Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier Review

Real Insights into the Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier

As an individual who spends a considerable amount of time navigating various environments – from the rugged outdoors to the precise demands of a workshop and the controlled conditions of a laboratory – I’ve developed a keen eye for gear that performs reliably. My quest for a robust yet manageable solution to transport my kayaks led me to the Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier. This system promised to simplify the often cumbersome process of loading and securing two kayaks, a necessity for any serious paddler looking to explore further afield.

The initial inspiration to seek out a dedicated kayak carrier stemmed from a particularly frustrating trip where I struggled to safely secure both my touring kayak and my wife’s recreational craft to a makeshift rack. The worry of damage to the boats and, more importantly, the safety implications of an unstable load, made it clear that a dedicated solution was not just a convenience, but a necessity. This experience spurred my search for a system that was both secure and user-friendly.

Upon unboxing, my first impression of this Malone rack was one of pragmatic design. The octagonal aluminum post construction felt sturdy, and the accompanying foam blocks, intended to cushion the kayaks, seemed well-fashioned. While not the most visually striking piece of equipment, its build quality suggested it was designed for function and durability rather than aesthetics. I briefly considered some of the more elaborate roof-top box style carriers, but the simplicity and stated ease of use of this rack were more appealing for my specific needs. My initial reaction was a cautious optimism, hoping that its functional design would translate into real-world ease.

Real-World Testing: Putting Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for the Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier were my own driveway and a familiar stretch of local backroads leading to a favorite lake. The assembly process itself was straightforward, taking less than thirty minutes with minimal fuss. Mounting it to my existing crossbars, which I had previously used for less specialized loads, proved to be a universal fit as advertised.

The real test began with loading the kayaks. The “Stax Pro2” design, with its vertical stacking capability, immediately felt more manageable than attempting to balance two boats side-by-side on a flatter rack. I loaded my heavier touring kayak first, then maneuvered the lighter recreational kayak onto the second tier. The foam blocks did a commendable job of protecting the hull surfaces from direct contact with the rack’s frame.

The most significant surprise was the ease of securing the kayaks using the included cam style load straps. They provided a firm grip without requiring excessive force to cinch down. The added safety lines were a reassuring touch, offering an extra layer of security for highway travel. My only minor quibble was ensuring the kayaks were perfectly aligned before fully tightening the straps, a common challenge with any multi-boat carrier.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekend trips to various paddling destinations and even a longer road trip, the Malone rack has held up remarkably well. The corrosion-resistant molded components have shown no signs of degradation, even after exposure to rain and occasional salt spray from coastal roads. I’ve subjected it to repeated loading and unloading cycles, and the aluminum posts remain as solid as ever.

Durability has not been an issue. I haven’t encountered any cracks, stiffness in the folding mechanism, or performance drops. Even with the weight of two kayaks consistently applied, the rack maintains its structural integrity. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after dirty trips is all that’s needed to keep it looking and functioning well.

Comparing it to some older, more basic J-style carriers I’ve used in the past, this double kayak carrier offers a clear advantage in stability and ease of loading. While more expensive, premium systems might offer additional features, for its price point, the Stax Pro2 delivers excellent value and reliability. It hasn’t fallen short of expectations; rather, it has consistently met them.

Breaking Down the Features of Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier

Specifications

The Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier boasts a thoughtful array of specifications designed for practical application. Its core structure is built around octagonal aluminum post construction, which provides a robust yet lightweight frame. This material choice is excellent for resisting corrosion, a crucial factor for gear often exposed to the elements.

The system is designed to carry two kayaks, with a stated load capacity of 50 lb per boat. It also notes a 4 boat maximum capacity, though this likely refers to smaller, lighter craft or specific configurations, as carrying four kayaks on this specific double carrier would be highly impractical and unsafe for standard touring or recreational kayaks. The dimensions are listed as 5 inches in length, 5 inches in width, and 20 inches in height, with a total unit weight of 8.5 lb.

This compact form factor, especially the fold-down frame design, is a significant advantage for users with limited garage clearance or who need to reduce wind resistance when the carrier is empty. The inclusion of foam stacker blocks is a key feature, acting as a buffer between the kayak hulls and the metal frame, thereby protecting against abrasions and potential damage during transit. The universal fit mounting hardware is a practical inclusion, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of roof rack crossbars.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier is to safely and securely transport two kayaks. In this regard, it performs admirably. The vertical stacking design makes loading significantly easier than attempting to position two kayaks side-by-side, especially for individuals with less upper body strength or those working alone.

The open gate head design on the straps is a clever touch that allows for quick and secure capture of the load straps, simplifying the tensioning process. The cam style load straps themselves offer a strong grip, and combined with the 10′ safety tie-downs, they provide a securement system that instills confidence even on longer journeys at highway speeds. It reliably holds two kayaks steady, minimizing any concerning sway or movement.

One of the standout strengths of this carrier is its ability to adapt to different kayak sizes and shapes within its weight capacity, thanks to the adjustable nature of the straps and the supportive foam blocks. However, a potential weakness for some might be the 50 lb per boat capacity, which could be limiting for exceptionally heavy sea kayaks or fishing kayaks. While it meets expectations for most common recreational and touring kayaks, users with heavier craft will need to consider alternatives or ensure their kayaks fall within this limit.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier leans heavily towards practicality and user-friendliness. The use of octagonal aluminum post construction not only ensures durability but also contributes to a relatively lightweight unit, making it easier to maneuver and install on the vehicle. The corrosion-resistant molded components speak to Malone’s attention to longevity and resistance to environmental wear.

Ergonomically, the fold-down frame design is a standout feature. This allows the carrier to be lowered when not in use, significantly improving clearance for entering garages or parking structures. This simple yet effective design choice greatly enhances the user experience for those who frequently leave the rack installed on their vehicle.

The integrated foam stacker blocks are ergonomically designed to cradle kayak hulls effectively, minimizing pressure points and preventing chafing. The open gate head design on the straps simplifies the connection process, reducing fumbling and making it easier to get a secure hold. While the overall assembly requires some basic tool use, the design minimizes complex steps, making it accessible for most users.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier appears to be built for the long haul. The octagonal aluminum post construction is inherently strong and resistant to bending or deformation under load. The corrosion-resistant molded components are specifically engineered to withstand exposure to moisture, UV rays, and road salts, which are common culprits for premature wear and tear on vehicle accessories.

I anticipate this rack will last for many years under typical usage. Maintenance is refreshingly simple; a periodic rinse with water and a mild detergent is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Checking the tightness of the mounting hardware and the condition of the straps before each trip is good practice, but no specialized tools or procedures are required.

The primary potential failure points would likely be the straps over extended periods of UV exposure or excessive abrasion, though the included cam style load straps appear to be of good quality. The molded components, while robust, could theoretically become brittle in extreme cold over time, but this is a generalization for many plastic-based materials rather than a specific known flaw of this carrier.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier comes as a complete package, thoughtfully including all necessary components for immediate use. The kit includes the cam style load straps and 10′ safety tie-downs, which are essential for secure transport and are of good quality. It also comes with the universal fit mounting hardware and the aforementioned foam stacker blocks.

While the carrier itself is designed for a specific function, there aren’t extensive customization options for the rack system itself in terms of altering its core design. However, its compatibility with standard roof rack crossbars means it can be integrated into a wider vehicle carrying system. If you were looking to transport more specialized gear alongside kayaks, or perhaps needed longer straps for exceptionally wide boats, Malone offers a range of other accessories in their catalog.

For instance, if one were transporting very long or heavy kayaks that pushed the 50 lb per boat limit, one might consider a different rack system or ensure that the kayaks themselves are on the lighter side of the spectrum. The core functionality of the Stax Pro2 is its integrated design, so external modifications are generally unnecessary and not recommended.

Pros and Cons of Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier

Who Should Buy Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier?

The Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier is an excellent choice for recreational kayakers, couples, or friends who regularly transport two kayaks. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who value ease of use and a secure system without breaking the bank. If you own kayaks that fall within the 50 lb per boat weight limit and have standard roof rack crossbars, this carrier will likely exceed your expectations.

Those who struggle with loading single kayaks or find traditional side-by-side car-top carriers cumbersome will greatly appreciate the vertical stacking design. It’s also ideal for users with height restrictions on their garage or parking situations, thanks to its clever fold-down frame design. Paddlers who frequent lakes, rivers, or coastal areas and need a reliable way to get their boats to the water will find this a practical and cost-effective solution.

Conversely, serious expedition kayakers with exceptionally heavy boats, or those who need to transport more than two kayaks at a time, should look at more specialized or higher-capacity systems. Users who prioritize the absolute lightest materials or most advanced aerodynamic designs might consider premium alternatives, but for the vast majority of recreational paddlers, this Malone rack is more than sufficient. Essential complementary items would simply be good quality roof crossbars if you don’t already have them, and perhaps a kayak cart for easier transport from the car to the water’s edge.

Conclusion on Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier

The Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier stands out as a genuinely practical and well-engineered solution for transporting two kayaks. Its intelligent design, robust construction with octagonal aluminum posts, and user-friendly features like the fold-down frame and open gate head strap design make it a joy to use. It effectively balances strength, security, and ease of use, all at a remarkably accessible price point of $149.95.

For its intended purpose, the load capacity of 50 lb per boat is adequate for a wide range of recreational and touring kayaks. The inclusion of cam style load straps and safety lines ensures a dependable transport experience, giving paddlers confidence on the road. The protective foam stacker blocks and universal fit mounting hardware further enhance its appeal and practicality.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Malone Auto Racks Stax Pro2 Double Kayak Carrier to anyone in the market for a reliable, easy-to-use, and budget-friendly double kayak carrier. It successfully addresses the common challenges of kayak transportation, making it a worthwhile investment for extending your paddling adventures.