Best 10 Kayak Racks for Jeep Wrangler & Jeep Cherokee

So, you have got a kayak. That sounds amazing but how are you planning to transport the kayak from point A to Point B? You just can’t tuck that huge kayak inside your jeep. Don’t even think about it. To transport a 10 feet kayak, you need to have kayak roof racks installed on your jeep. Kayak racks for a jeep will let you transport your kayak without developing any scratches or without damaging the jeep in the process.

Now, the market has got overflowed with numerous varieties of kayak roof racks and that means, it will be extremely difficult for you to figure out the best kayak roof rack for your Wrangler or Cherokee Jeep.

Best 5 Jeep Cherokee Kayak Carriers

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01. Thule Hull-a-Port XTR Roof Rack

Got a Jeep Cherokee? Then the Thule Hull-a-Port XTR Roof Rack might just be the kayak carrier you didn’t know you needed till you use it once. It’s foldable, versatile, and crazy solid—it’ll carry 1 kayak up to 75 lbs, or even 2 side-by-side in stacker mode if you snag another set of straps. It’s made for round, square, aero, and factory crossbars, so odds are it’s gonna fit straight on your Cherokee’s rack setup without any extra drama. One cool bit? The wheels on the base help roll your kayak into position while loading. It’s those tiny design touches that make Thule feel like they actually paddle.

Another win: you can fold it down when not in use, so no ugly roof silhouette or extra wind noise while drivin’. The universal mounting hardware goes on with zero tools and clicks down tight, which is sweet if you’re not tryna mess with ratchets and wrenches before hitting the water.

✅ Pros:

• ✅ Carries 1–2 kayaks depending on setup, with room to spare
• ✅ Folds flat, easy garage parking, less noise on highways
• ✅ Quick install—tool-free clamps are solid and fast
• ✅ Works great with Jeep Cherokee crossbars, no mods needed

❌ Cons:

• ❌ Only includes 1 set of straps, so hauling 2 kayaks? Gotta buy extras
• ❌ Heavier than some J-cradles—adds a bit more roof weight
• ❌ Folding mechanism may get sticky over time with dust or grit

For anyone serious about kayak hauling on a Cherokee, this rack punches way above its weight. Built for folks who want function but don’t wanna mess around with racks that scratch paint or slide loose mid-trip. It’s premium stuff—but it earns the price tag.

02. XGeek Kayak Roof Rack

Got a Jeep Cherokee and need a setup that ain’t gonna let your kayak go airborne on the freeway? The XGeek Kayak Roof Rack is a budget-friendly J-style carrier that punches above its price point. You’re gettin’ not just the rack, but also 4 ratchet straps, 2 bow/stern ropes, and extra tie-downs, all packed in. Works with most factory or aftermarket crossbars, and once it’s bolted on, the thing stays solid even when you’re hittin’ 70 down a windy stretch. The frame is aluminum alloy, not the cheap hollow steel some racks sneak in—so it won’t rust out on you in a couple months either.

Fits well on the Cherokee’s crossbar spacing, especially with its 180° folding design—so when you ain’t haulin’, just fold it down and you can still get into a parking garage without duckin’. It’s also versatile, handling kayaks, surfboards, SUPs, and even snowboards if you’re into that winter game. Quick tip though: give those bolts a check after install, some folks say it needs a once-over to fully lock in.

✅ Pros:

• ✅ Full accessory kit included – straps, ropes, everything’s in the box
• ✅ Folds down flat – better aerodynamics and no clearance issues
• ✅ Works for kayaks, SUPs, and surfboards – multi-use gear win
• ✅ Lightweight aluminum, but still strong enough for 80+ lbs

❌ Cons:

• ❌ Assembly manual could use… a translator, maybe? It’s not great
• ❌ Foam padding may wear if you rack heavy gear often
• ❌ Some bolts may loosen after long drives—double-check them

This one’s built for folks who want a kayak roof carrier for Jeep Cherokee that just works without the price tag of bigger names. Simple, sturdy, and actually comes with the stuff you need—unlike some “premium” kits that leave you shopping for straps after.

03. Codinter Kayak Roof Rack

Rockin’ a Jeep Cherokee and need a simple setup to haul your yak? The Codinter Kayak Roof Rack checks all the basics without draining your wallet. It’s a classic J-style carrier, built with steel tubes and soft foam padding, designed to hold one kayak up to 100 lbs. The base is coated with anti-rust paint, and the rubber saddles keep the kayak from sliding around while you roll to the launch spot. It’s a universal fit too, so long as your Jeep’s crossbars are standard oval, round, or square types—you’re good.

The rack installs with minimal fuss, just a couple of bolts and knobs—no power tools, no drama. You get a pair of tie-down straps in the box, which work fine for short trips but might feel a bit light if you’re hitting highways. Still, for casual weekend paddlers and those short drives to the river, this is more than enough rack for your Jeep Cherokee roof rails.

✅ Pros:

• ✅ Fits most roof crossbars—including what the Cherokee’s usually got
• ✅ Comes with basic straps and foam padding to protect both rack & kayak
• ✅ Holds up to 100 lbs, works for recreational and touring kayaks
• ✅ Budget-friendly option for one-boat haulin’

❌ Cons:

• ❌ Doesn’t fold down—sticks up even when not in use
• ❌ Straps included aren’t the best for high-speed highway travel
• ❌ No locking system, so you’ll want to remove or watch it in public lots

If you’re running light and just need a solid rack to carry your kayak from A to lake, the Codinter Kayak Carrier gets it done—especially if your Jeep Cherokee is already geared with rails. It’s no-frills, but that’s exactly why it works.

04. XCAR 2 Pairs Universal Kayak Rack

If you’re runnin’ a Jeep Cherokee and need a budget-friendly way to carry yaks, the XCAR 2 Pairs Universal Kayak Rack gets the job done without emptying your wallet. It’s a J-bar style rack setup that comes as a 2-pair kit, meaning you can toss two kayaks up top right outta the box. It straps onto most crossbars with a simple bracket-and-bolt system – yeah it ain’t fancy, but it holds. The steel frame’s powder-coated, so it shrugs off rain and sun, and the foam padding keeps your kayaks from taking dings on the ride.

For folks using the factory roof rails on a Jeep Cherokee, it usually fits without drama, but do check your crossbar width. They throw in 4 tie-down straps, which are decent enough, though you might wanna upgrade ‘em if you’re doin’ highway speeds often.

✅ Pros:

• ✅ Comes with 2 full racks, ready for hauling 2 kayaks
• ✅ Steel frame + foam padding, solid grip without scuffing boats
• ✅ Fits most roof crossbars, even factory ones on Jeep Cherokee
• ✅ Cheap way to start hauling without going full premium gear

❌ Cons:

• ❌ Straps included are basic—consider swapping for ratchet straps
• ❌ No folding feature, so it sticks up when not in use
• ❌ Install takes longer than tool-free options—bolts, brackets, wrenches

For casual paddlers or anyone just starting out, this rack covers the basics. Gets your kayaks secured on a Jeep Cherokee, lets you hit the water, and saves cash for more important stuff- like gas and snacks.

05. TMS Kayak Roof Racks

Rockin’ a Jeep Cherokee and need a no-fuss rack that gets the job done without robbin’ your wallet? The TMS Kayak Roof Racks got you. These classic J-bar carriers let you load up 2 kayaks (one per rack) and clamp down to most factory or aftermarket crossbars. Solid steel construction keeps things stable even when you’re doing highway speeds or hittin’ mountain curves. Plus, the angle on the cradle makes loading from the side way easier—especially solo.

You also get the straps included, which a lotta brands skip (rude, right?). Pair it with a Jeep Cherokee’s decent roof height, and you won’t be stretching like a gymnast to strap things down. Not fancy, not foldable—but works like a workhorse.

✅ Pros:

• ✅ Budget-friendly kayak rack with sturdy steel frame
• ✅ Works with most crossbar systems, fits Jeep Cherokee just fine
• ✅ Angled design = easier loading/unloading from side
• ✅ Comes with straps, no need to buy extras

❌ Cons:

• ❌ Not foldable, adds height—garage clearance might be tight
• ❌ Padding isn’t super thick, might wanna DIY more foam
• ❌ Bolts can rust over time if left out year-round

If you’re new to kayaking or just want something to haul a boat a few times a month, the TMS J-Bar Kayak Racks won’t let you down. No gimmicks—just solid grip, simple install, and your kayaks staying exactly where you left ‘em.

Best 5 Kayak Racks for Jeep Wrangler

01. AA-Racks 2 Pair J-Bar Rack

Running a Jeep Wrangler with some roof crossbars already in place? The AA-Racks 2 Pair J-Bar Rack is about as no-nonsense as it gets for haulin’ two kayaks at once. You get two complete sets in the box, so no need to buy a second pair like most setups make you do. What makes it Wrangler-friendly? The folding J-bars—they drop down when not in use, so you ain’t smackin’ low branches or garage beams every time you back out. And the foam + rubber padding combo? Legit. Keeps your yak from slidin’ around and saves your Jeep’s paint from looking like it survived a bear attack.

This rack also comes with heavy-duty ratchet straps—not them dollar-store knockoffs. Rated to 2200 lbs, each one’s got more strength than you’ll ever need for a plastic boat. Just make sure your Wrangler’s crossbars are spaced right, and you’re good to go.

✅ Pros:

• ✅ Comes as a full 2-kayak setup – real rare at this price point
• ✅ Folds down – makes garage entry & trailhead parking way easier
• ✅ Ratcheting straps included, strong enough for long highway runs
• ✅ Solid grip padding, no slip and no roof scratches

❌ Cons:

• ❌ Won’t work without existing crossbars—Jeep hard top or rack system needed
• ❌ Folding hinge can get stiff if you leave it in the weather too long
• ❌ Rack spacing isn’t adjustable once mounted, so you gotta align ‘em right the first time

For Jeep Wrangler kayak transport, this is a bang-for-buck setup that gets the job done without drama. Whether you’re rollin’ up to the lake or hittin’ that dirt trail to a hidden launch, your boats are stayin’ locked tight all the way there.

02. Goplus® Kayak Carrier

Got a Jeep Wrangler and a kayak habit? The Goplus® Kayak Carrier might be the simple, budget-friendly setup you didn’t know you needed. It’s got that classic J-style design, which makes loading up way easier—especially from the side of a taller ride like the Wrangler. The steel frame holds strong (rated for up to 165 lbs), and those thick foam cushions do more than just look good—they actually keep your yak from gettin’ beat up on bumpy trails or highway runs. Whether you’re draggin’ down to a lake or headin’ out for river play, it rides solid.

This one ain’t about bells and whistles, but it does the job—and for folks with crossbars already installed, you’re pretty much ready to roll out. No fancy tools needed, just mount it, strap down your yak with the included ropes and straps, and hit the road. Perfect fit for Jeep life, especially if you’re takin’ detours off-pavement.

✅ Pros:

• ✅ Budget-friendly but still handles heavy kayaks (up to 165 lbs)
• ✅ Foam padded supports keep your kayak scratch-free
• ✅ Includes straps and ropes—no need to buy extras
• ✅ Works great on Jeep Wrangler crossbars or aftermarket roof racks

❌ Cons:

• ❌ Doesn’t fold down—gotta remove ’em for tight parking garages
• ❌ Straps could be thicker—consider upgrading for heavy-duty trips
• ❌ No universal fit guarantee—measure your bars first

If you’re runnin’ a Jeep and want a no-nonsense kayak rack without droppin’ big money, this one’s a solid grab. Rugged enough for off-road and holds up well to regular use. Just mount, strap, and go splash somethin’.

03. ECOTRIC Kayak Roof Rack

Got a Jeep Wrangler? The ECOTRIC Kayak Roof Rack brings that no-fuss, no-frills kinda setup that actually holds up. It’s a 2-pair J-bar carrier, which means you’re stacking two kayaks up top without eatin’ up all your roof space. Built with steel construction and foamed-out contact points, it’s solid enough for off-road bounce and won’t dig into your yak or scratch up your hardtop. You’ll get all the mounting hardware and straps right out the box—so no need for emergency bungee cord MacGyvering.

Now on a Wrangler, this thing sits tight on crossbars (just make sure you got ‘em), and clears the removable roof panels if placed right. Perfect if you’re trail-bound one day, lake-bound the next. It doesn’t fold down, though, so you might lose an inch or two of clearance unless you pop it off.

✅ Pros:

• ✅ Carries two kayaks at once, great for buddies or solo stack missions
• ✅ Heavy-duty steel frame, not plastic junk
• ✅ Foam padding protects gear from dings and paint from scratch
• ✅ Comes with all mounting straps + bolts – no extra buys needed

❌ Cons:

• ❌ Not foldable, so might scrape garage headers or hangups
• ❌ Needs a bit of muscle + patience to install on some rack types
• ❌ Bolts may rust over time if exposed to lots of saltwater or rain

For Jeep folks who ride trails Monday and paddle Saturdays, this ECOTRIC rack is cheap, strong, and gets the job done. Might not win design awards, but it’ll keep your kayak tight and your roof happy.

04. Mrhardware A01 Kayak Roof Rack

Rockin’ a Jeep Wrangler and need a no-frills kayak solution? The Mrhardware A01 Kayak Roof Rack brings the basics and gets the job done without draining your wallet. You’re gettin’ 2 J-style racks, each built from steel tubing with a protective foam wrap to cradle your kayak without wreckin’ the hull. On a Wrangler’s roof, these sit high and solid—great if you’re haulin’ one or even two kayaks side-by-side. No fancy parts, just U-bolts, brackets, and all the mounting hardware included. It’s the kinda gear that’s ugly tough—function first, aesthetics later.

You also get two sets of straps in the box, which helps a ton if you don’t have extra tie-downs lying around. Only catch? The mounting fit is kinda universal, which means it works… but not always perfectly on every bar. Still, once it’s locked in, you’re rollin’ stable on rough trails or highways.

✅ Pros:

• ✅ Super budget-friendly without skimpin’ on metal parts
• ✅ Includes straps, foam pads, all basic mounting gear
• ✅ Works well on Jeep Wrangler’s hard top rack bars
• ✅ Can haul 2 kayaks, side-mount style if you’ve got the space

❌ Cons:

• ❌ Doesn’t fold down – might hit garage doors or mess with aerodynamics
• ❌ U-bolts may not fit some aftermarket crossbars clean
• ❌ Padding’s thin – might wear down if exposed to hot sun over time

It’s a solid choice for Wrangler owners who need J-bar kayak mounts that just work. No fluff. No app. Just strap it, tighten it, and hit the water. Whether you’re headin’ to a lake or off-grid, it’ll get your kayak there without a drama.

05. HIGHRAZON Kayak Roof Rack

Rollin’ in a Jeep Wrangler and need a rack that ain’t just hype? The HIGHRAZON Kayak Roof Rack delivers the basics—sturdy, simple, and it gets the job done without drama. Built with heavy-duty steel and coated in black powder to fight rust, it’s got that rugged vibe that pairs well with Wranglers. You’re gettin’ a foldable J-bar design, which means no roof-hitting chaos when pulling into tight garages or duckin’ under low branches. It supports kayaks, surfboards, or even snowboards, so it ain’t a one-trick pony either.

Install’s fairly plug-and-play if you’ve already got crossbars on your Jeep—otherwise, yeah, you’re gonna need those first. It also ships with tie-down straps, so you’re not scrambling to find spares before a trip. Ideal for Wrangler owners who actually use their roof racks, not just flex ’em on Instagram.

✅ Pros:

• ✅ Folds down when not in use—parking and clearance are way easier
• ✅ Compatible with a wide range of roof crossbars
• ✅ Comes with tie-down straps, decent quality out the box
• ✅ Built from durable alloy steel, no rattles or wobble even on trails

❌ Cons:

• ❌ Not a great fit for extra wide kayaks—narrow cradle spacing
• ❌ Folding mechanism could be smoother, feels stiff fresh out the box
• ❌ Padding’s decent but not thick—might wanna reinforce for sensitive hulls

For Jeep Wrangler setups that see more mud than mall parking lots, this rack pulls its weight. Toss your kayak, canoe, or board on top, hit the trails or water, and forget it’s even up there till you need it. No-frills, all function.

How to Choose the Best Kayak Racks for Jeep

Picking the right kayak rack for your Jeep isn’t just a purchase—it’s sort of like picking shoes that actually fit. A rack that don’t fit right, you’ll know the second you start tying down your kayak and it wobbles like a chair with a short leg. There’s a bunch of stuff that you gotta look out for, especially if you haul gear like paddleboards, canoes, or even a fishing kayak on the regular.

What Type of Kayak Rack Works with Your Jeep?

First off, ya can’t throw any ol’ rack up there and call it good. Jeeps come with all sorts of roof setups—bare roofs, factory roof rails, crossbars, even aftermarket roof racks. Yours might already have side rails or it might be completely bare. Either way, it affects what kinda rack actually fits.

• If you got factory crossbars, lucky you—you can mount a bunch of different racks straight up.
• No bars? You’ll probably need a roof rack system first, something like Thule or Yakima makes that clamps to your Jeep’s frame.

People often forget about Jeep Wrangler roof weight limits, which, depending on the model, can be somewhere around 100–165 lbs. That includes the rack and the kayak’s weight. Go heavier, and you’re asking for dents or worse.

Think About Kayak Size & Loading Style

Size actually matters more than most folks think. You dragging around a 10-foot recreational kayak or one of those big sea kayaks? You’ll need a rack that supports it from end to end or else it’ll sag like bad bread. Longer sit-on-top kayaks, especially the ones rigged for fishing, often go 12 feet plus. Don’t skimp on length support.

Also, how tall are you? Cause if you gotta lift a 65-lb kayak onto a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, you’re in for a backache unless you got a lift-assist kayak rack. Some racks, like the load-assist J-cradles, help tilt or lower the kayak toward you, so you ain’t lifting like a gym rat.

Durability Is a Whole Deal on Its Own

Plenty of folks pick cheap racks off a sketchy website and then wonder why their kayak rack clamps snap on the highway. Don’t be that person. Steel racks can rust, aluminum usually don’t. Foam blocks wear out faster, and plastic parts? They crack when it gets below freezing.

If you live where it snows or rains a bunch, consider UV-resistant coating and rustproof bolts. Especially if you park outdoors—Jeep hardtops and soft tops both take sun differently, and rack hardware reacts too.

How Many Kayaks You Haulin’?

You just got one kayak? Cool. But if you ever go with a buddy or two, better get a rack that holds 2+ kayaks. Some stacker-style kayak racks let you mount ’em on their sides, which is great for multiple kayaks but terrible if your kayak hull’s soft. You press too hard, you’ll get warping. Ask me how I know.

Don’t Forget Tie-Down Options

Racks are only half the equation. You need solid tie-down straps, preferably cam buckle straps and bow-stern tie downs. And unless your Jeep got tow hooks in front and back, where you tying those lines? Some folks rig their own hood loops or trunk anchor straps, and it works, but check ‘em before every trip. Bungee cords don’t cut it—period.

Budget Ain’t Just About Money

Cheap racks might save you $100 today but cost you way more when your kayak falls off on I-70. Quality racks for Jeep Gladiator, Jeep Cherokee, and even Renegade vary from $100 to $500+. Ain’t just about features, either. Warranty, customer support, and how often you’ll use it—those are worth thinking about too.

Compatibility with Roof Accessories

Some people forget they got a roof top tent or cargo box already mounted. Not all kayak racks play nice with other stuff. If you got limited roof real estate, consider folding kayak racks or removable saddles. That way, you ain’t choosing between your kayak and your camping gear every trip.

Security Matters, Especially in the City

Live in a place where folks get sticky fingers? Some racks come with locking mounts or let you add locking cables. Nothing worse than coming back from lunch to find your whole setup gone, kayak and all. Been there.

Weather + Jeep Style = Long-Term Strategy

Got a Jeep Wrangler soft top? Then your rack might need to be frame-mounted instead of roof-mounted, so you ain’t squashing your soft top frame. Live in Arizona? You need UV resistance. Vermont? Salt-resistant hardware’s key.

Final Thoughts—Don’t Just Guess

So, don’t just throw any ol’ rack on your Jeep. Think about your kayak, your Jeep model, your loading ability, and how often you’re gonna use it. You get what you pay for—and then some if you pick wrong.