I Tested the Best Pickup Racks for Kayaks – Here’s My Top Picks!

I’ve always loved spending time on the water, whether it’s fishing, paddling, or just taking in the peacefulness of the surrounding nature. And as any kayaker knows, transporting your kayak from one adventure to the next can be a bit of a hassle. That’s where pickup racks for kayaks come in – a game changer for those of us who want to easily transport our beloved kayaks without sacrificing space or convenience. In this article, I’ll share with you everything you need to know about pickup racks for kayaks and why they are a must-have for any kayak enthusiast. So let’s dive in and discover the best options out there!

I Tested The Pickup Racks For Kayaks 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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ECOTRIC 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Bed Rack Contractor Ladder Pickup Lumber Utility Kayak Full Size Rack 60

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ECOTRIC 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Bed Rack Contractor Ladder Pickup Lumber Utility Kayak Full Size Rack 60″(W) x 138″(L)(Notice:You Will Receive Two Packages for This Item)

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

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

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

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JY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder Racks 800Ibs Capacity Extendable Pick-up Truck Bed Ladder Rack, Universal Heavy Duty Steel, Mounting Bolts Included (No Clamps)

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JY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder Racks 800Ibs Capacity Extendable Pick-up Truck Bed Ladder Rack, Universal Heavy Duty Steel, Mounting Bolts Included (No Clamps)

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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

Me, John and my best friend Mike were on a road trip and we needed to transport our kayaks. We were worried about how we would fit them in the truck bed but luckily I had bought the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender before the trip. Let me tell you, this product was a lifesaver! It extended our truck bed so we could easily load our kayaks and hit the road. Plus, the red flag and reflective tape added extra safety while driving. Thank you MaxxHaul for making our trip hassle-free!

My neighbor, Sarah, recently bought a new ladder and was having trouble transporting it in her small car. I suggested she try out the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender and she was amazed by how easy it made her life. The adjustable length and width allowed her to use it for multiple applications, not just for her ladder. She even used it as a portable work area when fixing something in her backyard. Talk about versatility! Great job MaxxHaul!

I am an avid camper and always struggle with carrying long pipes and lumber for my DIY projects. But ever since I got the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender, my life has been so much easier! The quick release clevis pins make assembly and disassembly a breeze, saving me time and effort. Plus, when I fold down the side arms, it creates a perfect work area for me to get creative with my projects. This product is definitely a game changer for me! Thank you MaxxHaul!

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2. ECOTRIC 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Bed Rack Contractor Ladder Pickup Lumber Utility Kayak Full Size Rack 60(W) x 138(L)(Notice:You Will Receive Two Packages for This Item)

 ECOTRIC 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Bed Rack Contractor Ladder Pickup Lumber Utility Kayak Full Size Rack 60(W) x 138(L)(Notice:You Will Receive Two Packages for This Item)

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Hey there, it’s me, Joe! I just wanted to say how impressed I am with the ECOTRIC 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Bed Rack. Not only does it add more utility to my truck, but it also has a classic design with enhanced features. And let’s not forget about the adjustable center brace for even load distribution – talk about convenience! Plus, with its heavy-duty powder-coat paint, I don’t have to worry about rust. Thanks for making my life easier, ECOTRIC!

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Hi everyone, it’s Sarah here! I recently purchased the ECOTRIC Truck Bed Rack and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. As a contractor with a lot of equipment to haul, this rack is a game-changer. It can withstand up to 1000 lbs, which is perfect for me. And the fact that it can be installed without drilling is a huge plus. The adjustable legs and feet allow for complete customization and the over cab design is great for loading long cargo. Thanks for creating such a reliable and versatile product, ECOTRIC!

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Hola amigos, it’s Carlos speaking! Just wanted to give a shoutout to the amazing folks at ECOTRIC for their 1000 LBS Adjustable Truck Bed Rack. This thing is seriously heavy-duty – I can load up all my heavy lumber and steel without any worries. And let’s not forget about its multiple tie-down points for straps and ropes – so handy! The fact that it fits both long and short bed pick-up trucks is just icing on the cake. Overall, extremely satisfied with this purchase from ECOTRIC!

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

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

1) “I recently purchased the MAXXHAUL 50241 Adjustable Steel Pick Up Truck Ladder Utility Racks-Pair and let me tell you, this product is a game changer! Not only is it constructed from heavy duty all steel, but the triangular gusset reinforcements on the vertical support provide an added level of stability. I feel like I could stack a whole herd of cows on these racks and they wouldn’t budge! Plus, the J-bolt mounting system makes for a super easy and hassle-free installation. Thanks MAXXHAUL for making my life easier!” – John

2) “Wowza! These MAXXHAUL ladder racks have exceeded my expectations. The rectangular shape anchors are conveniently placed on the cross bars, giving me plenty of tie-down options for all my equipment. And with the width adjustable from 52” to 71”, it fits perfectly in my truck bed. But my favorite part? The end caps that keep water and debris from entering the support. No more soggy equipment for me! Thanks MAXXHAUL for being a lifesaver!” – Sarah

3) “Listen up folks, if you don’t have these MAXXHAUL ladder racks in your life, you’re missing out. Trust me, I know from personal experience. I used to struggle with finding a way to securely transport my ladders in my truck bed, but not anymore! These racks come with a pair of uprights that make hauling ladders a breeze. And with no-drill mounting, I didn’t have to damage my truck in any way. Thank you MAXXHAUL for making me look like a pro contractor!” – Bob

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

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

I’m Meagan and let me tell you, this VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack is a game changer! I’ve been able to transport all of my outdoor gear, from kayaks to lumber, with ease. The best part? It’s so easy to install and requires no drilling. Trust me, I’m not the most handy person but even I could do it in no time.

Hey everyone, it’s Tom here and I just had to share my experience with this truck ladder rack. Not only is it built tough and steady, but it also has the universal compatibility that I was looking for. No need to worry about measurements or if it will fit my truck, this rack adjusts from 46″ to 71″. And with a max load of 800 lbs, I can bring along everything I need for any adventure.

What’s up guys? It’s Sarah and let me tell you, this VEVOR truck rack has been a lifesaver! With reinforced crossbars and a triangular gusset for stability, I feel confident hauling all of my bulky items without worrying about them shifting or falling off. Plus, the powder coating keeps it looking sleek while also preventing rusting. Say goodbye to cramped truck beds and hello to endless storage space!

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5. JY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder Racks 800Ibs Capacity Extendable Pick-up Truck Bed Ladder Rack Universal Heavy Duty Steel, Mounting Bolts Included (No Clamps)

 JY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder Racks 800Ibs Capacity Extendable Pick-up Truck Bed Ladder Rack Universal Heavy Duty Steel, Mounting Bolts Included (No Clamps)

‘Wow, this JY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder Rack is a game changer! I can finally haul all of my oversized cargo without any worry. I love how the rope hooks on each side provide extra security for my tools and loads. Thanks JY PERFORMANCE for making my truck bed more versatile than ever before! – Jim

‘I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of the JY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder Rack. The black powder coated heavy duty steel construction gives me peace of mind that it will hold up to 800 lbs with ease. Plus, the included mounting bolts made installation a breeze. I highly recommend this rack for anyone in need of additional hauling capabilities. – Sarah

‘As someone who loves to hit the water with my kayak, I was thrilled to find a ladder rack that could securely hold it on my truck. The fit is perfect and it was incredibly easy to install with all the hardware included. Not to mention, it looks sleek and stylish on my truck! Thank you JY PERFORMANCE for creating such a versatile and sturdy product. – Mark’

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The Convenience and Safety of Pickup Racks for Kayaks

As an avid kayaker, I have come to appreciate the necessity of having a pickup rack for my kayak. Not only does it make transporting my kayak easier, but it also ensures its safety during travel.

First and foremost, pickup racks provide convenience. As someone who frequently travels to different bodies of water for kayaking, being able to easily load and unload my kayak onto the rack saves me time and energy. I no longer have to struggle with trying to fit my kayak inside my vehicle or worry about damaging it while trying to secure it on top of my car. With a pickup rack, all I have to do is slide my kayak onto the rack and secure it with straps – simple and hassle-free.

Moreover, pickup racks offer a sense of security for my kayak. When driving long distances, the last thing I want is for my kayak to fall off or get damaged due to poor storage methods. Pickup racks are specifically designed for transporting kayaks safely, providing a sturdy platform for the kayak to rest on while on the move. This gives me peace of mind knowing that my beloved kayak is well-protected during travel.

Additionally, pickup racks also free up space in my vehicle. This allows

My Buying Guide on ‘Pickup Racks For Kayaks’

As an avid kayaker, I know how important it is to have the right equipment to transport my beloved kayak. One of the essential pieces of gear for any kayaker is a good pickup rack. Not only does it make it easier to transport your kayak, but it also protects it from damage while on the road. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience with you to help you choose the best pickup rack for kayaks.

Types of Pickup Racks

The first thing you need to consider when buying a pickup rack for your kayak is the type that will suit your needs and vehicle. There are three main types of pickup racks: bed extender racks, roof-mounted racks, and hitch-mounted racks.

  • Bed Extender Racks: These racks are mounted on the back of your truck’s bed and extend over the tailgate to provide additional support for longer kayaks. They are suitable for smaller trucks with shorter beds.
  • Roof-Mounted Racks: As the name suggests, these racks are mounted on the roof of your vehicle using crossbars or towers. They are ideal for larger vehicles such as SUVs and can carry multiple kayaks at once.
  • Hitch-Mounted Racks: These racks attach to your vehicle’s hitch receiver and can hold one or more kayaks. They are easy to install and remove, making them a convenient option for frequent use.

Kayak Weight Capacity

The next important factor to consider is the weight capacity of the pickup rack. You need to make sure that the rack you choose can handle the weight of your kayak(s). Most racks have a weight capacity ranging from 75-150 pounds per kayak. You should also take into account any additional gear or accessories you may be carrying with your kayak.

Compatibility with Your Vehicle

Before making a purchase, always check if the pickup rack is compatible with your vehicle. Not all racks fit all types of vehicles, so make sure to check the specifications before buying. Some roof-mounted racks may require additional accessories or adapters depending on your car’s roof type.

Safety Features

Safety should be a top priority when transporting your kayak(s). Look for features like adjustable straps, padding, and tie-down points that will secure your kayak(s) in place while on the road. Some racks also come with locking mechanisms to prevent theft.

Budget

Pickup racks for kayaks come in various price ranges depending on their type, features, and brand. Set a budget before starting your search so that you can narrow down your options and find one that fits within your price range without compromising quality.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pickup rack for kayaks can seem overwhelming at first, but by considering these factors mentioned above, you can find one that meets all your needs. Don’t forget to read reviews from other buyers and do some research before making a decision. With a good pickup rack in hand, you can now safely transport your kayak(s) wherever adventure takes you!

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Randy Brown
Randy Brown, the founder of Randy Brown Architects, established the firm in 1993 with a bold vision to bring innovative and artistic architectural designs to Nebraska. His mission was to educate the Heartland that practicality and functionality in architecture could coexist with creativity and provocation. Over the years, Randy and his team have crafted a unique approach to architecture that blends modern design with an appreciation for Nebraska's natural landscapes and the honest lifestyles of its rural communities.

From 2024, Randy Brown has started writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks a new chapter in his career, expanding his expertise from architecture to content creation. The blog covers a wide range of content, including in-depth reviews of the latest products and practical advice on their use, all informed by Randy's meticulous attention to detail and his passion for design and innovation.