What To Look For
Yakima and Thule both provide top-of-the-line roof racks for the outdoor recreational market. For years, Yakima offered more accessories but recently Thule has surpassed them. Both provide specific racks to fit different mounting styles. Once you have the main rack, you add the accessories to mount your kayak. While both companies feature J-mount styles and flat-mounting styles, Thule offers two different all-inclusive lift-assisting rack systems. For the smaller kayaker, this allows you the freedom to go on your own.
Common Pitfalls
Thule features rectangular bars while Yakima uses round bars. Accessories tend to rotate or slide around the bars with Yakima, while Thule's rectangular shape holds the accessories from slipping.
Where To Buy
Both companies are widely available on line and through both chain and independent sporting goods stores. Dick's, REI, and Sports Authority all offer at least some of the different rack accessories. The difference in prices between the two is minimal, with the advantage of in-person purchasing allowing you to visually check out the different options. The more expensive lift-assist systems are more available on line.
Cost
For a basic J-mount from either company, expect to pay $60 to $80. Flat-mount systems run a little cheaper. The lift-assist system from Thule runs $300 for the Slipstream, and $600 for the hydraulic system. Yakima offers a lift system that integrates with a separate mount. Their lift is $100 plus the cost of the mounting accessories. These prices include only the accessories, not the main attachments to your vehicle.
Comparison Shopping
If you can heft your kayak without assistance, the J-mounting racks offer the best cost. Even a small car can easily support two of these racks for transporting two kayaks. If you want the freedom of not having to lift a kayak over your head, then Thule's Slipstream has earned the thumbs up from KayakAcademy.com
Accessories
Purchase straps and extras. Spare straps will come in handy at some point.
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