Kayak and Canoe Loading Systems

Kayak and Canoe Lading Systems – The best ways to load a water-craft onto your vehicle roof

Kayaking and canoeing is becoming more popular as a sport or pastime. As a result, we created this quick guide for kayak and canoe loading to make it easier to get your craft on the roof, and get you back on the road!

Options for loading a kayak can be performed from the either the side of the vehicle, or from the rear of the vehicle.

Things to keep in mind:

• The self-weight of the kayak – Understanding the watercraft’s weight is crucial for assessing the physical effort required during the loading process.
• What strength ability you have to lift this kayak – Evaluate whether you have the physical capability to comfortably lift and maneuver your kayak or canoe onto the roof of your vehicle.
• What height your roof racks are from the ground – Take into account the distance from the ground to your roof racks, as this will impact the ease of hoisting your kayak or canoe to the desired position.
• Your load carrying capacity of your roof racks – Ensure that your vehicle’s roof racks can safely support the weight of your kayak or canoe without exceeding their specified load limits. This step is vital for the safety of your equipment and your journey.

Side Loaders

• Thule Hullavator Pro 898AU – Perfect for those with heavy craft (up to 35kg), and for people who have had shoulder reconstruction/surgery. This is the top of the range, best system on the market as it’s a gas strutted assisted lifter that drops down the side of the car. (Not suitable for low family sedan type vehicles or high work vans. This fitment will need specific types of bars with certain overhang dimension).
  
  
• >Rhino Rack NKL – A complete system for easily loading and unloading of kayaks or canoes. It’s the only loader in the market that has an 80kg load capacity and doesn’t require heavy lifting, and using the included hand winch, a single person can operate this loader. The ramps are designed to unclip quickly and are stored on the roof of your vehicle beside your kayak or canoe when not in operation.
  
  
• Rhino Rack RUSL – A simpler more efficient system is a universal side loader. This particular model simply clips onto overhang type bars (certain brands), extending your cross bar width. In this instance, you will need to be able to lift half the weight of the kayak or canoe onto this unit, you’ll then walk around to the rear of your vehicle to push the kayak onto the roof.
  
  
• Rhino Rack 580 – Cradles that form the shape of the kayak or canoe can also help with loading. These stylish, low profile cradles are simple to use and the perfect loading system for your kayak and canoes (as long as you are able to lift your craft to the height of your roof racks). The Rhino Rack 580 is compatible with all current roof rack systems that feature a top bar channel and comes with four tie down straps. 

Want to see our entire range? Have a look at our side loading options.

Rear Loaders

• Yakima SweetRoll  – We think this system is the best unit currently on the market! With inbuilt rollers on the rear cradles, it makes it super easy to load for any kayak or canoe up to 36kg. Simply lift the front of the craft onto the rear roller, then lift the rear and roll away! It also comes with front and rear tie downs as well as another set of tie downs to secure craft to the cradles. Perfect.
  
  
• Yakima ShowBoat 66  – This unit works extremely well on cars and 4wds that have a large spoiler on the back or are too high, and consists of a large roller that can be extended out from the back of the car.
  
  
• Rhino Rack T loader  – This T-Load Hitch Mount allows you to easily load your kayak, canoe, and other long loads onto your vehicle. Simply lower the T-Load and use it as a leverage to load your kayak or canoe. As you lift the rear end of the craft, push forward to begin loading. This means you are only controlling approx. half the weight.
  
  
• Rhino Rack 581  – Complete with two front santoprene rubber pads designed to cushion your kayak or canoe, and two rear spring loaded felt covered pads for ease of rear mounting. This system is simple to use and the perfect loading system for your kayak and canoes as long as you are able to lift your craft to the height of your roof rack. It also comes with four tie down straps.

Want to see our entire range? Have a look through our rear loaders.

Not all these systems will be compatible with your roof rack system. Please call our dedicated team.

 

Important Safety Notes

It is necessary to tie your watercraft down onto your roof racks using non-stretch straps on both the front and back of your vehicle to properly secure your load while travelling. Improperly secured loads are dangerous and illegal.

Do not overload your roof racks. This can cause damage to your roof racks or your vehicle.

Do not exceed the carrying capacity of your roof racks and vehicle roof capacity – See our our handy guide for Calculating Load Ratings and better understand your capacity for kayak and canoe loading.