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
Dual-position J-cradle with integrated loading ramp
Last reviewed: March 2026
At a glance
Why this product
The JayLow is Yakima's dual-position J-cradle — carry 1 kayak up to 80 lbs in full J-mode or 2 kayaks up to 110 lbs combined in low-profile mode. Built-in load assist via an integrated loading ramp, folds flat, tool-free installation. At 12.85 lbs it is heavier than basic J-hooks, but the dual-boat flexibility and load assist justify the weight for paddlers who sometimes bring a second boat.
Detailed specs
| Carrying Style | J Cradle |
| Max Kayaks | 2 |
| Max Canoes | 0 |
| Max Boat Weight | 110 lbs |
| Load Assist | Yes |
| Padding Included | Yes |
| Straps Included | Yes |
| Bow/Stern Lines Included | Yes |
| SUP Compatible | No |
| Surfboard Compatible | No |
| Rack Weight | 12.85 lbs |
| Adjustable Angle | Yes |
Best prices
| Retailer | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon US | $229.00 | 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
Foldable J-cradle. 1 boat 80 lbs or 2 boats 110 lbs. Tool-free.
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 987 reviews
Alternatives
Most relevant alternatives to Yakima JayLow J-Cradle
More options
Other top-rated Kayak & Canoe
You might also like
Common questions
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 |
| Corolla Cross(1st Gen) | 2022+ | good | Crossbars needed |
| Highlander(4th Gen) | 2020+ | good | Crossbars needed |
The JayLow dual-position design is clever — use it as a J-cradle for one kayak or switch to stacker mode for two. The integrated loading ramp eases solo loading. At $209, it undercuts the Thule Compass while offering similar versatility.
Budget-conscious paddlers who want one carrier for 1-2 kayaks, Yakima crossbar owners
Heavy kayak owners (70+ lbs) who need a more robust loading solution
The JayLow offers impressive versatility at a fair price. The loading ramp takes practice but once mastered, solo loading becomes manageable.
Tested on: 2023 Honda Pilot, 2024 Mazda CX-5 · 4 months
Based on 67 reviews
