I Tested the Best Kayak Mounts for Jeep: A Complete Guide for Adventurers
When I first started exploring the great outdoors with my Jeep, I quickly realized that transporting my kayak safely and securely was a challenge. Finding the perfect kayak mount for my Jeep became a game-changer, transforming the way I hit the water and made the most of every adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just getting started, having the right setup not only protects your gear but also adds convenience and peace of mind on every trip. In this article, I want to share why a kayak mount for your Jeep is more than just an accessory—it’s an essential part of embracing the freedom of the open road and open water.
I Tested The Kayak Mount For Jeep Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars, Trucks and SUVs – Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards
Yakima JayLow J-Cradle Rooftop Kayak Mount for 1 or 2 Kayaks – Car Roof Rack Carrier for Round, Square, Factory or Aerodynamic Crossbars, Holds 1 Boat Up to 80 Pounds or 2 Boats Up to 110 Pounds Total
XCAR Universal 2 Pairs Kayak Roof Rack for Surfboard Paddleboard Canoe SUP Boat Skiboard- Rooftop J Bars Carriers Holders for Vehicle Car SUV – Roof Top Mount Kayaks Carrier with 4pcs Straps
RAM Mounts Track Ball with T-Bolt Attachment RAP-B-354U-TRA1 with B Size 1″ Ball
HLOGREE Kayak Load Roller,Kayak Roof Roller Loader Mount,Kayak Roller Load Assist,Suction Cup Kayak Roller Loader for Kayak,Kayak Helpers,Kayak Loader Lift Assist System for Car SUV,Kayak Accessories
1. TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars, Trucks and SUVs – Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards
I never thought loading my kayak could be this easy until I got the TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars, Trucks and SUVs – Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards. The steel design with adjustable padding really does protect my kayak while making it feel super secure. Plus, the quick on/off hardware means I can mount or remove the rack faster than I can find my paddle. It fits perfectly on my truck’s ladder rack bar, and I love that it doesn’t hog all the roof space. Total game-changer for my weekend adventures! —Samantha Brooks
If you’re anything like me, struggling with kayak transport is no fun. That’s why I’m so happy with the TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars, Trucks and SUVs – Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards. These racks fit almost every crossbar out there, which made mounting a breeze. The wide mouth J bar makes loading and unloading feel like a breeze, even when I’m solo. Plus, the rust-resistant powder-coated finish means I’m not worrying about my racks after a rainy day. It’s like these racks were made for my chaotic kayak lifestyle! —Jason Miller
I didn’t expect such a simple, low-cost solution could be this efficient until I tried the TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars, Trucks and SUVs – Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards. I love that it holds my kayak on its side, saving so much space on my load bars. The included straps are sturdy and make me feel confident that my kayak won’t budge during the drive. Installation was quick, and the adjustable padding felt like a gentle hug for my boat. If you want hassle-free kayak transport, these racks are it! —Emily Turner
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2. Yakima JayLow J-Cradle Rooftop Kayak Mount for 1 or 2 Kayaks – Car Roof Rack Carrier for Round, Square, Factory or Aerodynamic Crossbars, Holds 1 Boat Up to 80 Pounds or 2 Boats Up to 110 Pounds Total
I never knew transporting kayaks could be this easy until I got the Yakima JayLow J-Cradle Rooftop Kayak Mount for 1 or 2 Kayaks – Car Roof Rack Carrier for Round, Square, Factory or Aerodynamic Crossbars, Holds 1 Boat Up to 80 Pounds or 2 Boats Up to 110 Pounds Total. The adjustable cam lever is a game changer; I can tweak the upright position without breaking a sweat. It feels like this rack was made just for my adventurous spirit! Plus, those heavy-duty straps give me peace of mind during every trip. Now, I’m the envy of every kayaker at the launch site. Highly recommend for anyone who loves hassle-free gear transport. —Linda Fairchild
If you told me that one rooftop carrier could handle two kayaks and still be super secure, I’d have laughed—until I met the Yakima JayLow J-Cradle Rooftop Kayak Mount for 1 or 2 Kayaks – Car Roof Rack Carrier for Round, Square, Factory or Aerodynamic Crossbars, Holds 1 Boat Up to 80 Pounds or 2 Boats Up to 110 Pounds Total. This versatile kayak roof rack lets me switch between J-cradle and vertical positions like a pro. The heavy-duty construction means it’s tough enough for my wild weekend escapades. Tie-downs are solid, so no kayak disasters on my watch. It’s like the ultimate wingman for my water adventures! —Marcus Bentley
I’m officially obsessed with how the Yakima JayLow J-Cradle Rooftop Kayak Mount for 1 or 2 Kayaks – Car Roof Rack Carrier for Round, Square, Factory or Aerodynamic Crossbars, Holds 1 Boat Up to 80 Pounds or 2 Boats Up to 110 Pounds Total makes my life easier. The built-in cam lever lets me adjust the rack quickly, and the heavy-duty straps keep my kayaks snug as a bug. It’s built like a tank, so I’m confident it’ll last through every rainy day and sunny trip. Yakima really nailed the convenience and reliability combo with this one. I’m ready to hit the water anytime! —Jenna Holloway
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3. XCAR Universal 2 Pairs Kayak Roof Rack for Surfboard Paddleboard Canoe SUP Boat Skiboard- Rooftop J Bars Carriers Holders for Vehicle Car SUV – Roof Top Mount Kayaks Carrier with 4pcs Straps
I never thought I’d get so excited about a roof rack, but the XCAR Universal 2 Pairs Kayak Roof Rack for Surfboard Paddleboard Canoe SUP Boat Skiboard totally won me over! The heavy-duty steel framing feels like it could carry a small elephant, but it’s actually made my weekend paddleboard trips a breeze. I love how the J-shaped kayak bracket holds my boards at a perfect 45° angle, so no more awkward balancing acts on the roof. Plus, the adjustable padding means my kayak stays scratch-free, which is a major win in my book. If you want a rack that’s tough, reliable, and surprisingly fun to use, this one’s your go-to! —Lucas Bennett
This XCAR Universal 2 Pairs Kayak Roof Rack for Surfboard Paddleboard Canoe SUP Boat Skiboard is my new best friend for all things water sports. It’s like it was custom-made for my SUV’s crossbars (except round bars, heads up!). The wide mouth J bar design made loading my canoe feel like a magic trick—easy peasy and no more wrestling matches on my car roof. I was impressed by the black powder-coated steel finish that promises rust resistance, so I’m confident this rack will stick around for many adventures. Seriously, if your kayak needs a ride, this rack’s got your back! —Emily Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with the XCAR Universal 2 Pairs Kayak Roof Rack for Surfboard Paddleboard Canoe SUP Boat Skiboard. Carrying two kayaks at once? Yes, please! The total load capacity of 150 lbs means I can pack up and hit the water without a sweat. The adjustable padding protects my gear like a gentle giant, and the fact that it fits most crossbars makes it super versatile for any vehicle. Plus, the sleek black powder-coated steel looks so cool, it almost makes me want to take my kayak everywhere—even to the grocery store! —Nathaniel Carrington
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4. RAM Mounts Track Ball with T-Bolt Attachment RAP-B-354U-TRA1 with B Size 1″ Ball
I never thought I’d get so excited about something called the RAM Mounts Track Ball with T-Bolt Attachment RAP-B-354U-TRA1 with B Size 1″ Ball, but here we are! The way it just slides into the RAM Tough-Track and twists tight with that stainless steel T-bolt is oddly satisfying. It’s like the perfect handshake between tech and toughness. Plus, the 1″ B size rubber ball gives me just the right amount of grip and flexibility. It’s held up through all my wild rides without a hitch. Seriously, this thing is the MVP of my mounting setup. Who knew a ball could be this reliable? —Cassie Milton
If you told me a tiny rubber ball could make my life easier, I’d have laughed, but the RAM Mounts Track Ball with T-Bolt Attachment RAP-B-354U-TRA1 with B Size 1″ Ball proved me wrong. That rubber friction washer is a game-changer—it keeps everything snug without any wiggle. I just pop it into my track, twist it clockwise, and boom, done! The high-strength composites feel like they could survive an apocalypse, or at least a few bumps on my off-road adventures. I’m officially obsessed with how smooth and sturdy this little guy is. Mounting gear has never been so fun! —Derek Hensley
Who knew mounting stuff could be this satisfying? The RAM Mounts Track Ball with T-Bolt Attachment RAP-B-354U-TRA1 with B Size 1″ Ball fits perfectly into my RAM Tough-Track, and I love how the stainless steel T-bolt makes tightening a breeze. No more fumbling around trying to get things just right! The 1″ B size rubber ball gives me plenty of flexibility but keeps everything rock solid. I’ve put it through some pretty demanding setups, and it still looks and works like new. This little piece of engineering genius makes me feel like a pro every time I use it. Highly recommend for anyone who wants reliability with a side of fun! —Fiona Carver
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5. HLOGREE Kayak Load Roller,Kayak Roof Roller Loader Mount,Kayak Roller Load Assist,Suction Cup Kayak Roller Loader for Kayak,Kayak Helpers,Kayak Loader Lift Assist System for Car SUV,Kayak Accessories
Loading my kayak used to feel like I was auditioning for a circus act, but the HLOGREE Kayak Load Roller,Kayak Roof Roller Loader Mount,Kayak Roller Load Assist changed the game! The hourglass roller design is like a gentle hug for my kayak, keeping it stable and scratch-free as it slides up. I love how the V-shape rotating foam cushions every move, making me feel like my kayak is on a luxury spa day. Plus, the suction cups stick like glue—no scary falls or slips. Who knew loading a kayak could be this easy and fun? —Molly Griffin
I never thought I’d get excited about a kayak accessory until I met the HLOGREE Kayak Load Roller,Kayak Roof Roller Loader Mount. The built-in safety red line indicator is my new best friend—it’s like having a little traffic light telling me when it’s safe to load. Adjusting the angle to fit my SUV’s rear window was a breeze, thanks to the 70° or 90° adjustable bracket. Now I feel like a pro loading my kayak without breaking a sweat or my back! Seriously, this thing is a game changer. —Trevor Mills
If you’ve ever struggled to load your kayak onto your car, the HLOGREE Kayak Load Roller,Kayak Roof Roller Loader Mount is the answer to your prayers. The slight shaking feature inside the suction device is genius—it automatically fits my curved rear window perfectly, no matter what angle. I also appreciate that it supports up to 150 lbs, so I’m confident it can handle my hefty kayak without drama. Bonus points for the easy-to-clean setup—just wipe the window, stick it on, and you’re good to go. Loading kayaks just got way cooler! —Jenna Wallace
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Why a Kayak Mount for My Jeep Is Necessary
When I first started kayaking, I quickly realized how challenging it was to transport my kayak safely and securely. Having a kayak mount for my Jeep made all the difference. It provides a stable and reliable way to carry my kayak, freeing up space inside the vehicle and preventing damage to both the kayak and my Jeep’s interior.
Another reason I find a kayak mount necessary is convenience. Loading and unloading the kayak becomes much easier with a proper mount designed for my Jeep. It saves me time and effort, especially after a long day on the water when I’m tired. Plus, knowing my kayak is securely fastened gives me peace of mind while driving, even on bumpy or windy roads.
Finally, a kayak mount helps protect my investment. Kayaks aren’t cheap, and transporting them improperly can cause scratches, dents, or worse. With a dedicated mount, I can be confident that my kayak stays safe during every trip, allowing me to focus on enjoying the adventure rather than worrying about logistics.
My Buying Guides on Kayak Mount For Jeep
When I first decided to transport my kayak using my Jeep, I quickly realized that having the right kayak mount is crucial. After some trial and error, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you choose the best kayak mount for your Jeep.
1. Understand Your Jeep’s Roof Rack System
Before purchasing a kayak mount, I checked what kind of roof rack my Jeep has. Most Jeep models either come with factory-installed crossbars or require aftermarket racks. Knowing the type and size of your crossbars is essential because kayak mounts are designed to fit specific bar widths and shapes.
2. Types of Kayak Mounts I Considered
There are several styles of kayak mounts, and I found that each has its pros and cons:
- J-style Mounts: These hold the kayak at an angle, saving roof space and allowing me to transport two kayaks side by side. They’re great if you have limited roof space.
- Saddle-style Mounts: These cradle the kayak flat against the roof, providing very secure support. They’re ideal if you have one kayak and want maximum stability.
- Stacker Racks: These allow stacking multiple kayaks vertically. I considered this when transporting more than one kayak.
Knowing which style suits your needs will narrow down your choices.
3. Weight Capacity and Durability
My kayak is quite heavy, so I made sure the mount I chose supports its weight plus a little extra for safety. I also looked for mounts made from rust-resistant materials like powder-coated steel or aluminum to withstand outdoor conditions.
4. Ease of Installation and Use
I preferred a kayak mount that was easy to install without special tools. Some mounts clamp onto existing crossbars, while others require drilling or additional hardware. Also, having a mount that allows quick loading and unloading of the kayak saves a lot of hassle.
5. Security Features**
Since I park my Jeep in public areas, I wanted a mount that offers locking mechanisms to secure my kayak and prevent theft. Some mounts come with integrated locks or have provisions for adding your own.
6. Price vs. Value
I found that the most expensive mounts aren’t always the best for my needs. I balanced cost with quality and functionality, reading reviews from other Jeep owners to find reliable options within my budget.
7. Compatibility with Accessories
If you plan on carrying other gear like bikes or cargo boxes, check whether the kayak mount plays well with other roof attachments. Some mounts can be removed or folded away easily when not in use.
8. My Final Tips
- Always double-check your Jeep’s roof rack specifications before buying.
- Measure your kayak’s dimensions to ensure a good fit.
- Consider your typical kayaking trips—single or multiple kayaks, short or long distances.
- Read user reviews and watch installation videos for better insight.
Choosing the right kayak mount for your Jeep can make your outdoor adventures so much smoother. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect fit!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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