The Best Kayak rack to Choose

In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of the best kayak rack to choose from the market so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you. We’ll cover everything from roof racks to hitch mounts, and we’ll even touch on some of the best storage options for your kayak when you’re not using it.

Kayak rack

There are many different types of kayak racks on the market, so it can be difficult to know which one to choose. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a kayak rack:

  • The type of kayak you have: Some racks are specifically for certain types of kayaks, so make sure to get a rack that is compatible with your kayak.
  • How many kayaks do you need to transport: If you only have one kayak, you can probably get away with a smaller and less expensive rack. But if you have multiple kayaks, you’ll need a bigger, more sturdy rack.
  • Your budget: Kayak racks can range in price from around $50 to $200 or more. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on a rack before shopping around.
  • Where you’ll be using the rack: If you only plan on using the rack at home, then you might not need a particularly fancy or durable one. But if you’ll be taking your kayaks on the road, then you’ll want a rack that is easy to set up and take down, and that won’t damage your car.

Types of Kayak Racks

There are many different types of kayak racks on the market, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your needs. Here is a look at some of the most popular options:

Kayak Mounting Track Rack for Inflatable Fishing Rowing Boat Canoe Kayak DIY Accessories

Roof racks

These are perhaps the most convenient option for transporting kayaks, as they allow you to keep your hands free for other tasks. It is possible to fix or remove roof racks, and some models even come with wind fairings to help reduce noise and drag.

Hitch racks

These are great options if you have a hitch receiver on your vehicle. Hitch racks come in both hanging and stackable designs, and some even feature tilt-down functionality for easy loading and unloading.

Truck bed racks

As the name suggests, these racks mount directly to the bed of your pickup truck, providing a sturdy and secure platform for transporting kayaks. Some models even include tie-down points to help secure your kayaks during transit.

Trailer hitches

If you have a trailer hitch on your vehicle, you can use it to transport kayaks with a special carrier or rack system. This is a great option for those who want to transport multiple kayaks at once.

Things To Consider When Choosing A Kayak Rack

There are a few things to consider when choosing a kayak rack for your vehicle. The first is the type of vehicle you have. Some kayak racks are for certain types of vehicles. If you have an SUV, there are racks available just for that.

The second thing to think about is how many kayaks you need to transport. Some racks can carry one or two kayaks, while others can carry four or more.

Finally, think about where you want to mount the rack. Some people prefer the roof, while others prefer the back of the vehicle. Whichever option you choose, make sure to securely attach the rack, and won’t come loose while you’re driving.

Best Kayak Racks of 2024

Here is a look at some of the most popular options available on the market.

Best Kayak Roof Rack For Cars

HandiRack

  • The HandiRack inflatable roof rack is a neat universal roof rack system to transport gear including surf and paddle boards. A smart choice to foam blocks or metal roof rack cross bars.
  • Swift and easy to install.
  • Surfboard rack for cars with or without rails and panoramic roofs. Aero design reduces vibrations and wind noise. Portable and easily removable car rack carrier when not in use.
  • Car roof rack for 2, 3, 4 & 5-door models from automakers including Chevy, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Mazda, Nissan, and Toyota.
  • This kayak rack uses heavy-duty non-abrasive 400D nylon. Metal parts are treated with an anti-corrosion coating.
  • Tie-Downs and Bow and Stern Lines Included.

Universal Soft Roof Rack Pads for Kayak

HEYTRIP

  • HEYTRIP soft roof racks are ideally suited for bringing your kayak/surfboard/SUP/canoe to your favorite paddling spot and have a maximum weight load of 80kg. It works on almost every type of vehicle, no matter whether your car is with/without side rails or gutters.
  • 2 * 15ft tie-down adjustable straps with padded cam locks provide secure gripping for your load. 2 * 15ft bow & stern tie-down rope ensure that your long-loads are safely secured to the front and back of your vehicle. With such 4 ultra-long straps, it holds up to 1-3 shortboards/ 1-2 longboards or kayaks depending on size.
  • The built-in non-slip mat saves your car roof surface from getting scratched and is fixed tightly to reduce wind noise. Top-grade EVA foam padding provides a soft landing for your loads and effectively reduces vibration during transportation.  Perhaps, the best kayak rack for a car with a sunroof.
  • Easy to Install and Clean: 
  • The premium soft roof racks are made with tough, durable materials to safely secure your boards and last for years to come. 

Two Kayak Carrier Steel Base With Aluminum Post

INNO Rack

INNO 2 kayak rack
  • The strong buckle pads have the perfect hardness for securely holding heavy kayaks and preventing them from being scratched by the belt buckles.
  • The mounting system suits square, round, and most factory crossbars.
  • This roof rack can securely carry up to 2 kayaks.
  • When the rack is not in use it can be Folded To A Compact Size For Storage And Transport.
  • Extra Straps For Tightened Front & Rear Kayak

Freestanding Kayak Storage Rack for Indoor Or Outdoor Use

VEVOR

VEVOR Kayak Storage Freestanding Kayak Storage Rack, 600 LBS Load-Bearing Capacity Kayak Hanger for Indoor/Outdoor Use, 100 LBS Per Layer Paddle Board Rack, 3 Layers Kayak Storage Rack for 6 Canoes
  • There are three levels of this kayak rack, which can be used both front and rear. A total of six storage spaces allow 6 items to be housed. Each level has a bearing capacity of 100 pounds, totaling 600 lbs.
  • These are equipped with adjustable hooks. You can change the height of the storage space by changing the position of the hooks. This excellent design can fit your different items’ thicknesses. And the four casters let you move it smoothly.
  • All frame is made of heavy-duty steel material. The powder-coated surface is rust resistance and corrosion resistance. Furthermore, the hooks with sponge pads can effectively avoid kayak scratches.
  • Easy to disassemble and install.
  • These kayak storage racks can be used indoors or outdoors. It can withstand most average weather conditions. Perfectly for use in a garage, houseboat, or dock. Suitable for storing kayaks, SUP, and canoe.

Best Marine Kayak Storage Rack

‎Best Marine and Outdoors

  • Best Marine storage racks help you to keep watercraft in good condition for as long as possible. 
  • They arrive with straps and fasteners so you can secure your watercraft on the mounts and keep it out of harm’s way.
  • With the Best Marine storage rack, you can store kayaks, surfboards, paddleboards, and more. With its 100 lb carrying capacity, this storage rack is built to hold some of the heaviest watercraft.
  • Quick and easy installation.
  • These kayak hangers can easily be installed in a shed, under a deck, or on a dock/pier. They’re made of powder-coated steel which makes them resistant to rust.
  • These wall racks make the perfect creative gift for that kayaker that is in your life!

Heavy Duty Steel Hitch for Kayak

LWTURMRT

  • Extender your truck bed to haul, and even more, a pickup bed extender can hold up to 450/750 lbs and has an adjustable width of 28.8” – 47.7” and height adjustably.
  • Can be used on any vehicle with a 2″ receiver trailer hitch.
  • Made from heavy-duty steel and covered with an anti-rust coating the truck bed extender is easy to install and includes 4 quick-release clevis pins for quick assembly and disassembly.
  • This hitch kayak rack includes reflective red tape and a flag on the back and sides to ensure a safe and smooth journey at night or long distances.

Best Truck Kayak Rack

AA-Racks X31

  • The X31 features a tested loading capacity of 800 lbs. It is powder coated in black color.
  • The rope hook on the side of all four uprights provides security for tying the tools or loads.
  • Non-Drilling X31 Truck Rack with Black C-Clamps (Set of 8) included, NOT COMPATIBLE with trucks with Utility Track Systems.
  • The top section is built with Two “T” sleeve bars plus Middle Cross Bar. The Double-barred Middle section won’t easily dent or bend, causing it stronger than a one-barred design.
  • The extendable design also makes it compatible with different Truck-bed Widths ranging from Min.51″ – Max.71″.

Adjustable Fit Truck Pick-up Kayak Rack

TMS Pick-up Rack

  • This multi-functional rack can carry bigger and longer items that the average pick-up truck bed cannot fit. It is perfect for kayaks, pool equipment, ladders, lumber, pipes, and much more.
  • A very sturdy frame offers a weight capacity of 800 lbs. Very easy to install. The width is adjustable from 5 feet to 7 feet to cater to a variety of truck bed sizes. Attaching longer items to a rack securely is much more convenient, and guarantees the safety of your property without the worry of it dropping out of your truck bed.
  • Max Height: 30 inches plus the height of your truck’s bed. Width: Adjustable for most pickup trucks (Adjustable width of 5 feet minimum to 7 feet maximum where rack attaches to track bed).

The Truck Bed Extender for Kayaks

LOADD SHEETT

  • Saves time and cuts your 5 to 10-minute session of messing around with a tailgate extender or multitudes of straps to just under 1 minute.
  • Ready for any load that you need to carry, also makes the process of carrying long loads safe and easy.
  • Fits under your backseat like it’s not even there when you’re done using it.
  • Backed by the Full Loadd Guarantee (Lifetime) and made in the USA.

Best Kayak Rack with Lift Assist

Thule Hullavator Pro

  • Lift-assist kayak rack designed to easily load and unload on your own.
  • Gas struts make it easy to load and unload the kayak unassisted as the carrier takes 40 lbs of the kayak’s weight.
  • Load and unload your kayak at waist height thanks to double-extending arms.
  • 8 touch points of padded support for maximum protection.
  • Corrosion-resistant kayak cradles expand to fit wide kayaks.
  • Built to last with aluminum, double coated steel construction.
  • Includes bow and stern tie-downs for transporting 1 kayak.