If you’re in the market for a kayak roof rack and your car doesn’t have roof rails, don’t despair! There are a number of great options available to you that will safely and securely transport your kayak. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best kayak rack for cars without rails. We’ll consider factors such as ease of installation, price, and durability to help you choose the best option for your needs. So read on to find out more about the best kayak roof rack for cars without rails!
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- The straps go through the door frames, and attach the rack on top of...
- Comes with a pair of crossbars Heavy duty steel tube make it strong...
- Crossbars are adjustable in position. Install in minutes and...
- DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN!* The attached ratchet tie down ensures the roof...
- It doesn't fit two door cars. Don't install any rack on it. The...
One option for transporting your kayak without roof rails is a kayak carrier. Kayak carriers are a great option if you’re looking for something that is easy to install and doesn’t require any additional hardware. There are a number of different kayak carriers available, so you can find one that best suits your needs. Some of the factors you’ll want to consider when choosing a kayak carrier include the weight capacity, the type of mount (e.g., strap or bolt-on), and whether it is compatible with your vehicle.
Another option for transporting your kayak without roof rails is a universal car rack system. These systems are designed to fit on virtually any vehicle, making them a great choice if you have multiple cars or if you plan to transport your kayak on different vehicles. Universal car rack systems typically come with a variety of mounts that can be used to attach the rack to your car. They also often have a weight capacity of up to 100 pounds, which is more than enough for most kayaks.
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you may want to consider a roof rack system that is specifically designed for cars without rails. These racks consist of crossbars and attachments that are installed on top of your vehicle’s roof, and they provide a secure place to attach your kayak. One downside of roof rack systems is that they can be expensive, but they are typically very durable and can last for many years.
Ultimately, the best kayak roof rack for cars without rails depends on your individual needs and preferences. So be sure to consider all of your options before making a decision. And whatever you do, don’t forget to safety strap your kayak in place!
Top 4 Best Kayak Roof Rack for Cars Without Rails
1. Malone VersaRail Bare Roof Cross Rail Rack
For many people, kayaking is the perfect way to spend a day on the water. However, transporting a kayak can be challenging, especially if you don’t have a roof rack. The Malone VersaRail is the perfect solution for cars without rails. This bare roof cross rail rack attaches to your car’s door frame, providing a secure base for your kayak. The VersaRail also includes two saddles, which support your kayak and help to prevent it from slipping or sliding during transport.
In addition, the Malone VersaRail is easy to install and remove, so you can take it on and off as needed. If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use kayak rack for cars without rails, the Malone VersaRail is a great option.
This Malone roof rack is a bare rail system that installs quickly and easily with no tools required. The corrosion-resistant load bar coating ensures your gear stays safe and secure, while the rectangular shape fits most rack accessories. With a 135 lb. load capacity and 75 lb. pull strength vacuum tower bases, this rack can handle whatever you throw at it. 1. 5″ wide safety attachment straps provide a stable and secure hold.
Pros:
- Easy installation.
- No tools required.
- Corrosion-resistant coating.
- Fits most rack accessories.
- Stable and secure hold.
Cons:
- None that we could find!
2. SEAH HARDWARE Universal Roof Rack Cross-Bars 2 PC.
There are a few things to consider when choosing the best kayak rack for your car. If your car doesn’t have roof rails, you’ll need a rack that can be secured to the roof without them. The SEAH HARDWARE Universal Roof Rack Cross-Bars are a great option for cars without roof rails. They’re easy to install and remove, and they come with all the hardware you need. The cross-bars are also adjustable, so you can customize them to fit your car’s roof.
Seah’s Hardware Universal Roof Rack Cross-Bars are a perfect fit for almost all four-door cars without side rails. The crossbars are adjustable in position and install in minutes, making it easy to get your gear up and secured on top of your car. Made from heavy-duty steel tubing, these crossbars are strong and safe, giving you the peace of mind you need when traveling with your gear.
Pros:
- Universal fit for most cars without side rails
- Easy installation
- Adjustable in position
- Made from heavy-duty steel tubing.
Cons:
- None that we could find!
3. HandiRack – The Original Inflatable Soft Roof Rack
When it comes to transporting kayaks, there are a variety of options available. For cars without roof racks, one option is the HandiRack – The Original Inflatable Soft Roof Rack. This rack is designed to be universal and will work with most cars and SUVs. It includes tie-down straps and bow and stern lines, making it easy to secure your kayak. Another option is the Malone Auto Racks Xtralight2 Kayak Carrier.
This carrier is designed for vehicles with or without roof racks and features padded foam blocks to protect your kayak during transport. Finally, the Yakima JayLow Kayak Carrier is a great option for cars with roof racks. This carrier allows you to transport one or two kayaks and includes a built-in strap system to secure them in place.
Pros:
- Universal design will work with most cars and SUVs
- Includes tie-down straps and bow and stern lines
- Padded foam blocks protect kayak during transport
Cons:
- May not be suitable for large kayaks or canoes
4. Best Marine Roof Rack Pads.
If you’re an avid kayaker, you know that having a good rack system for your car is essential. Not only does it make transporting your kayak easier, but it also helps to protect your investment. When choosing a rack system for your car, one of the most important things to consider is how to attach it without damaging your car’s paint job. That’s where the Best Marine Roof Rack Pads come in.
These Universal Roof Rack Carriers are designed to fit virtually any car, SUV, or van – no matter what kind of roof rack system you have. And because they’re made with soft, durable foam padding, they won’t scratch or dent your car’s finish. Plus, they come with all the straps and hardware you need to attach them to your roof. So if you’re looking for the best way to transport your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, don’t forget the Best Marine Roof Rack Pads.
Pros:
- Fits virtually any car, SUV, or van
- Protects your car’s finish from scratches and dings
- Comes with all the straps and hardware you need to attach them to your roof
Cons:
- Not compatible with cars that have rails on the roof.
Best Kayak Racks Cars without Rails Buying Guide
If you are looking for the best kayak roof rack for cars without rails, then you have come to the right place. In this buying guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed purchase.
We will start by discussing the different types of kayak roof racks available on the market and then move on to discuss the factors you should consider when choosing a roof rack. Finally, we will recommend some of the best kayak roof racks for cars without rails on the market.
Types of Kayak Roof Racks
There are three main types of kayak roof racks: strap-on roof racks, tower-mounted roof racks, and clamps-on roof racks. Let’s take a closer look at each of these types of roof racks.
Strap-On Roof Racks
Strap-on roof racks are the most popular type of kayak roof rack and they are easy to install and use. These racks consist of a pair of straps that attach to the car’s roof bars and then secure the kayak in place.
Pros: Strap-on roof racks are easy to install and use and they are also very affordable. They can also be used with a variety of different vehicles, including cars without rails.
Cons: strap-on roof racks can be difficult to use with tall or wide kayaks. They can also be difficult to uninstall and store when not in use.
Tower-Mounted Roof Racks
Tower-mounted roof racks are a popular choice for kayaks that are wider or taller than the average kayak. These racks consist of a pair of towers that attach to the car’s roof bars and then secure the kayak in place.
Pros: Tower-mounted roof racks provide a lot of stability and can be used with a variety of different kayaks. They are also easy to install and use.
Cons: Tower-mounted roof racks can be expensive and they can also be difficult to install on cars without rails. They also take up a lot of space when not in use.
Clamps-On Roof Racks
Clamps-on roof racks are a popular choice for cars without roof rails. These racks consist of a pair of clamps that attach to the car’s door frames and then secure the kayak in place.
Pros: Clamps-on roof racks are easy to install and use and they are also very affordable. They can also be used with a variety of different vehicles, including cars without rails.
Cons: Clamps-on roof racks can be difficult to use with tall or wide kayaks. They can also be difficult to uninstall and store when not in use.
How can I carry a kayak in my car without a Rails?
One way to carry a kayak in your car is to attach it to the roof. This can be done with straps or ropes, depending on the size and weight of the kayak. Another option is to put the kayak inside the car, either on the floor or in the trunk. If you have a hatchback, you may be able to fit it inside without having to remove anything from the car first.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Kayak Roof Rack
When choosing a kayak roof rack, there are several factors you should consider, including:
- The weight and size of your kayak
- The type of vehicle you are using
- The type of roof rack you want to buy
The weight and size of your kayak
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a kayak roof rack is the weight and size of your kayak. Some roof racks are designed for smaller kayaks, while others are designed for larger kayaks. Make sure to choose a roof rack that is compatible with the weight and size of your kayak.
The Type Of Vehicle You Are Using
Another important factor to consider when choosing a kayak roof rack is the type of vehicle you are using. Some roof racks are designed for cars without rails, while others are designed for cars with roof rails. Make sure to choose a roof rack that is compatible with the type of vehicle you are using.
The Type Of Roof Rack You Want To Buy
Finally, another important factor to consider when choosing a kayak roof rack is the type of roof rack you want to buy. There are three main types of kayak roof racks: strap-on roof racks, tower-mounted roof racks, and clamps-on roof racks. Make sure to choose a roof rack that is compatible with the type of vehicle you are using and the type of kayak you have.
Frequently Asked Question:
Can you put a roof rack on a car without rails?
If your car didn’t come with roof racks, and it doesn’t have the factory-installed roof rails that are required for most aftermarket racks, you may be wondering if you can still install a rack. The answer is yes, but you’ll need to use clamps to attach the rack to your car’s roof. There are a few different types of clamps, but the most popular are tower clamps, which grip the door frame or weatherstripping. You’ll need four tower clamps for a complete system, and you can usually find them included in rack kits.
Once you have the clamps in place, you can add crossbars and other attachments as needed. Keep in mind that without roof rails, your options for attaching accessories will be limited, and you’ll need to use caution when driving on windy days or over bumpy roads. But if you’re willing to make a few compromises, it is possible to install a roof rack on a car without rails.
How do you transport a kayak without roof rails?
There are a few different ways to transport a kayak without roof rails. The most popular method is to use a kayak trailer. Kayak trailers are designed to be towed behind a car or SUV, and they typically have space for two or more kayaks. Another option is to use a kayak cart. These carts can be used to carry a kayak from the car to the water’s edge, and they usually have large wheels that make them easy to maneuver over uneven terrain.
Finally, some people choose to strap their kayaks directly to the roof of their vehicle. This requires special straps and loops that can be attached to the vehicle’s door frames or bumpers. Whichever method you choose, be sure to secure your kayak securely before hitting the road.
How do you install a kayak rack without rails?
One of the great things about kayaking is that it can be done in so many different locations. However, this also means that kayakers need to be creative when it comes to finding ways to transport their boats. For example, if you want to take your kayak out on a lake that doesn’t have any docks or launch ramps, you’ll need to find a way to get your boat from the shoreline to the water. One option is to install a kayak rack without rails. While this may sound daunting, it’s actually quite simple.
The first step is to find a level spot on the shoreline where you can position the rack. Once the rack is in place, you’ll need to secure it to the ground with either sandbags or stakes. Next, you’ll need to find two strong trees that are close together and attach the rack’s straps to them. Finally, you’ll need to place your kayak on the rack and secure it with straps or bungee cords. By following these steps, you’ll be able to transport your kayak without rails.
Can I put kayak directly on roof rack?
You can put a kayak directly on a roof rack, but it’s not the best way to transport your kayak. If you’re going to be driving for more than a couple of hours, it’s important to secure your kayak so that it doesn’t shift around and possibly fall off the roof. There are several ways to do this, but the most common is to use straps that go over the hull of the kayak and attach to the roof rack.
You can also use foam blocks or other devices designed specifically for transporting kayaks. Whichever method you choose, be sure to test it out before hitting the road so that you know your kayak is secure.
How fast can you drive with a kayak on the roof?
There’s no hard and fast answer to this question, as it depends on a number of factors, including the size and weight of the kayak, the speed limit, and road conditions. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should never exceed the speed limit by more than 10 miles per hour when driving with a kayak on the roof. In addition, be sure to allow for extra stopping distance in case of an emergency.
And finally, keep an eye out for low-hanging branches or other obstacles that could damage your kayak. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that you’ll have a safe and enjoyable time while out on the open road with your kayak.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an easy way to transport your kayak, a kayak rack is a perfect solution. But not all kayak racks are created equal. There are a few factors you’ll want to consider before purchasing a rack for your car. The first thing to think about is whether your car has roof rails or not. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to purchase a rack that attaches directly to your car windows or windshield. Once you know what type of rack you need, you can start considering other features like weight capacity and ease of installation. We hope this article has helped make the process of choosing a kayak rack easier. Let us know which one you decide on!