For kayakers, the act of going for a paddle across your favorite quiet Cape Cod kettle pond or challenging surf of the ocean begins with getting your kayak from garage to water. But anyone who has hoisted a heavy kayak onto a car roof knows—it’s not always easy, especially if you're solo. Enter the Thule Hullavator Pro Lift Assist Kayak Carrier, a game-changing tool that simplifies one of the most physically demanding parts of kayaking: loading and unloading your boat.
What Is the Thule Hullavator Pro?
The Thule Hullavator Pro is a premium rooftop kayak carrier with integrated gas-assist struts that lift and lower up to 40 lbs of your kayak’s weight. It's designed to help users load and unload their kayak at waist level, reducing strain on your shoulders, back, and arms.
It mounts to your car’s crossbars and securely holds one kayak—up to 75 lbs and 36 inches wide. Made of corrosion-resistant materials, it's built to endure years of rugged, outdoor use.
Key Benefits That Make Loading Easy
1. Lift Assist Technology
The standout feature is its gas-assist struts, which help lift 40 lbs of your kayak's weight. This means if your kayak weighs 70 lbs, you only need to lift about 30 lbs of it, significantly reducing the physical effort needed. You don’t have to muscle your boat overhead—a major relief for solo paddlers, older kayakers, or anyone with limited upper-body strength.
2. Side Loading at Waist Height
Unlike traditional rooftop carriers that require overhead lifting, the Hullavator Pro swings down to the side of your vehicle, lowering the cradle to waist level. This means you can load your kayak easily while standing next to your car, then lift it into position with minimal force. No ladders, no climbing, and no awkward maneuvering.
3. One-Person Operation
The Hullavator Pro allows a single person to load and unload a kayak independently. This is ideal for solo adventurers or those who don’t always have a second pair of hands. Whether you’re out at dawn or back at sunset, you can manage the process safely on your own.
4. Secure and Stable Transport
Once in place, your kayak is held securely in padded cradles with multiple tie-down points. The system is rock-solid at highway speeds and protects your kayak’s hull during transit. It’s not just about ease of loading—Thule also emphasizes safety and protection.
Who Should Consider the Hullavator Pro?
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Solo kayakers: If you're often loading alone, the Hullavator makes it not only possible—but easy.
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Shorter or smaller-framed users: It reduces the need to reach overhead or struggle with awkward lifting angles.
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Frequent paddlers: For anyone who loads and unloads their kayak regularly, it saves time and energy every trip.
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People with physical limitations: The lift assist helps those with back, shoulder, or joint concerns to keep enjoying the sport.
The Bottom Line
The Thule Hullavator Pro Lift Assist Kayak Carrier takes the heavy lifting out of kayaking—literally. It’s an investment in both convenience and safety, turning what used to be the hardest part of a kayaking trip into a quick, easy task. Whether you're navigating lakes or coastal inlets, the Hullavator ensures the journey starts smoothly—before you even hit the water.
If kayaking is your passion, the Thule Hullavator Pro may be the smartest gear upgrade you’ll make this season.