🛶 KAYAK RACK FOR TRUCK: USE A KAYAK CARRIER WHEN EXPLORING THE GREAT OUTDOORS!

Many people enjoy exploring the great outdoors over the weekends and holidays. One of the most popular outdoor activities is kayaking. It is important that your kayak stays in perfect condition during the journey. Therefore, a kayak carrier for pickup truck is ideal for transporting your kayak safely and securely. How can a driver select the best kayak rack for truck? We have compiled the best kayak racks for your vehicle that are available today.

Kayak Carriers For Pickup Trucks

PRODUCT	CAR MODEL & YEAR	TYPE	PROS	CONS
ECOTRIC Adjustable Full Size Truck Contractor Ladder Pickup Lumber Utility Kayak Rack	2011 Dodge 1500 Crew Cab 2006 Ford F150 Quad Cab	Universal Design	Rust resistant Fully adjustable center brace Numerous tie-down sections for bungees, rope and straps Fully customizable legs and feet	It arrives in two packages that can be delivered weeks apart Substantial assembly is required Installation instructions are confusing
TMS 800 LB Adjustable Fit 2 Bars Utility Ladder Truck Pick up Rack	2002 Ford Sport Trac 2016 Toyota Tundra	Universal Design	High weight capacity of 800lb (362.87kgs) Adjustable width It can haul longer items conveniently	Drivers have to manually drill holes into the rack’s heavy-duty steel bases Installation takes a long time
Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack	All car, SUV and Pickup Truck Models	J-Style Design	Rust proof Easy folding and raising It can be folded down flat for easy driving into a parking garage It is covered with foam and rubber padding for kayak protection It can be installed on vehicles equipped with aerodynamic or square factory crossbars	It is not compatible with the round cross bar It can arrive while incorrectly assembled
AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel J-Bar Rack	2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2014 Honda CR-V , 2012 Honda Pilot and All other car, SUV and Pickup Truck Models	J-Style Design	This rack is very durable Installation is effortless It comes equipped with reinforced anchor straps It can fold down over an angle of 180°	It gets looser after each successive use It is very prone to rusting
Rhino Rack Kayak & Canoe Carrier	All car, SUV and Pickup Truck Models	J-Style Design	It arrives equipped with an assortment of accessories This rack enables drivers to carry a second kayak or item of cargo It can fit on a variety of vehicle models The carrier comes already fitted with a universal cradle for your paddles	Drivers have to purchase an S512X extension separately to carry two kayaks Installation is very difficult and time-consuming It does not fit on Thule square bars without a separately bought conversion kit
AA-Racks 2 Pair Double Folding J-Bar Rack	2016 Jeep Renegade, Hummer , 2018 Chevrolet Equinox and All other car, SUV and Pickup Truck Models	J-Style Design	Drivers can use it to carry kayaks or canoes and other cargo at the same time This rack is fully foldable It is made of durable materials Its frame is rust-proof while the rubber base is weather-proof It arrives equipped with all the accessories necessary for installation It has an immense cargo weight capacity of 2200lbs (997.90kgs)	Installation is very challenging due to numerous parts It wobbles even after fastening
IKURAM Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack	All car, SUV and Pickup Truck Models	J-Style Design	It has sturdy, durable construction It can fit on a passenger car, Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) or a pickup truck Drivers can carry two kayaks that are 42″ wide and weighing 158 lbs (72kg) upright on the roof The rack can fit on round, square or oval shaped factory cross rails It arrives equipped with some heavy-duty straps It has a rapid fold down design The rack’s J-Style bars can be locked at varying angles to haul kayaks or canoes of various sizes	Installation can take a long time due to the many parts The installation instructions are terrible The margin of error during installation is high
Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier with Bow and Stern Lines	2011 Toyota RAV4, 2014 Dodge Durango and All other car, SUV and Pickup Truck Models	J-Style Design	It has some over sized padding to protect your boat, kayak or canoe from scratches or scrapes It is fitted with fold down technology It is fully compatible with the MPG351 Telos Load Assist for convenient loading or unloading It can fit comfortably on round, square and oval factory cross rails Its load straps are fitted with buckle protectors for maximum durability	This rack comes with numerous parts for assembly so installation can be very challenging The teeth on the angle hinge are made of plastic and can pop resulting in a loose fit
Malone SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier with Bow and Stern Lines	2011 – 2015 Subaru Outback, Jeep Wrangler and All other car, SUV and Pickup Truck Models	Saddle-Style Design	It implements mid-point mounting so installation is a breeze This rack occupies a minimum amount of roof space It preserves the ribbed synthetic rubber padding your kayak It can fit on round, square or oval factory cross rails during installation	Drivers have to install a separate, second Malone SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack to fit another kayak using this rack Drivers have to buy the Malone Stinger load assist module separately for easier installation The plastic coating on these Saddle racks peels easily
AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel Kayak J-Bar Roof Rack	2020 Toyota 4Runner and All other car, SUV and Pickup Truck Models	J-Style Design	This rack has a high cargo weight capacity of 2200lb (997.90kgs) This rack protects the decor and finish on your kayak or canoe This rack kit arrives equipped with 2 pairs of J-Bar kayak mounts for truck, four heavy-duty bow and stern tie down ratchet straps and a rope hanger	Numerous accessories can make installation a difficult task The straps that are provided are not long enough to secure a 29″+ wide kayak
Mrhardware 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack	Honda CRV, Ford Escape and All other car, SUV and Pickup Truck Models	J-Style Design	It has adjustable padding that protects your kayak from scratches or scrapes during transportation This rack has a- wide mouth J-Style bar for easy loading or unloading The rack has a rust-resistant coating It is compatible with aftermarket or factory square, oval, round, and flat crossbars	The 2 pairs of J-Style truck kayak racks require numerous fixtures for proper installation Mounting these racks is inconveniently difficult
MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Truck Bed Extender	2001 Ford Ranger, Toyota Tundra, Toyota Tacoma and All other car, SUV and Pickup Truck Models	Universal design	Installing this extender can be done in minutes It is equipped with reflective tape for maximum visibility The side arms on this extender are foldable	It has a low load capacity of only 300lb (136.08kgs) Its welded joints are prone to rusting and breakage

Truck Kayak Rack Benefits

1. Kayak Truck Rack Delivers Safety

Kayaks are lightweight but can become very dangerous if they are not stored properly. A kayak can cause a major accident if it falls from your car’s roof while you’re driving. By holding the kayak firmly, a roof kayak rack for trucks prevents the craft from swaying, slipping or falling. In this way, the kayak rack protects you, the occupants of your kayak rack truck and other drivers on the highway.

2. Canoe Rack For Truck Maintains The Quality And Build Of Your Kayak

Modern kayaks are made of materials such as fiberglass, high-strength plastic, reinforced wood or polyethylene resins. After manufacture, they are finished using vinyl wrap or paint. The decorations on a kayak hauler for truck can get damaged if subjected to scrapes or scratches. A kayak holder for truck holds the craft steady and protects it from scratches or other forms of physical damage.

3. Kayak Hitch Rack Provides Efficiency

Some kayak racks are designed to carry more than one craft at a time. They enable drivers to haul two kayaks when on an expedition to the great outdoors. In this way, a canoe rack for pickup trucks can maximize hauling efficiency.

Kayak Carrier For Truck Types

Truck Bed Kayak Rack With A J-Style Frame

Also referred to as J-Cradles or J-Racks, the J-Style truck canoe rack is the most popular type. This truck kayak carrier is shaped like a J and is angled at 45 degrees. It faces outwards so that drivers can load kayaks onto the rack easily. J-Style kayak racks have two main advantages. They can be folded away when not in use. This quality also maintains a substantial roof clearance on your vehicle. Two pairs of J-Style kayak racks can also be fitted upon a car’s roof so that the driver can carry two kayaks at the same time.

Kayak Rack For Pickup Trucks With Saddle Design

Also known as a Horizontal rack, this is a frame that allows the kayak to sit on its hull during transportation on the roof of a vehicle. A Saddle rack maintains maximum contact between the kayak and your vehicle’s roof. As a result, it is very sturdy. The Horizontal kayak rack for pickup truck is loaded from the back of the vehicle. Interestingly, some Saddle kayak racks are equipped with a roller that makes it easier to load the craft upon the roof of your car. A notable downside of the Saddle pickup truck canoe rack rack is that its design makes loading two kayaks side by side difficult or impossible.

Kayak T Rack Top Brands

AA-Racks

Established in 2017, AA Products Inc is a company that manufactures AA Racks. They take pride in producing kayak carriers for trucks that are so well-built that they last a lifetime. One of their most popular products is the AA Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel J-Bar Rack.

Rhino Rack

Founded in 1992 by Rich Cropley, Rhino-Rack is a company that specializes in manufacturing vehicle racks. They maintain a focus on manufacturing kayak truck racks that can withstand the harsh conditions of the outdoors. As a result of their dedication, Rhino-Rack’s Pioneer Platform rack won the Gold Award at the 2020 Design Award. One of their most well-loved products is the Rhino Rack Kayak & Canoe Carrier.

Malone Auto Racks

The Malone Auto Racks company was started in the early 2000s. Located just outside Portland, Maine, they focus on innovation to achieve a leadership position in the industry. Every kayak carrier for pickup that they manufacture is affordable, very easy to install and simple to use for a long time. An outstanding product from the Malone Auto Racks company is the Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier.

F150 Kayak Rack Key Features

Kayak Racks For Truck Beds Layout

A kayak rack can have a J-Style or a Saddle rack layout. The J-Style rack has a 45 degree angle and faces outwards. Therefore, it is ideal for drivers that desire to carry two kayaks at the same time. The Saddle rack allows a kayak to rest upon its hull on your car’s roof. This guarantees maximum stability but limits the cargo space to only one kayak at a time. Therefore, a driver should always consider these layout options when purchasing a canoe rack for pickup.

Canoe Racks For Trucks Extra Padding

The latest models of kayak rack for truck with Tonneau cover have some foam and rubber padding upon the metal frame. This padding prevents the kayak from getting scratched by the frame during loading, travel and unloading. The padding is waterproof, sun resistant and has anti-slip qualities that provide drivers with decades of service. This extra padding is always highly beneficial so drivers should always seek to have this key feature in their canoe carriers for pickup trucks.

Canoe Carrier For Truck Cargo Weight Capacity

Different kayak mounts for trucks have varying levels of cargo capacity. Some can carry cargo of up to 2200lb (997.90kgs). A rule of thumb is that the higher the cargo weight capacity, the better the kayak transport truck. As such, drivers should always purchase kayak racks that have the highest possible cargo weight capacity.

Kayak Carriers For Pickup Trucks Reviews And Recommendations For 2021

ECOTRIC Adjustable Full Size Truck Contractor Ladder Pickup Lumber Utility Kayak Rack

ECOTRIC Adjustable Full Size Kayak Rack

The ECOTRIC Adjustable Full Size Utility Kayak Rack Installed on a pickup truck

Hauling cargo on your pickup truck can be much easier by using the ECOTRIC Adjustable Full Size Truck Contractor Ladder Pickup Lumber Utility Kayak Rack. It is strong enough to carry up to 1,000lb (453.59 kgs). This Toyota Tacoma kayak rack is made of steel hence is very durable and has a universal design so it can be fitted on long bed and short bed pickup trucks. Its installation process is easy because drivers can set it up with no drilling required. For these reasons, it is perfect for any contractor, shop owner or home contractor that needs to haul a lot of equipment.

Pros

• It is covered in heavy duty black powder coat paint for maximum rust resistance.
• Its center brace is fully adjustable so that drivers can implement even load distribution.
• This kayak rack has multiple tie-down sections for bungees, rope and straps.
• The legs and feet are fully customizable.

Cons

• The ECOTRIC Adjustable Full Size Truck Contractor Ladder Pickup Lumber Utility Kayak Rack arrives in two packages that can be delivered weeks apart.
• Significant assembly is required to set up this kayak rack for Toyota Tacoma.
• The installation instructions are incoherent.

TMS 800 LB Adjustable Fit 2 Bars Utility Ladder Truck Pick up Rack Kayak Contractor Lumber Utility

TMS 800 LB Adjustable Pick up Kayak Rack

The TMS 800 LB Adjustable Fit 2 Bars Kayak Rack Kayak set up on a pickup truck bed

In case a driver wants to haul some cargo that is longer than their pickup truck bed, the TMS 800 LB Adjustable Fit 2 Bars Utility Ladder Truck Pick up Kayak Rack is a perfect solution. It is made up of two fully adjustable heavy duty steel truck ladder racks. Drivers can haul kayaks, ladders, pipes, lumber and pool equipment with this rack set. As such, this kayak rack for pickup is a multi-functional accessory for your pickup truck.

Pros

• The TMS 800 LB Adjustable Fit 2 Bars Utility Ladder Truck Pick up Kayak Rack is made of black steel with a weight capacity of 800lb (362.87kgs).
• Drivers can adjust its width to a minimum of 5 feet and a maximum of 7 feet so that the rack can fit on truck beds of varying sizes.
• It can haul longer items in a convenient and safe way.

Cons

• Drivers have to drill holes for fitting 2 bolts and screws into the rack’s heavy duty steel bases
• Installation can take a long time due to the complexity of the kayak ladder rack.

Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack 4 PCS/Set J Bar Car Roof Rack for Canoe Surf Board SUP On Roof Top Mount on SUV, Car and Truck Crossbar with 4 pcs Tie Down Straps

Leader Accessories Kayak Rack

The Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack assembled on a Crossover Sports Utility Vehicle

Designed for Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV), passenger cars and trucks, the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack is a great accessory for hauling canoes, kayaks, surf boards, snow boards and ski boards among other items. The truck bed kayak carrier consists of 4 pieces made of rubber and alloy steel. Each piece has a steel tube that is 1.5mm thick and 22mm in diameter. It is further covered in some black powder coating to maximize rust prevention and durability. Thanks to these characteristics, this kayak roof rack for truck can survive any weather and provide decades of service.

Pros

• It is covered with black powder coating for enhanced rust prevention
• It has an ergonomic quick release feature for easy folding or raising.
• The rack can be folded down flat for easy driving into a parking garage.
• It is covered with foam and rubber padding to eliminate the chances of scratching your car’s roof or kayak.
• The Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack can be installed on vehicles equipped with aerodynamic or square factory crossbars.

Cons

• The Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack is not compatible with the round cross bar.
• They can arrive while incorrectly assembled from the factory.

AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel J-Bar Rack Roof Top Mount with Ratchet Straps, Ratchet Bow and Stern Tie Down Straps & Anchor Straps, Folding Carrier for Your Canoe, SUP and Kayaks on SUV Car Truck

AA-Racks 2 Pair J-Bar Kayak Rack

The AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel J-Bar Kayak Rack after installation on a car

When driving to the outdoors, the AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel J-Bar Rack can help to haul various items such as kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, snowboards, skis and many other types of sporting gear. Tipping the scales at only 21lb (9.53kgs), this truck bed canoe rack is made of a combination of stainless steel, rubber, polyester and foam. These materials are sturdy, water resistant, rust-proof, sun resistant and anti-slip in nature. With a load capacity of 2200lb (997.90kgs), this rack can carry your kayak on truck with minimal struggle.

Pros

• Thanks to its construction, this rack is very durable.
• Installing the AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel J-Bar Rack is very easy because it is simply attached to the roof rack rails.
• It comes equipped with anchor straps that are made of a flexible rubber hose reinforced with heavy-duty tight wave polyester webbing which can firmly hold cargo such as canoes, kayaks or skis.
• Each J-bar can fold down over an angle of 180° for maximum convenience when driving into parking garages.

Cons

• They get looser after each successive use.
• They are very prone to rusting.

Rhino Rack Kayak & Canoe Carrier, Folding J-Style with Universal Mounting Bracket, Easy Use & Fitment, Heavy Duty; for All Vehicles; 4WD, Pick Up Trucks, SUV’s, Wagon’s, Sedan’s; Lightweight, Black

Rhino Rack Black Kayak & Canoe Carrier

The Rhino Rack Kayak & Canoe Carrier installed on an SUV in the woods

Drivers can haul kayaks or canoes on their Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), sedans or pickup trucks with the Rhino Rack Kayak & Canoe Carrier. The rack is made of aluminum so it is strong and light at the same time. Black in color, it has foldable J Style bars that can be fitted on any type of vehicle. This truck rack for kayak is very easy to install and can be fully assembled in minutes because it weighs only 12.35lb (5.60kgs). Drivers get to enjoy maximum convenience with this Silverado kayak rack because it enables side loading. Even better, it has a cradle for hauling along your paddles.

Pros

• The Rhino Rack Kayak & Canoe Carrier package comes containing two cradles, rubber tube padding, all necessary hardware and four tie down straps.
• This rack avails ample space for carrying a second item of cargo on the remaining section of the roof rack.
• Its design enables universal fitment on a variety of vehicle models.
• The carrier comes already fitted with a universal cradle for your paddles.

Cons

• Drivers have to purchase an S512X extension separately to carry two kayaks or canoes with this rack.
• The numerous separate parts can make installation very difficult and time-consuming.
• They do not fit on Thule square bars without a separately bought conversion kit.

AA-Racks 2 Pair Double Folding J-Bar Rack for Kayak Carrier Canoe Boat Paddle Board Surfboard Roof Top Mount on Car SUV Truck Crossbar with Ratchet Lashing Straps

AA-Racks 2 Pair J-Bar Rack

The AA-Racks 2 Pair Double Folding J-Bar Kayak Rack installed on a station wagon

Drivers that enjoy surfing or canoeing will experience full satisfaction from the AA-Racks 2 Pair Double Folding J-Bar Rack. Capable of fitting on passenger cars, trucks and Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), this kayak rack for truck bed enables drivers to carry kayaks or canoes and other cargo at the same time. Best of all, its unique J-Style bar design is fully foldable so your vehicle can comfortably and conveniently fit in parking garages without the need for removal!

Pros

• Its J-Style bar design enables drivers to carry kayaks or canoes and other cargo concurrently.
• This rack is fully foldable for parking convenience.
• It is made of durable materials to deliver many years of service.
• Its frame is rust-proof while the rubber base is weather-proof.
• The AA-Racks 2 Pair Double Folding J-Bar Rack arrives equipped with all the accessories necessary for installation.
• This canoe carrier for pickup has an immense cargo weight capacity of 2200lbs (997.90kgs).

Cons

• The numerous parts of this rack set can make installation very challenging.
• These racks wobble even after fastening.

IKURAM Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack of Bilateral Premier J-Style Folding 4-in-1 for Canoe, SUP, Kayaks, Surfboard and Ski Board Rooftop Mount on SUV, Car and Truck

IKURAM Kayak Carrier Rack

The IKURAM Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack assembled on a Crossover SUV carrying a kayak

The IKURAM Roof Carrier Rack Kit provides a complete solution for carrying your kayak or stand-up paddle board when out and about in the outdoors. Featuring a J-Style frame, this pickup canoe rack is made of anodized Aviation Grade Aluminum Alloy with a high quality finish. This material is rust-resistant, lightweight and durable. It is also waterproof resulting in corrosion-free services for decades. For your convenience, its frame is lined with heavy-duty, sun-resistant rubber saddles that can hold a kayak while preventing it from getting scraped and damaged!

Pros

• This rack kit has sturdy, durable construction.
• The IKURAM Roof Carrier Rack Kit can fit on a passenger car, Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) or a pickup truck.
• Drivers can carry two kayaks that are 42″ wide and weighing 158 lbs (72kg) upright on the roof with this rack kit.
• The kit can fit on round, square or oval shaped factory cross rails.
• This rack kit arrives equipped with a J-Style frame, some bow-stern safety tie-downs and a pair of 25×2800 mm heavy-duty straps that have a break strength of 750 lbs (340.19kgs).
• This J-Style bar rack kit is convenient because it has a rapid fold down design for easy access into parking garages.
• The J-Style bars can be locked at varying angles to haul kayaks or canoes of various sizes resulting in a variety of configurations.

Cons

• The KURAM Roof Carrier Rack Kit has numerous parts so installation can take a long time.
• The installation instructions are terrible.
• The margin of error during installation is high because of the many screws and bolts needed for successful setup.

Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier with Bow and Stern Lines

Malone Downloader J-Style Folding Kayak Rack

The Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Kayak Rack set up on a hatchback

One of the easiest kayak carriers for drivers to use is the Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack. It comes fitted with a boarding ramp that drivers can use to load the kayaks or canoes easily upon the rack. This pickup kayak rack is made of steel, weighs only 10lb (4.54kgs) and is designed for use on passenger cars. Thanks to its oversized padding, this rack protects your boat, kayak or canoe during transportation. Drivers will find it easy to drive right into parking garages without having to remove this rack because it is fitted with fold down technology. Hence, the truck rack for kayaks guarantees a substantial overhead clearance throughout. As a matter of fact, it is also fully compatible with the MPG351 Telos Load Assist. These features make it easy and convenient to live with this rack kit!

Pros

• The over sized padding on this rack protects your boat, kayak or canoe from scratches or scrapes.
• The Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack is fitted with fold down technology for easy entry and departure from parking garages.
• It is also fully compatible with the MPG351 Telos Load Assist for convenient loading or unloading.
• The Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack can fit comfortably on round, square and oval factory cross rails.
• Its 60mm and 70mm pre-coated mounting bolts and cam-style load straps are fitted with buckle protectors for maximum durability.

Cons

• This kayak rack kit comes with numerous parts for assembly so installation can be very challenging.
• The teeth on the angle hinge are made of plastic and can pop resulting in a loose fit.

Malone SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier with Bow and Stern Lines

Malone SeaWing Saddle Style Kayak Carrier

The Malone SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier installed on a pickup truck in the driveway

Featuring a saddle style of operation, the Malone SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack is your kayak hauling friend. Made of corrosion-free polycarbon for the frame, it can comfortably fit on a passenger car or a trailer. The canoe truck rack weighs only 10.05lb (4.56kgs) and carry up to 70lb (31.75kgs) so it has the capacity to carry heavy duty kayaking equipment!

Pros

• The Malone SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack implements mid-point mounting so installation is a breeze.
• This rack occupies a minimum amount of roof space and flexes gently to cradle your kayak and boost fuel efficiency.
• The ribbed synthetic rubber padding your kayak or canoe’s design is preserved.
• This removable kayak rack can fit on round, square or oval factory cross rails during installation.

Cons

• To carry an extra kayak with this rack kit, drivers have to install a second Malone SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack that is bought separately.
• Drivers have to buy the Malone Stinger load assist module separately for easier installation.
• Plastic coating on these Saddle racks peels easily.

AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel Kayak J-Bar Roof Rack Car Top Mount Carrier for Your Canoe, SUP and Kayaks on SUV Car Truck with Ratchet Straps, Ratchet Bow and Stern Tie Down Straps & Anchor Straps

AA-Racks Stainless Steel 2 Pair Kayak Rack

The AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel Kayak J-Bar Roof Rack erected on a white SUV

Featuring an attractive stainless steel color, the AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel Kayak J-Bar Roof Rack is the ultimate solution for hauling your kayak or canoe. It is compatible with passenger cars, pickup trucks and Sports Utility Vehicles(SUVs). The rack is made of stainless steel, weighs only 17lb (7.7kg) and can hold up to 2200lb (997.90kgs). A notable characteristic of this rack is that it uses a J-Bar design. As a result, the rack makes it easier for drivers to load and unload their cargo.

Pros

• This rack has a high cargo weight capacity of 2200lb (997.90kgs).
• The rack is equipped with some foam padding and rubber base to protect the decor and finish on your kayak or canoe.
• After purchase, the AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel Kayak J-Bar Roof Rack arrives with 2 pairs of J-Bar kayak mounts for truck, four heavy-duty bow and stern tie down ratchet straps and a rope hanger.

Cons

• The numerous accessories can make installation a difficult task.
• The straps that are provided are not long enough to secure a 29″+ wide kayak.

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)

Mrhardware 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack

The 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack set up on a mid-size Crossover SUV

Designed for use on passenger cars, the Mrhardware 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack is the ultimate solution for hauling a canoe or kayak on top of your car. This pair of pickup truck canoe racks is made of alloy steel and has a wide mouth J- Style bar design. Drivers will be satisfied with its performance because Weighing only 15.43lb (kgs) with a capacity of 150lb (kgs), this pair of kayak racks for pickup trucks has a favorable weight to capacity ratio that delivers maximum productivity.

Pros

• The Mrhardware 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack has adjustable padding that protects your kayak from scratches or scrapes during transportation.
• This rack has a- wide mouth J-Style bar that makes it easy to load or unload the rack.
• The rack is coated in rust-resistant material to guarantee a longer lifespan than any homemade kayak rack for truck.
• It is compatible with aftermarket or factory square, oval, round, and flat crossbars.

Cons

• The 2 pairs of J-Style truck kayak racks require numerous fixtures for proper installation.
• Mounting these racks is inconveniently difficult.

MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Truck Bed Extender (For Ladder, Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches

MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mounted Truck Bed Extender

The MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Truck Bed Extender installed on a pickup truck bed carrying two kayaks

The MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Truck Bed Extender is excellent for increasing the length of your pickup truck bed. With this accessory attached, drivers can haul ladders, canoes, kayaks, lumber or long pipes in a convenient way. This kayak rack for truck hitch extender weighs only 34.5lb (kgs), is black in color and can fit perfectly on 2-inch hitch receivers. A fantastic feature is that its length and width are adjustable so drivers have the freedom to adjust this kayak carrier for truck bed for a wide range of payloads!

Pros

• Installing this extender can be done in minutes because the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Truck Bed Extender is fitted with 4 quick release clevis pins.
• This kayak truck bed extender is equipped with reflective tape on its front and sides to ensure maximum visibility while driving.
• The side arms on this extender are foldable downwards to create a portable work area anywhere the driver wants!

Cons

• It has a low load capacity of only 300lb (136.08kgs).
• The welded joints are prone to rusting and breaking off completely.

Kayak Rack For Pickup Bed Tips

• Drivers that desire to carry more than one kayak at a time should select the J-Style kayak rack because two pairs can be fitted on your car’s roof.
• For maximum stability, the saddle style kayak rack is the most ideal because it allows for maximum contact between the kayak and the roof of your car.
• Make sure that your truck kayak rack thule of choice has some foam or rubber padding to protect the paint on your kayak.
• It is always advisable to go with a kayak that has the most weight capacity possible.
• Always read through the kayak rack assembly manual to learn how to install the rack properly for maximum safety and security.

Truck Racks For Kayaks FAQs

Q: Which is better, J-Style or Saddle rack layout?

A: Each layout has its advantages and specific application. The J-Style layout is ideal for drivers who want to carry two kayaks at a time while the Saddle rack is for drivers that desire maximum stability.

Q: Do pickup canoe racks have accessories that make loading and unloading easier?

A: Yes. Some kayak racks such as the Thule truck kayak rack have removable bars or rollers that enable easy loading or unloading of your kayak.

Q: Is it always necessary to remove the pickup truck boat racks before entering a parking garage?

A: No. Modern boat racks for pickup trucks are foldable so that drivers can simply adjust their positioning to enable smooth entry into a parking garage.

Q: Can a kayak pickup truck rack get damaged if I drive over rough terrain?

A: No. Modern kayak racks have superior foam and rubber padding that prevents the kayak from getting scratched or scraped by the frame while driving.

Q: Is it difficult to assemble a kayak rack?

A: No, it is not difficult because kayak truck carriers come with illustrated installation manuals that are easy to understand.

Canoe Rack For Pickup Truck Conclusion

The AA-Racks 2 Pair Stainless Steel Kayak J-Bar Roof Rack is the best kayak rack available today. It can fit on passenger cars, pickup trucks and Sports Utility Vehicles(SUVs) and has a cargo weight capacity of 2200lb (997.90kg). This kayak truck rack is equipped with foam padding and a rubber base. These features protect your car’s roof and the paint on your kayak. After purchase, this rack comes with accessories such as 2 pairs of J-Bars, four heavy-duty bow and stern tie down ratchet straps and a rope hanger. Always read the assembly manual while installing pickup truck kayak racks on your car. This is to guarantee your safety and the security of your kayak.