For anyone who cartops a boat, kayak, etc. what kind of hood straps have you used to secure the boat's bow and keep it from lifting at higher speeds? I've tried the types that are loops that are meant to sit in the hood channels temporarily, but they moved around a lot. So I'm curious what folks have used etc. The more specific (models, photos, etc) the better. Thanks for taking the time.

 

I have a yakima one that you close into the hood. I set it near center, but clear of the latch and it works well. My only complaint is that it is to short to go around the bend in the front of the hood and the metal S hook from the bow line would be in contact with the hood if I did not wrap a microfiber cloth around it. I have done hours on the freeway with no issues once removed or during transport.

Here is a link to the one I use - https://yakima.com/products/hoodanch...DAEgWlrz_XtUC8

 

Thanks so much — at the risk of being high maintenance would you be able to post a pic or two of the placement? I use a similar product and find it moves around a lot, but I’m confident I’m doing something wrong. Thanks!

 

I don't have a picture from the front when loaded, the only one I have is in side profil (below). I put the part that goes under the hood slightly to the right or left of the latch and the bow line I use is webbing with the ability to cinch it down. It stays pretty tight and I have gotten zero movement. I will get a pic from the front next time I load it up. the micro fiber cloth is key to keeping the paint from getting damaged. For reference my boat is a 13ft fishing kayak and I added a third crossbar for support.

 

Thanks and nice set-up. For the front strap, do you use one in the middle (ish) or two in a "V" formation? I tried the "V" and they side enough that the stress point weakens. Thanks again. This is helpful.

 

Thanks! I use a single strap in the front and rear. I imagine if you used two in order to create a "V" formation they would tend to want to slide towards the center and loosen up. One in line in front and one line in the rear keeps the tension lined up and keeps the straps from sliding around. The set up pictured above has been rock solid for me at speeds of 80mph.

 

Many thanks and I'm going to try that next week when I drive a Laser sailboat ~150 miles each way. I tried the "V" this week and it did exactly what you described: started nice and taut in the beginning and then started to slide (and loosen) as the trip evolved.

 

Keep us posted! I bet you will have much better luck with the single line.