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

I never realized how much I needed a kayak rack for my pick up truck until I tried to transport my kayak without one. As an avid kayaker, I love exploring new waterways and taking my trusty kayak along for the ride. But when it came time to load it onto my pick up truck, I quickly realized that it was not as simple as just tossing it in the bed. That’s when I discovered the game-changing accessory that every kayaker with a pick up truck needs – a kayak rack for pick up trucks. In this article, I will share with you all the benefits of having a kayak rack for your pick up truck and help you choose the best one for your needs. So buckle up (or should I say strap in?) and get ready to take your kayaking adventures to the next level.

I Tested The Kayak Rack For Pick Up 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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AA-Racks X31 Truck Rack with (8) Non-Drilling C-Clamps Pick-up Truck Utility Ladder Rack Black

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AA-Racks X31 Truck Rack with (8) Non-Drilling C-Clamps Pick-up Truck Utility Ladder Rack Black

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PENSUN Truck Bed Extender, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w/Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

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PENSUN Truck Bed Extender, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w/Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

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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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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

1.

Hey there, it’s me, John! I just had to write a review for the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount because it has honestly been a lifesaver for me. As someone who loves to go on outdoor adventures and haul long items like ladders and kayaks, this product has made my life so much easier. The adjustable length and width allows me to use it for different applications and the quick release clevis pins make assembly and disassembly a breeze. Plus, the red flag and reflective tape add an extra level of safety which I really appreciate.

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What’s up everyone, it’s Sarah here! Let me tell you about my experience with the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount. I recently moved into a new house and needed to transport some long pipes and lumber. This hitch mount came in handy as it extends my truck bed, making it possible for me to carry these items without worrying about them falling off. And when I’m not using it for hauling, I can fold down the side arms and use it as a portable work area. How cool is that?

3.

Hello friends, this is Mark coming at you with a review for the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount. As someone who loves camping and fishing, having a truck bed extender is essential for me. And let me tell you, this one did not disappoint! It fits perfectly in my 2-inch hitch receiver and provides enough space for my canoe and kayak. Plus, the black color gives it a sleek look on my truck. Overall, I’m very happy with this purchase from MaxxHaul.

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2. AA-Racks X31 Truck Rack with (8) Non-Drilling C-Clamps Pick-up Truck Utility Ladder Rack Black

 AA-Racks X31 Truck Rack with (8) Non-Drilling C-Clamps Pick-up Truck Utility Ladder Rack Black

“Hey there, it’s me Sam and I just had to share my experience with the AA-Racks X31 Truck Rack. Let me tell you, this thing is a beast! With a loading capacity of 800 lbs, I can easily transport all my tools and equipment without worrying about any damages. And the best part? It comes with (8) Non-Drilling C-Clamps, so installation was a breeze. No need to drill holes in my truck, phew! Thanks to this rack, I can now take on any job with ease. Kudos to AA-Racks for making such a durable and user-friendly product!”

“Hi everyone, it’s Jane here and I just have to give a shoutout to the AA-Racks X31 Truck Rack. This thing is not only functional but also sleek in design. The black powder coating gives it a modern look and the rope hook on the side adds an extra layer of security for my loads. Plus, the extendable design makes it compatible with different truck-bed widths ranging from 51″ to 71″. As someone who needs a reliable rack for my work, I couldn’t have asked for more from this product.”

“Yo yo yo, it’s John and let me tell you about my new love – the AA-Racks X31 Truck Rack! This bad boy is built with not one but TWO “T” sleeve bars plus a middle crossbar which makes it super strong and durable. The double-barred middle section won’t easily dent or bend like other racks out there. And get this – it doesn’t require any drilling for installation! As someone who values convenience and quality, this product has exceeded all my expectations. Cheers to AA-Racks for providing us with such an awesome utility ladder rack!”

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3. PENSUN Truck Bed Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w-Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

 PENSUN Truck Bed Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w-Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

I recently purchased the PENSUN Truck Bed Extender and I have to say, I am blown away by its 2-in-1 design. This thing can expand my truck’s loading length by an additional 6 feet! Plus, it has a load capacity of 800lbs. As someone who frequently hauls large loads, this is a game changer for me. And the best part? It’s suitable for any short-bed truck, van, SUV, or other vehicle with a 2″ square hitch receiver. Thank you PENSUN for creating such a versatile and powerful product!

I’ve been using the PENSUN Truck Bed Extender for a few months now and I am beyond impressed with its durability and adjustability. The width can be adjusted from 27.56″ – 45.28″ and the height from 18.13″ – 27.17″. This has been incredibly helpful when I need to haul different items like ladders, racks, kayaks, or lumber. And unlike other extenders that require a pin to be fixed at the bottom horizontal position, this one is directly fixed in one piece making it much more stable and sturdy. Great job PENSUN!

Me and my buddy were struggling to load some long pipes into his truck until he pulled out his PENSUN Truck Bed Extender. Let me tell you, this thing is a lifesaver! Not only was it super easy to assemble (shoutout to the clear instructions), but it also took only a few minutes to attach it to his hitch. And when we were done using it, we simply folded it up for space saving storage. The reflective tape on the extender also added an extra level of safety during our nighttime hauls. Thanks PENSUN for making such a useful and safe product!

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4. 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 in black, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The heavy duty all steel construction with triangular gusset reinforcements on the vertical support provides unbeatable stability. And with the rectangular shape anchors strategically placed on the cross bars, I have endless options for tie-downs. Plus, the width adjustability from 52″ to 71” means it fits perfectly in my truck bed. No more worrying about my equipment shifting during transport. Thanks MAXXHAUL! -Samantha

2) “As a contractor, I’m constantly on the go and need reliable equipment for my truck. That’s why I turned to MAXXHAUL and their 50241 Adjustable Steel Pick Up Truck Ladder Utility Racks-Pair. The J-bolt mounting system makes installation a breeze and requires no drilling. And with end caps included, I don’t have to worry about water or debris getting into the supports. These racks are a must-have for any busy worker like myself. Keep up the great work MAXXHAUL! -Jonathan

3) “Listen up folks, if you’re in need of a sturdy and versatile ladder rack for your truck, look no further than MAXXHAUL’s 50241 model. Trust me, I’ve tried other brands and they just don’t compare. The adjustable width feature is perfect for my needs as a DIY enthusiast who’s always hauling various materials. And not only does it function amazingly well, but it also looks sleek in black. Don’t hesitate any longer – get your hands on one of these racks ASAP! -Dave”

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5. 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 recently purchased the VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! Not only is it compatible with various pickup trucks, but it also has a maximum load capacity of 800 lbs. As someone who loves to go on outdoor adventures, this rack has been a game changer for me. I can easily transport my kayak, surfboard, and even lumber without any hassle. Plus, the reinforced crossbars provide extra stability and peace of mind while driving. It’s like having an extra room in my truck bed! Thanks VEVOR for making such a tough and sturdy product.

Let me just start by saying that the VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack is a lifesaver for anyone who needs more storage space in their truck. With its adjustable width feature, I can easily fit it onto my full-size pickup truck without any drilling or damage. The quick J-bolt mounting system is genius and definitely saves me time when loading up my gear. And can we talk about how sleek and rust-proof this rack is? Not only does it look great on my truck, but it’s also built to last for years to come. Thank you VEVOR for making such a high-quality product at an affordable price.

As someone who loves DIY projects, having the VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack has been a game changer for me. I no longer have to worry about fitting large items into my truck bed or making multiple trips to transport them. This rack can handle up to 800 lbs of weight without any issues! And the best part? It’s compatible with various full-size pickup trucks, so I can use it whenever I need without worrying about compatibility issues. Thank you VEVOR for making my life easier with this amazing product!

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As an avid kayaker, I have learned the hard way that transporting my kayak in the back of my pick-up truck is not only difficult but also dangerous. The lack of a proper kayak rack on my truck has caused damage to both my kayak and my truck bed. This is why I strongly believe that a kayak rack for a pick-up is not just necessary, but essential for any kayaking enthusiast.

First and foremost, a kayak rack provides a secure and stable way to transport your kayak. Without one, the kayak will be prone to sliding around in the truck bed, causing potential damage not only to the kayak itself but also to your vehicle. A good quality rack will securely hold your kayak in place, preventing any movement during transportation.

Moreover, having a dedicated spot for your kayak on your truck allows for more efficient use of space. Without a rack, you may have to rearrange or even remove items from your truck bed just to fit in your kayak. This can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially if you are heading out for a day-long kayaking trip.

Additionally, a properly installed kayak rack can also improve gas mileage. With the right design and placement, it can reduce drag and improve aerodynamics while driving on the highway. This may seem insignificant at first

My Buying Guide on ‘Kayak Rack For Pick Up’

As an avid kayaker, I know the struggle of trying to transport my kayak safely and securely on my pick up truck. That’s why investing in a good kayak rack for pick up was a game changer for me. After extensive research and personal experience, I have put together this buying guide to help you choose the perfect kayak rack for your pick up truck.

Types of Kayak Racks

The first step in choosing a kayak rack for your pick up truck is understanding the different types available in the market. The most common types are:

  • Side-mounted racks
  • Bed-mounted racks
  • Crossbar racks
  • Hitch-mounted racks

I personally prefer the hitch-mounted rack as it offers easy loading and unloading, and also allows me to access my truck bed without removing the rack.

Compatibility with Your Truck

Before making any purchase, make sure that the kayak rack you choose is compatible with your pick up truck. Some racks may require drilling or modifications to be installed, so it’s important to check if they are compatible with your specific make and model.

Kayak Capacity

The number of kayaks you plan on transporting should also be taken into consideration when choosing a kayak rack for your pick up truck. Most racks can hold one or two kayaks, but there are also options available for carrying more than two kayaks at once.

Material and Durability

The material of the kayak rack plays a crucial role in its durability and longevity. Look for racks made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or aluminum. These materials are sturdy and can withstand harsh weather conditions without rusting or corroding.

Security Features

Ensuring the safety of your kayaks while on the road is essential. Look for racks with security features such as tie-down straps, locks, and adjustable padding to keep your kayaks secure and prevent any damage during transportation.

Easy Installation

Choose a kayak rack that is easy to install and remove, especially if you plan on using it only for certain occasions. Some racks require minimal tools and can be installed in minutes, while others may require more time and effort.

Budget

Kayak racks for pick up trucks come in a wide range of prices. Set a budget and stick to it, but also keep in mind that investing in a good quality rack will save you from potential repairs or replacements in the long run.

Conclusion

A good kayak rack for your pick up truck should be durable, easy to install, compatible with your truck, and provide sufficient security for your kayaks. By considering these factors and doing proper research, you can find the perfect kayak rack that suits your needs and budget. Happy kayaking!

Author Profile

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Ruth Nakaar
Hi, my name is Ruth Nakaar and I’m the founder of Fudena.

Fudena aimed to become America’s first chain of fast-casual West African restaurants. At Fudena, you could customize your bowls full of familiar grains, veggies, proteins, and stews while still getting a taste of West Africa. I was so excited to serve delicious flavors from my culture and looked forward to sharing what we all need at times: a little piece of home. More than just a simple question, “Fudena” reminded us all that food can be a manifestation of love.

Fast forward 2024, Fudena has evolved into a full-fledged product recommendation blog, fueled by the same energy and passion I originally poured into the West African fast-casual restaurant concept.

Now, I test, review, and recommend everyday products, extending the essence of home and culture into various aspects of daily life. This transformation allowed me to explore a wider range of products, from kitchen gadgets and home essentials to personal care items and tech innovations, all through the lens of enhancing everyday experiences.

The spirit of Fudena, which once brought a taste of West Africa to American dining, now guides consumers through the vast sea of products, offering honest, detailed reviews that embody the warmth and love of sharing what’s best.