The Honda Odyssey is a popular minivan that sells in large numbers in many countries. Its stylish look, powerful engine, and safety features have made the model a favorite with both families with a penchant for trips and adventure-loving Millenials. You may sometimes think of taking your Honda Odyssey for weekend trips, and also for kayaking trips. The good thing is you can find many suitable kayak racks on top of your Odyssey without difficulty. These racks will enable you to carry one or more kayaks on top of the minivan and reach the distant rivers and lakes with ease.
Best 6 Kayak Racks for Honda Odyssey
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01. Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier
You got a Hyundai Santa Cruz and don’t wanna throw out your back gettin’ that kayak up top? The Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier is straight-up magic. It ain’t your average rack—this one’s got gas-assist struts that lift 40 pounds of your yak’s weight. You can drop it down 3 feet from the roof, strap in your kayak at waist-level, then lift it back up like it’s nothin’. The build? Aluminum + double-coated steel—not some rust-prone junk. Plus, it hugs your kayak with 8 padded touchpoints, so no more mystery scuffs on the hull. And yeah, it fits kayaks up to 36 inches wide, which covers most touring and sit-on-tops.
Now, it’s awesome—but not flawless. Here’s the breakdown:
Pros:
- ✅ Gas struts handle 40 lbs of weight, solo loading becomes real easy
- ✅ Drops down 3 feet, so no stretching, climbing, or balancing acts
- ✅ Eight padded contact points protect your kayak from dents and scratches
- ✅ Built with corrosion-resistant aluminum and coated steel—super durable
Cons:
- ❌ Pricey as heck, but hey, convenience ain’t cheap
- ❌ Needs specific crossbars that extend beyond your roof—no short bars here
- ❌ The rack itself weighs ~40 lbs, so your total roof load adds up quick
This thing is made for hardcore kayakers, folks with shoulder issues, or just anyone tired of awkward roof loading. Whether you’re gearin’ up for weekend waters or daily paddles, this rack makes your Santa Cruz work smarter, not harder.
02. KUAT Class 2 Universal Fixed J-Style Kayak Rack
If you’re strappin’ a kayak to your Hyundai Santa Cruz, the KUAT Class 2 Universal Fixed J-Style Kayak Rack ain’t bad at all—built like a tank, simple setup, no fancy folds or gimmicks. This thing’s fixed-position, so it stays upright always, which can be a pain or a plus depending how lazy you’re feelin’. It grips tight though. Once that yak’s in there, it’s in. Built with powder-coated steel, so it handles rain, dirt, whatever—no rust tantrums later. Fits most crossbars, factory or aftermarket—no drama there either.
But hold up. It’s not perfect, ‘course. Few things to chew on:
Pros:
- ✅ Rock-solid grip – kayak don’t wiggle or shift once strapped
- ✅ Universal fitment – slaps on most roof rack systems no problem
- ✅ Durable build – that powder-coated steel ain’t messing around
Cons:
- ❌ No folding – gotta stay standing tall even when it’s empty (hello, low garage signs)
- ❌ Only holds one kayak – no room for your buddy’s gear unless you get two
- ❌ Straps not always included – depends on the kit, might gotta grab your own
This rack’s a straight shooter. You ain’t gettin’ lift-assist tech or some space-age foldy rig, but you are gettin’ a dependable J-cradle rack that hauls your kayak to the lake and back, no nonsense. If you’re good with manual labor and don’t need extras, this one’s built to just get the dang job done.
03. Reese Explore 1394900 J-Rac Kayak Carrier
If you’re driving a Hyundai Santa Cruz and need a straightforward solution for transporting your kayak, the Reese Explore 1394900 J-Rac Kayak Carrier offers a practical option. Designed to mount on your vehicle’s roof, this carrier secures your kayak in an upright position, ensuring stability during transit. Its padded design protects your watercraft from potential scratches and damage. The carrier attaches to most crossbars using easy-to-use U-bolts, simplifying the installation process. With a weight capacity of up to 165 lbs, it accommodates a wide range of kayaks. Amazon+3reeseprod.com+3Reesetow Power+3
However, it’s important to consider both the advantages and potential drawbacks:
Pros:
- ✅ Easy Assembly: The carrier is designed for straightforward setup, allowing you to get on the road quickly.
- ✅ Protective Padding: Padded supports safeguard your kayak’s finish during transport.
- ✅ Universal Fit: Compatible with most crossbars, providing versatility across different vehicle models.
- ✅ Includes Tie-Down Straps: Comes with bow and stern tie-down straps for added security. reeseprod.com
Cons:
- ❌ Fixed Position: The J-style design does not fold down, which may affect vehicle clearance when not in use.
- ❌ Single Kayak Capacity: Designed to hold only one kayak, which may be limiting for those with multiple watercraft.
- ❌ Crossbar Compatibility: While it fits most crossbars, it’s essential to verify compatibility with your specific vehicle’s roof rack system.
For kayak enthusiasts seeking a reliable and easy-to-use roof-mounted carrier, the Reese Explore 1394900 J-Rac Kayak Carrier provides a solid option. Its combination of protective features and user-friendly installation makes it a practical choice for transporting your kayak to various destinations.
04. Yakima JayLow Kayak J Cradle
Running with a Hyundai Santa Cruz? Then the Yakima JayLow Kayak J Cradle is probably one of the slickest setups you’ll bolt to your ride. It’s not just a kayak rack, it’s kinda like the Swiss Army knife of rooftop carriers. You can load up 1 kayak in J-cradle mode (up to 80 lbs) or carry 2 kayaks vertically if you grab a second set of straps—so it’s flexin’ both solo and tandem missions. Takes like 10 mins to slap on, no tools needed, unless you’re cursed with mystery crossbars. The fold-down function? Smooth. Push a button, rack folds down flat, boom—you’re not scraping into low-clearance parking garages like a noob.
The padded cradle arms are solid—really keeps the kayak from dancin’ around at highway speed. Plus, this thing plays nice with most crossbars: round, square, aero, factory—you name it. Just check that you got 24 inches or more between bars, otherwise, no go.
Pros:
- ✅ Can carry 1 or 2 kayaks, depending how you set it up
- ✅ Folds down flat when not in use, keeps drag and noise low
- ✅ Includes straps & tie-downs, so no extra gear needed (unless you haul 2)
- ✅ Compatible with most roof rack systems, Santa Cruz owners won’t struggle
Cons:
- ❌ You’ll need to buy extra straps if carrying 2 kayaks
- ❌ Not the lightest rack out there—takes a minute to remove if needed
- ❌ Can get a bit noisy if not tightened down perfectly
If you’re serious about weekend paddle runs or hauling your touring kayak to remote spots, this is a no-fuss roof-mounted kayak carrier that’s built for the real world. Whether it’s salt, sun, or rain—it’s made to live on top of your ride and not quit.
05. Malone Foldaway-5™ Multi-Rack
Ownin’ a Hyundai Santa Cruz and lookin’ to haul either 1 kayak, 2 kayaks, or even a SUP board? The Malone Foldaway-5™ Multi-Rack ain’t playin’ around. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of kayak roof racks. You can run it in J-cradle mode, or go full stacker setup when you need to carry two yaks side by side. That folding feature? Super clutch. Push it down when not in use—your ride still fits in garages and low-clearance spots without removin’ anything. The padded contact zones got your kayak’s back, literally—foam’s dense, doesn’t crumble like the dollar-store kind. Set up takes under 10, and if your Santa Cruz got universal crossbars, you’re good to go.
Flexibility’s where this rack wins hard. It even lets you load a SUP board or surfboard, so you’re not locked into just kayakin’. It comes with all the mounting gear, including straps and tie-downs, so you’re not messin’ with duct tape and bungee cords like it’s 2003. That said, it ain’t featherlight. If you’re someone that don’t like removing racks between trips, the Foldaway-5 might be your ride-or-die.
Pros:
- ✅ Versatile setup – hauls 1 or 2 kayaks, SUP boards, canoes
- ✅ Folds down flat, saves headroom in garages
- ✅ Includes all straps and mounting hardware—no extra shopping
- ✅ Durable foam and metal construction, built for sun + water abuse
Cons:
- ❌ A lil’ heavier than other racks – might be a chore to remove for some
- ❌ Carrying 2 kayaks requires stacking, not ideal for big wide hulls
- ❌ Some crossbars might need minor adjusting for best fit
If you want a foldable kayak roof rack that can haul different stuff without changin’ gear every trip, the Foldaway-5 does more than most in its class. Perfect fit for folks who alternate between paddleboards, river yaks, and the occasional ocean beast.
How to Choose the Best Kayak Racks For Honda Odyssey
Picking a kayak rack for a Honda Odyssey ain’t something you just rush through like grabbing a snack. You gotta think stuff through. These vans, they got big roof space, yeah, but not all racks just slap on and go. What works on a pickup or SUV might be all wrong here.
Know Your Roof First
Before anything, check if your Odyssey has factory-installed roof rails or not. Some trims come with ’em, some don’t. If it’s bare up there, then you’ll need a complete roof rack system first. Means crossbars and mounting towers. Without those, a kayak rack won’t got nothin’ to grab onto.
People often miss this and then end up returning parts or just giving up. Measure your roof width, spacing between rails if you have them. The 2023 Odyssey roof width is roughly 78.5 inches, but measure yours to be sure.
Consider the Type of Kayak
Not all kayaks are the same size or shape. You hauling a big ol’ tandem kayak or just a light recreational kayak?
- For heavy ones, get a saddle-style kayak rack. They cradle the kayak nice n’ snug.
- For lighter, slimmer boats, a J-cradle rack saves more room.
- If you plan to carry more than one, you’ll need a stacker-type rack—they stand the kayaks on edge.
Each type works different with aerodynamic drag, and some will hit your MPG harder than others.
Think About How Tall You Are
You tall? No problem. You short? You’re gonna need help lifting kayaks onto the roof. Honda Odyssey is about 69 inches high, give or take. Add a roof rack and kayak, now you’re talking over 80 inches total.
If that’s tough for you, try getting a rack with load assist—they help lower and lift the kayak with less effort. You don’t want to be shoving a 50lb kayak up there without some help, trust me.
What About the Wind Noise?
Some kayak roof racks get loud at high speed. That’s not just annoying—it eats up gas and makes your van less chill.
Look for racks with aero-style crossbars or built-in wind fairings. These cut down wind drag and noise. Regular square bars can whistle like crazy at 60 mph. Especially on a big flat van like the Odyssey.
Compatibility with Roof Boxes or Bike Racks
Planning to carry other stuff too? Like a roof box, or maybe a bike rack? Then make sure your kayak rack don’t take up the whole roof. You want something that uses just half the roof width or allows modular mounting.
Odyssey’s roof can support about 165 pounds total, rack included. So you gotta calculate total weight—rack + kayak + extras. Go over that, and you risk roof dents or worse.
Security Features
No one talks about this but yeah, kayak racks can get stolen. Specially the expensive Thule or Yakima ones. You’ll want racks that include locking mechanisms or let you add cable locks.
Also double check the kayak itself stays locked to the rack. Some models like the Malone Downloader got integrated tie-down straps that clip tight and secure.
Ease of Storage and Removal
After summer ends, where’s the rack go? Some of ’em fold flat. Others, nope—big awkward things to store. If you’re tight on garage space, find a foldable or compact kayak rack.
Also check how fast you can take it off or put it on. Some use tool-free mounting clamps, others need a whole socket set. If you’re only using it once a month, quick install makes a big difference.
Go With Trusted Brands
You don’t always gotta buy big-name stuff, but for kayak racks? It helps. Thule, Yakima, Rhino Rack, Malone, and INNO all make stuff that fits the Odyssey well.
Just make sure it’s got universal mounting compatibility or is Odyssey-specific. Some racks don’t fit curved roofs well. Read the specs, or call the manufacturer if it’s unclear.
Think About Weather Exposure
Live somewhere with snow, salt air, or heavy rain? Then don’t cheap out on materials. You want corrosion-resistant hardware. Look for aluminum construction or powder-coated steel.
Rubber padding too—it’ll protect both your kayak and your van’s paint. Bare metal on metal ain’t gonna end well.
