Yakima BigStack — Multi-Kayak Vertical Rooftop Stacker
The Yakima BigStack Kayak Stacker is the ultimate rooftop solution for paddlers, outfitters, and families who need to transport multiple kayaks in a single trip without taking up excessive roof space. Unlike J-cradle or saddle systems that carry kayaks flat or tilted individually, the BigStack uses a vertical stacking approach — standing kayaks on their side and nesting them together against a tall central post — allowing you to carry up to four kayaks on a single roof rack setup. For paddlers who regularly transport a fleet of recreational boats, rental kayaks, or a mix of kayaks and canoes, the BigStack's high-capacity stacking design is unmatched in roof space efficiency.
The BigStack features heavily padded contact points and adjustable straps that secure each kayak firmly against the central stacker post, keeping boats stable and protected at highway speeds. Its universal crossbar compatibility makes it at home on round, square, factory, and most aftermarket bar systems, and the wide, stable base provides a secure foundation even when fully loaded with multiple boats. The included bow and stern tie-down loops offer additional peace of mind on longer drives, and SKS Same Key System compatibility allows the BigStack to lock to your rack alongside your other Yakima accessories using a single key.
Whether you're running a paddle club, outfitting a family reunion trip, or simply need to move several boats efficiently between locations, the Yakima BigStack Kayak Stacker delivers the highest carrying capacity of any rooftop kayak transport system in the Yakima lineup. Its combination of vertical multi-boat stacking, protective padding, and universal fitment makes it the go-to choice for anyone who regularly needs to get more than two kayaks on the road at once.
![Yakima BigStack]()
Yakima BigStack Specs & Features
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Weight: 7.20 lbs.
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Dimensions: L 6.00 in x W 5.00 in x H 22.00 in
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Minimum Crossbar Spread: 24.00in
- Folds down when not in use for better aerodynamics and easier access to your garage
- Universal built-in hardware fits round, square, factory and aerodynamic crossbars right out of the box. Optimized for aerodynamic bars.
- Top-of-the-line Hullguard™ padding keeps your boat protected during transport
- SteelCore™ construction uses a steel tube frame for superior strength
- AnchorHead™ tie down feature makes it easy to manage straps with multiple kayaks
- Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow and Stern Tie-Downs included (HoodAnchor, sold separately, is required for vehicles with no attatchment points for Bow and Stern Tie-Downs)
- Premium heavy-duty straps with coated metal buckles protect boat and vehicle
- Great for carrying multiple whitewater boats
- Lockable with SKS Lock Cores (sold separately)
Yakima Rooftop Kayak Carrier Comparison
| Feature |
JayHook |
JayLow |
SweetRoll |
ShowDown |
DeckHand |
HandRoll |
BigStack |
BigCatch |
| Carry Style |
J-Cradle |
J-Cradle |
Saddle & Roller |
Load-Assist Arm |
Flat Saddle |
Roller Cradle |
Vertical Stacker |
Flat Saddle |
| Kayak Orientation |
On Side |
On Side |
Upright |
Upright |
Upright |
Upright |
On Side / Stacked |
Upright |
| Max Kayaks |
2 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Up to 4 |
1 |
| Load Difficulty |
Moderate |
Moderate |
Easy — Rear Roller |
Easiest — Side Load |
Moderate |
Easy — Full Rollers |
Moderate |
Easy — Felt Pads |
| Load Assist |
None |
None |
Rear Roller |
Tilting Side Arm |
None |
Full Roller Cradles |
None |
Felt Loading Pads |
| Hull Protection |
Padded Arms |
Padded Arms |
Padded Saddle & Roller |
Padded Cradle Arms |
4-Point Premium Padding |
4-Point Non-Marring Rollers |
Padded Post & Straps |
Soft Rubber & Felt Pads |
| Tie-Downs Included |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes — Heavy-Duty Straps & Bow/Stern |
| SUP Compatible |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
| Folds Flat |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
| Tool-Free Install |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Min. Crossbar Spread |
24.00 in |
27.50 in |
24.00 in |
24.00 in |
24.00 in |
24.00 in |
24.00 in |
27.00 in |
| Universal Crossbar Fit |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes — StreamLine, RoundBars, HD Bars & Most Aftermarket |
| SKS Lock Compatible |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
— |
| Best For |
Entry-level paddlers & budget-conscious buyers |
Paddlers wanting refined J-cradle with more adjustability |
Solo paddlers who want easier loading with upright carry |
Solo paddlers with heavy kayaks or back concerns |
Touring & composite kayak owners prioritizing hull protection |
Frequent solo loaders wanting friction-free hull protection |
Clubs, outfitters & families moving multiple boats |
Fishing kayak anglers hauling heavy sit-on-top boats |
Your Satisfaction with Yakima is Guaranteed:
- limited Lifetime Warranty
- Free Shipping & Lowest Price Guarantee
