There is one thing that can make owning a heavy-duty boat difficult: transporting it from home to the waterbody on your truck or SUV. Not only will you have to lift the kayak onto your vehicle, but you must also make sure it is secured while you are driving. Even though loading and unloading are easy, transport equipment will be required. Kayak rack for truck beds is the answer. These truck tracks are crucial for transporting long, heavy, and sometimes unruly kayaks. They often include crossbars, as well as a system that allows you to attach them anywhere on the vehicle.
Similar to the Best Kayak Carts Wheels and Trolleys which are very helpful in transporting the kayak to the water, the truck racks allow you to place the kayak on the truck. You can also use them to transport your kayak down mountain roads or on rough off-the-tracks without worrying about it getting damaged. Here are the best kayak racks for trucks that fit on pickup truck bed.
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The Best Kayak Racks For Trucks According to our Opinion
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to choose the best kayak racks truck?
Kayak accessories such as the Best Outdoor Kayak Storage Rakes or even the Best Kayak Garage Hovers are invaluable for storage and transport. It is important to take into account the requirements of truck kayak racks that can be fitted to pickup trucks. It is important to check key specifications, such as weight, width, and height, along with the weight capacity, material, and mount type depending on the truck model. These are the key specifications.
Types Rack for your truck
There are two basic types or styles of kayak racks for trucks. The bed rail back extends the length of your truck bed while the receiver rack lets you store your kayak high up on your cab. The bed rail racks can slide into a stake pocket or attach directly to the truck bed’s rails. You can leave bed rail racks in place and never have to take them off. Because they rise above your truck, they won’t block your payload. The con is that they can sometimes be hard to reach.
Receiver racks, however, slide into the truck’s receiver by removing both the hitch ball and ball and then sliding into a kayak rack. They can be adjusted vertically. These can be used for shorter trucks that don’t have enough space to store longer kayaks. They require a receiver to fit on your truck but they are cheap and easy for you to install.
Material for Kayak Racks
Most racks are made from aluminum or steel. Aluminum racks are slightly less expensive than steel, however, they are lighter and more convenient for installing and taking down racks. There will be aluminum stands that are mixed with steel. This is because aluminum excels where aluminum fails. Steel, however, is more expensive but is readily available, strong, and affordable. They are also stronger than aluminum and can hold more weight and force.
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Rack Security
It is not something you want. Two options exist to secure your receiver racks. Locking hitch pins are one option, but locks are another. Bed rail kayak racks for trucks, however, are much more difficult to secure. This is because you need to be able to place your own lock or use built-in locking mechanisms. You can only use the bed rail racks to mount your locks. Lock tumblers can become brittle if not properly maintained.
Rack CapacityWhen calculating rack capacity there are two factors to consider. Consider how many kayaks are you planning to transport. Two kayaks can fit on most truck beds (including hitch racks). Even bed rails can fit two kayaks side-by-side, but they are only limited by the track width. Consider how long your kayaks may be. Most kayaks are compatible with any type of hitch or bed rails. You should make sure you check the specs of your rack before purchasing if you have boats that are more than 14 or 15 feet in length. Even though the bed can fit inside the kayak, it should have its center point within the bed extender rack to allow you to securely strap your canoe in. Bed rail kayak racks are better for longer boats.
Tongue and Receiver Capacity of WeightReceivers, also known as the square sockets found on an SUV/truck, are what connect to the hitch. You should pay close attention to the rack’s tongue-weight rating. The average truck kayak rack can hold 400 pounds, but the receiver can’t. This could cause it to bend or break your kayak. Keep your receiver’s maximum weight in mind.
13 Best Kayak Rack For Truck
1. Lund 601021 Hitch Mounted-Bed Extender Best Kayak Racks
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you only need to be able to slide your kayak into your truck bed, strap it down, and go. The Lundbed Extender will save you from having to lift it over your head each time you need to transport it.
This kayak rack will fit any standard, 2-inch receiver hitch. You can use it to extend the truck bed to accommodate kayaks up to 14 feet in length.
Lund Bed Extender has an additional 7 inches of ground clearance. This allows you to make a portable sawhorse out of your truck. It has vertical arms for added security.
This rack includes a flag, red reflective tape, and a sticker so you can keep it legal.
2. Darby Industries 944 – Best Kayak Racks
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Darby Industries’ Extend a is an alternative option for people who don’t want to lift their kayaks on top of their trucks over and over. This rack’s horizontal support measures four feet wide.
To make it easier for you to secure your kayak straps, the horizontal support comes with eyelets at both ends. You can adjust the support’s height to fit your kayak on the roof of your truck.
The truck kayak rack will fit a standard 2-inch receiver hitch. You can easily break it down and put it behind your truck’s seats when you are not using it. It’s lightweight only 25 pounds. A red flag helps keep your kayak visible on the roads.
3. AA-Racks APX25-E – Kayak rack for truck bed
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The AA Racks APX25 E model, which is a permanent rack solution, is a great option. It will allow you to transport kayaks extremely safely. It also allows you to transport large items such as lumber, canoes, etc.
The kayak rack is universally sized to fit a full-size bed extender, although it may not be compatible with trucks with a utility track. It’s made from strong, reinforced aluminum that is heavy-duty and durable.
The rack is 71 inches in diameter and 28 inches tall. The cantilever attaches directly to the crossbars of your truck and gives you an additional 38 inches of carrying space.
The APX25-E can hold 800 pounds of weight, so it can easily carry multiple kayaks. It requires no drilling or permanent drilling to be installed.
4. The Kayak Wing
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kayak Wing is a kayak rack for smaller kayaks that are less than 30inches in width. You get a complete set that can hold one kayak.
This kayak truck rack will work with existing crossbars that are on the top of your truck bed. It will work with crossbars with a maximum width of 3 1/2 inches. There must be a clearance of at least 1.5 inches between your vehicle’s roof and the bottoms of the crossbars.
This kayak rack solution is easy to set up and take down. This kayak rack for trucks can be installed without any tools and all hardware is included.
Kayaks with a V-shaped hull work best. The Kayak Wing prevents damage by adding extra padding. It will fit with most crossbars from the factory, including popular Yakima and Thule models.
5. Kayak AA-Racks Model X35 Truck
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you need to protect the rear cab of your truck bed, the X35W model is a great choice. This truck kayak rack comes with a removable cab protective screening that you can remove if it’s not necessary.
This model is made of commercial-grade steel and is ready for heavy-duty use. It has a maximum capacity of 800 lbs, so it can easily hold two large kayaks.
This universal truck rack can fit most full-size pickup trucks. The powder-coated pickup truck kayak rack has a matte finish and is suitable for all sizes. If you prefer it to match your white pickups, then this rack is the best.
6. TMS Adjustable Utility Storage Rack for the truck
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
TMS Adjustable Utilities Rack includes two sturdy, steel racks. These kayak racks are customizable to meet your specific needs for kayaks and loading/unloading.
This kayak rack’s maximum weight is 800 pounds. It can carry multiple kayaks, paddleboards, and large canoes. This rack can also hold ladders and heavy lumber.
The kayak truck rack is adjustable in width to fit various truck sizes. The rack’s maximum height cannot exceed 30 inches from the truck bed.
TMS Adjustable utility rack weighs 50 pounds. It must be attached to the sides of your truck’s truck bed. This means that you will need some drilling to secure your truck’s sides.
7. Kayak rack by Leader Accessories for the truck
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Leader Accessories’ kayak rack can be mounted to the crossbars of your truck’s roof and allows for two kayaks. This rack won’t work with round-roof crossbars.
This kayak rack comes complete with all the hardware required to install it on existing crossbars. The two screws in each U-shaped piece can be easily tightened by hand to hold these racks in their place.
These kayak racks have steel construction and are powder coated to increase resistance to corrosion and rust. They are equipped with foam padding that is strategically placed to reduce scratches and protect the sides of your kayak.
The Leader Accessories Kayak Roof Rack is lightweight at 15 pounds. It can also be stored easily on top of your truck bed. It is very easy to install and take down.
8. Thule Xsporter Pro Aluminum Kayak Racks for trucks
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Thule Xsporter Pro Aluminum is easy to mount on a variety of full-size truck beds. It can carry 450 pounds of weight, which is enough for at least two kayaks and paddleboards.
The adjustable height bar on this kayak rack allows you to adjust according to your needs. It also comes with Thule’s AirDrip technology, which redirects and improves airflow.
Thule’s WindDiffuser tech is also featured. This technology disrupts airflow and makes the ride more pleasant. This rack will also lower air drag to increase fuel economy.
9. MaxxHaul 70423 Aluminum – Best Kayak Racks for trucks
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
MaxxHaul Aluminum kayak rack features no-rust aluminum construction. This makes it light and strong while still providing great strength. This rack weighs in at 55 pounds.
The steel base brackets for this rack are heavy-duty and coated with powder to resist rust. The rack also features adjustable stopper bumps on the ends and crossbars to prevent kayaks from sliding when you make stop-and-go transitions or turn sharply.
These kayak rack crossbars are internally reinforced to increase their strength. The rack has a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds. This rack will hold up to 2 kayaks.
MaxxHaul kayak racks’ crossbars are up to 70inches in diameter and adjustable to fit most full-size truck bed sizes. This roof rack has a maximum height of 26 inches and can be attached to the sides or back of your truck bed.
10. Thule 997 Goal Post -Kayak racks for trucks
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Thule 997 Goal Post kayak racking is hitch-mounted and can transport multiple kayaks, large canoes, and even paddleboards. This kayak rack is great for watersports enthusiasts who are interested in multiple disciplines.
These kayak racks for trucks will fit a standard 2-inch receiver hitch. Made of durable steel, this horizontal bar is 58 inches wide.
You can adjust the height of the vertical support so that kayaks are either in your truck bed or resting on top of the truck’s cab. This rack also works with Hydro-Glide and Set-To-Go kayak seats. However, these accessories are sold separately.
Thule 997 is designed to fit a full-size pickup truck. Telescoping masts allow you to adjust the rack to the truck bed height. This rack has hook straps and two vertical load stoppers that can be used to secure loads in various conditions.
11. AA-Racks Model X39 Truck Ladder Rack
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The AA Racks Model X39 Truck Ladder Rack offers the most robust and versatile kayak racks for trucks. The best feature about this rack is how customizable it can be. With the separate adjustment knob, you can change the dimensions individually. The rack’s large frame and load capacity allow you to transport multiple kayaks. Additionally, whatever you’re transporting is secured by the cleats attached to the rack’s sides. You can also store your kayaks out of the way, as it doesn’t close off your truck bed. You can therefore load much other gear into your truck bed like camping gear.
This rack requires drilling to install, however, C-clamps are available from the brand. It is best to check the installation procedure before purchasing. This kayak is great because it has a sturdy frame and can be used for many purposes.
12. YAKIMA – BigCatch kayak racks
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The YakimaBigCatch Kayak Rack, which is the ideal kayak rack for trucks, is one of our top picks and can be used to transport your fishing or sit-on-top kayak. The big catch is specifically designed to carry large boats up to 150 lbs. The oversized kayak cradles feature rubber-padded seating to support the kayak’s entire hull. The “catch” with this system is that it can only be used with Yakima HD, Streamline, and Yakima rack systems. Even so, it is worth the full contact rack, as the boat sits perfectly.
The BigCatch has a bow and stern tie-downs, along with heavy-duty straps. You don’t even need any tools to make this one. It can be installed by just one person. Finally, the truck mount is so large that you can still use it to transport your kayak.
13. Goplus Pickup Truck Hitch Extender
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are you looking to buy a hitch extender or kayak rack for your truck’s trailer? You will find the GoPlus Pickup Truck-BVed Hitch Extender a versatile accessory for your truck. It’s easy to transport and store, as well as being easy to take apart and put together. You can also use this extender to haul kayaks or any other gear beyond the truck’s roof. As if that weren’t enough, this extender can also be mounted vertically for leveling it with your vehicle roof. Additionally, you can adjust the width of the unit from 28 inches to 48 inches and height from 15.75 up to 63.25 ins.
This hitch extension is made to work with a two-foot-long hitch receiver. This product is an absolute force to be reckoned with. It features reflective tape for extra visibility and durable powder coating.
Our Pick – Lund 601021 Hook Mounted Bed Extender
Our top pick for the best kayak racks for trucks is the Lund Hitch Mounted-Bed Extender. This kayak rack makes it easy to slip your kayak into your truck’s bed.
You will soon discover how frustrating it can be to constantly lift your kayak onto the truck’s top. This is also where you should be most careful with your kayak.
Injuries can occur when you lift the kayak above your head. Your kayak could also be damaged or dropped if it is not held correctly.
This kayak rack attaches to a standard receiver hook and extends behind your truck far enough to not hit your tailgate. We love that the rack can be easily taken out and broken down when it’s not needed.
This kayak rack is perfect for those kayakers who only go out 5-10 times per month. But, they don’t need a permanent rack. This rack, which has DOT approval is able to hold kayaks up to 750 pounds and has a maximum weight capacity of 750lbs.
FAQ
Are truck kayak racks sturdy?
Kayak racks will be stable if the rack fits your vehicle properly and is installed correctly.
Is it a good idea to use a kayak rack for the truck?
Kayak racks are a great option for transporting your kayaks. Here are a few reasons I like them.
First: Installing a kayak rack will allow you to use the truck’s space for other gear. With a truck rack, you can haul your kayaks or all of your camping gear. A lot of models allow you to pull a trailer behind your vehicle. A bed extender can be used to pull a trailer, but you can’t use it to pull a trailer.
Second: The abed extender can allow you to use your truck bed to support most of your kayak’s weight. This is especially useful when loading or unloading the kayak, as it is closer to the ground. These bed extenders can be used vertically or with a roof rail.
Finally: The rack can be attached to your vehicle. This means that you don’t have to haul a trailer. Some people love to pull trailers. Others hate the hassle.
How many kayaks does a truck rack have?
This is dependent on the rack’s size. It is important to determine the kayak’s maximum weight and its dimensions to ensure the rack can accommodate more than one kayak. Yakima’s BigCatch kayak rack can only hold one kayak. Other truck kayak racks can be used to load multiple boats.
How to place your kayak on your truck roof
So you purchased a kayak rack that you can use for your truck. Now it’s time to load the kayak onto the rack. Many truck bed racks have adjustable heights, which makes it easier to unload and load your kayak. However, in some cases, the height cannot be adjusted. You need to be capable of loading the kayaks high. The same applies to roof kayak racks.
A bed extender may be a better option if your kayak is too heavy to lift. You can slide the kayak into place much more easily because the extender is lower than the ground.
Is drilling required?
Drilling is sometimes necessary. Kayak racks attached to bed rails might need drilling. Other times, you don’t need to drill and can attach the rack with C clamps. Before you buy your rack, ensure that you review the installation instructions.
How do I transport kayaks with a pickup truck?
To transport the kayak, you can simply drop it in the back seat of a pickup truck. Then secure it using a pair of harness straps. The kayak can be left hanging from the truck’s tailgate.
Do I need to install a kayak on a roof?
It is important to secure the bow, stern, and sides of your kayak if you are not using a roof rack. The straps should be threaded through the front and back carry handles or derailleurs. Secure each strap under the vehicle with a carabiner/hook.
Is it possible to transport the kayak upside-down?
Composite kayaks should always be carried upside-down to prevent deformation and cracking from the hull due to tension on the tierods. Kayaks made of plastic types materials can be transported any way that suits your vehicle, or the type and type of transportation system.
Can you fit 10ft kayaks in an SUV
For example, if your SUV’s back is five feet long with the seats down, you can only transport a kayak up to 10 feet.
How far can you take a kayak from a truck’s bed?
California permits cargo to be carried up to 4ft from the vehicle’s rear.
3 feet forward and 4 inches hoverboard. If the load extends over 4 feet rearward or more than 4 feet to the left, markings are required.
How do I transport a kayak with a short platform truck?
Pull the cam buckle strap across the top of the kayak parallel to its tailgate.
Attach the cam strap to the truck attachment points. Make sure to pull tight. Attach the cam buckle to the truck attachment points and tie it again to the anchor at the bed. The strap should be tightened to pull the boat toward the back of the bed.
Do I need an extension of my body to kayak?
First, you need to get your new kayak on the water. It should be possible to transport the Lure 10 on a 6-foot truck. A bed extension is possible for longer kayaks or trucks with shorter beds (5 feet).
How fast can you ride a rooftop kayak?
What is the fastest speed you can kayak on your car’s roof? If you plan on riding a kayak on your roof, you should be driving between 60-90 mph. It is a good idea to drive 60 mph no matter what kind of vehicle you have. You can even go as high as 80-90 MPH.
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