Introduction
If you’re a kayak enthusiast, a beginner, or looking to take up the sport you may be considering purchasing a kayak loader.
Kayaking is an exciting water sport enjoyed by many people as a recreation, a fun time with the family, a quiet paddle away from the stresses of the weekday grind, or you’re a fishing aficionado wanting to get out on the water and check out some great spots.
Whether it’s shooting down rapids or a leisurely paddle around a placid lake you need to be able to get to and from your chosen spot with your kayak easily and safely.
So let’s get you out there enjoying and exploring this fantastic pastime.
Get away from the hustle and bustle of every day, breathe in some fresh air, relax or push yourself to the limit, and have some serious fun.
We certainly don’t want you to exhaust yourself by lifting your kayak or canoe off the roof of your vehicle.
You’ll be too tired to go out and pull in serious strokes.
We’ll explore the different types of kayak loaders; their benefits and help you assess your needs so you get the right type.
Firstly we’ll run through the benefits of kayak loaders and then go through the different types.
Kayak loaders are designed to assist with the loading and unloading of your kayak onto the roof of your vehicle, whether you have an SUV, van, or sedan.
The transport of your kayak can be a major hassle particularly if you don’t have another pair of hands to help or you don’t feel comfortable lugging your kayak or canoe about.
What is a Kayak Loader?
Kayak loaders are a loading system that allows you to lift your kayak or canoe onto the roof of your vehicle with minimum effort, saving you time and possible injury.
There are 4 types of loaders and we will explore these in detail.
Think of preserving your energy for being out on the water instead of struggling to hoist a heavy kayak around, saving yourself from injury or damage to the kayak, or to your vehicle.
How Do You Lift a Heavy Kayak?
There are a few ways in which you can lift a heavy kayak.
If you are strong and want the workout then you can manoeuvre the kayak yourself.
However, most people find this too awkward and the risk of injury to yourself or damage to your vehicle is increased.
This is where the loaders come in. Below we look at the different types of loaders available.
Benefits of Kayak Loaders
Ease of use: If you don’t have those helping hands ready and willing then kayak loaders are the way to go – just perfect for the single user.
Safety Issues: The risk of injury is significantly reduced with the use of a kayak loader, not only for yourself but avoiding scratches and bumps to your vehicle.
Time-saving: Kayak loaders make short work of the loading and unloading of your craft so you get out on the water quicker, and get back home at the end of a long and relaxing day.
The potential to continue to enjoy this great activity with a loader when you don’t feel confident in handling the kayak because of its weight or your strength and ability.
Types of Kayak Loading Systems
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- Roller loaders
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- Lift-Assist loaders
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- Saddle loaders
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- Side loaders
Kayak roof roller loaders are probably the most common.
As the name suggests they are a set of rollers that enable your kayak to slide up onto the roof of your vehicle with minimum fuss and effort.
They can suit a wide range of vehicle models and types of kayaks. They sit at the front or back of the vehicle and slide out when needed.
The downside is they can be tricky if your vehicle is tall or your kayak is heavy, so you may need to consider alternatives such as gas-lift or side loaders.
Lift-Assist Loaders. These loaders are gas-assisted making light work of the kayak, and also very popular.
Highly recommended for tall vehicles or heavier kayaks because the weight of your kayak is supported and lifted by the struts.
The struts ease the kayak on and off the roof making manoeuvring your craft a cinch.
Saddle loaders are called that for obvious reasons.
They form a saddle that supports your kayak, usually attached to the roof of the vehicle and along the side.
Great for longer kayaks or canoes.
Side loaders are similar to saddle loaders in that they sit at the side of the vehicle rather than front loaders or rear loaders.
You can get up close to the kayak and maneuver it more easily with a side loader.
When you’ve had a wonderful but exhausting time on the water, you don’t want to risk injury when it is time to get that kayak back onto your vehicle.
When it comes time to choose your kayak loading system, consider the weight of your kayak as well as its size.
Also, consider the height of your vehicle.
Roller loaders are a great option as they are easy to use and suitable for many kayaks and vehicles.
Be aware that rear roller loaders may impede access to your trunk.
However, if your kayak is particularly heavy or your vehicle is tall, a gas lifter or lift assist loader may be the way to go.
So you can enjoy your days with your kayak, consider a loading system as a great investment.
You’ll enjoy your adventures without the hassle of trying to work out the best way to lug that kayak onto your car roof.
Some of the major players in the Kayak Loader field are the Thule Kayak loader, Malone Kayak loader, Rhino rack kayak loader, and Yakima Kayak loader.
We’ll go through them in another article, once you have some thoughts on what is best for you and your needs.
You may also be interested in our article on Kayak Roof Racks