Kayaking is one of the best outdoor activities that anyone can enjoy. It’s an excellent way to explore the waterways, get some fresh air, and exercise all at once. However, to enjoy kayaking, you need to have the right gear, and a roof rack is one of the most critical components.
The roof rack is what you use to transport your kayak to the water. It’s a simple but essential piece of equipment that you can’t afford to overlook. With so many different types of roof racks available, it can be challenging to determine the right one for your car.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the basics of choosing the right roof rack for your car.
- Consider Your Vehicle’s Roof
The first thing to consider when choosing a roof rack is the type of roof your vehicle has. If your car has a bare roof, then you’ll need a roof rack that can attach directly to the roof. However, if your car has roof rails, then you can choose a roof rack that attaches to those rails.
If you have a car with a bare roof, then you need to look for a roof rack that has a fit kit that’s specifically designed for your car. The fit kit ensures that the roof rack will fit securely and safely onto your car’s roof. The fit kit will also determine the type of roof rack that you can choose.
- Choose the Type of Roof Rack
There are several different types of roof racks available, and the type you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.
A. J-style roof rack
The J-style roof rack is the most popular type of roof rack. It allows you to carry your kayak on its side, which is a more stable position. This type of roof rack is ideal for longer kayaks or when you need to carry multiple kayaks at once.
B. Saddle roof rack
The saddle roof rack is another popular option. It supports the kayak on its bottom, which is ideal for shorter kayaks or when you need to transport just one kayak.
C. Stackers roof rack
The stackers roof rack is designed to carry multiple kayaks. It allows you to stack your kayaks on top of each other, saving space on your roof. This type of roof rack is ideal for kayaks of different sizes.
D. Roller roof rack
The roller roof rack is ideal for heavier kayaks. It has a roller that allows you to slide the kayak onto the roof rack without much effort.
- Determine Your Budget
The price of roof racks can vary greatly, from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. It’s essential to determine your budget before you start shopping for a roof rack.
The cost of a roof rack will depend on the type of roof rack you choose, the quality of materials used, and the brand. Keep in mind that a higher-priced roof rack is usually of better quality and will last longer than a cheaper roof rack.
- Check for Compatibility
Before you buy a roof rack, make sure it’s compatible with your kayak. Different kayaks have different dimensions, and not all roof racks can accommodate all kayaks. Be sure to check the roof rack’s weight capacity and the size of the kayak it can accommodate.
- Look for Ease of Use
Finally, consider the ease of use when choosing a roof rack. You want a roof rack that’s easy to install and remove. It should also be easy to load and unload your kayak from the roof rack.
Conclusion
Choosing the right roof rack for your car is critical to ensure that you can transport your kayak safely and securely. Consider the type of roof on your vehicle, the type of roof rack you need, your budget, compatibility with your kayak, and ease of use when selecting a roof rack. With the right roof rack, you can enjoy kayaking with ease, knowing that your kayak is safely secured to your vehicle.
It’s also essential to maintain your roof rack properly. Always check that the roof rack is secure before setting off on a journey. Make sure to clean and maintain your roof rack to ensure that it lasts for many years.