Is it necessary to transport Hobie Outback/Compass Hull-side up?

Hello All,

I'm brand new to kayak fishing and am in the process of assembling all of my gear. I recently purchased a set of Malone Airflow2 cross bars and plan to attach 34" Dakine roof rack pads to them. I spoke to an associate at a shop who mentioned that the Outback/Compass should be car topped with the hull side up. Is this necessary to avoid deformations to the kayak? I'm mainly concerned about how I can orient the kayak upside down solo and if anything will catch on the racks.

Thank you for your insight!

I transport my 2018 hull side down and it seems to be fine. The H-rails would make it almost impossible for me to car top it upside down.

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=97961.msg1098640#msg1098640

There are some recent posts about storage that you should try and find and read (link pasted above)They would give you an idea of what to expect from Hobie should you have any warranty issues. I would wager that transporting it hull down on the rack you described could warp the hull, particularly if it  is strapped down very tightly and/or is very hot outside and it sits up there for any length of time.

I have owned outback’s since 2010, I have always transported hull up, and have had zero issues with the hull or any type of warp/damage. I also store hull side up on two perpendicular crossbars.

If you need to transport it hull down for some reason, I think investing in those formed supports which brace the hull may be a good idea. Then again, others who store and transport hull down may have better pointers or solutions for you.

I transport my outback hull side up. As See-bree mentioned, you could deform your hull without some sort of rack. When I put it on my roof I use a RhinoRack T loader and it makes it super easy. I just turn it upside down on the ground and then lift the bow up and slide it forward. I put the stern on a yoga mat so it doesn't slip or get scratched as I lift the bow up. You can lift up a bit or jiggle it if something gets stuck on one of the bars.  I don't use the loading strap that comes with the T-loader because that does get hung up on the kayak.