Best J Racks for Kayak: A Comprehensive Guide
J racks, also known as j cradles are the most popular type of kayak racks worldwide. They not only give you more space on the roof but also give your car an aesthetic look while transporting your kayak.
In this article, we will discuss what is a j cradle, what are their pros and cons, why should you buy a j rack, what you need to look for when buying a j rack, and most importantly what is the best j rack for your car?
Our Verdict
The Yakima JayLow is a kayak rack that got all the aspects covered. This kayak carrier has everything – it’s made of aluminum, it folds up to save space on your car, and it locks securely into place with SKS system and it comes fully assembled, which means you can install it on your vehicle in minutes without any fuss.
And this rack can double as a stacker when storing 2 kayaks at once – perfect if you need to carry more than one boat! If you want a roof rack with all the bells and whistles, then go ahead and get yourself the Yakima JayLow!.
What Is a J Style Kayak rack?
J style kayak rack is a special type of ‘J-shape’ kayak rack that allows you to carry two kayaks on the roof of your car at an approximately 45-degree angle, increasing your car’s storage space and giving it an aesthetic look while transporting your kayak.
It is the fastest and the easiest way to haul a kayak on your car roof with utmost security.
And nowadays most of the j cradles come with a foldable option to increase your car’s aerodynamics and gas mileage. Also, a foldable j rack gives your car low overhead clearance.
Overall, J-style kayak racks are the most versatile of kayak racks for long trips because it gives plenty of roof space for other cargos.
Advantages of J Style Kayak Racks
A J cradle comes with many advantages. The most prominent feature of all of them is the space it gives you as the traveler on your roof to carry other loads while transporting your kayak safely and securely.
Another perk of a j rack is that it is easy to load, easy to strap down the kayak, and easy to remove the kayak by yourself.
Another advantage of a j rack is the foldability feature of most j racks. And this allows you to keep the roof rack on top of your car without significantly affecting your fuel cost.
And most important of all, it is a low-budget rack. costing only 30$ to 160$ on average.
Disadvantages of J Style Kayak Racks
J-style kayak racks don’t have any disadvantages. They cover all the needs that a user might need in a kayak carrier.
The one and only factor j racks might lack is their low storage capacity. You can’t carry a very heavy fishing kayak or sea kayak on these racks.
Also, you can only carry two kayaks with two sets of j-racks on your roof max. If you want to carry 4 kayaks you have to go for a Stacker-style kayak rack.
Also, if you want a foldable j rack you have to pay more, as they are more expensive than regular unfoldable j racks.
Pros and Cons of having a J rack
Guide to Buying a J rack
Frequency of use
You should consider how often are you going to paddle a week before buying a kayak rack. If you paddle more frequently, you should buy foldable j racks with a lock system.
Because when you are a frequent kayaker there is no point in trying to install and remove every time.
And when you are keeping your j rack on your car, you should have the option to fold it down when you are not using it for low parking or garage clearance.
But if you paddle a few times a month, you should get a basic traditional j rack. They are easy to install and simple to remove. Plus these basic ones are very low cost. So, you can save a bit by buying these unfoldable j racks.
Weight Capacity
Another factor you should take into consideration is how much weight can these racks hold. If you have a whitewater kayak, like most people you won’t have a problem.
But if you have a fishing kayak, you should definitely take a moment to double-check the weight capacity.
In the end, it doesn’t really matter if you have a 20-pound kayak, a 40-pound kayak, or a 120-pound kayak. But knowing this limit is important because it will help you determine the right rack for your kayak.
Number of Kayaks
The number of kayaks you want to carry is a big factor when choosing your j rack. If you want to carry 4 kayaks, you should buy stacker-style racks.
Because j racks are made for carrying up to 2 kayaks securely. You can carry 3 or 4 kayaks, but that will not be a secure option. Then again with the IKURAM on the middle of your roof, you can tie down 4 kayaks like stacker style (Not recommended).
Your Crossbars
Take a note of your crossbar, the length, and the shape before buying. Check if your crossbar is compatible with it. It is an utmost important factor. What good will the j rack be if you cannot install it on your crossbar?
Best Kayak J Roof Rack Overall
Yakima JayLow’s Folding J-Cradle Top-of-the-Line Kayak Rack is the best choice in this best j racks list because of its functional and practical features.
It’s beautifully constructed and very durable. It’s the perfect kind of j cradle manufactured by One of the top brands in this industry.
This JayLow is a standard J rack that has the added benefit of stacker mode.
In the j rack mode, its arm is locked at an angle of 45 degrees, and it can carry a single kayak. In the stacker mode, the arm is locked to 90 degrees, which means you can put two kayaks on each side of the arm, similar to the stacker models.
It can hold a boat of 80 pounds or two boats of 110 pounds combined.
It’s designed to work with Yakima SteamLine as well as square, round, factory, and aerodynamic crossbars. And it also includes adapters for Yakima round bars.
However, the adapters can also be used in conjunction with other round load bars too. It is important to note that there must be at least 24 in. of the distance between your crossbars for you to utilize the JayLow.
Additionally, it has durable contact points that are padded to provide safety and grip during travel.
One of the best features of this rack it comes complete straight out of the box. It isn’t necessary to spend our valuable time building it.
It’s also very easy to put together, you just need to join the rack’s clamps onto your bars, then close the thumbscrews. We should also note it comes equipped with high-quality bow and stern tie-downs as well as securing straps.
Another feature that is convenient is the SKS (same key system) security system Yakima offers. One key unlocks and locks all of your Yakima equipment, and possibly everyone else’s.
It’s a good anti-theft device. While it would be ideal to include it but it’s available as an extra item to buy.
We love our Yakima JayLow. It might be built to be a convenience. But it’s not the most light on the cost but also it isn’t lacking in features.
Best J Rack of Low Cost
If you’re looking for racks that are easy to budget You should consider this rack by T-Motorsports. It is extremely popular with kayakers.
It is strong, made from alloy steel, and easy to put together. It is the best j rack option for casual kayakers.
The rack is known amongst kayakers because it’s strong and durable. This wide-mouthed j-shape rack can hold a larger vessel. For example, the touring or sea kayak.
It can hold the dimensions of a kayak measuring 36 inches in width and 75 pounds in weight.
It also comes with adjustable pads for the carrying arms to safeguard your boats from being damaged during transport. The rack can also be mounted on any kind of crossbar.
It is necessary to do some assembly following the unboxing of the rack. The components you need are already in the rack.
There have been some who were unhappy with the assembly instructions included with the rack. However, the assembly process isn’t that difficult. (see this video)
It comes with universal fitting clamps which are similar to other racks made of j-style. You can carry your kayak without difficulty by loading it from the car’s side.
The j cradle can hold your kayak at a 45-degree angle, which allows room for other things like bicycles or luggage, and so on.
It includes two straps to tie down the kayak, however, we recommend purchasing additional straps to ensure an even more secure tie-down.
The only features that this rack does not have are the folding options as well as a locking mechanism. With this price range, it is the most suitable option that we could find.
Thanks to its attributes, this tough steel rack is sure to convince you to put it on your vehicle.
Best J Racks for 2 Kayaks
If you’re looking for a rack that could entice you with its capabilities and flexibility, it’s the Bilateral Premier J rack by IKURAM.
Within a short time since its introduction, it’s been a hit among kayakers. It comes with everything you require in a kayak carrier, except the locking mechanism.
The rack, which is part of a new brand IKURAM, has a variety of functions. It can, for instance, carry one kayak J-style and two kayak stacker-style vertically as well as two kayaks that are saddle-style horizontally.
It is only necessary to alter the angle of its arm such as 45-degree, 90-degree, and zero-degree.
It’s simple to put together and fits nearly all types of crossbars. It’s just a matter of searching the crossbar’s height, as the bolts on this rack are lengthy.
Therefore, if you are using low-profile crossbars, they may scratch the roof. If you’ve got a crossbar with a higher profile you’re good to go. It also has a rubber pad to protect your kayak.
One of the best things about this rack is it includes cradles for your paddles to be carried.
We’ll now discuss what you should know prior to purchasing this rack. The first is that the manual that comes from the company is like isn’t even available (check the installation tutorial down below).
Additionally, the strap that comes with it may not be sufficient so you’ll have to purchase additional straps and a ratchet. The third reason is that it does not have a lock mechanism.
This product isn’t without its flaws. They had an idea but were unable to implement it in a proper manner. In the end, there aren’t any racks that can perform such features at this affordable price for four j cradles.
Rhino Racks S512 is also one of the kayak racks that we can call the “best kayak j rack for 2 kayaks”. It is an old-fashioned j-cradle that has additional features that are useful.
As Yakima Jaylow the Rhino Rack S512 is also fully put together and ready to use out of the box. It’s made of aluminum, which makes it resistant to corrosion and rust.
It is also padded with rubber to safeguard your boat. One thing that sets it apart from the rest of the j racks is the fact that it comes with an area for carrying paddles.
The S512 can be adjusted to any position you’d like. It can be folded down to 0-degree to allow overhead clearance, 45 degrees to carry as conventional J-style racks, and 90-degree for carrying two kayaks on each side.
It is possible to tie the second kayak onto the crossbar. If you’re not ready to risk it, you can buy the extension Rhino Rack provides to have cushions on both sides.
It comes fully assembled, is easy to set up, and fits nearly all types of crossbars. Additionally, it comes with top-quality straps for loading and tie-downs.
The only aspect that makes it inferior to Jaylow is the fact it does not have a locking mechanism.
The price is reasonable. It’s a good option for you if you believe that the locking system is unneeded and inefficient.
Best Advanced Folding J Racks
The Hull-aport XT j-cradle is made by Thule, one of the best-known brands in the automotive storage market.
There are no features in any j cradle of any manufacturer that this Hulla-port XT isn’t equipped with, aside from the paddle-carrying system. It’s extremely useful and practical.
The Thule Hull-a-port XT is a traditional j-rack, with the added benefit of stacker mode. In j-rack, the arm is locked into 45 degrees, and it can carry a single kayak this way.
In the stacker mode, it locks the arm to 90 degrees, which means it is possible to carry two kayaks on each side of the arm in the stacker design. It can carry a boat that weighs 75lbs or two boats that weigh 110 lbs together.
It can be used with square, round, aerodynamic, factory, or any kind of crossbar due to its universal design for mounting. It also features sturdy padded contact points that offer protection and grip when traveling.
It is also possible to fold it down to increase the overhead clearance and fuel efficiency.
One of the most convenient aspects of this rack is that it is complete out of the box. It isn’t necessary to spend our time assembling it.
It’s also very easy to set up, simply attach the rack’s clamps onto the bars and then tighten using the stardriver. We should also note that Hullaport XT comes with heavy-duty bow and stern tie-downs as well as securing straps.
Additionally, an Integrated StrapCatch helps to easily manage straps while loading kayaks.
Another feature that is convenient is the one key locking system, similar to that of the SKS technology from Yakima. One key lock and unlock the entire Thule equipment and probably any other’s.
It’s a good security system to prevent theft. Though it would have been good to have it as part of the package, however, it’s sold as a separate product.
We’ve all heard of Thule and the quality of its products. The Hull-aport XT is no less. It is clear that it’s one of the best J rack available on the market.
The Malone Downloader j-style kayak rack is constructed of rust-free and corrosion-resistant aluminum.
The reason we have included this product is that it comes with a built-in “loading ramp” to help you unload and load your kayak.
This is a classic J-style rack that gives you the space you need on your roof. It features a fold-down feature that gives you access to low clearance even when not using.
It also comes with the capacity to carry 75 pounds as do other J racks. It also has extra-large padding for the cradle arms to guard your boat against scratches.
It is very easy to install. It is also equipped with JAWZ Mounting hardware which will fit square, round, and many oval cross rails that are made by the manufacturers.
It also comes with 60mm and 70mm bolts for mounting. The instructions are easy to follow too.
The most valuable characteristic of this j style rack is that it has a built-in “loading ramp”. It’s a tiny inclined plane that aids in loading and unloading heavy kayaks, especially for those who are short.
It’s also compatible with Tellos Load Assist Module for those who are struggling in raising their kayaks. With this device, you need to raise your kayak to the waist, making it simple if you’re lifting your kayak on your own.
At this price point, it is only missing the locking feature, but it compensates with the ramp for loading.
Best Basic Folding J Rack
DrsportsUSA folding kayak j cradle for kayaks is possibly the most affordable J rack that folds. However, that doesn’t mean it’s poor. It’s got all the fundamental attributes of a foldable J rack.
The wide-mouthed j-shape rack can be used to carry larger boats, for example, an ocean or touring kayak. It can hold up to 150 pounds weight.
It is also equipped with an adjustable pad on its arms to safeguard your boats from being damaged during transport. This rack can be attached to any kind of crossbar, except the broad crossbars.
It is easy to install. It comes with universal fitting clamps similar to other J-style racks. It can be loaded with your kayak without difficulty on the car’s side.
You can use it with a 45° angle, which makes room for other items such as a bicycle rack, luggage, cargo box, etc, or at 90-degree to accommodate two kayaks both on one side.
You can fold it at a 0-degree angle to allow for overhead clearance. The unit includes two straps to load that is included, however, we suggest purchasing extra straps for the most secure tie-down.
The only things missing in this rack are the locking mechanism as well as an additional compartment to store additional straps, as well as paddle storage.
Additional Tip: Once you have purchased it, make sure you verify the product before the return window is closed because there are times when a component is missing.
If you’re on a tight budget and are needing something basic. It might be a good idea to consider this rack.
Best Basic J style Rack
If you’re in search of an affordable j style rack that isn’t expensive, then you should consider this rack by Ecotric. It’s very basic, but it has all the essential features.
It is durable, constructed from alloy steel, and is easy to put in. It is a good choice for those who are only occasional kayakers.
This rack is extra strong and tough. The wide-mouthed j-shape rack can be used to carry larger boats like the touring or sea kayak.
It can hold any kayak that is 36 inches in width and 150 pounds of weight. It has adjustable pads on the arms to shield your boat from being damaged. It can also be fixed to any kind of crossbar, except for the oval and round crossbars.
It’s easy to install. It’s possible to carry your kayak with ease by loading from the side of your vehicle. The j-cradle can hold your kayak at a 45-degree angle that allows space for other items such as bicycles or luggage or other items.
It includes four straps for loading that are included, however, we suggest purchasing extra straps to provide the most secure tie-down.
In this rack, the options you may not have are folding options and the locking system. For the price, this is the most suitable option that we can make. With this pick, we conclude our list of best j racks for kayaks.
FAQs
Why Should I Buy a J Style Kayak Rack?
If you are still not convinced about the purchase of J Style Kayak Rack. Let me make it clear to you, that you won’t find any other style of kayak racks to be this much low cost with the versatilities j racks have. They are popular for a reason.
You can use a cheaper basic j rack if you carry a kayak for short distances rarely. But if you go kayaking frequently with long-distance travel, you will have to buy an expensive one that you can use for a long time.
For an efficient, easy, and secure way to transport 2 kayaks, a j rack is the most suitable choice.
How Much Do J Style Kayak Racks Cost?
J-style kayak racks are on the cheaper side of the spectrum. They are affordable with a lot of flexibility.
J-style kayak racks typically cost between $30 and $160.
The low-cost j racks are very basic. They don’t have that many options to work with. At this price range, the manufacturer tries to provide the best quality product they can give.
You shouldn’t have any problem with these racks if you are traveling short distances.
On the other hand, if you are a frequent kayaker, you should buy foldable ones. Because they are worth the money. They have options like foldable, and lock systems, and even some have lift assist options.
These premium types of j roof racks are very expensive. But overall, J-style racks give you the best value for the money.
How to carry the kayak from the car to the launch point after carrying the kayak on a j-rack?
Buy a kayak cart for carrying the kayak to the launch point.
What is the best j rack?
The best j rack is the YAKIMA JayLow J-Style
What is the best j rack at a low cost?
The best j rack at a low cost is the TMS J-Bar
What is the best j rack for carrying 2 kayaks?
The best j rack for carrying 2 kayaks is the IKURAM R J-Style
What is the best folding j rack?
The best folding j rack is the Thule Hull-a-Port XT
What is the best lift assist j rack?
The best lift assist j rack is the Rhino Rack S512
Our Verdict
The Yakima JayLow is a kayak rack that got all the aspects covered. This kayak carrier has everything – it’s made of aluminum, it folds up to save space on your car, and it locks securely into place with SKS system and it comes fully assembled, which means you can install it on your vehicle in minutes without any fuss.
And this rack can double as a stacker when storing 2 kayaks at once – perfect if you need to carry more than one boat! If you want a roof rack with all the bells and whistles, then go ahead and get yourself the Yakima JayLow!.
Visit our kayak rack section for more kayak rack guides.