So, you want to transport your kayak on the roof of your Ford Explorer, right? Well, it does not have to be complicated. All you have to do is to find a reliable kayak rack that can be attached to the existing crossbar without drilling any hole on your precious Ford Explorer. You don’t have to go out and spend hours in a Walmart to find the best kayak rack that can be fitted to your vehicles. We have done all the heavy lifting for you here in Kayak Manual. Here we have listed the best 7 kayak racks that you can attach to Ford Explorer easily and effortlessly –
Best 6 Kayak Racks for Ford Explorer
Affiliate Disclaimer: This site is reader-supported and we earn commissions (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase products from retailers after clicking on a link from our site.
1. YAKIMA, JayHook Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack
YAKIMA, JayHook Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack is a strong and reliable kayak rack that can be mounted on Ford Explorer without much fuss. The maximum weight capacity of YAKIMA, JayHook Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack is 80 lbs and it is compatible with almost all crossbars that are commonly available in the market. Don’t forget to make proper use of the Bow and Stern Tie-Downs and the Heavy-Duty Straps to secure the kayak firmly on the roof of the car. J-shaped cradle makes it super easy to load and unload kayak without asking for any assistance. All the contact points are padded properly and they provide protection from scratches and impacts. J Cradles allow side loading of a kayak and it does not eat up too much space which is nice.
2. INNO INA446 Surf-Wind-Long Board Locking Roof Carrier
INNO INA446 Surf-Wind-Long Board Locking Roof Carrier is a highly reliable and strong-built kayak rack that you can easily mount on your Ford Explorer. Protecting your kayak from dents and scratches are the corner pads and the straps. Both these straps and the corner pads have got rubber coating on them that will keep your kayak protected during the long journey ahead. INNO INA446 Surf-Wind-Long Board Locking Roof Carrier makes loading and unloading of kayak easy and effortless. Universal mounting system makes this kayak rack compatible with most factory bars.
3. Lockrack Locking Carrier Rack
Lockrack Locking Carrier Rack makes transportation less cumbersome and complicated. This kayak rack allows you to load kayak sideways. The lock-in mechanism encircles the kayak and thus keeping it secure throughout the journey. Lockrack Locking Carrier Rack is 19 inches wide and that means, it can easily accommodate a wide range of kayaks. Lockrack Locking Carrier Rack sports a ratcheting design and comes standard with 4 touchpoints. This kayak carrier is made from a material that is resistant to rust and that means, it will be able to stand the test of time.
When you are not using it, you can fold its arm down. This will help improve the aerodynamics of your vehicle. Rubber cover will ensure that your kayak does not develop any scratch or marking during the journey.
4. Best Marine Kayak Roof Rack
Best Marine Kayak Roof Rack is made from stainless steel which is highly resistant to rust. This durable kayak roof rack can be folded down when not in use. Rubber padding will keep your kayak protected from scratches. The maximum weight capacity of Best Marine Kayak Roof Rack is 100lbs which is more than enough to carry a single standard size kayak. To accommodate different size kayaks, users are allowed to make changes in the angles of this kayak roof rack. Best Marine Kayak Roof Rack sports a minimal design and it does not case much wind noise during the journey. If mounted correctly, you will be able to reach your destination without any incident. It seems strong and sturdy and the installation process is very simple and straightforward.
5. DrSportsUSA Two Pair Fold Down J Bar Kayak Rack
DrSportsUSA Two Pair Fold Down J Bar Kayak Rack flaunts a collapsible design. It can accommodate different types of kayaks without causing much trouble; all you have to do is to change its angle to make room for different thickness of kayak. Forget about wind noise or vibration as this DrSportsUSA Two Pair Fold Down J Bar Kayak Rack will ensure that you enjoy a comfortable ride in your Ford Explorer without making any kind of compromise on the safety front. When you are not using it, you can fold it down easily and this will improve the aerodynamic significantly.
6. Thule Hull-a-Port XT Rooftop Kayak Carrier
Thule Hull-a-Port XT Rooftop Kayak Carrier is another versatile kayak rack that you can mount on your Ford Explorer to transport multiple kayaks. Its universal design makes it compatible with all types of crossbars. Depending on your exact requirements, it can get itself transformed from a boat stacker position into a J-cradle position. It comes fully assembled which is nice. Managing straps will not be an issue any more thanks to the inclusion of StrapCatch.
