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product comparison
Thule Hullavator vs. MOS Uplift
Kaelen here from Roof Racks Calgary, and today, we’re breaking down the key differences between two of our best-selling lift assist roof rack systems: the Thule Hullavator and the MOS UpLift
Both are designed to make loading gear easier, especially if your vehicle sits a little higher or your shoulders would prefer not to do all the work. That said, they take very different approaches to solving the same problem.
Let’s get into it.
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A New Contender: MOS Racks
MOS Racks is somewhat new to us, and we’re proud to be the first dealer in Alberta to stock this Canadian brand. What caught our attention right away is how the MOS UpLift is designed with versatility in mind.
Unlike many lift-assist systems on the market, the Uplift isn’t limited to a single sport. This lift-assist platform is compatible with:
That multi-sport compatibility is what really sets it apart. It’s one lift system designed to support multiple outdoor pursuits, which is something we don’t see often.
The Tried-and-True Favorite: Thule Hullavator
On the other side, we have Thule — MOS’s Swedish competitor and a long time fan favourite here at Roof Racks Calgary.
The Thule Hullavator is a purpose-built, specialty kayak rack that has truly stood the test of time. It does one thing, and it does it very well: lifting your kayak up onto your roof with minimal effort.
If kayaking is your primary focus, the Hullavator remains one of the most trusted options on the market.
Integrated vs. Modular Design
Here’s where one of the biggest differences comes into play.
The Hullavator is designed exclusively for kayaks, and the kayak cradle is fully integrated into the lift assist system. Everything you need comes together as one complete unit.
With the MOS Uplift, the lift-assist mechanism is separate from the sport-specific carrier. That means the kayak cradle must be purchased separately — but it also allows you to swap out carriers depending on the gear you’re hauling.
Two different philosophies, both with their own advantages.
Price, Locks, and Security
In terms of pricing, these two systems live in the same neighborhood.
- Thule Hullavator: around $1,000
- MOS Uplift: around $1,100
Neither system includes locks out of the box, and we strongly recommend adding them for security.
Height, Clearance, and Garage Considerations
One important difference to note is overall height.
The MOS Uplift sits taller on the vehicle than the Hullavator, which could pose a clearance issue if you regularly park in a garage. That said, it’s very fast and easy to install and remove on your own — a big plus if you plan to take it on and off frequently.
The Thule Hullavator sits lower and comes with multiple mounting hardware options. It can be attached directly into the T-track of aerodynamic crossbars or clamped around the outside of your rack.
Crossbar Requirements and Mounting
The Hullavator does require four inches of overhang on each end of your crossbars to ensure proper clearance when lowering the rack.
The MOS Uplift does not explicitly require this overhang, meaning it can be mounted to flush bars or OEM bars. However, it does not include T-track mounting hardware, so it must clamp around the outside of your crossbars.
Another common concern we hear with the Hullavator is that each side moves independently, which can make repositioning it onto the roof a bit finicky.
The MOS Uplift addresses this by using a cross brace, ensuring uniform movement on both sides. The tradeoff is that it limits how far apart your crossbars can be spaced.
Which One Is Right for You?
Lift-assist racks are an excellent solution if you drive a taller vehicle, struggle to reach your roofline, or simply want help loading gear safely and independently.
- The Thule Hullavator continues to be a top choice for dedicated kayakers who want reliable assistance getting their boat onto the roof.
- The MOS UpLift is the go-to option if you’re looking for one lift system that works across multiple sporting goods categories.
If you have any questions about compatibility with your vehicle or want help choosing the right system, our staff is always happy to help. Stop by the store, or visit us online at roofrackscalgary.com
