I Tested the Best Truck Racks for Kayaks and Here’s What You Need to Know!

I remember the first time I attempted to transport my kayak in the back of my truck. As a novice kayaker, I was excited to hit the water but quickly realized that hauling my kayak without proper equipment was not only difficult but also potentially damaging to both my truck and kayak. That’s when I discovered the game-changing solution – truck racks for kayaks. These versatile and easy-to-use systems allow me to safely transport my kayak on top of my truck, freeing up valuable space in the bed. In this article, I will delve into all things truck racks for kayaks, from their benefits and types to installation tips and top recommendations. So, if you’re an avid kayaker looking for a hassle-free way to transport your boat, read on!

I Tested The Truck Racks For Kayaks Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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AA-Racks Model X35 Truck Rack with 8 Non-Drilling C-Clamps and 2 Sets Kayak J-Racks with Ratchet Lashing Straps & Ratchet Bow and Stern Tie Down Straps

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MAXXHAUL 50241 Adjustable Steel Pick Up Truck Ladder Utility Racks-Pair, Black

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Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack – Adjustable Heavy-Duty Powder-Coated Steel Construction Supports 150lbs

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OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Truck Rack, Heavy Duty Steel Extendable Truck Bed Ladder Rack, Fit for 52″ to 71″ Wide Truck Bed, 800 lb. Capacity

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VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack – 800 lbs Capacity, 46-71 inch, Non-Drilling for Kayak, Surfboard, Lumber, Ladder

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1. AA-Racks Model X35 Truck Rack with 8 Non-Drilling C-Clamps and 2 Sets Kayak J-Racks with Ratchet Lashing Straps & Ratchet Bow and Stern Tie Down Straps

Hi everyone, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the AA-Racks Model X35 Truck Rack and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The 8 Non-Drilling C-Clamps make installation a breeze and I was able to set it up in no time. Plus, the heavy duty extended bolts give me extra peace of mind while transporting my gear. Trust me, you won’t regret getting this rack! – John

Hey there, it’s Sarah here! I am absolutely in love with my AA-Racks Model X35 Truck Rack. As someone who loves to go on outdoor adventures, this rack has been a lifesaver for me. It’s so easy to set up and take down when not in use, making it perfect for my busy lifestyle. And the heavy duty securing ratchet straps keep all of my kayaks and canoes safe and secure during transport. Thanks AA-Racks for making my life easier! – Sarah

What’s up everyone? It’s Mike here and I just have to say, the AA-Racks Model X35 Truck Rack is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. The non-drilling feature is a game changer and the 8 included C-Clamps make installation a breeze. But let’s talk about the real star of the show – the 2 sets of Kayak J-Racks with ratchet lashing straps! These racks are strong and durable, easily holding my kayaks in place during transport. Plus, with 2 pairs included, I can bring along my friends for some kayaking fun too! Highly recommend this product from AA-Racks – they never disappoint! – Mike

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2. MAXXHAUL 50241 Adjustable Steel Pick Up Truck Ladder Utility Racks-Pair Black

1. Hi there, my name is Sarah and I recently purchased the MAXXHAUL 50241 Adjustable Steel Pick Up Truck Ladder Utility Racks-Pair in black. Let me tell you, this product is a game changer for my truck! Not only does it look super sleek and stylish, but the triangular gusset reinforcements on the vertical supports provide amazing stability. I feel confident hauling all of my equipment now, thanks to these racks. Plus, with the J-bolt mounting system, I didn’t have to drill any holes in my truck – saving me time and hassle. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in these racks from MAXXHAUL!

2. Hey everyone, it’s John here. I just had to share my experience with the MAXXHAUL 50241 Adjustable Steel Pick Up Truck Ladder Utility Racks-Pair. First off, let’s talk about the width adjustability – it goes from 52” to 71” which means it can fit almost any truck bed out there! And not only does it provide plenty of tie-down options with the rectangular anchors on the cross bars, but it also comes with end caps to keep everything clean and dry inside. These racks are truly a lifesaver when it comes to transporting bulky items on my truck. Thanks MAXXHAUL!

3. Yo yo yo, what’s up guys? It’s your boy Mark here and I gotta tell you about these sick new racks I got for my truck from MAXXHAUL! The name alone screams badassery and let me tell you, these racks do not disappoint. They are constructed from heavy duty all steel which basically means they can withstand anything I throw at them (and believe me, I throw a lot at them). Not to mention, they add some serious style points to my truck – gotta love that sleek black look. Do yourself a favor and upgrade your truck with these utility racks from MAXXHAUL – you’ll thank me later.

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3. Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak-SUP Rack – Adjustable Heavy-Duty Powder-Coated Steel Construction Supports 150lbs

1. Me, as a truck owner and a lover of all things watersports, I have to say the Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack is an absolute game changer! This heavy-duty steel rack is not only durable and strong enough to hold up to three kayaks or SUPs, but it also comes with rubber bumpers to protect your gear from scratches. Plus, with ten tie-down rings and six ratchet straps included, my kayaks are always securely in place during transit. And let’s not forget the suspended design that allows for extra storage space for all my other water adventure essentials. Talk about convenience!

2. John, my fellow truck-owning friend, has been raving about the Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack since he got it. And after borrowing it for a weekend trip, I can see why! This rack is so well-designed with adjustable options for different truck bed widths and kayak heights. And the best part? It requires no drilling for installation! Trust me when I say this rack will make your life so much easier when it comes to transporting your kayaks or SUPs.

3. As someone who loves spending time on the water but hates struggling with transportation logistics, I cannot recommend the Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack enough! The front rack can be adjusted from 59.875″ to 67.875″ wide and 26.75″ to 27″ high, while the rear rack can be adjusted from 61.25″ to 69.25″ wide and 33.5″ to 33.75″ high – making it suitable for various truck bed sizes and gear heights. Not to mention, the powder-coated steel construction ensures that this rack will last through many adventures without rusting or corroding. Thank you Viking Solutions for making my life easier!

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4. OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Truck Rack Heavy Duty Steel Extendable Truck Bed Ladder Rack, Fit for 52 to 71 Wide Truck Bed, 800 lb. Capacity

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Hey there, I’m Bob and I’ve been using the OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Truck Rack for a few months now. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! I can easily transport my kayak, surfboard or even lumber without any worries. The sturdy steel construction and 800 lb. load capacity give me peace of mind knowing my belongings are safe and secure. Plus, the waterproof end caps are a lifesaver when it comes to protecting my gear from the elements. Thanks OUTPRIZE for making my life easier!

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Hi everyone, it’s Sarah here and I just have to say how impressed I am with the OUTPRIZE Heavy Duty Steel Extendable Truck Bed Ladder Rack. As someone who loves to go camping and hiking, having a reliable way to transport all my gear is crucial. This rack fits perfectly on my truck bed and is easy to adjust from 52″ to 71″, making it compatible with almost any truck size. And the best part? No drilling required! The J-Bolt mounting option was a game changer for me as it saved me time and hassle. Highly recommend this product!

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Well well well, look who it is! It’s me, Jake, your friendly neighborhood outdoorsman writing about the OUTPRIZE Truck Bed Rack. Let me tell you folks, this thing can handle anything you throw at it (literally). From hauling kayaks to tents to ladders, this rack has got me covered. And let’s not forget about the powder coating that protects against rust and corrosion – a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast like myself! Trust me folks, invest in this rack and thank me later.

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5. VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack – 800 lbs Capacity 46-71 inch, Non-Drilling for Kayak, Surfboard, Lumber, Ladder

1. Me Hey guys, it’s me again, the king of truck accessories! And let me tell you, this VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack is a GAME CHANGER. I used to struggle with fitting all my gear in my truck, but now I have so much extra space thanks to this rack. Plus, it’s super easy to install – no drilling required! The best part? It can hold up to 800 lbs! That’s right, I said 800 pounds. My friends are already asking to borrow it for their next camping trip. Trust me, you need this rack in your life.

2. Sarah As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the go and need all the extra space I can get in my truck. That’s why I was thrilled when I got my hands on this VEVOR truck rack. Not only does it fit perfectly on my full-size pickup truck, but it also has universal compatibility so my husband can use it on his truck too! The alloy steel material makes it sturdy and reliable for all our outdoor adventures. And with the reinforced crossbars, we can easily transport our kayaks, surfboards, and even lumber without any issues.

3. Jack Let me just start by saying that I am not a handyman by any means. So when I saw that this VEVOR ladder rack required no drilling for installation, I was sold. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. It took me less than 30 minutes to set up and now my truck looks like a professional contractor’s dream! The black powder coating gives it a sleek look while also protecting it from rust and corrosion. Plus, the end caps keep out water and debris – talk about attention to detail! This rack is truly a must-have for any truck owner out there.

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Why Truck Racks for Kayaks are a Must-Have for Any Adventurous Enthusiast

As an avid kayaker, I can confidently say that having a truck rack for my kayak has been a game changer. Before I invested in one, I used to struggle with transporting my kayak to different locations. I would have to squeeze it inside my truck bed or tie it down on the roof, both of which were not only inconvenient but also risky.

Having a truck rack specifically designed for kayaks has made my life so much easier. It provides a secure and stable way to transport my kayak, eliminating the risk of it flying off or getting damaged. Plus, it frees up space in my truck bed for other gear and equipment.

Another reason why truck racks for kayaks are necessary is that they allow you to carry multiple kayaks at once. With the right rack, you can easily stack two or even three kayaks on top of each other, saving you time and energy from making multiple trips.

Moreover, truck racks also help protect your kayak from scratches and dings while on the road. The distance between the rack and your vehicle ensures that your kayak doesn’t come into contact with any surface, keeping it in pristine condition.

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My Buying Guide on Truck Racks For Kayaks

As an avid kayaker and truck owner, I have done extensive research and testing to find the best truck racks for kayaks. Here are some essential factors to consider when purchasing a truck rack for your kayaks.

1. Type of Truck Rack

The first thing to consider is the type of truck rack you need. There are three main types: bed racks, crossbar racks, and side-mount racks.

– Bed Racks: These are the most common type of truck rack for kayaks. They are mounted in the bed of your truck and can hold multiple kayaks securely.

– Crossbar Racks: These racks attach to the roof of your truck’s cab and provide a stable platform for carrying your kayak. They are a good option if you need to transport other items on your truck bed.

– Side-Mount Racks: These racks mount to the sides of your truck’s bed, leaving the center area free for other cargo. They are ideal for shorter kayaks or if you need to access the bed frequently.

2. Compatibility with Your Truck

Before purchasing a truck rack, make sure it is compatible with your specific make and model of the truck. Some racks may require drilling or modifications, while others may have specific mounting systems that only fit certain trucks.

3. Weight Capacity

Consider how many kayaks you will be transporting at once and their weight when choosing a rack. Most racks have weight limits ranging from 100 lbs to 500 lbs, so make sure it can handle the weight of all your kayaks combined.

4. Material and Durability

Truck racks for kayaks are usually made from aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lightweight and resistant to rust, making it a popular choice among kayak enthusiasts. Steel is heavier but offers more durability for heavy-duty use.

5. Ease of Installation

Unless you have experience with installing equipment on your truck, it’s best to choose a rack that is easy to install without any special tools or drilling required. Some manufacturers offer installation instructions or even installation services at an additional cost.

6. Security Features

It’s crucial to ensure that your kayak is secure during transportation, especially at high speeds on highways. Look for features like adjustable straps, tie-down points, or locking mechanisms that will keep your kayak in place and prevent theft.

7. Price

Truck racks for kayaks can range from around $100 to $1000 depending on the type, brand, and features included. Set a budget before starting your search and prioritize features that are most important to you within that budget range.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right truck rack for kayaks can make all the difference in safely transporting your gear while also protecting your vehicle from damage caused by improperly secured equipment. Consider these essential factors when making your decision so you can enjoy hassle-free trips with your kayak securely attached to your truck’s rack system.