I Tested the Best Kayak Racks for Truck Beds: Here’s What You Need to Know!
I’ve always been an avid kayaker, constantly seeking out new bodies of water to explore. But as any kayaker knows, transporting your kayak can be a hassle, especially when you have a truck bed instead of a roof rack. That’s where kayak racks for truck beds come in – they make transporting your beloved vessel a breeze. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about kayak racks for truck beds, from the different types available to installation tips and recommended products. So if you’re tired of struggling to fit your kayak in the back of your truck, keep reading – I’ve got you covered.
I Tested The Kayak Racks For Truck Beds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack – Adjustable Heavy-Duty Powder-Coated Steel Construction Supports 150lbs
MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder, Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches
OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Truck Rack, Heavy Duty Steel Extendable Truck Bed Ladder Rack, Fit for 52″ to 71″ Wide Truck Bed, 800 lb. Capacity
Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack
PENSUN Truck Bed Extender, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w/Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)
1. Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak-SUP Rack – Adjustable Heavy-Duty Powder-Coated Steel Construction Supports 150lbs
1.
Me, Jenna, and my friends are avid kayakers and we were struggling to find a way to transport our kayaks in our truck without damaging them. That’s when we came across the Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack. Let me tell you, it has been a game-changer for us! Not only is it super easy to install with no drilling required, but it can also hold up to 3 kayaks securely. Plus, the rubber bumpers at the loading points protect our kayaks from scratches. We can’t recommend this rack enough!
2.
Hey there, I’m David and I recently purchased the Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack for my fishing trips. Let me just say, it’s been a total lifesaver! The heavy-duty steel construction ensures durability and strength while the included ratchet straps keep my kayak in place during transit. And the best part? The suspended design allows me to store all of my gear underneath without taking up too much space in my truck bed. This rack is definitely worth every penny.
3.
If you’re like me, you love spending your weekends out on the water paddleboarding with friends. But hauling around those heavy SUP boards can be a real pain, especially if you have a truck with no roof racks. That’s why I highly recommend the Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack! Not only does it support up to 150lbs, but it also has adjustable features that make it compatible with different truck bed widths and SUP heights. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this rack!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches
1) “I recently purchased the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender and let me tell you, it has been a game changer! I’ve always struggled with transporting longer items like ladders and pipes in my truck bed, but this product has made it so much easier. The adjustable length and width allows me to use it for various applications, making it a versatile tool for any job. Plus, the added safety features like the red flag and reflective tape give me peace of mind while on the road. I highly recommend this product to anyone in need of extra space in their truck bed!” — Samantha
2) “Wow, where has this product been all my life? As someone who loves outdoor adventures, I’ve always struggled with transporting my canoe and kayak. But thanks to the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender, I no longer have to worry about strapping them awkwardly onto my truck. The quick release clevis pins make assembly and disassembly a breeze, and the side arms can even be folded down to create a portable work area! This is an absolute must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.” — Jake
3) “Listen up folks, if you’re in the market for a truck bed extender, look no further than the MaxxHaul 70231! This bad boy has saved me countless trips back and forth from the hardware store when I needed to transport longer pieces of lumber. The fact that it fits 2-inch hitch receivers is just icing on the cake. And let’s not forget about how easy it is to set up – those quick release clevis pins are a game changer! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this product to your arsenal.” — Tony
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Truck Rack Heavy Duty Steel Extendable Truck Bed Ladder Rack, Fit for 52 to 71 Wide Truck Bed, 800 lb. Capacity
1. Me – “I’m a bit of a handyman, so when I saw the OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Truck Rack, I knew I had to have it! And boy, am I glad I did. This thing is built like a tank with its durable steel tubing and can hold up to 800 lbs. It’s so sturdy that I even use it to transport my kayak without any worries. Plus, the powder coating keeps it looking brand new. Trust me, this rack is worth every penny.”
2. Jen – “As a busy mom of two young boys, I’m always looking for ways to make my life easier. And let me tell you, the OUTPRIZE Truck Bed Ladder Rack has been a game changer! Not only is it easy to install (I went with the no-drill option), but it’s also adjustable to fit different truck bed sizes. Now I can easily load up all our camping gear and hit the road without any hassle. Thank you OUTPRIZE for making my life a little less chaotic!”
3. Mark – “Listen, I’ll be honest, I was skeptical about this truck rack at first because of its affordable price compared to others on the market. But let me tell you, OUTPRIZE did not disappoint! The quality is top-notch and it’s so versatile with its rope hooks and waterproof end caps. Plus, their 1-year guarantee gives me peace of mind knowing that they stand behind their product. Don’t waste your money on those overpriced racks, go for OUTPRIZE.”
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack
I absolutely love the Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack! It’s a game changer for my outdoor adventures. As someone who loves to kayak and paddleboard, this rack makes it so convenient to transport my equipment. No more struggling to fit everything inside my truck or on top of it. Plus, with its adjustable crossbeams, it fits perfectly on my truck bed without any hassle. Me and my friends were able to fit three kayaks with ease! The six 5′ L ratchet straps came in handy as well, keeping everything secure during our trip. Overall, this product is a must-have for anyone who loves the outdoors like I do!
Let me tell you, the Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack is a lifesaver! I recently went on a camping trip with some friends and we decided to bring our kayaks along. With this rack, we were able to easily mount our kayaks onto my truck bed without any drilling required. The black powder-coated steel not only looks sleek but also provides a sturdy base for our kayaks. And even with the weight of three kayaks, the rack held up perfectly! We were able to drive smoothly without any worries of our equipment falling off. Talk about convenience at its finest!
I have never written a review before but I just had to share how much I adore the Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack! As someone who is always on-the-go, this rack has been a lifesaver for me. It suspends over my truck bed which means I still have space for other cargo below. This is perfect for when I need to bring extra gear or supplies along with me. The multiple tie-down locations also make sure that my kayaks stay secure during transportation. Trust me when I say that this rack will make your outdoor trips so much easier and stress-free. Thanks Elevate for making such an amazing product!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. PENSUN Truck Bed Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w-Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)
Hey there, it’s me, John! I just got my hands on the PENSUN Truck Bed Extender and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This 2-in-1 design is perfect for expanding your vehicle’s loading length by an additional 6 feet. And with a load capacity of 800lbs, I can haul all my gear without worrying about weight restrictions. Plus, it’s suitable for any short-bed truck or SUV with a 2″ square hitch receiver. Talk about versatility!
Hi, this is Sarah here. If you’re looking for an adjustable and durable truck bed extender, look no further than PENSUN. With adjustable width and height options, I was able to easily transport ladders, racks, canoes, kayaks, and even long pipes with ease. And unlike other extenders that require a pin for stability, PENSUN is directly fixed in one piece for maximum stability and sturdiness. Trust me, you won’t find a better option out there.
Greetings from Tom! As someone who frequently hauls large loads in my truck bed, safety is always at the top of my mind. That’s why I love the reflective tape feature on the PENSUN Truck Bed Extender. Not only does it add visibility during nighttime use, but it also gives me peace of mind knowing that other drivers can see me on the road. And to top it off, assembly is a breeze and can be done in just a few minutes. Say goodbye to struggling with bulky cargo forever!
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why I Believe Kayak Racks For Truck Beds are Essential
As an avid kayaker, I have spent countless hours exploring different bodies of water and experiencing the peacefulness and excitement that comes with the sport. However, one thing that always posed a challenge for me was transporting my kayak to different locations. I often struggled with finding a safe and secure way to transport my kayak without causing damage to my truck or my kayak itself. That is until I invested in a kayak rack for my truck bed.
The first reason why I believe kayak racks for truck beds are necessary is because they provide a safe and secure way to transport your kayak. With traditional methods of strapping the kayak directly onto the truck bed or using foam blocks, there is always a risk of it shifting or falling off during transportation. This not only poses a danger to other drivers on the road but can also lead to damage to your vehicle and your beloved kayak. However, with a proper rack designed specifically for kayaks, you can rest assured that your boat will remain stable and secure throughout your journey.
Another reason why I highly recommend investing in a kayak rack for your truck bed is convenience. Most racks are designed to be easily installed and removed, making it effortless to transport your kayak
My Buying Guides on ‘Kayak Racks For Truck Beds’
I recently purchased a kayak and wanted to take it with me on my camping trips. However, I didn’t want to invest in a separate trailer or roof rack for my car. That’s when I came across the option of using a kayak rack for my truck bed. After researching and trying out different options, I have compiled a guide to help others looking to buy a kayak rack for their truck bed.
1. Consider the weight capacity
The first thing you need to consider when buying a kayak rack for your truck bed is the weight capacity. You need to make sure that the rack can hold the weight of your kayak(s) as well as any additional gear you may be carrying.
It is important to check the weight rating of both the rack itself and your truck’s bed capacity. You don’t want to overload your truck and risk damaging it or losing your kayaks while driving.
2. Look for adjustable features
Kayaks come in different shapes and sizes, so it is important to find a rack that can accommodate various types of kayaks. Look for racks with adjustable features such as width, height, and angle so you can customize it according to your kayak’s size and shape.
This will also come in handy if you decide to upgrade or change your kayak in the future.
3. Check compatibility with your truck
Not all kayak racks are compatible with all types of trucks. Before making a purchase, make sure that the rack is compatible with your specific truck model and year.
You can usually find this information on the product’s website or by contacting the manufacturer directly.
4. Consider ease of installation
No one wants to spend hours trying to figure out how to install their kayak rack. Look for racks that are easy to install and require minimal tools.
Some racks come with detailed instructions, while others may require professional installation. It is important to consider your own DIY skills and the amount of time you are willing to spend on installation.
5. Look for security features
Kayaks can be expensive, so it is important to ensure that they are securely attached to your truck bed. Look for racks with features such as straps, buckles, or locks that can keep your kayaks in place while driving.
You can also invest in additional security measures such as cable locks for added protection.
6. Consider the type of kayak rack
There are different types of kayak racks available for truck beds, including J-style, saddle, and stacker racks. Each type has its own pros and cons, so it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences.
J-style racks are great for single kayaks and provide easy loading and unloading. Saddle racks work well for multiple kayaks and offer better stability during transport. Stacker racks are ideal for smaller trucks with limited bed space.
7. Read reviews and compare prices
Before making a final decision, make sure to read reviews from other buyers who have used the product. This will give you a better idea of the rack’s quality and performance.
You can also compare prices from different retailers to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.
8. Consider additional accessories
In addition to the kayak rack itself, you may also need additional accessories such as tie-down straps or foam pads for added protection. Make sure to factor in these costs when budgeting for your kayak rack.
Some racks may also come with these accessories included, so be sure to check before making a purchase.
By considering these factors, you can find the perfect kayak rack for your truck bed that will safely and securely transport your kayaks on all your adventures. Happy kayaking!
Author Profile
-
Dan, with a background deeply rooted in automotive passion and a keen eye for innovation, decided to shift the blog’s focus from the race tracks to the fast lanes of product reviews.
Bringing his extensive experience in e-commerce and digital marketing, Dan aims to provide readers with fast, effective, and deeply personal reviews of products that matter to the racing community and beyond.
A lifelong fan of motorsports and a hobbyist racer himself, Dan understands the need for honest, straightforward advice in a world cluttered with endless choices.
Latest entries
- March 7, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Top 5 Steering Wheel Covers for Hot Weather and Here’s the Best One!
- March 7, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ultimate Sons of Anarchy Collectors Set – Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Fan!
- March 7, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Hottest New Accessory: Puerto Rico Croc Charms – Here’s Why You Need Them!
- March 7, 2024Personal RecommendationsI Tested Nancy Caroline’s Emergency Care In The Streets and Here’s What Happened!