Recommended Roof Rack for Thule Hullavator on a 2019 Ford Explorer

Updated 05/18/2026 | Published 05/15/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Roof Rack and Lift Assist w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Universal Mount

(120)

$718.95

Thule WingBar Evo Roof Rack for Flush Rails - Aluminum - Black - Qty 2

(1)

$560.85

Thule WingBar Evo Roof Rack for Flush Rails - Aluminum - Silver - Qty 2

$560.85

Question:

Recommended roof rack for the Thule Hullavator for a 2019 Ford Explorer

asked by: Nikki

Expert Reply:

Thanks for reaching out Nikki!

Hullavators are game changers, making loading and unloading easier.

The roof rack setup for the Thule Hullavator is typically the Thule WingBar Evo system with longer crossbars. The Hullavator # TH898 requires extra bar overhang because the carrier swings out to the side during loading/unloading.

Thule WingBar Evo Roof Rack for Flush Rails - Black - Qty 2 # TH34GZ

Thule WingBar Evo Roof Rack for Flush Rails - Silver - Qty 2 # TH64GZ

What style of Kayaks are you carrying? Do you use the Hullavator for solo use or assistance in general?

expert reply by: James D

Nikki

5/15/2026

Perception pescador 12 ft and wilderness aspire 105

James D.

5/15/2026

@Nikki Nice! Enjoy your time on the water and if you have any questions in the future, don't hesitate to reach out.

Kevin

5/16/2026

I’m 75, still very healthy, I ride bicycle everyday-8-10 miles/day. I have a 58 lb Hobie 13’, not heavy but bulky, I have talked to a couple of people actually using the Pro to access their Hobie from a tall truck camper which helped me choose the Hullivator, however, I was mounting it on my Hiker off-road trailer which did not have Thule crossbars, mine were 1” square tubes, I was very surprised to learn no one had ANY idea how to mount the Hulivator to my crossbars. I’m a welder and fabricator so my ability to work outside the common box is really not a problem, Thule just said basically good luck your on your own, what an attitude. It cost $6 to make it happen! Youn spend hundreds of $ on their product, which is great quality don’t get me wrong, but they had no input as to help with mounting!!

Ron

5/16/2026

@Kevin I've used Thule square bar for my Hullavator for many years. Originally. They mounted on square bars. But last year I bought a GMC Canyon Denali ND bought the GMC kayak rack. I still javelin the parts for square bars.

James D.

5/18/2026

@Kevin Thanks for sharing your experience Kevin and glad to hear you’re still getting after it every day, 8-10 miles on the bike daily is impressive!