The Jeep Compass, with its rugged charm, invites the adventurous at heart to explore the unseen. If kayaking is one of the ways you heed the call of the wild, then having a reliable kayak rack is non-negotiable. With numerous options saturating the market, zeroing in on the rack that suits your needs can be a tad overwhelming.
Best 6 Kayak Racks for Jeep Compass
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01. PARTOL Compass Cross Bars Roof Rack for Jeep Compass
Got my hands on the PARTOL Compass Cross Bars Roof Rack recently, and I must say, it’s been quite the experience. Setting it up on my 2019 Jeep Compass was a breeze; didn’t need more than half an hour, and the tools were all there. The black powder-coated aircraft aluminum not only feels solid but adds a nice rugged touch to my Jeep.
Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There’s this whistling sound when I hit the 30 mph mark. Can’t say I’m a fan, but it’s not a deal-breaker for me. My buddy’s SUV has a different brand’s roof rack, and it’s silent as a mouse, so I know it’s not a universal thing.
I’ve thrown a couple of bikes and my fishing gear on it, and it holds up just fine. The design is top-notch, sleek and sporty, just how I like it. I’ve read some folks had trouble with missing instructions, but if you’ve ever set up a rack before, it’s pretty straightforward.
All in all, for the price point, it’s a solid pick. Just wish it’d keep it down on the highway, but that’s a compromise I’m willing to make.
Pros:
- Quick Installation: Easy to set up in 15-30 minutes, all necessary hardware included.
- Sturdy Material: Made from high-quality aircraft aluminum, capable of holding up to 150 lbs.
- Sleek Design: Aerodynamic shape reduces air resistance and adds a sporty look to your vehicle.
- Versatility: Great for attaching various rooftop accessories.
Cons:
- Wind Noise: Some users have reported whistling sounds at speeds over 30 mph.
- Missing Instructions: A few customers received their package without any installation guide.
02. MotorFansClub Roof Rack Cross Bars for Jeep Compass
Took me just about 10 minutes to get MotorFansClub Roof Rack Cross Bars for Jeep Compass all set up. Yes, installation was as easy as 1-2-3. I have loaded it up with my kayaks a couple of times and it’s held up well, no wobbles or anything of that sort. However, I did have a bit of a hiccup when one side popped up during a drive. Not sure if I didn’t tighten it enough or what, but it was an easy fix.
Driving around, even at 70 mph, it’s been smooth sailing. No strange noises, no shaking, it’s like the bars aren’t even there. I’ve read some people having issues with the fit, but mine latched on tightly and with the additional bolt, these bars aren’t going anywhere. I initially wanted something low-profile, but the height on these turned out to be perfect.
For those with a 2019 Jeep Compass, the flush mount roof rails on this model means you’re going to have a good time installing these bars. Plus, the airfoil shape cuts down on wind noise, making it almost silent. The price is just the cherry on top, offering a lot more bang for your buck compared to the OEM options.
Only gripe? The instructions could be a bit clearer. Took a bit of trial and error to figure out that the bars are of different lengths. Other than that, it’s been a solid purchase, and I’d happily recommend it to other Jeep Compass owners out there. The black bars on my black roof just look sharp, and I haven’t felt the need to take them off at all.
Pros:
- Easy Installation: Can be set up within 10 minutes without any hassle.
- Sturdy Build: Provides a secure and robust foundation for carrying various items.
- Affordable: Offers a cost-effective alternative to more expensive brands.
- Quiet Operation: No whistling sounds or vibrations even at high speeds.
Cons:
- Potential Stability Issues: There might be a need to double-check the tightness to ensure everything stays in place.
- Learning Curve: Instructions could be clearer, especially for first-time users.
03. KYX DMS T-Track Design Roof Rack Cross Bars
Got my hands on the KYX DMS T-Track Design Roof Rack Cross Bars and have some mixed feelings about them. On one hand, they add a nice aesthetic touch to the vehicle once they’re up there. They’re sturdy, strong, and don’t make a peep when driving around, which is a huge plus. I’ve already loaded them up with different gear, including a kayak and a canoe, and they’ve held up perfectly.
However, getting them installed was no small feat. The rubber bumpers don’t give much leeway, so you really need to put your back into it to get everything aligned properly. And once they’re on, getting the plastic lock door back on can be a bit of a headache. Because of this, they’re not something you’d want to be taking on and off regularly. For me, they’re staying put year-round.
Despite these challenges, the quality of the product itself is pretty impressive. The bars are solid, the hardware is of good quality, and they even threw in a high-quality Allen wrench. Though the installation took some time, I felt confident in the security of the rack once everything was set up.
One thing to note – you might want to pick up some longer screws before getting started on the installation. The ones provided just barely do the job, and it’s worth the extra couple of bucks to ensure everything is safe and secure.
Pros:
- Sleek Design: Adds a nice touch to the vehicle’s appearance.
- Sturdy Build: Feels secure and strong, capable of holding various loads.
- Quick Delivery: Arrives promptly after ordering.
- Quiet: No noise when driving, even at higher speeds.
Cons:
- Challenging Installation: Can be difficult to line up correctly and requires significant pressure.
- Potential for Additional Costs: May need to purchase longer screws for a safer installation.
- Time-Intensive Setup: Takes a good amount of time and effort to install properly.
04. KINGGERI Compass Cross Bars for Jeep Compass
KINGGERI Compass Cross Bars are sturdy, durable, and definitely made with my jeep in mind. I’ve had my share of universal cross bars before, and they never quite hit the mark, so I’m pretty stoked to have found these.
Installation was a breeze; they’ve labeled everything so you know exactly where everything goes, no second-guessing needed. And I really appreciate that they’ve included all the tools necessary for the job. It’s a simple assemble and disassemble process, and you can adjust the width of the crossbar, which is a nice touch.
However, I did notice a bit of a hiccup with the fit. I had to place the back bar on the last section of holes because it couldn’t reach the middle holes on each side. This isn’t a big deal if you have a long carrier, but for shorter carriers, it could pose a bit of a problem. So, something to keep in mind.
Despite that, I’d say they’re worth the money. They feel heavy-duty, not cheap or flimsy at all. Took them on a road trip from Texas to Virginia with a roof rack attached, and it was smooth sailing all the way, saved us a ton of space inside the car.
Pros:
- Tailored Design: Specifically crafted for Jeep Compass models from 2018 to 2022, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Strong and Durable: Made from high-grade aluminum, providing extra security and robustness.
- High Weight Capacity: Can support up to 220lbs (100 kg), offering ample space for luggage, ladders, or cargo.
- Simple Installation: Comes with necessary tools, easy to assemble and disassemble, and clearly labeled parts.
Cons:
- Limited Adjustment for Shorter Carriers: Back bar may not reach middle holes on each side, potentially an issue for shorter carriers.
- Potential for Wind Noise: While designed to be aerodynamic, there is a chance of wind noise at higher speeds.
05. SNIXWOO Cross Bars for Jeep Compass
It’s clear SNIXWOO have done their homework because it fits a wide range of Jeep Compass models, from the RED Edition to the TRAILHAWK and everything in between, just not the Sport models.
With a load capacity of up to 220lbs, I’ve been able to carry my kayaks, luggage boxes, and even my skateboard with no issues at all. The aerodynamic design is a bonus, as it cuts down on wind resistance and keeps the noise level to a minimum, making my road trips a lot more enjoyable.
Installation was a breeze; SNIXWOO Cross Bars included a wrench and I had these bad boys set up in minutes. It’s just a matter of tightening the bolts and you’re good to go. The whole design speaks to a level of comfort and ease that really makes these cross bars stand out.
So, if you’re in the market for reliable, sturdy, and well-designed cross bars for your Jeep Compass (and let’s be real, who isn’t?), SNIXWOO has got you covered
Pros:
- Perfect Fit: Tailored specifically for various Jeep Compass models from 2017 to 2024, except for the Sport models.
- High Load Capacity: Can bear up to 220lbs, making it versatile for different equipment and luggage.
- Aerodynamic Design: Reduces wind resistance and noise, ensuring a smoother drive.
- Quick Installation: Comes with the required wrench, facilitating a straightforward setup.
Cons:
- Not for Sport Models: Unavailable for Jeep Compass Sport models.
- May Require Adjustments: Depending on your specific needs and vehicle model, adjustments might be necessary for optimal performance.
06. Taelakeni 2 Pairs Kayak Carrier Racks
I must say, Taelakeni 2 Pairs Kayak Carrier Racks have lived up to my expectations. Right out of the box, I noticed the sturdy build and the thoughtful inclusion of spare nuts and bolts, which is a nice touch and ensures I won’t be left in a bind during assembly.
The classic and practical design, coupled with a carrying capacity of 150lbs, gives me the flexibility to haul different types of gear, from kayaks to snowboards. The wide-mouth J-bar design is a game changer, making the loading and unloading process a breeze while ensuring that the kayak stays securely in place.
Installation and removal are quick and easy, thanks to the bottom flange thread design. I drove a 500-mile round trip with no issues, and the included straps were an unexpected bonus. They were surprisingly easy to use and held everything securely in place.
However, I did notice a bit of wear on the foam padding on one mount after the trip. It’s not a deal-breaker, but something to keep in mind for long-term use.
All in all, I am pretty satisfied with my purchase and would definitely consider buying again. If you’re in the market for a reliable kayak carrier rack, the Taelakeni 2 Pairs Kayak Carrier Racks are worth checking out.
Pros:
- Versatile Mounting: Compatible with almost all crossbars and load bars, excluding round bars.
- High Carrying Capacity: Can hold up to 150lbs, making it suitable for various items like kayaks, snowboards, and surfboards.
- Durable Material: Constructed with high-quality steel and a smooth baking finish for enhanced anti-corrosion properties.
- J-Bar Design: Simplifies the loading and unloading process while utilizing minimal space on the load bar.
Cons:
- Limited Lifespan of Padding: The foam padding may show signs of wear after substantial use.
- Not for Round Bars: Not compatible with round bar crossbars.
The quest for the perfect kayak rack is nothing short of an expedition. It demands a keen eye, a tad bit of research, and a clear understanding of your needs and the offerings on the table. As you steer through the options, armed with insights and a clearer picture, the perfect rack for your Jeep Compass is not far from reach.
