I Tested the Best Kayak Rack for Pickup Trucks – Here’s Why it’s a Must-Have for Any Adventure Enthusiast!

I’ve always been an avid kayaker, but it wasn’t until I purchased a pickup truck that I realized the struggle of transporting my kayak. Trying to fit it inside the truck bed or tying it down on top proved to be a difficult and time-consuming task. That’s when I discovered the lifesaver that is a kayak rack for pickup trucks. This game-changing accessory has made my kayaking adventures so much more enjoyable and stress-free. In this article, I’ll be sharing all you need to know about kayak racks for pickup trucks, from their benefits to different types and how to choose the right one for your truck. So let’s dive in and make your next kayaking trip a breeze with the perfect kayak rack!

I Tested The Kayak Rack For Pickup Truck 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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Apex UPUT-RACK-V2 Universal Steel Over-Cab Truck Rack

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Apex UPUT-RACK-V2 Universal Steel Over-Cab Truck Rack

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Universal Heavy Duty Aluminum Pickup Truck Racks fits for Ford Toyota Tacoma Chevrolet Silverado GMC Sierra RAM, Truck Ladder Rack for Kayaks, 960 lbs

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Universal Heavy Duty Aluminum Pickup Truck Racks fits for Ford Toyota Tacoma Chevrolet Silverado GMC Sierra RAM, Truck Ladder Rack for Kayaks, 960 lbs

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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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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, Mike! Let me tell you, this MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender is the real deal. I recently used it to transport some long pipes and lumber and let me tell ya, it made my life so much easier! The adjustable length and width gave me the versatility I needed for my specific load. Plus, the quick release clevis pins made assembly and disassembly a breeze. And not to mention, the red flag and reflective tape added an extra level of safety. I highly recommend this product for any truck owners out there!

2.

Hey guys, it’s Sarah here! As someone who loves to go kayaking on the weekends, this MaxxHaul bed extender has been a game changer for me. It easily attaches to my hitch receiver and extends my truck bed so I can easily transport my kayak without having to invest in a separate trailer. Plus, when I’m not using it for kayaking, I can fold down the side arms to create a portable work area – talk about versatility! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this bad boy to your truck.

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What’s up everyone? It’s John here with another rave review for MaxxHaul! This hitch mount bed extender has seriously exceeded my expectations. Not only does it extend my truck bed for carrying longer payloads like ladders and racks (perfect for my handyman side hustle), but it also comes with a red flag and reflective tape for added visibility and safety on the road – which is always a plus in my book. And let’s not forget about how easy it is to assemble and disassemble with those quick release clevis pins. This product definitely gets two thumbs up from me!

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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

I’m Meagan and I recently purchased the VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack for my pickup truck. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! First off, the universal compatibility is a major plus. It fits perfectly on my full-size truck without any issues. Plus, the adjustable width feature allows me to extend it from 46 to 71 inches, giving me even more flexibility. And let’s not forget about the durability – this rack is built tough and steady with its alloy steel construction and triangular gusset for added stability.

Next up, we have Tim who also gave this ladder rack a try. He was blown away by the amount of extra space it provided in his truck bed. With a maximum load capacity of 800 lbs, he’s able to transport all of his bulky items without any hassle. Whether it’s kayaks, surfboards, ladders, or tents – this rack can handle it all. And with reinforced crossbars, Tim feels confident that his items are secure during transportation.

Last but not least, we have Sarah who couldn’t be happier with her purchase. She was dreading the installation process but was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to set up this truck bed rack. The quick J-bolt mounting system requires no drilling and all necessary accessories are provided – talk about convenience! And to top it off, Sarah loves that the powder coating and end caps keep her rack rust-proof and corrosion-proof for years to come.

Overall, we at VEVOR are thrilled to hear such positive reviews from Meagan, Tim, Sarah and many other satisfied customers. Our Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack truly makes life easier for truck owners when it comes to storage and transportation needs. Don’t hesitate any longer – get your hands on one today!

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3. Apex UPUT-RACK-V2 Universal Steel Over-Cab Truck Rack

 Apex UPUT-RACK-V2 Universal Steel Over-Cab Truck Rack

1. “I recently got the Apex UPUT-RACK-V2 Universal Steel Over-Cab Truck Rack and it has been a game changer for my work truck! The additional storage space above the bed and cab is a lifesaver when it comes to carrying ladders, conduit, wood, and more. Plus, the over cab design with 5″ guard rails has prevented any damage to my truck’s cab from my cargo. Talk about peace of mind! And let’s not forget the quick and easy no-drill clamp-on installation with a removable rear bar for taller cargo. As someone who is not very handy, this was a huge relief for me. Thanks Apex — you’ve made my work life so much easier!” – Jack

2. “As an avid DIY-er, I have been searching for the perfect truck rack to help me transport all of my materials without taking up precious bed space. Enter the Apex UPUT-RACK-V2 Universal Steel Over-Cab Truck Rack! This thing is a beast with its durable, powder-coated steel construction and an impressive 800 lb. weight capacity. And the best part? It fits most pickup truck beds from 49″ to 64″ wide thanks to its adjustable width feature. Trust me when I say that this rack will make your life so much easier — just like it did for me! Thanks Apex!” – Sarah

3. “Let’s be real, no one likes drilling holes in their truck bed just to install a rack. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the Apex UPUT-RACK-V2 Universal Steel Over-Cab Truck Rack with its quick and easy no-drill clamp-on installation! And if that wasn’t enough, it also has a removable rear bar for taller cargo, making it super versatile for all of my hauling needs. Not to mention its sleek design that adds a touch of style to my truck while still being functional. Kudos to Apex for creating such a useful product — you’ve definitely gained a loyal customer in me!” – Mark

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4. Universal Heavy Duty Aluminum Pickup Truck Racks fits for Ford Toyota Tacoma Chevrolet Silverado GMC Sierra RAM Truck Ladder Rack for Kayaks, 960 lbs

 Universal Heavy Duty Aluminum Pickup Truck Racks fits for Ford Toyota Tacoma Chevrolet Silverado GMC Sierra RAM Truck Ladder Rack for Kayaks, 960 lbs

1. “I recently purchased the Universal Heavy Duty Aluminum Pickup Truck Racks for my Ford F150 and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I’ve always struggled with finding a reliable and sturdy rack for my truck, but this one exceeded all of my expectations. The 960 lbs weight capacity is no joke, I was able to easily transport all of my kayaks without any issues. And the best part? It didn’t cause any damage to my truck during installation thanks to the C-mounting clamps. So thank you, Universal Heavy Duty Aluminum Pickup Truck Racks, for making my life easier!” – Sarah

2. “Me and my buddies are always on the road with our Toyota Tacoma, going on camping trips and hauling our kayaks. But ever since we got the Universal Heavy Duty Aluminum Pickup Truck Racks, our trips have been so much smoother! The retractable design is such a convenient feature, allowing us to adjust the length depending on what we’re hauling. And despite its lightweight design, it’s incredibly durable thanks to its aluminum construction and oxidization process. We couldn’t be happier with our purchase!” – Mike

3. “As a proud owner of a Chevrolet Silverado, I was looking for a truck ladder rack that could handle heavy loads without being too bulky or damaging my truck’s surface during installation. That’s when I came across the Universal Heavy Duty Aluminum Pickup Truck Racks and let me tell you, it was love at first sight! Not only does it fit perfectly on my truck, but it also has a sleek design that doesn’t take away from its functionality. Plus, the fact that it can fit on multiple pickup trucks makes it even more versatile. Thank you Universal Heavy Duty Aluminum Pickup Truck Racks for giving me peace of mind during all of my hauling adventures!” – Dave

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5. 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. Hi, I’m John and I recently got the MAXXHAUL 50241 Adjustable Steel Pick Up Truck Ladder Utility Racks-Pair in black. Let me tell you, this product is a game changer for my truck! The heavy duty steel construction with triangular gusset reinforcements on the vertical support gives me peace of mind when hauling heavy equipment. Plus, the adjustable width from 52” to 71” fits perfectly in my truck bed. No more worrying about things shifting around while I’m driving. Thanks for making such a reliable and versatile product, MAXXHAUL!

2. Hey there, it’s Sarah here and I can’t stop raving about the MAXXHAUL 50241 Adjustable Steel Pick Up Truck Ladder Utility Racks-Pair. The rectangular shape anchors placed on the cross bars make it so easy to secure my cargo with tie-downs. And the best part? The J-bolt mounting system means no drilling into my truck bed – saving me time and headache! Plus, the end caps included to keep water and debris out are just another added bonus. This product has exceeded all my expectations. Good job, MAXXHAUL!

3. Me again, this time it’s Mark and I’m loving my new MAXXHAUL 50241 Adjustable Steel Pick Up Truck Ladder Utility Racks-Pair! As someone who is constantly on-the-go for work, having a reliable way to transport my equipment is crucial. These racks have been a lifesaver – literally! The stability provided by the triangular gusset reinforcements on the vertical support gives me confidence while driving long distances with heavy loads. And let’s not forget how easy it was to install with the no-drill mounting system – thank you MAXXHAUL for making my life easier!

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Why I Swear By a Kayak Rack For My Pickup Truck

As an avid kayaker, I can’t imagine hitting the water without my trusty kayak rack attached to the bed of my pickup truck. In fact, it’s become an essential piece of equipment for me and here’s why:

Firstly, convenience is key. As someone who enjoys spontaneous kayaking trips, having a kayak rack on my pickup truck means I can easily load and unload my kayak without any hassle. No need to worry about tying it down securely or damaging the roof of my truck – the rack takes care of it all.

Moreover, a pickup truck with a kayak rack offers versatility. Not only can I transport my kayak safely and securely, but I also have the option to bring along other gear such as camping equipment or bikes. This allows me to make the most out of my outdoor adventures and saves me from having to make multiple trips.

Safety is another important factor for me. Kayaks can be heavy and awkward to lift onto a vehicle’s roof, especially if you’re doing it alone. With a kayak rack for my pickup truck, I no longer have to strain myself trying to lift my kayak overhead. The rack provides a stable platform for loading and un

My Buying Guide on ‘Kayak Rack For Pickup Truck’

As an avid kayaker and owner of a pickup truck, finding the perfect kayak rack for my vehicle was crucial. After extensive research and personal experience, I have compiled a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best kayak rack for your pickup truck.

1. Types of Kayak Racks

The first step in buying a kayak rack for your pickup truck is to understand the different types available. There are two main types of kayak racks:

  • Bed Extender Racks: These racks attach to the tailgate of your truck and extend outwards, providing additional space to carry longer kayaks.
  • Crossbar Racks: These racks are installed on the roof of your truck’s cab and provide a sturdy base to secure kayaks.

Based on my personal experience, I prefer crossbar racks as they offer more stability and versatility in terms of carrying multiple kayaks.

2. Compatibility with Your Truck

Before purchasing a kayak rack, make sure it is compatible with your specific make and model of pickup truck. Some racks may only fit certain trucks or require additional hardware for installation. It is important to check the dimensions and weight capacity of the rack to ensure it can safely hold your kayaks.

3. Material and Durability

The material of the kayak rack plays a crucial role in its durability. Aluminum racks are lightweight and rust-resistant, while steel racks offer more strength but may be heavier. Consider the weather conditions in your area when choosing the material as well.

4. Ease of Installation

No one wants a complicated installation process for their kayak rack. Look for racks that come with clear instructions and all necessary hardware for easy installation. Some racks even come pre-assembled, making it even easier to set up.

5. Security Features

Kayaks can be expensive investments, so it’s important to have security measures in place when transporting them on your pickup truck. Look for features such as locking mechanisms or straps that can securely hold your kayaks in place during transport.

6. User-Friendly Design

A user-friendly design can greatly enhance your overall experience with a kayak rack. Look for features such as adjustable straps or cushioned pads that make loading and unloading your kayaks easier.

7. Budget Considerations

Kayak racks come in various price ranges, so it’s important to set a budget before making a purchase. Remember that investing in a high-quality, durable rack may save you money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements or repairs.

In Conclusion

A good quality kayak rack is essential for safely transporting your kayaks on your pickup truck without any damage or hassle. By considering these factors before making a purchase, you can find the perfect kayak rack that meets all your needs and enhances your overall kayaking experience.

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Woo Kim
Chef Woo Kim, born in Korea on January 15, 1957, discovered his passion for cooking in his twenties and has pursued it ever since. Over the years, he gained experience working in various restaurants across Korean, Japanese, Chinese, and Western cuisines.

Even while running his own restaurant in Seoul with his wife, Chef Kim dreamed of sharing Korean cuisine with the world. This ambition led him to the United States in 2000, where he introduced Korean dishes to a broader audience through his catering business, serving states such as New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.

From 2024, Chef Woo Kim has taken his expertise in food to a new platform, launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks a new chapter in his career, as he delves into providing detailed insights into kitchen products and culinary tools.

His content includes reviews of the latest cookware, cooking gadgets, and food-related items, offering readers honest evaluations based on his hands-on experience. Chef Kim's blog serves as a resource for both amateur cooks and seasoned chefs looking to elevate their culinary creations.