Malone Deluxe Foam Block Universal Car Top Large Kayak Carrier Kit Review (2026)

Who this kit is for

This kit is aimed at owners of larger kayaks who need a carrier sized for a bigger hull rather than a compact recreational boat. The 18-inch foam blocks give more surface contact under the kayak than shorter blocks, which matters more as hull length and weight increase. Like other foam block systems, it is built for paddlers without a dedicated cradle rack, whether because their vehicle lacks crossbars or because they want a lower-cost option than a J-cradle or saddle mount. Anyone transporting one large kayak occasionally, rather than multiple boats or frequent long highway trips, is the best match for this style of carrier.

Block size and construction

Each foam block measures 18 inches long, 4.75 inches wide and 3.75 inches tall, sized to support the width of a larger kayak hull without excessive flex. Malone builds the blocks from what it describes as premium EVA closed-cell foam, manufactured in the USA, which is a denser foam construction meant to hold its shape under a kayak's weight over repeated use rather than compressing permanently. The blocks include a universal cutout profile designed to fit round, square and oval load bars, and a non-skid laminate bottom that grips a bare roof and helps protect the vehicle's paint from scratching during loading.

Straps and hardware included

The kit ships with two 15-foot load straps, two 10-foot block straps for side-to-side stability, and bow and stern safety lines with S-hooks, giving a complete tie-down system without needing to buy separate hardware. This is a more thorough strap package than some competing foam block kits, which sometimes include only the primary load straps and leave safety lines as a separate purchase. A reusable clamshell tote is included for storage, along with an instruction manual, and the whole kit including blocks and straps weighs about 3.3 pounds, light enough to keep in a trunk or garage between trips.

Availability today

Malone has retired this specific Deluxe kit from its current product lineup, directing buyers toward newer kayak carrier options on its own site, even though the kit may still be listed for sale through other retailers including Amazon. This does not affect how the kit performs for anyone who already owns one or buys remaining stock, but it is worth knowing before relying on Malone directly for replacement parts or extended support down the line. Buyers focused on long-term manufacturer backing may want to check Malone's current lineup for a directly supported alternative.

Value and warranty

Malone backs the kit with a One Year Limited Warranty tied to product registration, shorter than the lifetime coverage some competing brands offer but still a reasonable baseline for an accessory in this price range. Given the 18-inch block size, complete strap set, and made-in-USA foam construction, this kit offers solid value for owners of larger kayaks who want a functional bare-roof or crossbar solution without paying for a dedicated cradle rack. The main caveat is its retired status within Malone's current catalog, which buyers should factor in when weighing long-term support against the kit's otherwise strong included hardware. Anyone who finds remaining stock at a good price is still getting a well-equipped kit, just without the assurance of an actively supported current-generation product line behind it.

Frequently asked questions