Taking Our Kayaking adventures to New Heights with the YAKIMA BigStack
When it comes to transporting multiple kayaks or canoes for our group excursions, finding the right roof rack system has always been a challenge. That’s why we were excited to test out the YAKIMA BigStack Rooftop Mounted Boat Rack, which promises to carry up to 4 boats on a single vehicle. After several weekend trips to various waterways, we’re ready to share our experience with this versatile roof rack system.
Founded by passionate kayakers and cyclists Steve Cole and Don Banducci, yakima has earned its reputation among outdoor enthusiasts for quality gear that expands our adventure possibilities. The BigStack embodies this ideology,allowing us to transport our entire fleet of kayaks on one vehicle rather of coordinating multiple cars for our paddling expeditions. With its folding design, universal crossbar compatibility, and robust construction, the BigStack seemed promising on paper-but how did it perform in real-world conditions? Let’s dive into our hands-on review of this popular boat rack system.
Our Honest Take on the YAKIMA BigStack Rooftop boat Rack
After testing this rack on several weekend kayaking trips, we’re thoroughly impressed with its versatility and durability. The SteelCore construction truly lives up to its ”tough as nails” promise, providing remarkable stability even when fully loaded with multiple boats. We especially appreciate the universal mounting system that seamlessly fits various crossbar styles – from round and square to factory and aerodynamic designs.The folding design is a brilliant feature for those of us with limited garage clearance, allowing everyday driving without the hassle of complete removal.
The thoughtful padding and protection features really set this rack apart from competitors.Premium HullGuard padding effectively prevents scratches on our kayaks, while the included heavy-duty straps with coated metal buckles protect both vehicles and gear from damage. The anchorhead tie-down system makes securing multiple boats remarkably straightforward, eliminating the frustration of tangled straps. Hear’s what impressed us most:
- Ability to carry up to 4 boats concurrently
- Universal hardware compatibility with minimal setup
- premium padding to protect expensive kayaks
- Foldable design for everyday convenience
- Exceptional steel frame construction
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| SteelCore Construction | Handles rough roads and heavy boats with ease |
| Folding Design | maintains garage clearance when not in use |
| Universal Hardware | Fits virtually any crossbar system (24″ minimum spread) |
Get Your BigStack Rack Today for Your Next Adventure!
Key Features That Make the BigStack Stand Out
The universal crossbar compatibility makes this rack an exceptional choice for virtually any vehicle setup. Whether you have round, square, factory, or aerodynamic crossbars, the built-in hardware fits seamlessly without additional adapters. We particularly appreciate the SteelCore construction that utilizes a rigid steel tube frame, providing exceptional durability even when hauling multiple boats over rough terrain. The thoughtful design allows the rack to fold down when not in use, ensuring you can still park in your garage without the hassle of complete removal.
Protection for your investment is clearly a priority with the premium HullGuard padding that shields boats from scratches and road damage. The included heavy-duty straps feature coated metal buckles that protect both your vehicle and gear from unwanted scuffs, while the innovative AnchorHead tie-down system makes managing multiple kayak straps straightforward and efficient. For added security, the rack is compatible with SKS (Same Key System) Lock Cores, though these are sold separately.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Capacity | Carries up to 4 boats |
| Construction | Steel tube frame for maximum strength |
| Crossbar Fit | Universal (24″ minimum spread) |
| Storage | Foldable design when not in use |
ready for adventure? Get your BigStack today!
How the BigStack Performed During Our Summer Adventures
Our summer kayaking season put this rack through its paces, and we couldn’t be more impressed. The SteelCore construction proved its worth when we hauled four kayaks across bumpy mountain roads to reach remote lakes. Even with a fully loaded rack, we noticed minimal swaying and excellent stability. The universal mounting system attached perfectly to our factory crossbars with no additional adapters needed, while the HullGuard padding kept our boats scratch-free despite the jostling from rough terrain. We particularly appreciated how the included heavy-duty straps with coated buckles secured everything without damaging our vehicle’s finish.
Perhaps the most convenient feature we discovered was the fold-down design. After unloading our kayaks at the river, we could quickly collapse the rack, which allowed us to park in low-clearance areas without removal. The AnchorHead tie-down system simplified strap management considerably, especially when loading multiple boats in a hurry before an incoming storm. Here’s how our various watercraft fared when transported:
| Boat Type | Number Carried | Stability Rating | Loading Ease |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whitewater Kayaks | 4 | Excellent | very Easy |
| Sea Kayaks | 3 | Very Good | Easy |
| Recreational Kayaks | 4 | Excellent | Very Easy |
Get Your BigStack For Your Next Adventure!
Smart Design Choices and Installation Tips for Kayak Enthusiasts
we’ve found the intelligent design elements of this rack truly stand out for serious paddlers.The SteelCore construction provides exceptional durability even when fully loaded with multiple boats, while the premium HullGuard padding ensures your precious kayaks remain scratch-free during transport. What impresses us most is the thoughtful universal hardware that accommodates virtually any crossbar style-round,square,factory,or aerodynamic-without requiring additional adapters. For installation, ensure your crossbars have at least 24″ of spread, and take advantage of the folding feature when not in use so you can still access your garage without hassle.
When securing your kayaks, the included heavy-duty straps with coated metal buckles offer significant advantages over standard tie-downs. The clever AnchorHead features make managing multiple straps remarkably simple, especially when loading up to four boats for group adventures. We recommend following this mounting sequence for optimal stability:
| Loading Step | Technique | Safety Check |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Mounting | Center rack on crossbars | Verify 24″+ spacing |
| Boat Placement | Alternate hull direction | Check padding contact |
| Strap securing | Use AnchorHead system | Test strap tension |
Get Your BigStack rack Today for Your Next Paddling Adventure!
Customer Reviews Analysis
Customer Reviews Analysis
We’ve scoured through dozens of customer reviews to provide you with a extensive analysis of the YAKIMA BigStack’s real-world performance. After organizing feedback from users spanning multiple years, we’ve identified several consistent trends that paint a clear picture of this popular kayak carrier.
Durability and Longevity
The BigStack appears to be quite resilient, with one customer reporting 10+ years of reliable use. Another reviewer highlighted the rack’s surprising durability after accidentally damaging it: “I accidentally left them up and damaged one by running into our roof. Damaged the roof rack too, but everything popped back together and performed fine.”
Installation and Ease of use
Most users find the BigStack straightforward to install,with several mentioning the process takes less than ten minutes. The fold-down feature received consistent praise, eliminating the need to remove the rack when not in use.Though, some owners expressed frustration with assembly and noted the product doesn’t fit back into its original packaging once assembled.
| Positive Features | Common Complaints |
|---|---|
| Quick installation (under 10 minutes) | Poor instruction manual |
| Fold-down feature when not in use | Insufficient straps for 3-4 boats |
| high-quality straps with secure buckles | Plastic components at stress points |
| Ability to carry up to 4 kayaks | No included locks (sold separately) |
Performance on the Road
When properly secured, the BigStack performs admirably at highway speeds. Multiple reviewers reported successful trips at 55-80 mph without issues. One customer emphatically stated,”If your kayaks are not secure using this rack,you are doing it wrong. The rack works.” However, some users noted stability issues in strong crosswinds.
Value Consideration
While generally considered a good entry-level option, several customers mentioned the need to purchase additional accessories. One pointed out: “You only get enough straps to secure two kayaks, and even then, you only have bow and stern lines for one.” Another complained about having to purchase lock cores separately for an additional $55.
The Verdict Based on Customer Experience
The BigStack emerges as a functional, budget-amiable option for transporting multiple kayaks, though it comes with some compromises. It serves well as an entry-level carrier, but those seeking premium features might want to consider higher-end alternatives.For multi-kayak transport capabilities at a reasonable price point, however, most users found the BigStack to be a worthwhile purchase despite its limitations.
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- extraordinary Capacity: We easily loaded four kayaks without any stability issues – perfect for our group adventures.
- Universal Compatibility: The rack fitted perfectly on our vehicle’s crossbars with no additional adaptors needed.
- Solid Construction: The SteelCore frame provided exceptional durability even when fully loaded on rough terrain.
- HullGuard Protection: We appreciated how the padding prevented scratches on our boats during transport.
- Foldable Design: When not in use, we could fold it down and still park in standard garages without removal.
- Quality Straps Included: The heavy-duty straps with coated buckles secured our kayaks without damaging the vehicle.
Room for Improvement
- Assembly Time: We spent longer than expected putting it together the first time - instructions could be clearer.
- Lock Cores Sold Separately: We had to purchase SKS locks additionally to fully secure our equipment.
- Wind noise: At highway speeds, we noticed considerable wind noise even with the rack folded down.
- Loading Challenge: Loading the top kayaks required significant height and strength, which might be difficult for shorter users.
- Strap Management: With multiple kayaks loaded, keeping all straps organized became somewhat cumbersome.
- Price Point: While the quality justifies it,the investment is on the higher side compared to simpler racks.
| Feature | Performance Rating | Our Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Loading Capacity | 5/5 | Easily handled all 4 boats as advertised |
| Durability | 5/5 | Withstood rough forest roads with no issues |
| Ease of Installation | 3.5/5 | Initial setup took 45 minutes |
| Boat Protection | 4.5/5 | No scratches after 200+ miles of transport |
| Value for Money | 4/5 | Premium price but built to last years |
Discover the Power
## adventure-Ready Versatility
In wrapping up our journey with the YAKIMA BigStack, we’ve come to appreciate why this rooftop rack system has earned its reputation among outdoor enthusiasts.The ability to transport up to four boats securely has transformed our weekend adventures, allowing our entire group to hit the water without the logistical headaches of multiple vehicles.
We were particularly impressed by the universal crossbar compatibility and the thoughtful inclusion of heavy-duty straps with protective coated buckles. The premium HullGuard padding gave us peace of mind knowing our kayaks remained scratch-free, even on bumpy forest roads. and when not in use, the fold-down design means we can still park in our garage without any hassle.
From whitewater rapids to serene lakes, the YAKIMA BigStack has proven to be a reliable companion that embodies the wild, adventurous spirit of its founders. Its SteelCore construction has handled everything we’ve thrown at it with unwavering strength.Ready to expand your own water adventures? Don’t let transportation limitations hold you back.
Click here to get your YAKIMA BigStack and start planning your next multi-boat expedition!
