If you’re an avid kayaker and you own a truck with a tonneau cover, you might be wondering how to transport your kayaks without compromising the security and convenience of your tonneau cover. Fortunately, there are several kayak rack options available that can accommodate your needs. If you don’t have a tonneau cover you might look into getting just a kayak rack for a truck or a package deal!
Firstly, it’s important to note that there are two main types of tonneau covers – hard covers and soft covers. Hard covers are typically made of fiberglass or aluminum and are more secure and durable, while soft covers are made of vinyl or canvas and are more affordable and easy to install. The type of tonneau cover you have will impact which kayak rack options are available to you.
If you have a hard tonneau cover, you may want to consider a kayak rack system that mounts directly to the cover. Thule, Yakima, and Rhino-Rack all make kayak racks that can be mounted to hard tonneau covers, providing a secure and convenient way to transport your kayaks. These racks typically use clamps or bolts to attach to the tonneau cover and have adjustable supports that can accommodate different kayak sizes and styles.
If you have a soft tonneau cover, your options are a bit more limited. However, there are still kayak rack systems available that can work with a soft tonneau cover. One option is to use a J-style kayak rack that mounts to the bed rails of your truck. This type of rack holds the kayak on its side, which can be more aerodynamic and space-efficient than other options. Another option is to use a vertical kayak rack that mounts to the hitch receiver of your truck. This type of rack can hold multiple kayaks and can be easily removed when not in use.
No matter which type of tonneau cover you have, it’s important to choose a kayak rack that is compatible with your truck’s make and model. Most kayak rack manufacturers provide compatibility charts on their websites or in their product manuals, so be sure to consult these resources before making a purchase.
In addition to choosing the right kayak rack, it’s also important to properly secure your kayaks to the rack to ensure safe and hassle-free transport. Be sure to use tie-down straps or bungee cords to secure your kayaks to the rack, and use bow and stern lines to prevent side-to-side movement.
Overall, a kayak rack for a truck with a tonneau cover can provide a convenient and secure way to transport your kayaks without sacrificing the functionality of your tonneau cover. By choosing the right kayak rack and properly securing your kayaks, you can hit the road with peace of mind and enjoy your kayaking adventures to the fullest.
The best kayak racks for a truck with a tonneau cover – the bestsellers
- Fitment: Fits for Truck Bed Tonneau Covers or Truck Caps with T-Slot Rail.
- Heavy Loads: Maximum on-road rating of 800 lbs.; Maximum off-road rating of 500 lbs; Width is adjustable to cater to a variety of truck bed sizes.
- Function: Compatible with all mounts to carry kayaks, surfboards, bikes, rooftop tents, lumber and more
- Install: It is simple to install. Easy to install with instructions and all Mounting accessories are included,no drilling required
- Package included: 1 packages with 2 cross bars, 1 sets of upright supports and installation hardware, Installation Instruction.
- Heavy loads: Maximum on-road rating of 500 lbs.; Maximum off-road rating of 300 lbs.; Compatible with all YAKIMA mounts to carry kayaks, surfboards, bikes, rooftop tents, lumber and more
- Fits most truck beds: Including tracked beds and select tonneau covers, except Toyota and Nissan models, which require the Bed Track Kit 1 Accessory (sold separately); Features BedGrip clamp design
- Built to last: Engineered aluminum construction and durable powder-coat finish; Easy on-off with QuickChange rack attachment; Adjustable height from 19-30″
- Secure any load: Integrated tie-down points help easily secure any load; T-slot attachments make adding gear mounts and accessories fast and simple; Built-in bottle opener
- Requires YAKIMA HD Bar crossbar (sold separately); Suggested accessories include sidebar, load stop, eye bolt, ladder roller, wear strips, HD hook strap, Rotopax mounting kit and recovery track mount
- Fits 2014-2023 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 5’8″ (69.9”) bed, not Compatible w/Carbon Pro Bed or Factory Side Storage Boxes
- Lockable design for added security
- Retractable functionality for easy access to your cargo
- Made of durable aluminum for long-lasting protection (Support up to 500 lbs. of evenly distributed weight)
- Dust and waterproof to keep your items clean and dry (Need to drill holes for drainage tubes)
- A truck bed rack system designed to carry 450lbs – No drilling required!
- Adjustable bar height for added carrying, storage, and loading options
- Secure the rack to the vehicle with included locks
- An aerodynamic shape for maximized fuel efficiency
- Built-in diffusers to reduce noise and drag
- FITMENT – Compatible with 2014-2021 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500; 2014-2022 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 2500/3500; 2002-2022 Dodge Ram 1500; 2003-2022 Dodge Ram 2500/3500; 2015-2022 Ford F-150; 1999-2022 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty; 2007-2022 Toyota Tundra; Compatible with 2004-2015/2017-2022 Nissan Titan & 2016-2022 Titan XD (Nissan Titan models’ factory utility tracks must be removed).
- ALL YOU CAN MOUNT – The stylish side V-plates, the corner arms and the top surface are equipped in abundance with OVER 100 MOUNTING POSITIONS of all shapes and sizes: designed to enable mounting of tools and accessories such as recovery board tracks, petrol gas fuel cans, shovels, overlanding tents, spare tires, lights, extinguishers, bike mounts & more!
- DIAGONAL BRACING – V-plate braced frames maximize load bearing with 750 lb Static and 150-400 lb Dynamic Capacity | DIMENSIONS – L 63.3″ x Base Width 61.27″-66.23″ Upper Width 56.29″-61.26″ x H 13.5″
- INSTALLATION – Assembly is required. Works with truck beds with or without utility bed rails. No drilling needed. Carbon steel hardware and instruction guide are included. US Patent Pending.
- WARRANTY INFO – Limited 5 year warranty against manufacturer defects.
Buying guide for a kayak rack for a truck with a tonneau cover
If you’re in the market for a kayak rack for your truck with a tonneau cover, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose a rack that meets your needs. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when shopping for a kayak rack:
Type of tonneau cover: As mentioned before, there are two main types of tonneau covers – hard covers and soft covers. The type of tonneau cover you have will impact which kayak rack options are available to you. Make sure to choose a rack that is compatible with your specific tonneau cover.
Truck make and model: Not all kayak racks are compatible with all truck makes and models. Before purchasing a rack, check the manufacturer’s compatibility chart to ensure that it will work with your truck.
Kayak size and weight: Consider the size and weight of your kayaks when choosing a rack. Make sure that the rack you choose can safely support the weight of your kayaks and is adjustable to accommodate their size.
Rack capacity: How many kayaks do you need to transport? Some racks can hold one kayak, while others can hold multiple kayaks. Make sure to choose a rack that has the capacity you need.
Ease of installation: Consider how easy the rack is to install and remove. Some racks require drilling or permanent installation, while others are designed to be easily installed and removed without leaving any permanent marks on your truck.
Security: Make sure that the rack you choose securely holds your kayaks in place while in transit. You don’t want your kayaks to come loose or be at risk of theft.
Price: Kayak racks for trucks with tonneau covers can vary in price. Determine your budget and choose a rack that fits within it while also meeting your needs.
Buying a tonneau cover and roof rack package
Some popular kayak rack brands for trucks with tonneau covers include Thule, Yakima, Rhino-Rack, and TracRac. These brands offer a variety of options that can accommodate different types of tonneau covers and truck models.
it can be a good idea to buy a tonneau cover and rack together if you’re in the market for both. By purchasing a tonneau cover and rack as a package, you can ensure that the two are compatible with each other and that the installation process will be as easy and seamless as possible.
Many manufacturers offer tonneau covers and racks as part of a package deal, which can also save you money compared to purchasing the two separately. These packages are often designed to work seamlessly together, so you can be confident that you’re getting a high-quality, reliable setup that will securely transport your kayaks while also protecting your truck bed.
That being said, if you already have a tonneau cover and are only in need of a kayak rack, you can still find a rack that will work with your existing cover. Just make sure to choose a rack that is compatible with the type of tonneau cover you have and that it is adjustable to accommodate your kayaks.
Ultimately, the decision to buy a tonneau cover and rack together will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re in the market for both and want to ensure a seamless installation process, purchasing them as a package deal may be the best option for you.
Last update on 2023-05-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
