Conquer the Load: Yakima Show Down Makes Kayak Hauling Ridiculously Easy

If your “pre-paddle warm-up” involves bear-hugging a slippery kayak above your head, we need to talk. The Yakima Show Down is the side-loading roof rack that turns that awkward overhead heave into a smooth slide so you save your back and your paintwork. It’s built for kayaks and SUPs, and it’s less “gym session,” more “glide-and-go.”

Why Paddlers Love It (and Their Shoulders Do Too)

Lower to load, slide to secure.
The ShowDown’s double-extending arms drop your loading height by up to 66 cm, bringing the action to your side door. You set the arms, rest the boat/board at hip height, and simply slide it onto the roof. Solo loading? Absolutely. Drama? Not today.

Smarter Protection on Every Mile

• 8 padded contact points cradle your craft to help avoid pressure spots, scratches, and sad dings.

• Straps with rubber-covered buckles keep your vehicle’s finish happy.

• Built-in bow/stern tie-down points (use a hood anchor where needed) add rock-solid stability at speed.

• Locks-on-locks: The carrier clamps to your crossbars; add SKS Core Locks for full rack security and pair with locking straps if you want theft deterrence for the boat itself.

Will It Fit Your Vehicle? (Quick Checklist)

Before you hit “add to cart,” make sure your setup checks these boxes:

• Crossbar Overhang: Bars must extend ≥ 9 cm beyond the tower/foot on each side.

• Roof/Crossbar Rating: Your dynamic roof load rating should be ≥ 75 kg.

• Bar Spread: Minimum crossbar spread of 61 cm.

• Bar Type: Not compatible with “door-frame clamp” style bars.

• Bar Size: Accepts crossbars up to 88 mm wide and 16–44 mm deep.

Capacity: The ShowDown carries up to 36 kg (ideal for one kayak or two SUPs, depending on their combined weight).

Clean Look When You’re Not Hauling

No boat? No problem. The Show Down folds flat against your bars to trim wind noise and drag—your aero profile thanks you.

Where to Buy (With People Who Actually Know Racks)

For expert advice, sharp pricing, and the right fit first time, check Roof Box Shop UK. They live and breathe Yakima gear and can help you match the Show Down to your vehicle, bars, and craft.

Ready to upgrade your pre-launch ritual? Get the Yakima Show Down at Roof Box Shop UK and slide into your next session—literally.

FAQs: Yakima Show Down

Q1: What’s the maximum weight it can carry?
A: 36 kg total perfect for a single kayak or two lighter SUPs (as long as their combined weight doesn’t exceed 36 kg).

Q2: Can I lock everything?
A: The carrier itself locks to your crossbars. For the boat/board, add locking straps for theft deterrence. For full peace of mind, use SKS Core Locks on the ShowDown plus locking tie-downs for the craft.

Q3: Is solo loading realistic?
A: Yep. That 66 cm drop and side-load design are built for one-person operation. You’ll wonder why you ever lifted overhead.

Q4: Will it fit my bars?
A: It fits most crossbars up to 88 mm wide and 16–44 mm deep, with ≥ 61 cm spread and ≥ 9 cm overhang beyond the feet. Not compatible with door-frame clamp bars.

Q5: What about road noise when I’m not carrying anything?
A: It folds flat to minimize wind noise and drag—set it and forget it.

Q6: Do I need bow/stern tie-downs?
A: Strongly recommended. The ShowDown includes tie-down points; some cars benefit from a hood anchor for secure attachment.

Q7: How do I get the best price?
A: Check Roof Box Shop UK for current promos on Yakima—their specialist team can also make sure you’ve got the right bars and accessories.