After spending a huge chunk of money on a kayak, the last thing most of us want to do is spend even more money on a kayak roof rack. Unfortunately for most of us, bypassing this purchase isn’t an option.
Luckily, there is a multitude of high-quality kayak racks at a reasonable price below $100. Better yet, most are very trustworthy and last a long time.
For whichever reason you’re in the market for an inexpensive kayak rack, you’ve come to the right place. We formulated a list of the most trustworthy options under $100. Whether you want racks for your crossbar, pads for your vehicle without a crossbar, or if you require a single/dual; You’ll surely find what you’re looking for below!
In Short, Here Are The Best Affordable Kayak Car Racks Below $100
- AA-Racks
- ECOTRIC J-Bar
- IKURAM
- WOOWAVE
- Best Marine
- Alfa Gear
- TMS 2-Set
- Car Rack & Carrier
- AA-Racks J-Bar
1. AA-Racks
First up, the AA-Racks is an excellent kayak rack running below $100. One of its primary selling points is its ability to fold making it easier for loading. Once the kayak is placed, all you need to do is fold the rack upwards and secure it.
The base is constructed of natural rubber for enhanced slip resistance. Coming with the purchase, you also get ratchet straps for added security.
2. ECOTRIC J-Bar
Coming in either a single a dual-set, the ECOTRIC J-Bar is an impressively affordable option. While the 2-pack for two separate kayaks is running near $50, the single is even more inexpensive at roughly $30.
These racks are able to carry kayaks up to 36 inches wide. Another positive trait is how they come with a 1-year warranty!
3. IKURAM
Barely below $100, the IKURAM is one of the higher-quality kayak racks on this list. Nevertheless, it can also be used for a canoe, stand-up paddleboard, or surfboard. Constructed with aviation-grade aluminum alloy, it’s designed for maximum longevity and continuous use.
This rack has a much wider compatibility range of 42 inches. On top of that, the 158-pound weight capacity is quite impressive, as well. Another impressive characteristic is its ability to fold downwards by 180-degrees for convenient loading. Overall, it’s one of our favorites below $100!
4. WOOWAVE
If your car doesn’t possess roof racks and you only need to transport a single kayak at a time, the WOOWAVE is a perfect choice. On top of that, it’s straightforward and simplistic to use. It comes with two soft roof racks that can hold a kayaks, SUP paddleboards, or a surfboard.
These racks have a universal fit for just about any vehicle. Each tie-down strap is very long totaling 15 feet in length. Made with an EPE foam interior covered by nylon, it’s able to last a very long time for the price. Keep in mind, the nylon is UV resistant, as well. You also get a carry case that entirely stores everything.
5. Best Marine
Amazingly, the Best Marine is on a hefty price cut of 10 % off the original amount. Although we’re unsure if this discount is permanent or temporary, we believe it’s either way, an incredible bang for the buck.
These racks can adjust in various angles making them more versatile for different sized kayaks. With a 100-pound weight capacity, you’ll enjoy their remarkable build quality.
6. Alfa Gear
Here is yet another padded kayak rack that can be used with a car without roof racks. Running below $100, the Alfa Gear is a dependable option at an extremely low price.
But keep in mind, it can only be used for a single kayak at a time. If you’re planning on transporting two kayaks, pads are not the way to go.
There are a plethora of reasons why we love this kayak rack. It provides resistance to vibration, compatible with most vehicles without a roof rack, comes with lashing straps with protective pads, and offers high-quality construction with 600D fabric.
7. TMS 2-Set
For good reasons, the TMS 2-Set is one of the most famous and highest-rated kayak racks under $100. Better yet, you get two pairs for two separate kayaks. They have a universal fit for any vehicle with a roof rack. However, each one is only compatible with a kayak that’s 36 inches wide or under.
Its max weight runs at 75 pounds. Additionally, it comes with a lifetime warranty. We highly recommend it for anyone looking for a kayak.
8. Car Rack & Carrier
Like the previous one, the Car Rack & Carrier is a dual kayak set running below $100. The base is made of real rubber and it has a foam protector, as well. Each said delivers an impressive 150-pound weight capacity, as well.
Folding these racks down is pretty straightforward. To fold them down, you must loosen the center screws. That also goes with tightening the rack by tightening the center screws, as well.
9. AA-Racks J-Bar
Lastly, the AA-Racks J-Bar is an acceptable kayak rack at a low price. They provide a universal fit and robust ratchet straps. Additionally, they have a sturdy quality of construction for the price.
Our Winner
Keep in mind that our opinion is not the end all be all. Like mentioned earlier, everyone has different needs, requirements, and precise budgets for their kayak rack below $100. However, our winner for those who want a single set is the IKURAM due to its durable build quality. But for those who need a dual-set below $100, is TMS 2-Set decisively our most recommended option by a long shot. Both of these kayak racks are the very best choices below $100!
Quick Recap
In Short, Here Are The Best Affordable Kayak Car Racks Below $100
- AA-Racks
- ECOTRIC J-Bar
- IKURAM
- WOOWAVE
- Best Marine
- Alfa Gear
- TMS 2-Set
- Car Rack & Carrier
- AA-Racks J-Bar
If you’re looking for over-ear headphones, see our top picks here.
See the top made-in-USA sunglasses here.
Need a modern outdoor coffee table? See the top picks here.
Need an alarm clock? See the top choices here.