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At a glance
Why this product
The Hullavator Pro is the go-to if you paddle solo and cannot safely lift 50-plus pounds over your head. Gas-spring assist handles about 40 lbs of the load, lowering the kayak to waist height for loading. At 39.7 lbs and a premium price, you are paying for your back and shoulders. One boat only, no SUP compatibility — this is a dedicated kayak tool.
Detailed specs
| Carrying Style | Saddle |
| Max Kayaks | 1 |
| Max Canoes | 0 |
| Max Boat Weight | 34 kg |
| Load Assist | Yes |
| Padding Included | Yes |
| Straps Included | Yes |
| Bow/Stern Lines Included | Yes |
| SUP Compatible | No |
| Surfboard Compatible | No |
| Rack Weight | 18 kg |
| Adjustable Angle | No |
Best prices
| Retailer | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon US | A$852.42 | In Stock | Check Price |
Disclosure: MyCargoRacks.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Disclosure: MyCargoRacks.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Gas-assist kayak loader that lowers to waist height for solo loading
Last reviewed: March 2026
Lift-assist kayak carrier — handles up to 40 lbs of the weight so you can load solo. Gas-spring assist, lockable.
Price may vary. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Performance analysis
vs. average in kayak_canoe_rack
Price vs. score for all kayak_canoe_rack
Fitment
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tahoe(5th Gen) | 2021+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Escape(4th Gen) | 2020+ | good |
What the experts say
Bill Nikolaou· Water Sports Editor
Hands-on testedCommunity feedback
Based on 134 reviews
Alternatives
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Crossbars needed |
| Explorer(6th Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| CR-V(6th Gen) | 2023+ | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| CR-V(5th Gen) | 2017–2022 | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| Pilot(4th Gen) | 2023+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tucson(4th Gen (NX4)) | 2022+ | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| Santa Fe(5th Gen) | 2024+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Cherokee(WL) | 2022+ | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telluride(1st Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| Sportage(5th Gen) | 2023+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rogue(3rd Gen (T33)) | 2021+ | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outback(6th Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| Forester(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| Forester(5th Gen (SK)) | 2019–2024 | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| Crosstrek(3rd Gen) | 2024+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Model | Years | Fit | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAV4(5th Gen (XA50)) | 2019–2024 | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| RAV4(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| 4Runner(5th Gen (N280)) | 2010–2024 | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| 4Runner(6th Gen) | 2025+ | good | Crossbars neededbasic_tools install |
| Highlander(4th Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Corolla Cross(1st Gen) | 2022+ | good | Crossbars needed |
The Hullavator Pro transforms the kayak loading experience. Gas-assist struts lower the cradles to waist height, removing the struggle of lifting a 60+ pound kayak overhead. For solo paddlers, especially those with back issues or shorter stature, this is genuinely life-changing equipment.
Solo paddlers who load heavy kayaks without help, older paddlers, anyone with back concerns
Budget paddlers or those who always have a loading partner
At $900, the Hullavator is expensive. But if it means you keep paddling instead of quitting because loading is too hard, it pays for itself in joy.
Tested on: 2023 Subaru Outback, 2024 Honda CR-V · 12 months
Based on 987 reviews
