Kayak Roof Rack#7 of 8 in Racks & Rigging

Yakima Showboat 70 Kayak Rack

by Yakima

4.3
PaddleProw scoreEditorial rating out of 5, based on specs, build and fit for purpose

The Yakima Showboat 70 is a reliable, no-frills J-style kayak carrier that excels at maximizing roof space by angling boats on their side.

  • Fits most crossbars
  • Folds flat easily
  • Solo-friendly loading
Capacity
1 kayak per unit
Material
Powder-coated steel
Length
70 inches

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01The review

The Yakima Showboat 70 is a rooftop kayak carrier designed to take the guesswork out of hauling your boat safely and securely, no matter how often you hit the water. Built around a durable 70-inch J-style cradle shape, it holds your kayak on its side at an angle, which not only saves valuable roof space for a second boat or additional gear but also reduces wind resistance and drag during highway driving. The saddle is lined with a soft, UV-resistant padding that cradles the hull without scuffing the gelcoat or stressing the plastic, making it a dependable choice for everything from fishing kayaks to sleek touring boats.

Mounting is straightforward thanks to its universal compatibility with most factory crossbars and aftermarket rack systems, so you don't need specialized tools or a trip to the dealer to get it installed. The included heavy-duty straps and bow and stern tie-downs give you multiple points of security, keeping the kayak locked in place even during long drives on rough roads or in gusty crosswinds. Yakima engineered the Showboat 70 with a low-profile design that keeps your kayak closer to the roofline, which helps with fuel efficiency and makes loading from the side easier, especially for paddlers who load solo.

Whether you're a weekend warrior heading to the lake or a dedicated paddler chasing whitewater and coastal routes, the Showboat 70 delivers the kind of reliable, no-fuss performance that lets you focus on the paddling instead of the logistics of getting there. Its rugged construction stands up to repeated use season after season, resisting corrosion and wear from sun, salt, and road grime. For anyone serious about protecting their investment in a quality kayak while maximizing roof rack versatility, the Showboat 70 remains a trusted, go-to accessory in the kayaking and paddle sports community.

02Spec sheet

Length70 inches
MaterialPowder-coated steel
Capacity1 kayak per unit (75 lbs max)
Mounting TypeUniversal crossbar clamp
Folded ProfileFlat against crossbar

Manufacturer specifications. Dimensions and weights can vary slightly between production years and outfitting packages.

03Pros & cons

What we like

  • Easy to load and unload solo thanks to J-cradle angle
  • Folds down flat for low-profile storage or multiple racks on one bar
  • Secure hold even on highway speeds when straps are properly tightened
  • Compatible with a wide range of existing roof rack systems
  • Frees up roof space for a second kayak or gear box
  • Straightforward installation with included hardware and instructions

Watch out for

  • Only holds one kayak per unit, need two for a second boat
  • Steel construction adds noticeable weight compared to foam blocks
  • Straps can loosen over long trips and need periodic rechecking
  • Foam padding on cradle may wear down after a few seasons
  • Not ideal for very wide fishing kayaks due to cradle width

04Key features

  • J-style cradle design for single kayak transport
  • Folds flat against crossbars when not in use
  • Includes heavy-duty straps and bow/stern tie-down lines
  • Universal mounting fits round, square, factory, and aero crossbars
  • 70-inch length accommodates most touring and recreational kayaks
  • Durable powder-coated steel frame construction

05Verdict

4.3

The Yakima Showboat 70 is a reliable, no-frills J-style kayak carrier that excels at maximizing roof space by angling boats on their side. It's a solid pick for paddlers with standard crossbars who want secure, repeatable kayak transport without breaking the bank, though those with oversized or fishing kayaks may want to measure cradle width first.

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Yakima Showboat 70 Kayak RackScore 4.3 / 5Check price