Question on Yakima Evenkeel saddles

Hey fellas,

Got a question about Yakima Evenkeel saddles.

I've been getting some shifting on these saddles even though they are locked down and tight. I think some of this is due to lifting the kayak overhead to put it on the saddles and possibly these saddles shifting from that. I've also noticed that the little pads they give you to add more stickem dont really hold either.

Are you guys adding anything to the cross bar for stick? I was thinking of using athletic tape just on the area I want to mount the racks.

Thanks for your help.

http://www.yakima.com/shop/water/top/evenkeel

you ever considering just transporting your kayak upside down? I think it's a better/cheaper alternative, IMO.

I've been asked that a few times and never had a good answer for it. I think the only reason I transport right side up is due to the saddles and old foam blocks I used being setup that way.

I dont like to use front and rear tie downs to avoid damage to my car. How are you avoiding side to side movement without saddles?

Sounds much easier, I just didnt know it was as safe! 

I never had issues with the side to side movement (and I never had to tie the bow and Stearn of the kayak either) But I do lock down the kayak to the thule load bar (go through the front scupper holes) for security and just in case the straps fail on me.

Thanks Mooch! Much easier to load too so my back says thanks as well !!

Thanks Mooch! Much easier to load too so my back says thanks as well !!

If you have back problems, I suggest a safer route and get a Hullavator. It's expensive but it will save your back.
Can't put a price on a healthy back

Made that whole process look way too easy! 

My fastest time to load the kayak and strap secure it was 14 minutes.