Recommended Carrier for Two Kayaks for Yakima Round Crossbars on 2008 Toyota Highlander

Question:

I have a 2008 Toyota Highlander that has factory side rails with Yakima RailGrab towers and a round bar. I am planning on buying and carrying two Venture Islay 14 sea kayaks which the manufacturer lists as having a width of 23.75. If theyll both fit at the same time I would prefer to have saddle style racks. I was looking at getting two sets of the Yakima Evenkeel but Ive read some negative reviews about them shifting so Im not sure so now Im considering a HullyRoller/Maco combo or the new Sweetroll. Any recommendations on what would fit on the vehicle and be able to fit both kayaks? Thanks, Wesley

asked by: Wesley W

Expert Reply:

Because of the integral rollers, I really like the Yakima SweetRoll, part # Y04074. During a recent training session conducted here by the folks at Yakima, we got to test the SweetRoll Kayak Carrier. We were all impressed by how much easier the rollers made the task of loading a kayak.

Due to the width of two kayaks sitting side by side, you should make sure your round crossbars are long enough. At a minimum, you'd need the # Y00409 58 inch bars.

Each carrier includes two tie-down straps and bow and stern tie downs. I'd also recommend the Malone Hood Loops, part # MPG308. You would close the hood Loops in the hood and rear hatch, where they'd provide attachment points for the bow/stern tie downs.

expert reply by: Mike L