Our Review: Thule Hull-a-Port XTR Kayak Rack System
10 Feb
Exterior Accessories

Our Review: Thule Hull-a-Port XTR Kayak Rack System

Our Review: Thule Hull-a-Port XTR Kayak Rack System

After spending several weekends testing the Thule Hull-a-Port XTR, we’re impressed with its thoughtful design and functionality. This J-style rack arrives pre-assembled, saving valuable setup time at the start of your adventure. We particularly appreciate how it folds flat when not in use, significantly reducing wind noise and improving gas mileage during everyday driving.

The ability to carry two kayaks on a single system is a major plus for our team outings, and the universal mounting system fit perfectly on our variety of test vehicles with load bars up to 80.5mm wide. The locking mechanism gave us peace of mind when stopping for lunch during our transport trips.

While it’s priced at the higher end of the market, we found the durability, ease of use, and security features make the Hull-a-Port XTR a worthwhile investment for serious paddling enthusiasts.

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Testing YAKIMA BigStack: Our Adventure With A 4-Boat Rack
02 Feb
Exterior Accessories

Testing YAKIMA BigStack: Our Adventure With A 4-Boat Rack

Testing YAKIMA BigStack: Our Adventure With A 4-Boat Rack

We recently put the YAKIMA BigStack through its paces during our annual kayaking retreat, and it certainly lived up to its name. This rooftop rack system efficiently secured four kayaks on our SUV, something we’d previously thought impossible without a trailer. The padded base provided excellent protection for our boats, while the adjustable overhang accommodated our varied kayak sizes.

Installation was straightforward, taking us about 20 minutes from unboxing to completion. The heavy-duty straps kept everything secure, even when we encountered some unexpected highway turbulence. We appreciated the included bow and stern tie-downs for added stability during our 200-mile journey.

While the BigStack adds considerable height to your vehicle (something to remember when entering parking garages!), the ability to transport four boats with one rack system made our group adventure significantly more convenient and economical.

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EZ Kayak Loading: Our Review of Suspenz V-Rack Carrier
14 Jan
Exterior Accessories

EZ Kayak Loading: Our Review of Suspenz V-Rack Carrier

EZ Kayak Loading: Our Review of Suspenz V-Rack Carrier

We recently got our hands on the Suspenz Kayak Roof Rack with Tie Down Straps (44-0166), and it’s definitely changed our kayaking routine. The EZ Roller V-Rack design makes loading our kayaks onto the car significantly easier than traditional carriers. What impressed us most was how the rollers allow us to slide our kayak up without awkward lifting or straining.

The included tie-down straps proved sturdy and reliable during our testing, even on windier drives along the coast. Installation was straightforward, taking us about 30 minutes without any specialized tools. We particularly appreciated the powder-coated steel construction, which feels like it will withstand seasons of salt water exposure.

For anyone tired of struggling with kayak loading or concerned about potential roof damage, we found this V-Rack system to be a worthwhile investment that delivers on its “EZ” promise.

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We Test the 4-in-1 J-Bar Kayak Rack: Versatile & Secure
03 Dec
Exterior Accessories

We Test the 4-in-1 J-Bar Kayak Rack: Versatile & Secure

We Test the 4-in-1 J-Bar Kayak Rack: Versatile & Secure

We recently put the 4-in-1 Multifunction Bilateral J-Bar Kayak Rack through its paces during our summer water adventures. This versatile carrier impressed us with its sturdy construction and thoughtful design. The J-shaped bars securely cradled our two kayaks without any concerning movement, even on winding roads.

What sets this rack apart is its multifunctionality – we easily switched between carrying kayaks, canoes, surfboards, and even our SUP without needing different equipment. The integrated paddle holders were a welcome bonus, freeing up valuable interior space in our SUV.

Installation on our crossbars was straightforward, taking under 15 minutes with the included hardware. The powder-coated steel construction suggests this rack will withstand seasons of adventures and the elements. For adventure enthusiasts looking to transport multiple watercraft without breaking the bank, this J-Bar system offers excellent value and versatility.

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Our In-Depth Experience with Thule Hull-a-Port Aero Kayak Rack
23 Nov
Exterior Accessories

Our In-Depth Experience with Thule Hull-a-Port Aero Kayak Rack

Our In-Depth Experience with Thule Hull-a-Port Aero Kayak Rack

We recently put the Thule Hull-a-Port Aero Rooftop Kayak Rack through its paces during our summer adventures, and we’re thoroughly impressed. The anti-theft design gave us peace of mind when leaving our kayak on the car during pit stops. What really stood out was the foldable design-when not in use, we could fold it down to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.

The rubber padding mounting surface protected our kayak from scratches while providing a secure grip. We particularly appreciated the easy strap management system, which eliminated those annoying flapping straps during highway drives. With a 75lb weight capacity, it easily accommodated our touring kayak.

Installation was straightforward, taking us less than 30 minutes. The carrier’s sturdy construction inspires confidence even at highway speeds. For kayak enthusiasts looking for convenience without sacrificing security, this rack is definitely worth considering.

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YAKIMA KeelOver: Our Go-To Canoe Rack for Easy Adventures
20 Nov
Exterior Accessories

YAKIMA KeelOver: Our Go-To Canoe Rack for Easy Adventures

YAKIMA KeelOver: Our Go-To Canoe Rack for Easy Adventures

After testing numerous canoe racks over the years, we’ve finally found our perfect match with the YAKIMA KeelOver. This rooftop mounted rack has become our trusted companion for weekend paddling trips. What impressed us most was how securely it holds a single canoe while still being remarkably easy to load and unload.

The padded saddles cradle the hull perfectly, eliminating worries about damage during transport, while the sturdy straps keep everything locked down even on bumpy backroads. We’ve found the installation process straightforward-it fits seamlessly with our existing crossbars.

For those who venture out frequently, the convenience factor cannot be overstated. The KeelOver’s thoughtful design means less struggling in parking lots and more time enjoying the water. If you’re looking for reliability without complexity, this rack has earned our wholehearted recommendation.

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SweetRoll: Our Review of YAKIMA’s Easy-Loading Boat Rack
22 Oct
Exterior Accessories

SweetRoll: Our Review of YAKIMA’s Easy-Loading Boat Rack

SweetRoll: Our Review of YAKIMA’s Easy-Loading Boat Rack

After months of testing the YAKIMA SweetRoll, we’re excited to share our findings. This rooftop boat loader has completely transformed our kayaking adventures with its intuitive design. The roller system makes loading our kayak remarkably effortless-just place the bow on the rear rollers and push forward. We were particularly impressed by how the sweet-spot saddles automatically adjust to the hull’s shape, creating a secure fit without excessive strap tightening.

Installation took us about 30 minutes, and the tool-free mounting system attaches securely to most factory and aftermarket crossbars. Even when fully loaded, we noticed minimal wind noise during highway driving. The integrated SKS locks provide peace of mind when we stop for lunch before reaching the water.

For paddlers seeking a user-friendly solution to transport a single kayak or canoe, the SweetRoll is definitely worth the investment.

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Our Take on ARKSEN’s Folding J-Bar Kayak Rack System
13 Aug
Exterior Accessories

Our Take on ARKSEN’s Folding J-Bar Kayak Rack System

Our Take on ARKSEN’s Folding J-Bar Kayak Rack System

We recently got our hands on the ARKSEN Universal Folding Kayak Roof Rack, and we’re pleased with its versatility. The J-bar design securely cradles kayaks and canoes while the universal mounting system attached easily to our crossbars. What impressed us most was the folding feature-when not in use, the rack folds down flat, reducing wind noise and improving clearance for garages or low overhangs.

The heavy-duty steel construction feels robust enough to handle our 70-pound kayak without issue. We appreciate the adjustability that accommodates different hull shapes, and the padded contact points protect our boat’s finish during transport.

Installation took us about 30 minutes, requiring basic tools and minimal effort. The included straps work effectively, though we recommend adding bow and stern lines for complete security during highway travel.

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Our Take on the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack: Worth It?
10 Jul
Exterior Accessories

Our Take on the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack: Worth It?

Our Take on the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack: Worth It?

We recently tested the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack, and we’re impressed with its versatility. This 4-piece J-bar system mounts easily to most crossbars, providing secure transport for kayaks, canoes, and SUPs. What sets this rack apart is its folding design-when not in use, it collapses down, solving the clearance issues we’ve experienced with fixed racks.

The included four tie-down straps are a thoughtful addition, eliminating the need for separate purchases. During our highway test, the rack held our kayaks firmly with minimal noise. Installation was straightforward, taking us about 30 minutes without specialized tools.

While the powder coating seems durable, we recommend checking the tightness of bolts before long trips. Overall, at this price point, we believe this rack offers excellent value for occasional to regular paddlers looking for a practical solution.

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