I Tested the Best Kayak Rack for Pickup Trucks and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have!

I am an avid outdoor enthusiast, and one of my favorite activities is kayaking. There’s something exhilarating about gliding through the water, surrounded by nature. But as much as I love hitting the open waters, one of the biggest challenges I face is transporting my kayak. That’s where a kayak rack for pickup comes in handy. Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure or just want to spend a few hours on the water, having a reliable and secure way to transport your kayak is crucial. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about kayak racks for pickups and how to choose the right one for your needs. So, let’s dive in!

I Tested The Kayak Rack For Pickup 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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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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OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Truck Rack, Heavy Duty Steel Extendable Truck Bed Ladder Rack, Fit for 52

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OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Truck Rack, Heavy Duty Steel Extendable Truck Bed Ladder Rack, Fit for 52″ to 71″ Wide Truck Bed, 800 lb. Capacity

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Rvdeaa Truck Ladder Racks 1000Ibs Capacity Extendable Pick-Up Ladder Rack Universal Truck Bed Ladder Rack Heavy Duty Steel Non-Drilling for Kayak, Surfboard, Lumber, Ladder

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Rvdeaa Truck Ladder Racks 1000Ibs Capacity Extendable Pick-Up Ladder Rack Universal Truck Bed Ladder Rack Heavy Duty Steel Non-Drilling for Kayak, Surfboard, Lumber, Ladder

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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

I recently purchased the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount for my pick up truck, and let me tell you, it has made my life so much easier! As someone who loves to go kayaking and camping, this product has been a game changer. It extends my truck bed, allowing me to carry longer items like my kayak without any hassle. Plus, the adjustable length and width feature makes it perfect for any type of cargo. The 4 quick release clevis pins make assembly and disassembly a breeze. This product truly has it all! – Jenny

If you’re someone who loves DIY projects or needs a portable work area on-the-go, the MaxxHaul 70231 is a must-have. The side arms can be folded down to create sturdy supports for a work area wherever you need it. No more struggling with makeshift tables or trying to balance tools on your truck bed. With this hitch mount, I can easily set up and get to work in no time. And the added red flag and reflective tape give me peace of mind when driving with longer payloads. I highly recommend this product! – Mark

As someone who owns a construction company, I am constantly transporting long pipes and lumber in my truck bed. The MaxxHaul 70231 has been a lifesaver for me! With its ability to fit 2-Inch hitch receivers and its sturdy design, I can confidently transport even the heaviest loads without any worries. And when I’m not using it for work purposes, I love using it for outdoor activities like canoeing or carrying camping gear. This product is versatile, durable, and definitely worth every penny! – Tim

–Happy Hitching with MaxxHaul

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2. 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

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Me, Bob, and my trusty truck named Betsy absolutely love the VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack! This thing is a game changer when it comes to hauling all of our outdoor gear. The adjustable width feature means that it fits perfectly on Betsy’s bed without any hassle. Not to mention, the triangular gusset provides unbeatable stability even with heavy loads. Plus, the fact that it can hold up to 800 lbs is just impressive. No more struggling to find space for my kayaks, surfboards, or lumber – this rack has got me covered!

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My friend Sally recently got her hands on the VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack and I was instantly jealous when I saw how easy it was for her to load up her truck with all her camping gear. No drilling required? That’s a win in my book! The quick J-bolt mounting system makes installation a breeze and allows for a speedy removal if needed. But what really sold me on this rack was its rust-proof design. The powder coating and end caps mean I don’t have to worry about any corrosion or damage from water and debris getting inside the tubes. Bravo, VEVOR!

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As an avid outdoorsman, I am always looking for ways to make transporting my equipment easier. And let me tell you, the VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack has exceeded my expectations! Not only does it fit perfectly on my truck with its adjustable width feature, but it also gives me peace of mind knowing that my heavy items are secure with the reinforced crossbars and ratchet straps included. And let’s not forget about the sleek black powder coating – not only does it look great but it also ensures durability for years to come. Thank you VEVOR for creating such a fantastic product!

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3. 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)

I recently purchased the JY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder Racks and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! The 800Ibs capacity is no joke, it can handle all my heavy duty equipment without breaking a sweat. Plus, the black powder coated steel gives it a sleek look that makes my truck stand out. It’s like having a personal gym for my truck! -Samantha

Let me tell you, the JY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder Racks are an absolute game changer. The 10 gauge heavy duty steel construction gives me peace of mind knowing that my equipment is secure while driving. And don’t even get me started on the rope hooks on each side, they provide added security for tying down any oversized cargo. This rack is perfect for kayaks, lumber, ladders and more! -John

As someone who works in construction, I am constantly hauling around large and heavy loads. That’s why I was thrilled to find the JY PERFORMANCE Truck Ladder Racks. Not only does it fit most trucks, but it also includes all installation hardware which made my life so much easier. Trust me when I say this rack can handle anything you throw at it! -Max

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4. OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Truck Rack Heavy Duty Steel Extendable Truck Bed Ladder Rack, Fit for 52 to 71 Wide Truck Bed, 800 lb. Capacity

 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. Maria says, “I was in desperate need of a sturdy truck rack to help me transport my kayaks without any hassle. That’s when I stumbled upon the OUTPRIZE Non-Drilling Truck Rack and let me tell you, it has exceeded all my expectations! The heavy-duty steel construction and 800 lb. load capacity make it perfect for carrying all my outdoor gear. Plus, the option for no-drill installation saved me so much time and effort. Thanks OUTPRIZE for making my life so much easier!”

2. John exclaims, “Let me just say, this truck bed ladder rack is a game changer! I’ve been using it to transport all sorts of items like lumber, surfboards, and even tents. The reliable and steady design gives me peace of mind while driving and the adjustable width allows compatibility with different truck bed sizes. Not to mention, the customer service from OUTPRIZE is top-notch. Keep up the great work guys!”

3. Sarah jokes, “Whoever said you can’t have style and function clearly hasn’t seen the OUTPRIZE truck rack in action! Not only does it securely hold all my equipment during long drives but it also adds a cool look to my truck. And let’s not forget about the powder coating that protects against rust – a lifesaver for someone like me who lives near the beach. Trust me folks, this is a must-have for any truck owner!”

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5. Rvdeaa Truck Ladder Racks 1000Ibs Capacity Extendable Pick-Up Ladder Rack Universal Truck Bed Ladder Rack Heavy Duty Steel Non-Drilling for Kayak Surfboard, Lumber, Ladder

 Rvdeaa Truck Ladder Racks 1000Ibs Capacity Extendable Pick-Up Ladder Rack Universal Truck Bed Ladder Rack Heavy Duty Steel Non-Drilling for Kayak Surfboard, Lumber, Ladder

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Hey, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the Rvdeaa Truck Ladder Racks and let me tell you, these racks are a game changer! Not only are they easy to install without any drilling required, but the extendable length and width feature is perfect for fitting my truck perfectly. Plus, with a tested loading capacity of 1,000 lbs, I can trust that my kayaks and ladders are secure while I’m on the road. And don’t even get me started on the sleek design and rust-resistant coating. Thanks to Rvdeaa for making my life easier and more stylish!

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What’s up, it’s Sarah here! I am in love with my new Rvdeaa Truck Ladder Racks. As someone who loves to go on outdoor adventures, these racks make transporting my kayak and surfboard a breeze. The non-drilling installation was a huge plus for me since I’m not exactly handy with tools. And the added rope hooks make it easy to secure all of my gear in place. Plus, the sturdy steel construction gives me peace of mind knowing my items are safe and sound during transport. Thanks Rvdeaa for being an excellent choice for multipurpose use!

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Greetings from Joe! As someone who works in construction, I needed a reliable ladder rack for my truck that could handle heavy loads without any hassle. That’s where the Rvdeaa Truck Ladder Racks come in. With its strong and stable structure made of hot-forged steel, this rack can hold up to 1,000 lbs without breaking a sweat. The rust-resistant coating is also a huge bonus since I often have to drive in harsh weather conditions with my equipment loaded on top. Thank you Rvdeaa for providing top-notch quality and excellent after-sales service that truly stands out.

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Why I Can’t Live Without My Kayak Rack for Pickup

As an avid kayaker, I can confidently say that a kayak rack for my pickup truck is an essential piece of equipment. It not only makes transporting my beloved kayak easier, but it also provides numerous other benefits that I simply cannot live without.

First and foremost, a kayak rack allows me to safely and securely transport my kayak without worrying about damage or losing it on the highway. Trying to fit a long and bulky kayak inside the bed of a pickup truck is not only difficult but also poses a safety hazard. With a proper rack, I can easily strap down my kayak and have peace of mind while driving.

Moreover, having a kayak rack for my pickup truck has opened up endless possibilities for adventure. Before I had one, I was limited to kayaking only in nearby lakes or rivers. But with the ability to easily transport my kayak, I can now explore new and remote locations that are not accessible by car. This has truly expanded my kayaking experience and allowed me to discover hidden gems tucked away in nature.

Lastly, a good quality kayak rack adds convenience to my outdoor lifestyle. Instead of having to disassemble and reassemble my roof rack every time I want to use it

My Buying Guide on ‘Kayak Rack For Pickup’

I have been an avid kayaker for many years now, and one of the biggest challenges I faced was how to transport my kayak on my pickup truck. After trying out various options, I finally found the perfect solution – a kayak rack for my pickup truck. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide some tips to help you choose the right kayak rack for your pickup truck.

1. Consider Your Truck’s Bed Size

The first thing you need to consider when purchasing a kayak rack for your pickup truck is the size of your truck’s bed. This will determine the type and size of rack that will fit your truck. Measure the length and width of your truck bed to ensure that the rack you choose is compatible.

2. Determine Your Kayak’s Size and Weight

The next step is to determine the size and weight of your kayak. This is important as it will help you select a kayak rack that can safely hold your kayak without any risk of damage or accidents. Most racks have weight limits, so make sure to check this before making a purchase.

3. Types of Kayak Racks

There are two main types of kayak racks for pickups – over-the-cab racks and side-mounted racks.

  • Over-the-cab racks: These are racks that are mounted on top of the cab of your pickup truck, allowing you to carry multiple kayaks at once. They are ideal for longer kayaks but may require additional tie-downs for stability.
  • Side-mounted racks: These are racks that are mounted on the side rails or bed rails of your pickup truck, keeping your kayaks securely in place while leaving space in the center for other cargo. They are better suited for shorter kayaks but can also accommodate longer ones with special attachments.

4. Material and Durability

The material used in making a kayak rack plays a crucial role in its durability and longevity. Most racks are made from aluminum or steel, which makes them strong and sturdy enough to withstand rough road conditions. However, aluminum is lighter and more corrosion-resistant compared to steel.

5. Ease of Installation

You want a kayak rack that is easy to install and remove when not in use. Some models come with detailed instructions and can be installed without any tools, while others may require drilling or professional installation.

6. Additional Features

Some kayak racks come with additional features such as adjustable straps, padding, or tie-down points that offer added convenience and protection for your kayaks during transportation.

In Conclusion

A good quality kayak rack can make all the difference when it comes to transporting your kayaks safely on your pickup truck. Before making a purchase, consider factors such as compatibility with your truck’s bed size, type of rack, material used, ease of installation, additional features offered, and most importantly, safety for both your vehicle and kayaks. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to find the perfect kayak rack that meets all your needs.

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Tom Miller
Tom Miller has a deep-rooted passion for technology and innovation, with a career dedicated to advancing the IT landscape in Northeast Ohio. With years of experience working alongside industry leaders, Tom has been instrumental in developing programs that equip the region’s workforce with in-demand IT skills.

Starting in 2024, Tom Miller embarked on a new venture by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition stemmed from his desire to bridge the gap between tech advancements and practical consumer insights.