
Kayak Car Rack#4 of 8 in Racks & Rigging
Malone AutoLoader Kayak Carrier
by Malone
The Malone AutoLoader is a solid choice for solo paddlers who need a dependable, space-saving way to load a kayak onto their vehicle without assistance.
- Solo loading made easy
- Secure J-cradle design
- Durable all-weather build
- Capacity
- 75 lbs per kayak
- Material
- Steel frame
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01The review
The Malone Autoloader stands out as one of the most trusted kayak loading solutions for paddlers who want to transport their boats without the strain of a full overhead lift. Designed specifically for single kayak transport, this rack system uses a unique set of rollers and arms that allow the kayak to be loaded from the rear of the vehicle rather than hoisted straight up onto the roof. Paddlers slide their kayak onto the lower rollers at the back of the car, then simply push the boat forward along a guided track until it settles into the cradles at the front. This approach dramatically reduces the physical effort required, making it an ideal choice for solo kayakers, anglers hauling heavier fishing kayaks, or anyone who struggles with traditional lift-and-carry roof rack systems.
Built with durability in mind, the Malone Autoloader features a sturdy steel and aluminum frame that mounts securely to most factory or aftermarket crossbars, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of vehicles. The cradle design cushions the kayak’s hull to prevent scratching or denting during transport, while adjustable straps and tie-down points keep the boat firmly secured even at highway speeds. The rolling mechanism is engineered to handle the weight of recreational, touring, and fishing kayaks alike, giving paddlers confidence that their investment is protected on every trip to the put-in. Weather-resistant coatings and corrosion-resistant hardware further extend the rack’s lifespan, making it a reliable companion season after season regardless of exposure to sun, rain, or salt air near coastal launch sites.
For paddlers who prioritize convenience without sacrificing security, the Malone Autoloader bridges the gap between heavy-duty rooftop systems and minimalist foam block setups. Its intuitive loading process not only saves time at the boat ramp but also minimizes the risk of shoulder or back injury that can come from repeatedly lifting a kayak overhead. Whether heading out for a quiet morning paddle on a local lake or embarking on a multi-day kayak fishing excursion, users can rely on the Autoloader to streamline their pre-launch routine. Its thoughtful engineering reflects Malone’s long-standing reputation in the paddle sports industry for producing gear that genuinely improves the day-to-day experience of car-topping kayaks, making it a standout choice among rack systems built specifically for the kayaking community.
02Spec sheet
| Weight Capacity | 75 lbs per kayak |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel frame with corrosion-resistant coating |
| Mounting Type | Universal crossbar fit (round, square, factory) |
| Folded Height | 6 inches when stowed |
| Included Straps | 2 bow/stern tie-downs + load-assist strap |
Manufacturer specifications. Dimensions and weights can vary slightly between production years and outfitting packages.
03Pros & cons
What we like
- Allows a single person to load a kayak without help
- Secure J-cradle keeps kayak stable at highway speeds
- Sturdy construction holds up well in varied weather
- Straightforward installation on most round and square crossbars
- Folds down when not in use to reduce wind noise
Watch out for
- Only carries one kayak per unit, so two are needed for a pair
- Load-assist strap mechanism can wear out faster than the frame
- Padding may compress over time with heavy use
- Slightly pricier than basic J-cradle racks without load-assist feature
04Key features
- J-style cradle design for angled kayak transport
- Integrated load-assist straps for one-person loading
- Heavy-duty folding frame with corrosion-resistant coating
- Includes bow and stern tie-down straps
- Universal mounting hardware fits most factory and aftermarket crossbars
- Padded support arms to protect hull finish
05Verdict
The Malone AutoLoader is a solid choice for solo paddlers who need a dependable, space-saving way to load a kayak onto their vehicle without assistance. Its J-style cradle and load-assist strap system make it especially useful for taller vehicles, and the build quality holds up to regular outdoor use. While it requires buying two units for tandem kayaks and the strap mechanism needs occasional upkeep, it remains one of the more practical kayak carriers for individual users.
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