Recommended Length of Malone Roof Rack for 2014 Ford Escape to Carry Kayaks

Question:

I have a 2014 Ford Escape with the factory side raised rails that run front to back. I am wondering if I need the 50” or the next size up to haul a kayak on. Initially, I plan to use just the crossbars and place a single kayak on top of them and strap them down, but eventually I would like to buy 2 sets of kayak carriers to haul 2 kayaks at once. Will the 50” bars be enough to eventually install 2 sets of kayak carriers on? I also am concerned if I purchase anything longer than 50” that the overhang will be very noticeable and I could hit my head while entering/exiting the vehicle.

asked by: Alex

Expert Reply:

That's a great question and you've clearly put a lot of thought into it. And for your 2014 Ford Escape with raised rails I highly recommend the 58 inch Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack # MPG216.

The reason I recommend the longer bars is because they make kayaks much easier to load, particularly two kayaks, because they will be closer to the edge of your vehicle, so you don't have to try and contour your body to lift the kayaks up while bending to maneuver them on the roof. Longer crossbars are also better because you will have more room to fit your two kayaks.

A great option for a kayak carrier is the Malone DownLoader # MPG114MD which is folding. This carrier comes with tie-down straps so you do not have to get them separately, has a robust 75 lb capacity and you can easily fit it in your AirFlow2 roof rack with the Crossbar T-Slot Fit Kit # MPG8287. The DownLoader carriers even have an available load assist, the Telos XL Load Assist for Malone J-Style Kayak Carriers # MPG351XL which makes loading the kayaks onto your '14 Escape a simple task.

I have added links to video reviews for you to check out as well.