Kayak Lift Assist Recommendations for a Couple in Their 60s with a 2022 Toyota 4Runner

Updated 09/03/2026 | Published 08/28/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Malone DownLoader Kayak Roof Rack w/ Lift Assist and Tie-Downs - J-Style - Clamp On

(150)

$611.90

Malone DownLoader Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(150)

$179.95

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?

expert reply by: Heather A

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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.

Heather A.

9/3/2026

@MikeL Thanks so much for sharing this, Mike! Your story made my day. I absolutely love hearing that you’re still out there enjoying kayaking in your 70s, and that the DownLoader has made getting your kayaks on and off the roof so much less stressful. Where do you like to go with your kayaks?

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

@PeteP Pete, this is really helpful to hear, especially from someone who actually uses the DownLoader. I love the stool suggestion too. Most of all, I love hearing that you two are still getting out there and doing what you love. Age shouldn’t stop you from doing the things you enjoy! especially when there are ways to make them easier and safer. Thanks for sharing your experience with Charles! Where are some of your favorite places to kayak?

Pete P.

9/3/2026

I live on Bainbridge Island, and there are several great places here on the island. But one of our favorites is Seabeck on Hood Canal.

Heather A.

9/3/2026

@PeteP It sounds like you are living the life Pete. I looked up Hood Canal and it's breathtaking. What's your favorite spot to visit on the island that most people wouldn't know about?