Kayak Lift Assist Recommendations for a Couple in Their 60s with a 2022 Toyota 4Runner
Updated 09/22/2026 | Published 08/28/2026
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Question:
I have a 2022 4Runner. My wife and I kayak. We are in our 60s and are looking to get lift assist kayak rack systems. But I see it is not recommended to use 2 Hullavators. Any recommendations for systems to help us get our kayaks up on a relatively high roof?
asked by: Charles K
Expert Reply:
Hey Charles, you guys need the Malone DownLoader Kayak Roof Rack with Lift Assist and Tie Downs, part # MPG114MD-351XL, along with 2 sets of Malone DownLoader, part # MPG114MD, rather than trying to use two Hullavators. Using two Thule Hullavators would be too much weight on the roof of your 4Runner plus the weight of the kayaks.
The Telos XL lift assist lets you load each kayak from about waist height and walk it up the side of your 4Runner, so you are not having to muscle both kayaks up over your head or worry as much about bumping the doors while loading. You can use the same lift assist to load either kayak, so you do not need two lift assist systems. I also added a video of our installer Evangeline using the Malone DownLoader so you can see exactly how the loading process works and how easy it can be.
I use Malone products myself and have been really impressed with the quality for the money, so I think this would be a really nice setup for you and your wife to keep kayaking without the roof loading becoming the hardest part of the trip. If you can tell me the approximate weight of each kayak and what roof rack you currently have, I can help make sure this setup works with your 4Runner.
Do you already have the roof rack?
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Pete P.
9/3/2026
We have a 2017 Subaru Forester. We are late 60's. The downloader works as described. My partner is 5'4" tall and can load it herself. I suggest having a stool with you to step up and push the kayak over the edge, and also the same for taking it off, as Mike L. suggests. It does take longer than just lifting the kayaks up, but it is much safer for loading and unloading. And at our age, safety is the primary concern. The racks themselves are foldable, so you can leave them on the car all year long. Or just for the paddling season.
Heather A.
9/3/2026
Heather A.
9/3/2026
Charles
9/11/2026
Thanks all for the information! I wish the lift assist was available before mid October as we are traveling in two weeks. Yes we do need cross bars for the lateral bars that come with the 2022 4RUNNER. Recommendations? CBK
Heather A.
9/12/2026
Heather A.
9/22/2026
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Malone DownLoader Kayak Roof Rack w/ Lift Assist and Tie-Downs - J-Style - Clamp On
- Watersport Carriers
- Kayak
- Roof Mount Carrier
- J-Style
- Folding
- Aero Bars
- Factory Bars
- Round Bars
- Square Bars
- Side Loading
- Clamp-On
- Load Assist
- Malone
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on Watersport Carriers
Mike L.
9/3/2026
Hi Charles, I have a Highlander. I use the Malone Downlifter for two kayaks. I am in my 70's and this product has improved my transport experience. I can single handedly move the kayaks up to the roof and remove at the kayaking location. The loader moves the kayak in a stepping motion, one side at a time. An easy process. I then use a stool or step ladder. To push the kayak onto the holder. There are slots on the roof holder to run your straps through, to secure the kayaks. The Malone product has made moving the kayaks less stressful and I am not tired out by the time I load and unload to enjoy the paddle. I also use tie downs on the front and back of the kayak for extra security. Good Paddling.