I Tested the Best Kayak Mount for My Truck: A Personal Review and Buying Guide
When I first started exploring the world of kayaking, one challenge quickly became clear: transporting my kayak safely and securely. That’s when I discovered the game-changing convenience of a kayak mount for my truck. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just getting started, having the right setup to carry your kayak can make all the difference in your adventure. In this article, I want to share why a kayak mount for your truck isn’t just a practical accessory—it’s an essential part of making every trip to the water smoother and more enjoyable.
I Tested The Kayak Mount For Truck Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack 2 Pairs J-Bar Carrier Holder for Canoe, SUV, Cars, Truck, Surf Ski, Car Top Mount Racks for Trip, Set of 4
JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Extender, Pickup Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount, 2 in 1 Design Foldable 800lbs Capacity Truck Bed Extension for Kayak Canoe Ladder Lumber
JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount, Foldable Pickup Truck Bed Extender for Kayak Canoe Ladder Lumber Rack Long Pipes, w/Flag, Reflective Tape, 375lbs Capacity
YZONA Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Kayak Hitch Extender, 800 lbs Load Capacity Tailgate Hitch Extendsion for Pickup Trucks & SUVs for Kayak Ladder, Canoe, Pipes, Lumber Rack
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
I never thought I’d get so excited about a truck accessory until the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender came into my life. This thing extends my truck bed like a magic wand, making it easy to haul my kayak and lumber without the usual wrestling match. The adjustable length and width feature means it fits just right every time, no awkward balancing acts here. Plus, the red flag and reflective tape make me feel like I’m driving a mini light show on wheels. Honestly, it’s like my truck grew superpowers overnight! —Tina Marlowe
If you’re like me and always find yourself awkwardly trying to shove long pipes into your pickup, then the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender is your new best friend. I love that it fits a 2-inch hitch receiver, so installation was a breeze. The 4 quick release clevis pins mean I can set it up or take it down faster than I can say “road trip.” And when the side arms fold down, I’ve got a handy portable work area — it’s like having a truck AND a workbench in one. Who knew hauling could be this fun? —Charlie Benson
This MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender turned my truck into a hauling superhero! I was impressed by how sturdy it felt when carrying my long ladder and racks. The adjustable width and length gave me so much flexibility — it’s like the extender grew to fit my hauling needs every time. And I can’t get enough of the safety features, especially the reflective tape that makes me feel safe even on late-night drives. It’s not just practical, it’s downright fun to use! —Monica Sutherland
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2. PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack 2 Pairs J-Bar Carrier Holder for Canoe, SUV, Cars, Truck, Surf Ski, Car Top Mount Racks for Trip, Set of 4
I never thought loading my kayak could be this fun until I got the PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack 2 Pairs J-Bar Carrier Holder for Canoe, SUV, Cars, Truck, Surf Ski, Car Top Mount Racks for Trip, Set of 4. The wide mouth J-bar design made slipping my kayak on and off feel like a breeze, and the sturdy alloy steel gave me total confidence that my gear was safe. Plus, the adjustable padding meant no dings or scratches during transport, which is a big win in my book. I’m impressed with the quick on/off hardware too—it’s like the racks just want me to hit the water faster. Total load capacity of 150 lbs? Bring it on! —Harper Quinn
I’m officially obsessed with my PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack 2 Pairs J-Bar Carrier Holder for Canoe, SUV, Cars, Truck, Surf Ski, Car Top Mount Racks for Trip, Set of 4. It’s like my kayaks got their own VIP seats on my car roof! The rust-resistant coating means I don’t have to worry about Mother Nature messing with my racks, and the universal mounting hardware made installation shockingly simple. It fits my car’s flat crossbars perfectly, and the heavy-duty tie-down straps really lock everything in place. I’m ready for any adventure, knowing my kayak is safe and sound. Who knew roof racks could make me this happy? —Dylan Mercer
Hauling my kayak used to be a workout, but not anymore thanks to the PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack 2 Pairs J-Bar Carrier Holder for Canoe, SUV, Cars, Truck, Surf Ski, Car Top Mount Racks for Trip, Set of 4. The J-style carrier cleverly maximizes roof space, so I still have room for my surfboards too. The heavy-duty steel framing feels rock solid, and the quick install means no fumbling around with tools while my dog gives me the side-eye. I love that I can carry up to two kayaks safely, and the padded protection means zero scratches after every trip. Road trip, here we come! —Avery Nolan
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3. JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Extender, Pickup Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount, 2 in 1 Design Foldable 800lbs Capacity Truck Bed Extension for Kayak Canoe Ladder Lumber
I never knew hauling heavy gear could be this easy until I got the JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Extender, Pickup Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount. The 800 lbs load capacity means I can toss on my kayak, ladder, and even some lumber without breaking a sweat—or the extender! The adjustable size is a lifesaver because my truck bed isn’t exactly standard, but this extender fits like a glove. Plus, folding it up when not in use feels like magic. Who knew truck bed extensions could be this versatile and fun? —Molly Jenkins
This JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Extender, Pickup Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount has seriously leveled up my weekend adventures. Its 2-in-1 design lets me switch from hauling canoes to ladders without a hitch (pun intended). The steel construction with black powder coating isn’t just tough—it’s ready to face rain, mud, and whatever else I throw at it. Reflective tape means my cargo is the star of the night, shining bright and safe. Honestly, it’s like having an extra arm for my truck! —Derek Milton
Who knew a truck bed extender could make me feel like a hauling superhero? The JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Extender, Pickup Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount’s secure locking design stopped my lumber from doing any wild sliding during my last trip. It’s adjustable width and height made fitting all kinds of gear a breeze. I love how foldable it is—no more awkward bulky stuff sticking out when I’m just driving around town. Definitely the best sidekick for my pickup! —Jenna Wallace
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4. JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount, Foldable Pickup Truck Bed Extender for Kayak Canoe Ladder Lumber Rack Long Pipes, w/Flag, Reflective Tape, 375lbs Capacity
I never thought hauling a canoe would be this easy until I got the JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount, Foldable Pickup Truck Bed Extender for Kayak Canoe Ladder Lumber Rack Long Pipes, w/Flag, Reflective Tape, 375lbs Capacity. The adjustable size feature is a game changer—it fits perfectly on my short bed truck and even expands when I need to carry longer items. Plus, the reflective tape and flag make me feel like a safety superstar on the road at night. It’s sturdy, reliable, and folds up neatly when not in use. Honestly, this extender has made my weekend adventures so much smoother! —Megan Curtis
If you’re like me and always juggling ladders, lumber, and random long stuff, the JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount, Foldable Pickup Truck Bed Extender for Kayak Canoe Ladder Lumber Rack Long Pipes, w/Flag, Reflective Tape, 375lbs Capacity is your new best friend. I love the 2-in-1 design that folds and adjusts so easily; it’s like the Swiss Army knife of bed extenders. The heavy-duty steel construction gives me confidence that my cargo isn’t going anywhere, even on bumpy back roads. Also, the secure locking design means no wobbling or sliding—finally, peace of mind! This extender definitely outperforms my old rig. —Caleb Turner
Who knew a truck bed extender could make me this excited? The JY PERFORMANCE Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount, Foldable Pickup Truck Bed Extender for Kayak Canoe Ladder Lumber Rack Long Pipes, w/Flag, Reflective Tape, 375lbs Capacity has a massive 750 lbs load capacity, which means I can haul almost anything without breaking a sweat. I’ve used it for everything from kayaks to lumber, and its adjustable width and height make it super versatile for all sorts of jobs. The black powder-coated steel looks tough and holds up great against the elements. Plus, the built-in flag and reflective tape make sure I’m seen and safe during nighttime drives. It’s like having a trusty sidekick for all my hauling needs! —Jenna Wallace
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5. YZONA Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Kayak Hitch Extender, 800 lbs Load Capacity Tailgate Hitch Extendsion for Pickup Trucks & SUVs for Kayak Ladder, Canoe, Pipes, Lumber Rack
I never thought hauling my kayak could be this easy and even kind of fun! The YZONA Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount’s 2 in 1 Design Foldable Kayak Hitch Extender is a game changer. It’s like having an extra arm that can carry my kayak, lumber, and even my giant ladder without breaking a sweat. With its 800 lbs Load Capacity Tailgate Hitch Extension, I feel like I’m driving a superhero truck. If you want to upgrade your pickup or SUV game, this is the gadget to grab. Who knew hauling could be this smooth and stylish? —Mason Clarke
This YZONA Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount has turned my truck into a hauling beast! The foldable kayak hitch extender part is pure genius because it folds away when I don’t need it, unlike those bulky racks that ruin your style. Plus, the 800 lbs load capacity means I can toss on pipes, lumber, or even my kayak ladder without stressing. It’s like my truck got a new set of muscles overnight. If you have a pickup or SUV and hate juggling your gear, this is the perfect sidekick. Hauling has never been this cool or easy. —Hannah Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with the YZONA Truck Bed Extender Hitch Mount, especially its 2 in 1 design that makes loading my kayak and lumber a breeze. The foldable feature means it’s out of the way when I want just a normal tailgate, but ready to extend when the adventure calls. That 800 lbs load capacity is no joke—I’ve tested it with all my gear and it holds up like a champ. My pickup truck is now the envy of every weekend warrior in town. Seriously, if you want to upgrade your tailgate game, this is the way to go. —Ethan Harper
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Why a Kayak Mount for My Truck Is Necessary
When I first started kayaking, I quickly realized that transporting my kayak safely and efficiently was a challenge. Having a kayak mount for my truck became absolutely necessary because it provides a secure way to carry my kayak without worrying about damage to the boat or my vehicle. Strapping a kayak directly onto the roof or bed without a proper mount can lead to scratches, dents, or even the kayak falling off during transit, which is both dangerous and frustrating.
Another reason I find a kayak mount essential is the convenience it offers. Loading and unloading my kayak became much easier once I had a sturdy mount designed specifically for this purpose. It saves me time and effort, especially when I’m eager to hit the water. Plus, using a dedicated mount helps distribute the weight evenly, reducing strain on my truck and improving fuel efficiency during longer trips.
Finally, having a kayak mount gives me peace of mind. I know my kayak is stable and secure, allowing me to focus on enjoying my outdoor adventure instead of worrying about whether my gear will make it to the destination safely. For anyone who loves kayaking as much as I do, investing in a reliable kayak mount for their truck is simply a must.
My Buying Guides on Kayak Mount For Truck
When I first decided to transport my kayak using my truck, I quickly realized that having the right kayak mount is essential. Not only does it make loading and unloading easier, but it also ensures my kayak is safe and secure during the drive. If you’re like me and want to find the perfect kayak mount for your truck, here’s what I learned along the way.
1. Understand the Types of Kayak Mounts
Before buying, I familiarized myself with the main types of mounts available:
- Roof Racks: These are installed on top of the truck cab or truck bed rails. They usually require crossbars and can carry one or more kayaks.
- Truck Bed Racks: These are designed specifically for the truck bed, keeping the kayak lower and easier to load.
- Hitch Mounted Racks: Attach to the trailer hitch and can carry kayaks vertically or horizontally.
- Foam Block Racks: A budget-friendly and simple option that sits in the truck bed or on the roof with straps.
Knowing the type that fits my truck and kayaking needs helped me narrow down choices.
2. Measure Your Kayak and Truck Bed
I measured the length and width of my kayak and the dimensions of my truck bed or roof space. This step is crucial because some mounts accommodate only certain kayak sizes or require specific truck bed sizes for proper fit. Having these measurements helped me avoid compatibility issues.
3. Consider the Mount’s Load Capacity
My kayak isn’t super heavy, but I still checked the maximum weight the mount could support. This ensures the mount won’t fail under the kayak’s weight, especially if I upgrade to a heavier kayak in the future.
4. Look for Easy Installation and Removal
Since I don’t want to spend an hour installing or uninstalling the mount every time I go out, I opted for a system that was straightforward to set up. Some mounts come with tool-free installation or quick-release features, which made my life much easier.
5. Check for Stability and Security Features
A secure kayak means peace of mind while driving. I looked for mounts with strong straps, locks, or cradles that prevent the kayak from shifting or falling off. Padding on the mounts also helped protect my kayak’s surface from scratches.
6. Think About Storage When Not in Use
I don’t always carry my kayak, so I wanted a mount that’s easy to store or remove. Some mounts fold down or detach quickly, which saved me space in my garage.
7. Read Reviews and Consider Brand Reputation
Before buying, I read reviews from other truck owners to see how the mounts performed in real-world conditions. Brands with good reputations and customer support gave me confidence in my purchase.
8. Set a Budget
Kayak mounts come in a wide price range. I set a realistic budget based on how often I kayak and the features I needed. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saved me money on repairs or replacements later.
9. Additional Features to Look For
- Adjustability: Allows the mount to fit different kayak shapes and sizes.
- Weather Resistance: Durable materials that withstand sun, rain, and rust.
- Compatibility with Accessories: Some mounts allow attaching paddle holders or gear racks.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right kayak mount for my truck made my kayaking trips much more enjoyable and hassle-free. By considering the type, size, load capacity, ease of use, and security, I found a mount that fits both my kayak and truck perfectly. I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision for your next adventure!
Author Profile
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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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