Malone SeaWing Saddle Style Universal vs Malone Foldaway-J™ Kayak Rack Carrier: Spec Comparison
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This comparison of the malone seawing saddle style universal vs foldaway j kayak rack carrier highlights two Malone options for roof transport. Both units mount to round, square, or oval crossbars without tools. They both carry kayaks securely. The main difference lies in their design and capacity. The SeaWing uses a V-style saddle for low-profile stability. The Foldaway-J uses a folding J-style for compact storage. You need to check which shape fits your roof and kayak best.
Key differences
| Aspect | Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier | Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Saddle style | Folding J-style |
| Load Capacity | 70 lb | 75 lb |
| Length | 28 inches | 20 inches |
| Weight | 11.6 pounds | 14.8 pounds |
| Width | 8 inches | 12 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier if
- You prefer a low-profile design that reduces wind resistance.
- You want a lighter unit that is easier to handle.
- You need included bow and stern tie-down straps.
Choose Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier if
- You want to carry slightly heavier kayaks up to 75 lbs.
- You need a shorter unit to save roof space.
- You prefer a folding design for compact storage.
Verdict: Choose the SeaWing if you prioritize wind efficiency and a lighter weight for easier loading. Pick the Foldaway-J if you need a higher weight limit and a more compact footprint. Both options provide secure, tool-free mounting for your kayak.
Malone Kayak Carrier Spec Showdown
Load Capacity
The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier supports up to 75 pounds. This is slightly higher than the Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier, which handles 70 pounds. Both limits are sufficient for most recreational kayaks. You should always check your vehicle’s roof rail weight limit as well. The extra five pounds on the Foldaway-J provides a small margin for heavier hulls or additional gear. If you carry a very heavy kayak, the Foldaway-J offers a slight advantage in raw strength. Otherwise, the difference is negligible for standard use.
Dimensions
Size matters for roof space and aerodynamics. The Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier measures 28 inches in length, 8 inches in width, and 6 inches in height. The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier is shorter at 20 inches long, but wider at 12 inches and taller at 7.25 inches. The SeaWing is longer and lower, which may help with fuel efficiency on long drives. The Foldaway-J is more compact in length, making it easier to store in your garage when not in use. The Foldaway-J is wider, which might affect clearance on narrow vehicles.
Weight
The Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier weighs 11.6 pounds. The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier is heavier at 14.8 pounds. This is a difference of 3.2 pounds. A lighter carrier is easier to lift onto the roof and install. It also adds less weight to your vehicle’s roof load. The SeaWing is the lighter option here. This might be a factor if you load and unload your kayak frequently. The extra weight of the Foldaway-J is due to its folding mechanism and broader frame. Both are manageable for most adults.
Compatibility
Both carriers feature universal mounting systems. The Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier uses Jawz mounting hardware that fits round, square, and most factory oval cross rails. It requires no tools or adapters. The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier also mounts to most round, square, and oval rooftop crossbars. However, it specifies a maximum crossbar size of 3.5 inches in width and 1.5 inches in height. If your crossbars are thicker than this limit, the Foldaway-J may not fit. The SeaWing does not list such strict size limits, making it potentially more versatile for unusual rail shapes.
Security Features
Security is critical for transporting expensive kayaks. The Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier includes heavy-duty bow and stern tie-down straps. These straps help prevent the kayak from moving at highway speeds. This is a significant safety feature. The product data for the Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier does not mention included tie-down straps. You may need to purchase these separately to ensure your kayak is secure. The inclusion of straps with the SeaWing provides better immediate security. It saves you from buying additional accessories. This makes the SeaWing a more complete package for safety.
Which Malone Kayak Carrier Suits You
You need higher weight capacity for heavier boats
The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier supports up to 75 pounds. This exceeds the 70-pound limit of the SeaWing model. If you transport larger or heavier recreational kayaks, this extra five pounds provides a necessary safety margin. The universal fit ensures compatibility with most roof racks, making it a robust choice for heavier loads.
You want a compact footprint to save space
The Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier measures 27.5 inches in length and 8 inches in width. This is longer but narrower than the Foldaway-J. Its low-profile V-style cradles reduce wind resistance. The compact design leaves more room on your roof for other gear. It is ideal if you prioritize aerodynamic efficiency and minimal roof obstruction during travel.
You prefer a lightweight unit for easy handling
Weighing only 11.6 pounds, the Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier is lighter than the Foldaway-J, which weighs 14.8 pounds. The reduced weight makes it easier to lift and install on your vehicle roof. This difference matters if you frequently load and unload your gear. The lighter build contributes to a simpler setup experience without compromising structural integrity.
You need a folding design for storage
The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier features a folding J-style design. This allows it to collapse when not in use, saving storage space at home. The SeaWing model has a fixed saddle structure. If you store your carrier indoors or in a tight garage, the folding mechanism of the Foldaway-J offers practical convenience and space efficiency.
The products compared
Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier
Best for: Single recreational kayaks under 70 lbs
- Load Capacity
- 70 lb
- Vehicle Type
- Car
- Use
- Kayak
- Dimensions
- 28 × 8 × 6 inches
- Weight
- 11.6 pounds
View on Amazon: Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier Affiliate link
This Malone SeaWing carrier uses a V-style saddle design to secure kayaks up to 70 pounds. It measures 28 inches long and weighs 11.6 pounds. The Jawz mounting system fits round, square, and oval rails without tools. It includes bow and stern tie-downs for stability. This low-profile unit reduces wind resistance. It suits drivers who need a compact, secure rack for recreational kayaks.
Pros
- Supports kayaks up to 70 pounds
- Fits round, square, and oval rails without tools
- Includes bow and stern tie-down straps
- Low-profile V-style design reduces wind resistance
Cons
- Weighs 11.6 pounds, adding roof load
- Fixed V-saddle shape may not fit all hull designs
- No mention of integrated locking mechanisms
Good fit if
- You own a kayak under 70 pounds
- You have round, square, or oval crossbars
- You want a no-tool installation setup
Skip if
- You need to carry multiple kayaks at once
- Your kayak exceeds the 70-pound limit
- You require a locking system for security
Verdict: The Malone SeaWing Saddle Universal Kayak Carrier offers a secure, tool-free mount for single kayaks under 70 pounds. It fits drivers with round, square, or oval bars who prioritize easy setup and low wind drag over high capacity.
Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier
Best for: solo kayakers with standard roof bars
- Use
- Kayak
- Dimensions
- 20 × 12 × 7.25 inches
- Weight
- 14.8 pounds
View on Amazon: Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier Affiliate link
The Malone Foldaway-J is a single kayak rack designed for universal mounting on round, square, or oval crossbars up to 3.5 inches wide. It holds boats up to 75 lbs. The unit measures 20 by 12 by 7.25 inches and weighs 14.8 lbs. You can install it without tools. It folds for storage. This carrier suits solo kayakers who need a secure, compact solution for their roof.
Pros
- Supports up to 75 lbs of boat weight
- Fits crossbars up to 3.5 inches wide
- Tool-free installation process
- Folding J-style design saves space
Cons
- Single kayak capacity only
- Crossbars are not included
- No mention of integrated locking mechanisms
Good fit if
- You transport one kayak at a time
- Your roof bars are round, square, or oval
- You need a tool-free setup
Skip if
- You need to carry multiple kayaks
- Your crossbars exceed 3.5 inches in width
- You require included mounting hardware
Verdict: Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier fits solo paddlers with standard roof bars who want a simple, foldable mount. It offers a stable 75 lb limit for single kayaks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier | Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 70 lb | not stated |
| Vehicle Type | Car | not stated |
| Use | Kayak | Kayak |
| Dimensions | 28 × 8 × 6 inches | 20 × 12 × 7.25 inches |
| Weight | 11.6 pounds | 14.8 pounds |
| Size | MPG107MD | not stated |
| Model | MPG107MD | MPG132 |
| Color | not stated | black |
Frequently asked questions
Which Malone kayak carrier is lighter?
The Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier is the lighter option. It weighs 11.6 pounds. The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier weighs 14.8 pounds. You save about 3.2 pounds by choosing the SeaWing model. This difference is noticeable when you lift the carrier to your roof bars. Lighter carriers can be easier to handle during installation and removal.
How wide is each kayak carrier?
The Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier is 8 inches wide. The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier is 12 inches wide. The SeaWing model has a narrower profile. This may help reduce wind noise slightly. The Foldaway-J is wider, which might provide a broader contact surface for the kayak hull. Check your kayak width to ensure compatibility.
What are the dimensions of the Malone SeaWing?
The Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier measures 28 inches in length, 8 inches in width, and 6 inches in height. Its model number is MPG107MD. These dimensions define the space it occupies on your roof. The longer length allows for a secure saddle-style fit. You should verify that your vehicle has enough roof space for these measurements.
What are the dimensions of the Malone Foldaway-J?
The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier measures 20 inches in length, 12 inches in width, and 7.25 inches in height. Its model number is MPG132. It is shorter than the SeaWing but wider. The height is also slightly greater. These specs help you determine how it sits on your crossbars. Ensure your roof rack can accommodate this footprint.
Can both carriers fit oval crossbars?
Yes, both carriers fit oval crossbars. The Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier mounts to round, square, or oval bars. The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier also fits standard roof bars, which includes oval shapes. You do not need special adapters for these bar types. Check your vehicle’s manual to confirm your bar shape before purchasing.
Which carrier is better for a single kayak?
Both carriers are designed for single kayaks. The Malone SeaWing Kayak Carrier is best for recreational kayaks under 70 pounds. The Malone Foldaway-J Kayak Carrier supports up to 75 pounds. If your kayak is heavy, the Foldaway-J offers a higher limit. For lighter boats, either carrier works well. Choose based on your specific weight needs and bar type.