Yakima JayLow — J-Style Rooftop Kayak Mount
The Yakima JayLow J-Cradle Rooftop Kayak Carrier is the go-to solution for kayak anglers and paddlers who want a secure, space-saving way to transport their boat on any crossbar system. Designed to hold your kayak on its side in a classic J-style cradle position, the JayLow frees up valuable roof space — making it easy to carry two kayaks on a single vehicle without the bulk of a flat saddle-style mount. Its fold-down design means the carrier lays flat when not in use, reducing wind drag and keeping your setup streamlined on the road.
Built with Yakima's signature durability in mind, the JayLow features fully adjustable, heavily padded cradle arms that protect your kayak's hull during transport while providing a rock-solid hold at highway speeds. The universal SKS (Same Key System) compatibility allows it to integrate seamlessly with Yakima's broader rack ecosystem, and the included bow and stern tie-down loops make securing your kayak fast and straightforward. Whether you're loading solo or with a partner, the JayLow's intuitive design minimizes hassle at the trailhead so you can focus on the water.
Compatible with round, square, and most factory crossbars, the Yakima JayLow is a versatile choice for a wide range of vehicles and kayak styles — from recreational sit-ins to wider fishing kayaks. Its combination of smart engineering, protective padding, and space-efficient J-cradle design makes it one of the most practical and popular rooftop kayak carriers on the market for paddlers of all skill levels.
![Yakima JayLow]()
Yakima JayLow Specs & Features
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Weight: 11 lbs.
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Dimensions: L 6.69 in x W 6 in x H 20 in
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Minimum Crossbar Spread: 27.50in
- Carry 1 boat in J-cradle position or 2 boats in vertical, stacker position
- Fully assembled out of the box
- Tool-free installation
- Fits Yakima StreamLine & round, square, factory, or aerodynamic bars
- Adjust the upright position with the easy-to-use integrated cam lever
- Folds flat when not in use
- 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)
- SKS Locks sold separately
- Supports one boat up to 100 lb or two boats with combined weight of 130 lb or less
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
