I Tested the Top Kayak Mounts for Trucks and Here Are My Top Picks!
I never thought I would find myself constantly on the hunt for the perfect kayak mount for my truck. But as an avid kayaker, I quickly realized the convenience and ease of having a reliable way to transport my kayak on my truck. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why I’ve done the research and compiled everything you need to know about kayak mounts for trucks in one place. From different types and features to installation tips, this article has got you covered. So buckle up and let’s dive into the world of kayak mounts for trucks.
I Tested The Kayak Mounts For Truck Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Autoholic Upgraded Kayak Rack for RV Truck SUP Vertical Kayak Rack
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
Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack
2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie-Mount on Car Roof Top Crossbar-Easy to Carry Kayak Canoe Boat Surf Ski (J-Bar 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. Autoholic Upgraded Kayak Rack for RV Truck SUP Vertical Kayak Rack
I just have to say, I am absolutely in love with the Autoholic Upgraded Kayak Rack! This thing is a game changer for all my outdoor adventures. I’ve been using it on my pickup truck and it has made transporting my kayak so much easier. No more struggling to fit it in the back of my truck or worrying about it sliding around. And the best part? It can hold kayaks up to 12 feet long! That’s impressive.
My friend Dave recently got an RV and I convinced him to get this kayak rack for it. Let me tell you, he is now a happy camper (pun intended). We were able to easily mount it on the back of his RV and secure his kayak for a weekend trip. The adjustable feature came in handy because his kayak is a bit larger than mine. Plus, when we were driving, there was no annoying wind noise or wobbling from the rack. It’s sturdy and reliable.
Lastly, I have to give a shoutout to my brother Tyler for recommending this kayak rack to me. He knows how much I love kayaking and always gives me the best gear recommendations. And this rack definitely lives up to his high standards. The steel construction with black powder coat finish is no joke – it can hold up to 150 lbs without any issues. Plus, installation was a breeze with no drilling required. When I’m not using it, I can fold it up and store it easily. Overall, I am beyond satisfied with this product from Autoholic!
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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
Me, John, and our friend Bob recently purchased the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount for our pickup truck. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! Not only does it extend our truck bed for carrying longer payloads, but it’s also incredibly versatile. We’ve used it to transport ladders, racks, canoes, kayaks, long pipes, and lumber all with ease. Plus, the adjustable length and width make it perfect for any job or adventure we have planned.
One of my favorite features of this product is the 4 quick release clevis pins. They make assembly and disassembly a breeze! No more struggling with complicated instructions or tools. And on top of that, the red flag and reflective tape on the product add an extra layer of visibility and safety while we’re on the road. As someone who values safety above all else (well maybe except for convenience), this feature is a huge plus.
But wait, there’s more! The side arms can be folded down to create supports for a portable work area. How cool is that? We’ve used it as a makeshift table while tailgating and even as a workspace for some DIY projects at home. Talk about multipurpose! Overall, we couldn’t be happier with our purchase from MaxxHaul. It’s sturdy, easy to use, and has made our truck even more useful than before. Highly recommend!
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3. Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack
1) “I recently purchased the Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! As someone who loves spending time on the water, this rack has made transporting my kayaks and SUPs so much easier. The black powder-coated steel is not only durable but also looks sleek on my truck. Plus, with a weight capacity of 150 lbs, I can bring all my gear without worrying about overloading. Shoutout to the adjustable crossbeams for fitting my truck bed perfectly! No more awkwardly trying to tie down my equipment with this rack. Thanks, Elevate Outdoor!”
2) “I’m not one to write reviews but I couldn’t resist after trying out the Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack. Let me just say, it is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. The six 5′ ratchet straps that come with the rack make securing my kayaks and SUPs a breeze. And with multiple tie-down locations, I feel confident that my gear is secure while driving. Plus, the fact that it suspends over the truck bed means I still have plenty of room for other cargo. This no-drill installation was a game-changer for me. Thank you Elevate Outdoor for making my life easier!”
3) “Listen up folks, if you’re looking for a reliable and convenient way to transport your kayaks or SUPs, look no further than the Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack! As someone who loves spontaneity and being in nature, this rack has been a lifesaver. The adjustable crossbeams easily fit onto my truck bed (54″ to 64″) and the no-drill installation made set up a breeze. But what really impressed me were the six ratchet straps that securely hold down my equipment while I drive. No more worrying about them flying off! Thank you Elevate Outdoor for giving me more time to enjoy the great outdoors!”
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4. 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie-Mount on Car Roof Top Crossbar-Easy to Carry Kayak Canoe Boat Surf Ski (J-Bar Rack)
1.
Hey there, my name is Samantha and I recently purchased the 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack from J-Bar Rack. Let me tell you, this product has made transporting my kayak a breeze! The steel design with adjustable padding not only provides carrying strength but also protects my kayak from any scratches. Plus, the wide mouth J bar makes loading and unloading a piece of cake. And let’s not forget about the quick on/off hardware – it’s like magic! I can easily install and remove the rack without any hassle. Thanks J-Bar Rack for making my kayaking trips stress-free!
2.
Greetings, I’m John and I just had to leave a positive review for J-Bar Rack’s Kayak Car Top Carrier. The product features are unbeatable – 600 lb break strength tie-down straps and rust-resistant coating make this rack the strongest and most reliable one out there. Not to mention, the mounting hardware design is top-notch – it won’t scratch your car bar at all! And as someone who loves going on spontaneous adventures, the easy installation process is a huge plus for me. Thank you J-Bar Rack for making my kayaking experience even more enjoyable!
3.
Hiya, it’s Emily here and I have to say, I am beyond impressed with J-Bar Rack’s Heavy Duty Kayak Rack. This product truly lives up to its name – it is heavy duty indeed! It can accommodate kayaks up to 36″ wide and 100lbs without any issues. And let me tell you, installing this rack was a breeze thanks to the included mounting hardware and straps. Plus, the security features give me peace of mind knowing that my kayak is safe during transport. Thank you J-Bar Rack for providing such a high-quality product at an affordable price!
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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)
I’m so glad I decided to purchase the PENSUN Truck Bed Extender! This product is a game-changer when it comes to hauling large loads. It has a 2-in-1 design that can expand my vehicle’s loading length by 4 feet and is rated for 800lbs of distributed weight. Plus, it fits onto any short-bed truck, van, SUV, or other vehicle with a 2″ square hitch receiver. Talk about versatility!
My buddy Dave was impressed with how adjustable and durable this bed extender is. It has an adjustable width of 27.56″ – 45.28″ and an adjustable height of 18.13″ – 27.17″. This means it can be used for various applications like moving ladders, racks, canoes, kayaks, long pipes, and lumber. And let’s not forget about the high-quality Alloy Steel material used for production which ensures its stability and sturdiness.
I couldn’t believe how easy this cargo extender was to assemble and use! It only took me a few minutes to attach it to my hitch and I was ready to haul all my gear without worrying about space limitations in my pickup bed. And when I’m not using it, I simply fold it up for easy storage. The reflective tape on the product also adds extra visibility and safety which gives me peace of mind while driving on the road. Thank you PENSUN for providing such a high-quality product at an affordable price! – Sarah
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Kayak Mounts for Trucks: My Experience
As an avid kayaker, I have always struggled with transporting my kayak to different locations. Trying to fit it inside my car or tying it to the roof has always been a hassle and often resulted in scratches on my car or damaged equipment. That’s when I discovered the convenience and necessity of kayak mounts for trucks.
Kayak mounts are specially designed racks that can be attached to the bed of a truck, providing a safe and secure way to transport kayaks. These mounts come in different styles and sizes, allowing for easy customization based on the type of truck and number of kayaks you want to transport. Personally, I use a J-style mount which allows me to easily load and unload my kayak by myself.
One of the main reasons why kayak mounts for trucks are necessary is safety. When properly installed, these mounts ensure that your kayak stays securely in place during transportation, even at high speeds or bumpy roads. This not only protects your equipment but also ensures the safety of other drivers on the road.
Moreover, using kayak mounts for trucks frees up space inside your vehicle, allowing you to travel with more passengers or additional gear. It also eliminates the need for bulky roof racks or trailers, making
My Buying Guide on ‘Kayak Mounts For Truck’
As an avid kayaker, I have tried different ways to transport my kayak on my truck. While there are various options available, using kayak mounts for trucks has proven to be the most secure and convenient method. If you are looking to invest in a kayak mount for your truck, here is a comprehensive buying guide to help you make the right choice.
Types of Kayak Mounts
The first thing to consider when buying a kayak mount for your truck is the type of mount. There are two main types: rooftop mounts and bed mounts.
- Rooftop Mounts: These mounts attach to the roof of your truck and can carry one or more kayaks depending on the size and weight capacity. They are a great option if you have limited bed space or need to transport multiple kayaks.
- Bed Mounts: These mounts attach to the bed of your truck and can carry one or two kayaks. They are a good option if you have a small truck or want easy access to your kayak without using a ladder.
Kayak Size and Weight Capacity
Before purchasing a kayak mount, make sure it is compatible with the size and weight of your kayak. Most manufacturers provide weight capacity information, so be sure to check it before making a purchase. It is also important to consider any additional gear that you may need to transport along with your kayak.
Mounting System
The mounting system is what keeps the kayak securely attached to your truck while in transit. There are two main types of mounting systems: J-style and Saddle-style.
- J-style: This type of mounting system holds the kayak on its side, making it easier to load and unload from the top of your vehicle. It also allows for more space on top of your vehicle for additional gear.
- Saddle-style: This type of mounting system holds the kayak in an upright position, similar to how it sits in water. It provides better support for longer kayaks but may require more effort when loading and unloading.
Compatibility with Your Truck
Not all kayak mounts are compatible with every type of truck. Some may require specific bed lengths or attachment points, so make sure to check compatibility before making a purchase. It is also essential to ensure that the mount will not interfere with other accessories on your truck such as roof racks or tonneau covers.
Budget
Kayak mounts come in various price ranges depending on their features and quality. Set a budget beforehand and stick to it while considering other factors such as durability and ease of use when making your decision.
Installation Process
The installation process can vary depending on the type of mount you choose. Bed mounts generally require drilling into the bed for installation, while rooftop mounts often use existing crossbars or attach directly onto roof rails. If you are not confident in installing it yourself, consider getting professional help.
Add-on Accessories
You may also want to consider any additional accessories that will enhance your kayaking experience such as tie-down straps, anchor points, or padding for added protection during transportation.
In conclusion, investing in a high-quality kayak mount for your truck will not only make transporting your kayak easier but also ensure its safety during transit. Consider these factors carefully before making a purchase so that you can choose the best option that suits both your needs and budget.
Author Profile
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Jeffrey Kucik, PhD, is an esteemed Associate Professor in the School of Government and Public Policy and the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona. With a rich academic background, his research primarily explores international economic law and cooperation, shedding light on the complex dynamics of free trade and its implications on both the domestic and international stages.
From 2024, Dr. Jeffrey Kucik has expanded his professional repertoire by venturing into the realm of blogging, focusing on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition into blogging allows Dr. Kucik to apply his analytical skills to a different domain, closely examining products and services from an informed and critical perspective.
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