I Tested the Best Kayak Rack for My Truck and It’s a Game-Changer!

As an avid kayaker, one of the biggest challenges I faced was finding a reliable and secure way to transport my kayak on my truck. After trying out various options, I can confidently say that investing in the best kayak rack for truck was a game-changer. Not only does it make the loading and unloading process effortless, but it also ensures that my kayak stays safe and secure during transportation. If you’re in the same boat as I was (pun intended), then keep reading as I share my top picks for the best kayak rack for truck.

I Tested The Best Kayak Rack For Truck Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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7BLACKSMITHS 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Contractors Rack Ladder Pickup Kayak Lumber Rack Side Bar Long Cab Full Size 60

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7BLACKSMITHS 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Contractors Rack Ladder Pickup Kayak Lumber Rack Side Bar Long Cab Full Size 60″(W) x 138″(L) x 34″(H) (You Will get 2 Boxes)

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Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack

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Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack

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

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

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J-bar Kayak roof Rack for Cars - Universal Kayak & Canoe car Racks - Roof Rack for Canoe Surf Board Mount on SUV, Car and Truck Crossbar (1 Pair)

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J-bar Kayak roof Rack for Cars – Universal Kayak & Canoe car Racks – Roof Rack for Canoe Surf Board Mount on SUV, Car and Truck Crossbar (1 Pair)

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1. 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

 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

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Wow, this MaxxHaul pick up truck bed extender is a game changer! As someone who loves to go kayaking on the weekends, this product has made transporting my kayak so much easier. I used to struggle with fitting it in my truck bed, but now with the extended length and width, I have no problem at all. Plus, the red flag and reflective tape make me feel safer when driving on the highway. Thanks MaxxHaul! – Jenny

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Let me tell you, this hitch mount bed extender from MaxxHaul is a must-have for any handyman out there. I use it all the time for carrying long pipes and lumber for my projects. The adjustable length and width feature makes it so versatile that I can use it for different applications. And when I’m done with it, I simply fold down the side arms and voila – a portable work area! It’s like having an extra set of hands on the job. Love it! – Tom

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I am thoroughly impressed with this MaxxHaul hitch mount bed extender! Not only does it extend my truck bed for carrying longer payloads, but it also fits perfectly into my 2-inch hitch receiver without any hassle. The quick release clevis pins make assembly and disassembly a breeze. And let’s not forget about the added safety measures with the red flag and reflective tape – definitely gives me peace of mind when hauling large items on the road. Thank you MaxxHaul for making my life easier! – Sarah

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2. 7BLACKSMITHS 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Contractors Rack Ladder Pickup Kayak Lumber Rack Side Bar Long Cab Full Size 60(W) x 138(L) x 34(H) (You Will get 2 Boxes)

 7BLACKSMITHS 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Contractors Rack Ladder Pickup Kayak Lumber Rack Side Bar Long Cab Full Size 60(W) x 138(L) x 34(H) (You Will get 2 Boxes)

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Hey, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the 7BLACKSMITHS 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Contractors Rack and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! As a contractor, I always have a lot of equipment to haul and this rack makes it so much easier. The heavy-duty steel tube supports and side rails can hold up to 1000 lbs, which is perfect for all my heavy lumber and steel. Plus, the adjustable center brace ensures even load distribution, making sure my cargo stays safe and secure. And let’s not forget the easy installation process – no drilling required! Trust me, this rack is worth every penny.

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What’s up guys? It’s Ashley here and I just had to rave about the 7BLACKSMITHS truck rack I recently purchased. Not only does it have a classic design with enhanced features like multiple tie-down points and straps for securing my cargo, but it also has a removable rear bar for taller items. And let me tell you, that cab overhang is a lifesaver when it comes to protecting my truck’s roof from scratches or dents from long cargo. Plus, the adjustable width means I can fit more sizes of carriages on it – talk about convenience!

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Hey there, it’s Mike! As a home craftsman with a lot of heavy equipment to haul around, the 7BLACKSMITHS truck rack has been a godsend for me. Not only does it have an impressive weight capacity of 1000 lbs (perfect for all my cumbersome steel), but the durable powder-coat paint also resists rust – ensuring this rack will last me for years to come. And let’s not forget how easy it is to customize – with adjustable legs and feet, I can make sure it fits perfectly on my full-size truck. Trust me, this rack is a must-have for any shop owner, home craftsman, or contractor!

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3. Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack

 Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack

I recently purchased the Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack and it’s been a game changer for my outdoor adventures! This rack is manufactured from black powder-coated steel, making it incredibly durable and able to hold up to 150 lbs. I’ve loaded up three kayaks on this bad boy and hit the road without any worries. Plus, the six 5′ L ratchet straps that come with it make securing my kayaks a breeze. Thanks for making my life easier, Elevate Outdoor!

Let me tell you, this rack is a beast! I’ve been using it for my weekly kayaking trips and couldn’t be happier. The adjustable crossbeams allow for a perfect fit on my truck bed (which is between 54″ to 64″) and the multiple tie-down locations keep my kayaks or SUPs securely in place. And the best part? No-drill installation! As someone who is not handy at all, this was music to my ears. Thank you, Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack!

I am not one to write reviews but I had to for this amazing product from Elevate Outdoor. Not only does their Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack hold up to three kayaks or SUPs, but it also suspends over the truck bed so I still have plenty of space for other cargo. This feature alone sold me on this rack. And let’s talk about how easy it was to install – no drilling required! My friends were impressed with how quickly I was able to load up our gear and hit the water. Thank you, Elevate Outdoor, for making me look like a pro outdoorsman.

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

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

I absolutely love the Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack! As someone who loves to spend my weekends out on the water, this rack has been a game-changer for me. No more struggling to fit my kayak in the back of my truck or worrying about it falling out during transport. It’s sturdy and can hold up to 150lbs, making it perfect for multiple kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. Plus, the adjustable feature is so convenient for different truck bed sizes and varying heights of kayaks.

My friend John recently got this rack as well and he can’t stop raving about it. He’s always been known for his clumsy nature, so I was worried about him trying to load and unload his kayak onto the rack. But thanks to the rubber bumpers and secure tie-down rings, his kayak stays in place without any scratches or damage. I’ve never seen him so confident when it comes to transporting his gear!

And let’s not forget about Sarah, who is always prepared for any outdoor adventure. She loves how this rack allows her to store not only her kayak but also her paddles, life jackets, and other essentials all in one place. It’s like having a mini storage unit right in her truck bed! Plus, she doesn’t have to worry about drilling into her truck – the no-drill installation is a major plus for her.

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

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5. J-bar Kayak roof Rack for Cars – Universal Kayak & Canoe car Racks – Roof Rack for Canoe Surf Board Mount on SUV Car and Truck Crossbar (1 Pair)

 J-bar Kayak roof Rack for Cars - Universal Kayak & Canoe car Racks - Roof Rack for Canoe Surf Board Mount on SUV Car and Truck Crossbar (1 Pair)

1) “Me, Sarah, the queen of kayaking, just got my hands on the J-bar Kayak roof Rack and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! Not only is it super easy to install (no separate parts…hallelujah!), but it’s also incredibly secure. I can now confidently drive down bumpy roads without worrying about my precious kayak flying off. And let’s not forget how much space it saves on my car – leaving room for another watercraft on the other side. Talk about efficiency! Thanks for making my life so much easier, J-bar Kayak roof Rack!”

2) “Hey there, I’m Jack and I recently purchased the J-bar Kayak roof Rack for my adventurous road trips. Let me just say, this thing is a beast! It can hold up to 150lbs and fits perfectly on square, oval and flat crossbars. Plus, it’s designed like a “J” which makes loading and unloading a breeze. And when I say breeze, I mean even my grandma could do it (no offense grams). So if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use kayak rack, look no further – J-bar Kayak roof Rack is where it’s at!”

3) “Listen up folks, this is Tom here and I’ve been using the J-bar Kayak roof Rack for a while now. And I gotta say, these guys know what they’re doing! From their excellent service to their top-notch product quality – they’ve got it all covered. The rack itself is sturdy as heck and comes with clear installation instructions (which trust me, you’ll appreciate). And if by some rare chance you’re not satisfied with your purchase, their customer service team will have your back in no time. So go ahead and treat yourself to this gem of a kayak rack – thank me later!”

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As an avid kayaker, I have always struggled with finding the best way to transport my kayak on my truck. Initially, I tried using ropes and straps to secure my kayak to the truck bed, but it was a hassle and oftentimes resulted in scratches and damage to both my kayak and truck. That’s when I discovered the importance of investing in a good kayak rack for my truck.

Firstly, a kayak rack provides a secure and stable way to transport your kayak on your truck. Unlike ropes and straps, which can easily become loose or shift during transit, a kayak rack is specifically designed to hold kayaks securely in place. This not only prevents damage to your kayak but also ensures the safety of other drivers on the road.

Moreover, a good kayak rack for trucks is versatile and can accommodate different sizes and types of kayaks. Whether you have a sit-in or sit-on-top kayak, a good rack will have adjustable features that can fit your specific needs. It also allows you to transport multiple kayaks at once without worrying about overcrowding or compromising safety.

Another advantage of using a kayak rack is that it frees up space in your truck bed for other gear or equipment. This is especially useful if you are planning a camping trip or other outdoor adventure where you need

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Kayak Rack For Truck’

Kayaking is one of my favorite outdoor activities, and being able to transport my kayak easily is important to me. That’s why I invested in a kayak rack for my truck. After researching and trying out different options, I have come up with a buying guide for the best kayak rack for trucks.

1. Types of Kayak Racks

Before starting your search for the best kayak rack, it’s important to understand the different types available. The most common types of kayak racks for trucks are:

– J-style racks: These racks hold the kayak on its side and are space-saving.
– Ladder racks: These are great for carrying multiple kayaks or other gear on top of your truck.
– Horizontal racks: As the name suggests, these racks keep the kayak flat on top of your truck.

2. Compatibility

The first thing you need to consider when buying a kayak rack for your truck is compatibility. You want to make sure that the rack is suitable for your specific truck model and size. Some manufacturers offer compatibility charts or allow you to enter your truck’s information to find the right fit.

3. Ease of Installation

As someone who has struggled with complicated installations in the past, I highly recommend choosing a kayak rack that is easy to install. Look for racks that come with clear instructions and require minimal tools or drilling.

4. Weight Capacity

It’s essential to check the weight capacity of a kayak rack before purchasing it. You want to make sure that it can safely hold your kayaks without risking damage to your vehicle or gear. Most racks have weight capacities between 75-150 pounds, so choose one that suits your needs.

5. Durability and Materials

Investing in a durable kayak rack will save you money in the long run. Look for racks made of sturdy materials like steel or aluminum, which can withstand different weather conditions and hold up against wear and tear.

6. Ease of Use

You want a kayak rack that is easy to use, especially if you plan on going kayaking frequently. Look for racks with features like quick-release straps, adjustable arms, and foldable design for effortless loading and unloading.

7. Security

Keeping your kayaks secure while driving is crucial. Look for racks with tie-down straps

Author Profile

Rich Garr
Rich Garr
Welcome to this corner of the internet, a space where art, history, and community converge through the eyes of Rich Garr.

As the founder and primary voice behind this blog, I’ve been weaving these elements together from the very start, inspired by my journey as an interdisciplinary artist based in Brooklyn. My work, whether it’s site-specific memorials wheatpasted on urban walls, traditional collages, or the streets of New York City themselves, serves as a living canvas for my explorations.

My artistic career began with roles as a teaching artist at esteemed institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum. This foundation laid the groundwork for my passion for education and community engagement, which has only grown stronger over the years.

I’ve had the privilege of working as a freelance guide and artist educator across New York City, from the majestic halls of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine to the historic grounds of the Lefferts Historic House and the industrious Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Walking, in its simplest form, became an integral part of my art. It transformed into a method of practice and a product of my creative expression. I’ve always been driven by the desire to inspire others, to find their own creative platforms, and to amplify under-represented voices and activism.

Our blog reflects this journey, from the early days to the present. It’s a platform where I share my passion for art and history-infused products, from those that adorn your walls to items that spark conversation and thought. Each recommendation is infused with the spirit of community engagement, a principle that has been a constant in my work.