Malone Saddle Up Pro Universal Review (2026): A Spec-Based Look
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This malone saddle up pro universal review focuses on the physical build and mounting capabilities of the Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set. The system includes four saddles, each measuring 14.6 inches wide and 15 inches long. The entire set weighs 8.4 pounds. These dimensions allow the saddles to adjust for various kayak widths. The design prioritizes secure transport for larger sit-on-top recreational and fishing kayaks. You get bow and stern safety tie-downs included. This approach ensures your boat stays stable during travel. The carrier uses JAWZ mounting hardware to fit round, square, or factory oval cross rails on your car.
What stands out
- JAWZ mounting hardware fits round, square, and factory oval cross rails
- Solid nylon platform guarantees boat safety during transport
- Includes bow and stern safety tie-downs with two 12-foot cam buckle straps
- Saddles adjust to find the right fit for your kayak
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this set if you own a large sit-on-top kayak or a fishing kayak. The adjustable saddles accommodate different hull widths, ensuring a snug fit. The JAWZ hardware is ideal if your car has varied roof rail shapes, including oval factory bars. The included tie-downs provide extra security for taller or wider vessels. This setup is practical for transporting heavier recreational boats without needing additional padding or complex rigging. The solid nylon base protects your kayak's surface from scratches.
Who should skip it
You should look at another option if you transport hard-shell sit-in kayaks that require a different saddle shape. This carrier is designed specifically for sit-on-top styles. If your vehicle lacks cross rails, you will need to purchase those separately, as the JAWZ hardware attaches to existing bars. The set does not include a locking mechanism for the saddles themselves, only the straps. You might also find the 14.6-inch width too narrow for extremely wide fishing kayaks. Check your kayak’s beam before buying.
Verdict: The Malone Saddle Up Pro is a sturdy, adjustable solution for transporting larger sit-on-top kayaks. Its versatile mounting hardware and included tie-downs make it a reliable choice for most roof rack setups.
Malone Saddle Up Pro Key Specs
Width: 14.6 inches
This width defines the base footprint of each saddle. A 14.6-inch span provides a stable platform for wider recreational and fishing kayaks. You should check your kayak’s beam to ensure it rests securely on this surface. Narrower saddles may not support larger sit-on-top models effectively. This dimension helps you determine if the carrier fits your specific boat shape without excessive overhang.
Height: 12.8 inches
The vertical clearance determines how much space the saddle occupies above your roof rails. At 12.8 inches, this profile keeps the kayak relatively low to the roof. This helps maintain a lower center of gravity for better vehicle stability. You should verify that your garage or carport has enough clearance to accommodate this height when the kayak is loaded. Higher saddles might exceed standard parking structure limits.
Length: 15 inches
The 15-inch length indicates how much of the kayak’s hull each saddle covers. This length offers substantial support along the boat’s side. It helps distribute weight evenly across the roof rack system. You should ensure your kayak has enough surface area to rest securely on this length. Longer saddles generally provide better stability for heavier boats, while shorter ones might allow more hull movement during transit.
Weight: 8.4 pounds
This total weight applies to the entire set of four saddles. A combined mass of 8.4 pounds is moderate for a multi-piece carrier set. You should consider this when calculating your vehicle’s total roof load limit. Lighter systems are easier to install and remove, reducing strain on your back. Heavier sets might offer more robust construction but add more static weight to your roof rack, potentially affecting fuel efficiency.
Size: One Size
The One Size designation means the saddles feature adjustable mechanisms to fit various kayak widths. You do not need to choose between small, medium, or large specific models. This flexibility allows you to use the same set for different boats. Check that the adjustment range covers your current and future kayaks. This simplifies purchasing, as you buy one versatile set rather than multiple specialized carriers for different vessel types.
Design and Build Overview
The listing describes a solid nylon platform for each saddle. This material choice prioritizes durability and boat safety during transport. You get four saddles in the set. Each unit measures 14.6 inches wide and 15 inches long. The height is 12.8 inches. The entire set weighs 8.4 pounds. This weight is manageable for most users to install and remove from their vehicle roof.
The JAWZ mounting hardware is a key design feature. It fits round, square, and factory oval cross rails. This versatility means you likely do not need additional adapters if your car has standard roof rails. The saddles adjust to find the right fit for your kayak. This adjustability helps secure various hull shapes. The system includes bow and stern safety tie-downs. It also comes with two 12-foot cam buckle straps. These components secure the kayak to the saddles and the vehicle.
The color is listed as black. This finish is practical for outdoor use and resists visible dirt. The product is labeled as one size. It is designed for larger sit-on-top recreational and fishing kayaks. You should verify that your kayak’s width fits within the 14.6-inch platform span. The layout provides a stable base for wider boats. The included straps ensure the load remains tight during travel. This build focuses on secure transport rather than aerodynamic speed.
Setup And Daily Kayak Use
Setup begins with selecting the correct mounting hardware for your vehicle’s roof rails. The JAWZ system accommodates round, square, and factory oval crossbars. This versatility means you likely do not need to purchase separate adapters if your car has standard roof accessories. You attach the four saddles to the bars, ensuring they are secure before loading your boat.
Once mounted, you adjust the saddles to match the width of your kayak. The adjustable design helps you find a stable fit for various hull shapes. This is particularly useful for larger sit-on-top recreational and fishing kayaks, which often have wider beams. The solid nylon platform provides a non-slip surface that protects your boat’s finish during transit. You place the kayak onto the saddles, distributing the weight evenly across the four points.
Everyday use involves securing the kayak with the included safety gear. The set comes with bow and stern tie-down lines to prevent the boat from shifting forward or backward. You also use the two 12-foot cam buckle straps to lock the kayak down tightly. These straps wrap around the hull and the saddles, adding an extra layer of security. The entire system is designed for straightforward loading and unloading. You can adjust the saddles quickly if you switch between different boats. The compact dimensions of each saddle keep the profile low, reducing wind noise and drag while driving. This setup ensures your kayak remains stable and safe on the road.
Before You Buy This Carrier
You already have the four saddles and the JAWZ mounting hardware. The listing includes bow and stern safety tie-downs plus two 12-foot cam buckle straps. You should verify that your vehicle’s roof rails can support the combined weight of the saddles and your kayak. The system fits round, square, and factory oval crossbars, but you must ensure your specific rail shape matches one of these types. This set is designed for larger sit-on-top recreational and fishing kayaks. If you have a smaller touring kayak, the 14.6-inch wide nylon platform might be too broad. You will need to check your kayak’s beam width to ensure it rests securely on the solid nylon surface. Regular cleaning of the nylon pads will prevent dirt buildup. This carrier sits alongside roof boxes in our guide, offering a dedicated solution for water sports rather than general cargo storage.
Check before you buy
- Confirm your roof rails are round, square, or factory oval.
- Measure your kayak’s beam to ensure it fits the 14.6-inch width.
- Verify your vehicle’s roof weight limit supports the kayak and saddles.
- Ensure you have adequate space for the 15-inch saddle length.
The product at a glance
Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set
Best for: larger sit-on-top kayaks on standard rails
- 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
This set of four Malone Saddle Up Pro carriers secures kayaks on roof racks. The nylon saddles adjust to fit various hull shapes. The JAWZ hardware mounts to round, square, or oval crossbars. Each unit weighs 8.4 pounds and measures 15 inches long. The package includes bow and stern tie-downs plus two 12-foot cam buckle straps. It suits larger sit-on-top recreational and fishing kayaks.
Pros
- Adjustable nylon saddles fit different kayak hulls
- JAWZ hardware fits round, square, and oval crossbars
- Includes bow and stern safety tie-downs
- Comes with two 12-foot cam buckle straps
Cons
- Requires purchasing four separate units for a full setup
- No mention of integrated wheel or wheel well clearance
- Heavy total weight of 33.6 pounds for the set
Good fit if
- You own a larger sit-on-top kayak
- You have round, square, or oval crossbars
- You need a complete set of four carriers
Skip if
- You prefer a single integrated kayak rack
- You have aerodynamic or flat crossbars
- You only need to transport one kayak
Verdict: Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set is a secure option for owners of larger sit-on-top kayaks who need to mount multiple units on standard crossbars. It provides a solid nylon platform and versatile mounting hardware for stable transport.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Malone Saddle Up Pro Kayak Carrier Set |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Car |
| Size | One Size |
| Use | Kayak |
| Dimensions | 15 × 14.6 × 12.8 inches |
| Weight | 8.4 pounds |
| Color | black |
| Model | MPG110MD |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Malone Saddle Up Pro fit smaller kayaks?
It is designed for larger sit-on-top kayaks on standard rails. The 14.6-inch width provides a broad platform that may not stabilize narrower hulls effectively. You should verify your kayak’s beam width against this dimension to ensure a secure fit during transport.
What is the total weight of the carrier set?
The entire set weighs 8.4 pounds. This includes all four saddles and the included mounting hardware. This weight is manageable for most users but should be considered when calculating your vehicle’s total roof load capacity alongside the kayak itself.
Does this kit include straps for securing the boat?
Yes, the listing includes two 12-foot cam buckle straps. It also comes with bow and stern safety tie-downs. These components are essential for preventing movement during transit and are provided directly in the package.
Is the model number listed for reference?
The model number is MPG110MD. This identifier helps you locate replacement parts or verify the specific version of the carrier. It is useful for ensuring compatibility with your existing roof rack accessories or when searching for additional saddles.
How high do the saddles sit above the crossbars?
Each saddle has a height of 12.8 inches. This elevation raises the kayak’s center of gravity, which you should account for when driving. The height works in tandem with the 15-inch length to cradle the hull securely.
What color is the nylon platform?
The saddles are black. This color choice helps the carrier blend with most vehicle roof racks and kayaks. The black finish is applied to the durable nylon material that forms the contact surface for your boat.