10 Best Truck Kayak Racks 2025 in the United States

The Apex UPUT-RACK-V2 is a sturdy steel over-cab truck rack designed to add extra storage space above your truck bed and cab. With an 800-pound weight capacity, it can handle heavy gear like ladders, wood, or kayaks securely. Its adjustable width fits most pickup beds between 49 and 64 inches wide, making it versatile for different trucks. The rack’s over-cab design includes 5-inch guard rails that help protect your truck’s cab from cargo damage.

Installation is quite user-friendly since it uses a no-drill, clamp-on system, which means you won’t need special tools or modifications to your truck; plus, the rear bar is removable to accommodate taller items. The powder-coated steel construction ensures durability and resistance to weather, which is important for outdoor gear transport. On the downside, the rack is fairly heavy at 146 pounds, so handling it alone during installation might be challenging.

While it offers solid security features through its design, it doesn’t include any integrated locks, so additional security measures may be needed. For those seeking a strong, adjustable rack that’s easy to install and protects the cab, this product represents a reliable option. However, if you prefer a lighter rack or require built-in locking features, you might need to consider other alternatives.

The VEVOR Extendable Steel Truck Ladder Rack is a strong and versatile option for carrying kayaks, ladders, lumber, and other bulky items on full-size pickup trucks. It supports up to 800 lbs, which is quite high and suitable for heavy loads. The rack adjusts in width from 46 to 71 inches, making it compatible with many truck beds, though it doesn’t fit trucks with toolboxes, utility tracks, or tonneau covers. Made from durable alloy steel with a black powder-coated finish, it resists rust and corrosion well.

Installation is straightforward thanks to its no-drill U-bolt mounting system, which uses J-bolts and includes all needed accessories—this means you won’t damage your truck and can remove the rack easily if needed. Security-wise, while it offers sturdy support and ratchet strap hooks to secure your gear, it lacks lockable features, so you might want additional locks if theft protection is a concern. The rack’s triangular gusset design adds extra stability during transport.

Weighing 46 pounds, it’s relatively heavy but still manageable for installation. This rack represents a durable, adjustable, and high-capacity truck rack option that does not permanently alter your vehicle, especially suitable if you prioritize easy setup and strong build quality.