Malone Stax Pro 2 or Swiss Cargo 3 in 1?

[RockFlag&Eagle37]

What's up, everyone?

I'm new to the forum and kayak fishing world. I'll be buying my first kayak within the next few weeks and in the lead up to that, I'm researching transport systems. As listed in the title, I'm currently looking at the Malone Stax Pro 2 or the Swiss Cargo 3 in 1 roof racks. In addition to buying my own kayak, I will be getting one for my girlfriend for her birthday at the same time. Therefore, I'll need a rack that can accommodate up to, two kayaks. I'm looking for advice or personal reviews on either of these two rack systems. At the bottom, I'll include links as well. So far here's what I've got about each one, and my concerns.

Malone Stax Pro 2:
This has favorable reviews across the board. The only complaints I've seen are regarding the foam blocks slipping, but I think that might be more user error than faulty gear. It's minimalist and folds down easily when not in use. My biggest concern is the hassle of putting on and taking foam blocks off constantly. It's a little cheaper than the other rack, but not enough to sway me either way. Malone seems to be a reputable brand, as it's sold on a lot of kayaking websites.

Swiss Cargo 3 in 1:
This one also has mostly favorable reviews, with the main complaints being that the hardware rusts and it's not necessarily as universal as some people expected. I believe that it'll be plenty compatible with my car, so I'm not concerned with that. I like that it has no removable foam blocks and it can just be folded down and left on when not in use. Also, it has semi-J cradles for the kayak, so they're not just resting on the crossrails, seems more sturdy. I'm a little concerned because this brand doesn't seem to be as prominent as Malone and doesn't have as many reviews.

I'm hoping someone here might have some experience with one or the other (or both!) to help me make a decision. I'll also be using the rack for a single kayak in the winter for duck hunting, but both appear to have the capability to just carry one kayak at a time.

I drive an 08 Jeep Patriot and bought the OEM cross rails when I got the car. They're a little wider and more oval shaped, but I believe both racks will fit just fine.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Malone Stax Pro 2:
http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/pr...17832.19572816

Swiss Cargo 3 in 1:
http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/pr...lickid=prod_cs

[Shield]

If I had to choose between the two, it would be the Swiss cargo. It looks easy to use and gives you a couple options. Good luck.

[gkreps]

I have the Swiss Cargo mounted on my utility trailer when I need to carry multiple kayaks . The screw bolts do rust up, I've had it for about 3 years and serves my purpose very well.

[DanMarino]

I have Malone sea wings and dig them, so I would guess that their other products are of similar good quality.

[RockFlag&Eagle37]

In the end I did go with the Swiss Cargo Rack. I'm certainly pleased with it. I haven't seen any rusting yet, but I've only had it on the car for a week or so. I had a little trouble at first with the rack, but that was due to my negligence, for lack of a better word. Once I got the kayaks loaded and tied down properly, it was fine. I'm carrying two Ascend D10T kayak, so they're a little wider than most.

I did notice that the kayaks tended to want to "walk" off of the rack when I hit a good bump at high speed. I just crossed bow lines to the front of my roof rack and solved this problem. I crossed stern lines and tied them to my reese hitch on opposite sides as well. A little more work and tweaking and I think I'll have it figured out.

I'd certainly recommend this rack for anyone transporting two kayaks, as it's easy to remove from the car with one person as well. Thanks everyone for the advice and reviews!