If you’re an avid canoeist, having a reliable and easy-to-use canoe carrier for your vehicle is essential. Two popular options on the market are the Thule Hullavator and the Hullavator Pro from Thule.
But what’s the difference between these two models, and which one is the better choice?
In this in-depth comparison guide, we’ll break down the pros, cons, features and specifications of both the Thule Hullavator and Hullavator Pro so you can determine which carrier is the ideal fit for your needs and budget.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Thule Hullavator | Thule Hullavator Pro |
| Weight Limit | 80 lbs | 100 lbs |
| Maximum Width | 34 inches | 36 inches |
| Adjustability | 4 adjustable cables | Sliding cradles |
| Padding | Foam pads | Foam pads |
| Security | Bow/stern tie downs only | Integrated lock cable |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
Key Differences At A Glance
Before we dive into the nitty gritty details, here’s a quick overview of the key differences between the Hullavator and Hullavator Pro:
- Weight limit – The Hullavator Pro has a higher weight capacity at 100 lbs versus the standard Hullavator’s 80 lbs limit.
- Width range – The Hullavator Pro accommodates wider canoes up to 36″ wide, while the regular Hullavator maxes out at 34″ wide boats.
- Adjustability – The Pro version has more adjustable cradles to fit varying hull shapes and gunwale widths.
- Security – The Hullavator Pro comes with built-in locking cables for securing your canoe during transport. The regular Hullavator does not.
- Price – As the higher-end model, the Hullavator Pro has a higher price tag than the standard Hullavator.
Now let’s explore each canoe carrier in more detail…
Overview of the Thule Hullavator
The Thule Hullavator is Thule’s versatile, value-oriented canoe carrier that works with nearly any type of canoe or kayak up to 34″ wide. It secures the boat with four adjustable rubber-coated steel cables that easily conform to the shape of your hull.
Here are some of the key features and specifications of the standard Thule Hullavator:
- Weight limit: 80 lbs
- Hull compatibility: Fits canoes and kayaks up to 34″ wide
- Adjustability: 4 adjustable rubber coated steel cables
- Padding: Foam pads protect hull
- Versatility: Works with square, round and oval crossbar shapes
- Security: Bow and stern tie downs help stabilize load
- Warranty: 5 years on materials and workmanship
The simplicity of the Hullavator design makes it easy to load and unload your canoe. The foam pads and adjustable straps protect your canoe from scratches while firmly securing it in place. Plus the carrier can be tilted to accommodate canoes with high profile hulls.
One downside is that the Hullavator lacks any built-in locking mechanisms. You’ll need to provide your own rope or cable lock to properly secure your canoe during transport and unattended periods.
Overview of the Thule Hullavator Pro
As the name implies, the Hullavator Pro is the premium version engineered for larger and wider canoes. It builds on the standard Hullavator with enhanced adjustability, security and weight capacity.
Here are some of the key features of the Thule Hullavator Pro:
- Weight limit: 100 lbs
- Hull compatibility: Fits canoes and kayaks up to 36″ wide
- Adjustability: Adjustable cradles adapt to various hull shapes
- Padding: Foam pads protect hull
- Security: Integrated stainless steel locking cable
- Warranty: 5 years on materials and workmanship
The Hullavator Pro uses adjustable vinyl-coated steel cradles that conform to the contours of your specific canoe’s hull rather than cables.
This helps evenly distribute weight for added security.
The cradles slide along an adjustable track to accommodate varying widths and gunwale spacing.
Thule also engineered this carrier with integrated stainless steel cables that slide into a lock at the bottom for securely locking your canoe during transport or storage on the vehicle.
While the Pro version is more expensive than the standard model, you’re paying for increased weight capacity, width range, security and hassle-free adjustability.
Key Differences Between Thule Hullavator And Hullavator Pro Carriers
- Weight Limit and Hull Compatibility
One of the first factors to consider when choosing between the Hullavator and Hullavator Pro is the weight and width capacity.
The standard Hullavator has a lower weight limit of 80 pounds and max width of 34 inches. This capacity is suitable for transporting solo lightweight canoes and kayaks. But if you have a larger tandem canoe or need extra weight allowance for gear, the Hullavator Pro’s 100 pound limit and 36 inch width may be a better fit.
The Pro version also works well for wider boats like square stern canoes. Just make sure to measure your canoe’s width and weight when fully loaded to ensure your carrier has sufficient capacity.
- Adjustability and Padding
While both carriers use padding to protect the hull, the Hullavator Pro offers more robust adjustability thanks to its sliding cradle system.
The standard Hullavator relies on four rubber-coated cables that you bend and shape to contour to the hull. It takes some trial and error to get the right fit. The cradles on the Pro version slide to the optimal width and position to perfectly match your canoe’s contours.
This makes it faster and easier to achieve a custom and secure fit.
The Pro’s cradles also adjust to account for differences in the spacing between the gunwales. So you can dial in the perfect fit regardless of your canoe’s unique hull shape.
Also Read: Problems With Thule Hullavator.
- Security Features
Security is a major advantage of choosing the Hullavator Pro over the standard model. The Pro version is engineered with a built-in stainless steel braided cable that threads through the bottom of the carrier.
This allows you to lock the system using any standard Thule or universal lock.
The standard Hullavator lacks any integrated locking mechanisms. The bow and stern tie downs help stabilize the canoe, but you’ll need to supply your own cable or rope lock to properly secure the Hullavator. This takes extra time and equipment.
The Hullavator Pro’s built-in lock cable provides convenient theft deterrence without the hassle of rigging up a custom lock setup. Just click in a lock and you’re all set. This is invaluable for protecting your investment during road trips or when your vehicle is unattended.
- Price and Value Comparison
The Hullavator Pro sits at the higher end of the price spectrum for canoe carriers.
But you get enhanced versatility, security and ease of use for the added investment.
The standard Hullavator provides a solid value for more budget-friendly canoe transportation.
Just note the narrower width capacity, lower weight limit, and lack of integrated locking.
Casual canoeists with lighter boats will appreciate the simplicity and lower price point of the regular Hullavator.
On the other hand, paddlers with special hull shapes, heavy tandem boats and security concerns may find the Pro version well worth the higher price. You gain extra width leeway, protection for pricier canoes and convenient locking without DIY rigging.
- Ease of Use Comparison
Overall, the Hullavator Pro comes out ahead versus the standard model when it comes to hassle-free loading and adjustments.
The cradles on the Pro slide into place to create a perfect contour fit every time. You don’t have to finagle with cables and test different positioning. Just slide the cradles out to the proper width and lock them into place.
The standard Hullavator requires more trial and error with the cable system to get the right custom fit. This can mean more time spent loading and unloading until you get the cables adjusted just right.
Both versions do tilt to accommodate high-profile hulls. But the Pro’s cradles really excel at quick and easy adjustments.
Also Read: Comparison of Pirogue And Canoe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, it is possible to use two Hullavators or two Hullavator Pros together to transport two canoes on your vehicle. Thule recommends placing the carriers side-by-side spaced 8-12 inches apart. Make sure your crossbars provide enough space to mount two carriers without interference. Also check your vehicle’s roof load capacity to ensure it can safely handle two canoes.
The standard Thule Hullavator has a weight capacity of 80 lbs. The heavier duty Hullavator Pro can support up to 100 lbs.
The Hullavator Pro can accommodate canoes and kayaks up to 36 inches wide. The standard Hullavator has a slightly lower max width of 34 inches.
Yes, both the standard Hullavator and Hullavator Pro are compatible with most factory and aftermarket roof racks including Yakima. You just need rectangular or square crossbars that can fit the carrier’s mounting straps. Always check your specific roof rack’s weight limit and ensure proper mounting.
Final Verdict
When choosing between the Thule Hullavator and Hullavator Pro, the Pro comes out on top for paddlers carrying heavier solo or tandem boats up to 36″ wide.
The cradles make it fast and easy to achieve a perfect custom fit on every trip. And the built-in lock cable provides peace of mind that your canoe will stay securely fastened during transport and storage.
Casual paddlers cartopping lighter solo canoes may be happy with the cheaper Hullavator. But the Pro truly excels at providing a fast, secure and customized fit for specialized hulls. If your canoeing adventures take you over rough terrain or on extensive road trips, the Pro is well worth the investment.
With tool-free assembly and effortless adjustability, the Hullavator Pro gets you out on the water and back home safely and easily.
