Best Roof Rack for 2018 Toyota Highlander With Flush Mounted Rails for Kayak Carrier

Question:

2018 toyoya highlander limited with flush rails. I need a pair of crossbars that can be easily/quickly removed after use for carrying kayaks. Dont want to leave crossbars with yak carriers attached for daily driving. I have a pair of thule square bars that i could incorporate into the system. What do you suggest?

asked by: David M

Helpful Expert Reply:

So it would be disingenuous to try and tell you that there is a roof rack that is an easy or quick on and off for any vehicle, including your 2018 Toyota Highlander. The reason is that roof racks are designed as a one-time install and the accessories that are used with them are really meant to be taken on and off quickly. With that said, the best option for a roof rack for a daily driver is the Thule WingBar Evo. This rack is made up of the following parts for your 2018 Toyota Highlander:

- Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars # TH711320
- Thule Feet # TH49SC
- Fit Kit # TH32RE

The reason this is the best option is because the aerodynamic WingBar crossbars of this system will give you the quietest ride without drag. The bars are a tapered shape and have what are called "WindDiffusers" - specially designed rubber strips atop the bars which direct the air flow over the bars for the quietest ride.

Thule did recently change their products so there isn't a way to utilize your old square bars with any of their new foot packs. Additionally, I do recommend adding the Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders # TH450400 so you can lock the roof rack to your 2018 Toyota Highlander and secure your investment.