Malone MegaWing V-Style Kayak Carrier vs Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak: Spec Comparison
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The malone megawing v style kayak carrier vs saddle up pro kayak debate comes down to how you secure your boat. Both are Malone carriers using JAWZ mounting hardware for round, square, or oval crossbars. They both include bow and stern tie-downs for safety. The main difference is the design. The MegaWing uses a single V-style holder for heavy loads. The Saddle Up Pro uses four adjustable saddles for a wider spread. This changes how each fits different kayak shapes and weights.
Key differences
| Aspect | Malone MegaWing V-Style Kayak Carrier | Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set |
|---|---|---|
| Shell Type | Single V-style reinforced holder | Set of four adjustable saddles |
| Load Capacity | 150 lb | not listed |
| Straps Included | 15' cam buckle load straps | 2 - 12 foot cam buckle straps |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 28" x 7.75" x 6" | 15" x 14.6" x 12.8" |
| Weight | 11.9 pounds | 8.4 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Malone MegaWing V-Style Kayak Carrier if
- You transport a single, heavier kayak up to 150 lb
- You prefer a streamlined, low-profile design with fewer parts
- You want longer 15' cam buckle straps for extra security
Choose Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set if
- You have a wider sit-on-top or fishing kayak
- You prefer adjustable saddles that conform to your hull shape
- You want a lighter carrier that weighs only 8.4 pounds
Verdict: Choose the MegaWing if you need high capacity for a heavy, single kayak and want a compact profile. Pick the Saddle Up Pro if you have a wider recreational kayak and need adjustable saddles for a secure fit. Both options provide solid security with included tie-downs.
Capacity and Build Comparison
Load Capacity
The Malone MegaWing V-Style Kayak Carrier lists a specific load capacity of 150 lb. This rating helps you determine if it can safely handle larger, heavier boats without risk of damage to the carrier or your vehicle. In contrast, the Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set does not provide a specific weight limit in its published specifications. While it is designed for larger sit-on-top recreational and fishing kayaks, the absence of a stated number means you must rely on general guidelines rather than a precise limit. For heavy vessels, the MegaWing’s clear 150 lb rating offers more certainty.
Physical Dimensions
Size matters when you need to fit your gear into a tight space. The MegaWing measures 28 inches in length, 7.75 inches in width, and 6 inches in height. Its low-profile design aims to reduce wind noise and improve garage clearance. The Saddle Up Pro set is wider at 14.6 inches and taller at 12.8 inches, though slightly shorter in length at 15 inches. If your primary concern is minimizing the footprint on your roof or ensuring the carrier does not block your rear view or garage door, the MegaWing’s narrower and lower profile provides a practical advantage.
Included Straps
Secure transport relies heavily on the quality and length of the included straps. The MegaWing V-Style Carrier comes with 15-foot cam buckle load straps, which provide extra length for securing larger or longer kayaks. It also includes buckle protectors. The Saddle Up Pro set includes two 12-foot cam buckle straps. While 12 feet is sufficient for many standard kayaks, the MegaWing’s 15-foot straps offer more flexibility for longer hulls. Both sets include bow and stern tie-downs for additional safety, but the longer straps on the MegaWing may simplify the strapping process for bigger boats.
Weight
When installing roof accessories, lighter is often easier to handle. The MegaWing V-Style Carrier weighs 11.9 pounds. The Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set weighs 8.4 pounds. This makes the Saddle Up Pro set noticeably lighter by about 3.5 pounds. If you frequently remove and reinstall your kayak carrier, the lower weight of the Saddle Up Pro set reduces the physical effort required during installation. For a single-person setup, this weight difference can make a noticeable difference in convenience.
Build Material
Durability is key for outdoor gear exposed to the elements. The MegaWing V-Style Carrier is built with high-strength nylon and features coated hardware to resist corrosion from harsh weather and saltwater exposure. The Saddle Up Pro set also uses a solid nylon platform to guarantee boat safety. While both use nylon, the MegaWing explicitly highlights its corrosion-resistant coating, which is beneficial if you launch your kayak in saltwater or live in a humid climate. This specific feature suggests a focus on long-term durability against environmental wear.
Which kayak carrier fits your boat
You have a heavy, large kayak
The MegaWing V-Style lists a 150 lb load capacity. This specific rating ensures you can transport heavier vessels safely. The reinforced V-style design supports the weight without flexing. You get peace of mind knowing the carrier is engineered for larger, heavier boats that exceed standard weight limits.
You need low garage clearance
The MegaWing stands only 4.5 inches high. This low-profile fit improves garage clearance significantly compared to taller carriers. The streamlined shape also reduces wind noise at highway speeds. If you store your vehicle indoors or in tight spaces, this lower height prevents scraping or damage.
You want adjustable saddle fit
The Saddle Up Pro features saddles that adjust to find the right fit for your kayak. This flexibility helps secure various hull shapes. The solid nylon platform guarantees boat safety during transport. You get a customizable setup that adapts to different recreational and fishing kayak designs.
The products compared
Malone MegaWing V-Style Kayak Carrier
Best for: Heavy single kayak transport
- Load Capacity
- 150 lb
- Size
- One Size
- Use
- Kayak
- Dimensions
- 28 × 7.75 × 6 inches
- Weight
- 11.9 pounds
View on Amazon: Malone MegaWing V-Style Kayak Carrier Affiliate link
This carrier uses a reinforced V-style design to hold one kayak up to 150 lb. It includes JAWZ mounting hardware that fits round, square, and oval crossbars without tools. The unit measures 28 inches long and weighs 11.9 pounds. You get 15-foot cam buckle straps and tie-downs for secure transport. The low-profile shape helps reduce wind noise and improves garage clearance.
Pros
- Supports kayaks up to 150 lb
- Fits round, square, and oval crossbars
- Includes bow and stern tie-downs
- Corrosion-resistant nylon and coated hardware
Cons
- Only holds one kayak
- Weighs 11.9 pounds
- No mention of integrated lock points
Good fit if
- You have a single large or heavy kayak
- You need universal fit for various crossbar shapes
- You want a low-profile aerodynamic design
Skip if
- You need to carry two kayaks at once
- You prefer a lighter carrier under 10 pounds
- You require integrated locking mechanisms
Verdict: Malone MegaWing V-Style Kayak Carrier is built for hauling heavy single kayaks on any crossbar type. It suits you if you prioritize high weight capacity and universal mounting over carrying multiple boats.
Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set
Best for: transporting two recreational kayaks
- Vehicle Type
- Car
- Size
- One Size
- Use
- Kayak
- Dimensions
- 15 × 14.6 × 12.8 inches
- Weight
- 8.4 pounds
View on Amazon: Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set Affiliate link
The Malone Saddle Up Pro is a set of four universal kayak saddles designed for secure transport. Each saddle measures 14.6 inches wide and weighs 8.4 pounds, providing a solid nylon platform. The adjustable design helps fit various kayak hulls, including larger sit-on-top models. It includes bow and stern safety tie-downs plus 12-foot cam buckle straps. The JAWZ mounting hardware accommodates round, square, and factory oval cross rails.
Pros
- Set of four saddles for stable dual-kayak transport
- Adjustable saddles fit various hull shapes
- JAWZ hardware fits round, square, and oval rails
- Includes bow and stern safety tie-downs
- Solid nylon platform ensures boat safety
Cons
- Heavier total weight at 8.4 pounds per unit
- Requires separate purchase of cross rails
- No integrated locking mechanism for anti-theft
Good fit if
- You transport two kayaks simultaneously
- You have round, square, or oval factory rails
- You use larger sit-on-top recreational kayaks
Skip if
- You need a single-saddle lightweight setup
- You have aerodynamic or wing-style cross bars
- You require built-in anti-theft locks
Verdict: Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set offers a robust, adjustable platform for hauling two kayaks. It suits owners of larger recreational kayaks who need reliable JAWZ compatibility with standard roof rails.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Malone MegaWing V-Style Kayak Carrier | Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set |
|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 150 lb | not stated |
| Vehicle Type | not stated | Car |
| Size | One Size | One Size |
| Use | Kayak | Kayak |
| Dimensions | 28 × 7.75 × 6 inches | 15 × 14.6 × 12.8 inches |
| Weight | 11.9 pounds | 8.4 pounds |
| Color | black | black |
| Model | MPG207 | MPG110MD |
Frequently asked questions
Which carrier is better for a single heavy kayak?
The Malone MegaWing V-Style is the better choice for single heavy kayaks. It supports up to 150 lb, which handles substantial weight safely. Its V-style design cradles the hull securely. You get dedicated bow and stern tie-downs for added stability during transport. This makes it ideal for hauling one large vessel without worry.
Can I carry two kayaks with the MegaWing V-Style?
No, the MegaWing V-Style is designed for a single kayak. It is built for heavy single kayak transport rather than multiple boats. If you need to haul two kayaks, the Saddle Up Pro is the correct option. It offers a platform specifically sized to accommodate two recreational vessels side by side on your roof rack.
How do the dimensions compare between the two carriers?
The MegaWing V-Style is longer at 28 inches but narrower at 7.75 inches. It stands 6 inches high. The Saddle Up Pro is shorter at 15 inches but wider at 14.6 inches and taller at 12.8 inches. These differences affect how much roof space each unit occupies and how they fit your specific crossbar setup.
Which carrier weighs less?
The Saddle Up Pro is lighter. It weighs 8.4 pounds. The MegaWing V-Style is heavier at 11.9 pounds. The weight difference may matter if you frequently remove and reinstall your carrier. The Saddle Up Pro is easier to handle due to its lower mass, while the MegaWing includes more structural material for its higher load rating.
Do both carriers use JAWZ mounting hardware?
Yes, both carriers utilize JAWZ mounting hardware. This system allows them to attach to round, square, or oval crossbars. You do not need a specific roof rack type for either option. This universal fit ensures compatibility with most vehicles, making installation straightforward regardless of whether you choose the MegaWing or the Saddle Up Pro.
What model numbers should I look for?
The MegaWing V-Style is model MPG207. The Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set is model MPG110MD. Both are black in color. You can verify you are purchasing the correct item by checking these model numbers. They are sold as One Size, meaning they do not come in different physical dimensions for various vehicle types.
Is the Saddle Up Pro suitable for recreational kayaks?
Yes, the Saddle Up Pro is ideal for recreational kayaks. It is designed to transport two recreational boats simultaneously. The adjustable platform provides a secure base for standard-sized vessels. If you own two smaller or mid-sized kayaks, this carrier maximizes your roof space efficiency while keeping both boats stable and protected during travel.