easily on the rear felt lined cradles. Plus Rhino Rack includes every tie down strap that you will need, e.g. one each for the bow and stern in addition to two straps intended to secure the kayak directly to the roof rack cross bars. I would highly suggest you get in the habit of using all four straps, you really don’t need to have a gust of wind lifting the nose and tearing the roof rack off your vehicle. Can happen! My brother-in-law lost his roof rack exactly in this manner. So happy yakking and safe travels down the road. By the way I have paired these cradles with the Rhino Rack RTL002 T-Load Hitch Mounted Load Assist and Support Bar for 2” Hitches also purchased from eTrailer. I’ve attached some photos showing my first and second attempts to solve my dilemma. I need to order the replacement screws. First attempt after dark was a large flat washer, then the next day I added some nuts under the large washer. NOTE: Photos may post in reverse order.
Continues to exceed expectations.
Vernon - 06/04/2019# 11
Yakima BigStack Roof Mounted 2 Kayak Carrier System
Worked great on our Subaru Crosstrek with factory crossbars. Loading very easy, and it was very secure, for our 2 kayaks. The Yakima Big Sticks are easy to install/setup and take off. Very happy with our investment,
I acquired a second kayak and needed a system to fit the factory racks on my 2011 Toyota RAV4. Etrailer.com has always had information on what fits and has always had the item needed for the job. I attached the Yakima BigStack to the top with ease, and, with one other person to hold the kayaks while I secured, tied two of them down for a long road trip to Northern Minnesota. The system worked just fine. The only caveat was in the configuration of multiple boats in the instructions. The diagram has two boats on the same side of the posts, however, I found it more secure to put one on either side ( other reviews of this product on different Internet sites have found similar results.) The boats made it through the trip with no shifting.
One year later: Still using the system and have had no problems thus far. As always, I recommend etrailer.com for any racks and accessories you may need no, Im not employed by them, Ive just always found exactly what I need with them.
Bob P. - 07/11/2015# 12
Rhino-Rack SUP and Surfboard Pads w/ Tie-Downs for Crossbars - Universal - 21-1/2" Long - Qty 2
This rack system works amazingly well on my Thule arrow rack. I've owned this for a year now and have transported my 11' surfboard with no issues. The board is easy to secure and is just as tight when I arrive after a long trip on the highway. Thanks for a great product at a great price!
Still the best rack attachments available!
Aden - 05/19/2021The product very well made.. I have owned for a year now.. stays in place.. protects my paddle board
Love it!! Still looks great. No problems.. Use it to get my paddle board to the lake
Darla C - 08/25/2020# 13
Rhino-Rack Nautic Stack Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - Post Style - Folding - 4 Kayaks
Carol researched after I queried about this particular kayak holder. I needed to make sure it would work with my rhino rack that I also bought from etrailers. These work great and I'm looking forward to when my wife and I can get the kayaks out and do some paddling! Thanks Carol C and thank you etrailers!
Live the rhino rack. Its perfect for carrying all 3 if our kayaks in the Nissan rogue. It is holding up well.
Michael J ODonnell - 02/27/2021Very fast shipping and great customer service! Prior to purchasing this, we were looking everywhere to find a way to transport 3 kayaks on one car. We were very excited when we found this available/in stock at etrailer.com as many places are currently out of kayak related items. We received it within a matter of days after purchasing online. Overall installation went smoothly and we were able to get out on the water sooner than we planned; however more comprehensive and clearer instructions for installation and tying on the kayaks would have made the process easier.
# 14
Rhino-Rack SUP and Surfboard Pads w/ Tie-Downs for Crossbars - Universal - 33-1/2" Long - Qty 2
The Rhino Rack pads are very well made and fit securely. Item was in stock and delivery was very quick with excellent customer notifications during transit.
The product came quickly and was so easy to install on my existing roof rails! It is absolutely perfect to fit many needs above and beyond my kayaks and paddle boards. They look so good on my new 2019 Jag F-Pace I might leave them on all the time.
# 15
SportRack Foam Block Roof Kayak Carrier - Adjustable
It's doing the job of securing my kayak to my rackless prius, at a fraction of the cost. However, the instructions included along with the straps did not work for me. I spent a considerable amount of time adjusting things: the red straps that are supposed to go over the boat and secure on the bars were not long enough. The blue straps are much longer, so I am using the red straps to secure the bars to the car, through the open doors and cinched inside the car. I am using the blue straps to reach over the boat, and I decided to feed those into the car too- feels more secure than to attach them to the bars on top. The black straps for front and back strapping don't work for my car in the way shown, I had to jerry-rig. Overall I have figured out how to make it work, and I'm glad I didn't spend $xxx.xx on a serious rack system.
Works very well. I will only use on short trips. I'm not a fan of the straps rubbing on the car. I need to invest in roof rails for longer trips.
# 16
etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier - Folding - Universal Mount
Great product for the price - The cradles were very easy to mount (and lay flat once folded). The videos were helpful in showing how to set the straps in the most efficient way. I test-drove my car today with my fishing kayak on top on a 80-mile round trip (a mix of freeway, country road and dirt tracks). The kayak was perfectly still, no particular wind noise and I was able to muscle to kayak up the roof and take it down on my own (it's a 52 lbs boat). I really recommend that product and I'm glad I went for J-Style cradles!
A year later, still looks and works like new! Kept the cradles on the roofbars over the winter and didnt see any rubber cracks. The only accessory which did age over time are the straps. Definitely recommend the product and am considering purchasing a second set for another boat.
Pierre D Rieunier - 06/24/2020These kayak carriers work very well, plus the manufacturer includes the straps. The racks fold down, so my Tacoma fits in garage. They were in the sun for 3 months and thick foam padding is holding up very well. I traveled them 5,000 miles with no problems. They are attached to a round crossbar on my Yakima rack.
# 17
Darby Extend-A-Truck Kayak Carrier w/ Hitch Mounted Load Extender and Single-Bar Roof Rack
The foam towers on the single bar roof rack worked beautifully. My only complaint was the whole thing depended on the S hooks the strap that runs through the cab is attached to. Under enough load, S hooks are subject to straightening out. So I took a spare Rhino Rack strap and looped it over both ends of the bar and back through the cab for a backup and to keep some load off the S hooks. You can also see in the picture that the bar has rotated slightly so that end of the strap could possibly slip off the S hook. A closed shackle would inspire more confidence than an S hook.
The extension worked great on the front of my truck, keeping my canoe from hitting my fifth wheel. We traveled over 3000 miles without a problem. Make sure you use good ratchet straps.
I didt use it last year, but I will this summer. I added an extra rooftop pole and mounts. Works great.
Fred Poteet - 03/13/2020# 18
Rhino-Rack Nautic 580 Side Loading Kayak Carrier - Saddle Style - Side Loading - Channel Mount
Looks great got em on today, rock solid. I put them on an adarac ladder rack system. With light modification, they slide into the track. Very nice they include sooo many straps too. etrailer fast shipping and always great information. Thanks!
Love these. Much more stable and easier to use than big box J racks. I use two of these to carry kayaks, and it comes with high quality straps including bow and stern tie downs. A little vibe due to wind, but nothing you can really do about that.
# 19
Rhino-Rack Nautic 581 Rear Loading Kayak Carrier - Saddle Style - Rear Loading - Channel Mount
Sturdy, hasn’t been removed from my car, I use it for a paddle board and a canoe, no issues. Looks very sleek. Easy install as well.
Works great on my Ram truck. I pull a 5th wheel RV so I can’t use the truck bed for my kayaks. I bought the Rhino Rack roof rack from etrailer, as well. It is very easy to slide the kayak onto the roof with this carrier. Then I slide my second kayak on top of the first one. It is easy to do by myself, which is what I was looking for. I’d also like to give a shout-out to etrailer for their great customer service! They had both of these items in stock, and actually beat the price on Amazon.
# 20
Yakima EvenKeel Flexible Boat Saddles for Roof-Rack Crossbars - Qty 4
I really liked this rack. It was easy to assemble and worked great for my kayak. However, it didn't last 6 months before it fell apart. The rubber top came off on two of the carriers exposing hard plastic.
The kayak saddle kit(s) were just what I needed to carry two boats on top of my existing truck rack. They came out of the box and right onto the truck, fitting exactly as I hoped. The attachment mechanism is simple and strong, and can easily be adjusted to fit different kayaks which is important as we have some different ones we haul, depending on conditions. The saddles hold the kayaks firmly and the long straps included give plenty of extra length so there are no problems tying things down. We travel and camp all across the country and always take kayaks, so it is important to have a rack that we know will be secure and hold the boats firmly in all conditions. So much better than my jury rigged wood cradles I used previously. First trip starts tomorrow!!! etrailer had these in stock and shipped so fast, I was amazed, especially since it was a holiday weekend when I ordered. Great people to work with and I have never been disappointed with shipping, service or merchandise after buying from etrailer over several years. Can' say enough good things.
great