By
Gloria Bussey
Gloria Bussey
Product Research and Writer
Gloria is a talented writer based in Chattanooga, TN and enjoys kayaking and mountain biking. She graduated with a business degree in 2007 and is now working on a master's i read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Steven Martin
Steven Martin
Vehicle Fit Expert and Consultant
Steven is a skilled car mechanic based in Denver, CO. He's a passionate hiker, devoted backcountry camper and his mechanic expertise allows him to maximize space in any vehi read more
Last updated: August 15, 2023

Yakima Jaylow Review – the Ideal Rooftop Kayak Carrier! (Fall 2023)

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By
Gloria Bussey
Gloria Bussey
Product Research and Writer
Gloria is a talented writer based in Chattanooga, TN and enjoys kayaking and mountain biking. She graduated with a business degree in 2007 and is now working on a master's i read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Steven Martin
Steven Martin
Vehicle Fit Expert and Consultant
Steven is a skilled car mechanic based in Denver, CO. He's a passionate hiker, devoted backcountry camper and his mechanic expertise allows him to maximize space in any vehi read more
Last updated: August 15, 2023
Rack Advisor is reader-supported. We earn commission on products purchased via the links on this page. Learn more
What’s special about it
  • Sturdy framework
  • Padded contact points
  • Integrated cam levels
Main features
  • Applicable for transporting one or two boats
  • Great for people looking for quality at affordable prices
  • Ideal for numerous types of kayaks
Editor's Rating
9,7
out of 10
  • Versatility
    9.7
  • Ease of Installation
    9.8
  • Capacity
    9.6
  • Durability
    9.5
Users’ Rating
4.5
out of 5
123 Users’ Rating
rating rating rating rating rating
rating
rating rating rating rating rating
4.5
out of
5
123 Users’ Rating
  • 5 stars
    58%
  • 4 stars
    38%
  • 3 stars
    3%
  • 2 stars
    1%
  • 1 stars
    0%
Add your rating:

Kayak lovers are well conversant with the merits of having a reliable roof rack. This is because it enhances security during transport and ensures that your canoe arrives safely.

It can be deployed when carrying one or two kayaks and will offer safety when traveling any distance. The carrier has extra padded contact points and heavy-duty straps that elevate grip and protection while traveling. In this Yakima Jaylow review, we will look at the features, specifications, and pros and cons of using the carrier.

This product's also been included into these rankings:

Our #1 pick for the best double kayak roof racks

Specifications

Mounting type
strap
Boat capacity
1 (J-craddle) or 2 (vertical, stacker)
Weight limit
80 lbs./ 1 boat, 110 lbs./ 2 boats
Crossbar compatibility
universal
Dimensions
6.69 x 6 x 20 in.
Weight
11 lbs
Min. crossbar spread
24 in.
Warranty
lifetime limited

Yakima Jaylow Review

This article has compiled Yakima Jaylow kayak carrier review, specifications, price, and accessories to help you safely transport your kayak as articulated below.

Design

As stated earlier, the Yakima Jaylow kayak carrier is stipulated for transporting one or two boats. A single carrier will hold the boat in an upright J-cradle position while two boats are held in a vertical stacker position. The carrier has a versatile design that allows it to fit most crossbars.

Protection has been enhanced using the padded contact points that boost grip. This ensures that your kayak is firmly held on the carrier during transport. Additionally, the carrier has integrated cam levels which allow seamless adjustments of the kayak position. The carrier can be folded when not in use which allows easy storage and minimized drag.

Yakima Jaylow Review – the Ideal Rooftop Kayak Carrier! (Fall 2023)
The Yakima Jaylow Rooftop Kayak Carrier features a locking, easy-to-install design compatible with many different vehicles makes and models.

Weight Capacity

According to Yakima Jaylow kayak carrier reviews, the carrier can carry up to two boats with a maximum weight of 80 lbs for one and 110 lbs for two combined. This is a decent weight capacity that can serve a wide array of kayaks. In addition, the carrier is classified as one of the lightest and weighs 11 pounds.

Compatibility

It has been designed to transport numerous kayaks such as touring, recreational, whitewater, and fishing kayaks. The model is also compatible with roof rack cross bars like streamlining rounds, square, aerodynamic, and factory-installed crossbars. This makes it an ideal option for transporting kayaks in multiple vehicles.

Moreover, it does not consume a lot of space and has a unique base. There is much space left on your roof rack, which can be used to accommodate other essentials for the journey. It also has wide and grooved cradles that elevate compatibility with different hull shapes.

Straps and Tie-downs

A review of the Yakima Jaylow carrier states that it comes along with heavy-duty straps, bows, and stern tie-downs that tightly secure your kayak on the roof rack. There is also a HoodAnchor that is designated for vehicles that lack an attachment point for bow and stern tie-downs.

You should note that the manufacturer provides straps for only one boat. People with more than one boat should consider purchasing extra straps. However, this should not be a reason for not picking up this kayak carrier.

Durability

This model is solid and study carrier and requires little maintenance. It has a steel construction that offers a stable design that can carry numerous kayaks with minimal wear and tear. Nonetheless, you must properly install it to ensure that it delivers the utmost transportation results over a long period. The manufacturer provides precise guidelines that will ensure you have a seamless installation process.

Accessories

The model comes along with several accessories that enhance your transportation process. It has two SKS (same key system) Lock Cores which allow locking all the Yakima Jaylow carrier paraphernalia with just one key. This accessory has two cores and matching keys and an additional control key.

The carrier is also accompanied by a 10-foot boat locker cable that offers a secure boat attachment to the roof rack. It is an imperative accessory as it also provides attachment to static objects such as a pole. This ensures that your bota is secure enough, especially when you are camping or on vacation. The cable is compatible with all variations of kayaks.

Yakima Jaylow kayak carrier review has a hood anchor that offers a firm spot for securing at the hatch, trunk, or hood. These anchors come in pairs and are strong and coated to prevent damage to your vehicle’s paint. They are also easy to use and offer reliable support for highway speed.

Another vital accessory is the boat loader EVO that offers side load assistance for the core bar and round bar. It offers excellent service without distorting the boat or vehicle’s paint. It is also easy to use and retracts in the bar when not in use.

Price

The manufacturer highly considered the customer’s needs by imposing a price tag that reciprocates remarkable quality. They have been in the market for a significant period, enabling them to analyze and deliver according to customers’ preferences. They have designed that kayak carrier to be a sturdy model that holds your boat firmly even at high speeds and comes at a pocket-friendly price.

Ease of Installation

Yakima Jaylow Review – the Ideal Rooftop Kayak Carrier! (Fall 2023)
The Yakima Jaylow Rooftop Kayak Carrier installation is quick and straightforward; it only requires a few tools and no special skills.

According to Better Health Channel Trusted Source Canoeing and kayaking - health benefits | Better Health Channel Both canoeing and kayaking involve paddling a small craft through water. They are low-impact activities that can improve your aerobic fitness, strength and flexibility. www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au , kayaks have numerous benefits such as enjoying waterways, meditation, increasing muscle strength, and even cardiovascular fitness. Hence, more merits are perceived when your kayaks spend the most time on the water rather than during installation. Setting up consumes only a few minutes. The manufacturer ensured that this was achieved as the carrier has an easy installation and uninstallation process.

The model comes in a pre-assembled manner that allows quick installation. It has a stable rack and heavy-duty straps that ensure you get the job done very fast. This allows you to focus and have a great time in the water.

Other Features

This kayak carrier can easily be locked down to the rails. An onboard wrench customized in the carrier allows form securing of the j-cradles to the roof rack. Tightening the screws will enhance the firmness of the cradles to the cross rails.

The Yakima Jaylow kayak carrier is renowned for extra paddings that offer exceptional protection on the contact points. This enhances the care of your boat, vehicle, and carrier as well.

Uninstalling is an easy activity bearing that it is not large and its lightweight attributes. This makes life easier for you, particularly after a long and tedious journey from the waters.

The model also comes with multiple settings, which are essential in enhancing your transport experience. There is no need to purchase extra crossbars as these settings allow the carrier to blend in with various roof racks. Numerous vehicle types are designated to accommodate the Yakima Jaylow kayak carrier without extra purchases.

Pros and Cons

Below is a table that summarizes the pros and cons of the Yakima Jaylow kayak carrier.

PROS CONS
  • Quality carrier at an affordable price
  • Can accommodate two boats comfortably
  • Fast and easy installation
  • Has a sturdy design
  • Designed to work with numerous types of kayaks
  • Straps are provided only for a single boat
  • Rubber and plastic coating protections are not durable
  • Hectic for smaller people to load the kayak

Conclusion

A kayak carrier is stipulated to offer reliable securement of your boat, especially for long-distance travels. Yakima Jaylow review indicates that this model can be a perfect fit for such concerns. It has a sturdy framework and heavy-duty straps that ensure your bota is firmly secured on the roof rack. This is also ideal for long and highway speed journeys.

In addition, it has fittings that ensure utmost grip on the rack. The manufacturer developed it with an easy installation process that allows you to spend more time on the water. Finally, it displays numerous quality features and comes at a pocket-friendly price.

References

1.
Canoeing and kayaking - health benefits | Better Health Channel
Both canoeing and kayaking involve paddling a small craft through water. They are low-impact activities that can improve your aerobic fitness, strength and flexibility.
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