Roof rack and Kayak Carrier Recommendation for 2018 Toyota Highlander

Published 11/13/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 53" Long - Qty 2

(1277)

$226.76

Rhino-Rack Nautic SUP or Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Clamp On

(127)

$184.99

Rhino-Rack Anchor Strap - Qty 1

(32)

$24.99

Custom RCP Fit Kit for 4 Rhino-Rack RC and RV Series Roof Rack Legs - Fixed Mounting Points

(300)

$139.99

Question:

I need a roof rack for my 2019 Highlander so I can carry a kayak. It has the roof rails, but I don't know which rack to choose. I'm familiar with Thule and Yakima, but they are pretty darn expensive and I don't feel like spending more than 500 dollars on a roof rack/ kayak carrying solution. Do you have any suggestions? Is Rhino Rack a good brand? Is there something else I should be looking at? Thanks.

asked by: Forrest

Expert Reply:

Actually, Rhino rack makes an excellent product. I personally would not hesitate for a second to use any of their roof rack equipment. Because of the very good quality and reasonable price, I find myself recommending Rhino Rack products to folks very frequently.

I would recommend the Rhino Rack Vortex Aero roof rack, which consists of these parts:

54 inch long aero style crossbar, # RRVA137B-2 for black or # RRVA137S-2 for silver
Roof rack feet, part # RRRCL4
Fit kit to attach roof rack feet to roof rails, part # RRRCP31-BK

For a kayak carrier, Rhino Rack offers several nice choices. Because of its ease of installation and how easy it is to use, I'd recommend the Nautic Kayak Carrier, part # RR570. This carrier allows you to easily load the kayak from the side of the vehicle, and includes 2 straps for securing the kayak to the roof rack as well as a bow/stern tie-down. Anchor straps like # RRRBAS provide a good attachment point for the bow/stern tie downs.