Lifting a kayak onto your roof rack ain’t fun—especially when it weighs more than your cooler. If you’ve ever wrestled a boat solo and nearly dented your car, you already know why a kayak lift assist ain’t just a “nice-to-have.” It’s a must. But not all of ’em work the same. Some are made for tall SUVs, others better for small cars. This list shows 5 top-rated kayak lift assists that actually make loading easier without snapping parts or scratching paint.
Best 5 Kayak Lift Assists
01. Malone Telos XL Load Assist
The Malone Telos XL Load Assist is built to help kayak owners load their boats onto rooftop carriers without straining their back or scratching their vehicle. Designed to work with Malone J-style carriers like the Downloader and AutoLoader, the Telos XL uses a lift-assist system that extends from the side of the vehicle, letting you slide the kayak up safely and steadily. It attaches and detaches quickly with suction mounts and has adjustable legs for uneven ground.
✅ Pros:
- Makes solo kayak loading much easier—ideal for taller vehicles
- Quick, tool-free attachment to compatible Malone J-style racks
- Adjustable legs and padded cradles help protect both kayak and vehicle
❌ Cons:
- Only works with select Malone J-style carriers—not universal
- Bulky to store if you have limited trunk space
02. HUIMENG Kayak Load Assist
The HUIMENG Kayak Load Assist is designed for solo paddlers who need a hand getting their kayak or paddleboard onto the roof of their vehicle. It features a suction cup-mounted roller bar that attaches to the rear window or back of your SUV, allowing you to lift and slide the kayak up without scratching the car or needing a second person. Built with stainless steel and soft foam padding, it handles rough use while protecting your gear and vehicle’s finish.
✅ Pros:
- Suction cup design fits most SUV and car rear windows
- Foam padding prevents damage to kayak and vehicle
- Compact and lightweight—easy to store and transport
❌ Cons:
- Not ideal for very heavy kayaks or vehicles with curved rear glass
- Suction cups may lose grip on dirty or wet surfaces
03. Malone TelosXL Universal Kayak Load Assistant
The Malone TelosXL Universal Kayak Load Assistant is built to simplify loading kayaks onto high vehicles—especially SUVs and trucks. It uses an elevator-style lift system with padded cradles and suction cup mounts that attach to your vehicle’s side, letting you lift the kayak one end at a time and guide it safely onto your roof rack. Unlike the original Telos, this universal version works with most crossbar setups, not just Malone J-style carriers, making it a more flexible option for various rack systems.
✅ Pros:
- Universal fit for a wide range of crossbars and roof racks
- Lift-assist system minimizes lifting strain and risk of damage
- Padded cradles and suction mounts protect kayak and vehicle
❌ Cons:
- Takes up space when stored—not ideal for compact vehicles
- May require practice to align properly with some rack types
04. INNO INA453 Rooftop Cargo Rack Kayak Lifter
The INNO INA453 Rooftop Cargo Rack Kayak Lifter is designed for easy, solo kayak loading onto your vehicle’s roof rack. Built with a drop-down assist mechanism, it allows you to load the kayak from the side of your car by lowering the support arms, placing the kayak, and then lifting it back up to the rooftop position. Compatible with most crossbars, including round, square, and aero bars, it’s a strong and convenient tool for paddlers who don’t want to strain themselves.
✅ Pros:
- Drop-down lifter system makes solo loading easier
- Compatible with many types of crossbars (round, square, aero)
- Soft padded cradles protect kayak finish during loading and transport
❌ Cons:
- Higher price point compared to simple roller-style loaders
- May require adjustment to fit some roof rack widths properly
05. YAKIMA – ShowDown Rooftop Mounted Load-Assist Kayak
The YAKIMA ShowDown Rooftop Mounted Load-Assist Kayak Carrier is a side-mount system that makes it easier to load and unload kayaks or SUPs without lifting them completely overhead. With its slide-and-tilt assist mechanism, you can lower the rack up to 26 inches from the roof, making solo loading more manageable—especially on taller vehicles like SUVs. It supports up to 80 lbs, folds flat when not in use, and is compatible with most crossbar types (Yakima, Thule, and factory racks).
✅ Pros:
- Slide-down assist lowers gear closer to waist level for easier lifting
- Works with most roof rack systems (universal fit)
- Folds flat when not in use—reduces wind drag and noise
❌ Cons:
- 80 lb weight limit may not support heavier fishing kayaks
- Premium price point compared to simpler systems
How to Choose the Best Kayak Lift Assists
Getting a kayak up on top of your car ain’t always a one-person job. Especially if your back’s already shot from years of hauling junk around. That’s where kayak lift assists come in. They’re meant to take the weight off your shoulders—literally. But picking the right one? Lotta folks mess that part up.
Know Your Vehicle First or You’ll Regret It
You got an SUV? Or is it a sedan with roof bars that sit lower? Big difference. Some kayak load assist systems work better with tall vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Jeep Grand Cherokee, or Ford Explorer, where lifting the kayak up all the way feels like an arm workout from hell.
For cars with low roofs, simpler rollers or suction-mounted arms do the job fine. But with taller rides, you probably need something with gas struts, like hydraulic-assisted kayak loaders that actually lower and raise the kayak for you. Don’t buy one made for vans if you drive a hatchback, it ain’t gonna end well.
Weight of the Kayak Makes a Huge Difference
Some folks got lightweight 10-foot sit-on-top kayaks. Others drag around a 70-pound sea kayak made from hard plastic. If your kayak’s heavy, don’t even look at suction-mount-only options—they’ll pop off mid-lift.
Look for load ratings. Most roof rack kayak lift assists can handle around 75 to 100 lbs, but check the fine print. If your boat’s around 80 lbs and the lift max is 80, you’re cutting it too close. Go with something stronger.
Also, check the width of your kayak. Many kayak loading aids don’t play nice with wide-bottom fishing kayaks.
Roof Rack Compatibility Is Everything
You’d be surprised how many returns happen ’cause the thing didn’t match the roof bars. Got Thule crossbars? Or Yakima JetStream? Some lift assists are designed for specific rail types.
A lot of side-loading kayak assists require a solid bar underneath to latch onto. If you got factory bars that curve or don’t extend far, you might need a roof rack extension kit or a different mount style.
If your rack has T-slots, that helps. You can install slide-out kayak roller arms that hide away when not in use. Those work good for folks who don’t wanna leave gear on their roof full time.
Manual vs Assisted Lifts – Choose What Fits Your Body
You still got strength? Then manual tilt-down arms might work fine. But if your shoulders ain’t what they used to be—or if you’re shorter—you’re better off with a mechanical kayak lift assist, like ones that lower to the side of your car.
Some even got gas-spring mechanisms, helping push the kayak up once you’re halfway there. You just guide it. These are perfect if you load alone a lot. Might cost more, but way less struggle.
There’s also electric kayak loader lifts that plug into your car’s 12v port. Those are rare, but if you’re older or got mobility issues, it’s worth looking at.
Portability and Storage
You want something you can leave on your car? Or need it to fit in your trunk after use? That changes what works for you.
Roller-assist pads, for example, are small and easy to throw in the back seat. Side-arm kayak lifts, though, are bulkier and usually stay attached.
Some models like Malone Downloader with Telos XL Lift Assist come in two parts: one helps you load, other stays on the roof. More flexible setup.
Just know that if you go portable, you’ll have to set it up each time. So it’s a tradeoff—convenience vs storage.
Don’t Forget Wind and Parking
Nobody talks about wind, but it’s a big deal. Try lifting a 14-foot kayak on a windy day and you’ll know what I mean. A good kayak lift system for windy areas should secure one end while you lift the other. That way it don’t go spinning mid-air.
And don’t forget where you park. If your garage door height is low, you might not fit the car with lift assist still on. Measure the height of your setup, especially if your Ford Maverick, Subaru Outback, or Toyota 4Runner already rides high.
Watch Out for Cheap Knockoffs
Lot of no-name brands sell kayak lift assist systems for half the price. They break. Or they slip. Or worse, they scratch your car and kayak both.
Stick with trusted names like Thule Hullavator Pro, Yakima ShowDown, or Rhino-Rack Universal Side Loader. You pay more, but these things last years, not months.
If reviews talk about straps breaking or mounts loosening after two uses, skip it. You don’t wanna be chasing a kayak down the driveway.
Think About Your Routine
How often do you go kayaking? Every weekend or once a month? If you paddle weekly, invest in a system that saves time and pain. Even better if it installs once and stays.
If you just need it occasionally, go with a simpler, budget-friendly solution that helps only during loading. Don’t overspend if you rarely go out.
Some folks even DIY it with pool noodles and a towel, but that ain’t exactly safe if you’re hauling down the freeway.
