Struggling with kayak storage? We’ve sorted through the top kayak storage racks to fit every space and budget.
Storing kayaks can be a real challenge due to their size and shape, especially in smaller spaces. But with the right storage rack, you can effortlessly keep your kayak safe and organized when it’s not in use.
Our comprehensive reviews highlight the best kayak storage racks available, ensuring you find the perfect solution for your needs. For more detailed guidance, explore our buying advice to make an informed decision and keep your kayak secure and accessible.
Our Top Choices
Pressed for time? Here are our top recommendations for kayak storage racks. For comprehensive reviews and detailed insights, continue scrolling.
- Best Free-Standing Rack: Suspenz Deluxe Free-Standing Rack
- Best Budget Free-Standing Rack: RAD Sportz Kayak Storage Rack
- Best Multi-Sport Rack: Malone 3 Bike + 2 Kayak + 6 Ski Free-Standing Storage Rack
- Best Wall-Mount Rack: Suspenz EZ Kayak Rack
- Best Ceiling Rack: Suspenz Ceiling Rack (or Under Deck)
- Best Portable Stands: Suspenz Universal Portable Boat Stands
- Best Free-Standing Rack: Suspenz Deluxe Free-Standing Rack
Specifications:
- Color: Yellow
- Brand: Suspenz
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 30 x 34 x 6 inches
- Foldable: No
- Load Capacity: 125 lbs per boat
- Mounting Type: Strap
- Item Weight: 60 lbs
- Manufacturer: Suspenz, Inc.
- UPC: 670541930885
- Global Trade Identification Number: 00670541930885
The Suspenz Deluxe Free-Standing Rack is a top-tier solution for organizing your watercraft. Designed to hold up to two boats, this rack can be expanded to accommodate up to six. It features a patented “load-assist” system and adjustable pivot arm, allowing for easy single-person loading and unloading of kayaks, canoes, and fishing kayaks. The integrated suspension straps conform to the hull of your watercraft, protecting it from distortion and damage by minimizing pressure points.
The rack is equipped with adjustable safety straps to keep your boats securely in place. Constructed from powder-coated steel, it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, though it may rust in saltwater environments over time. With leveling feet for added stability and anchors included for secure installation, the rack supports up to 125 lbs per boat. Each tower measures 24″ x 24″ at the base and stands 52″ high.
For any parts or replacement needs, Suspenz provides direct assistance from their Atlanta office.
Pros:
- Unique Design: Patented load-assist system and adjustable pivot arm for easy loading and unloading.
- Boat Protection: Suspension straps minimize pressure points on the boat, preventing damage.
- Versatility: Can accommodate multiple boats of varying sizes.
- Stability: Leveling feet and secure anchors provide stability.
- Durability: Powder-coated steel construction for indoor and outdoor use.
- Customer Support: Direct assistance from the manufacturer for parts and replacements.
Cons:
- Weight: Relatively heavy, making it difficult to move around frequently.
- Space Requirements: Requires a dedicated space for storage.
- Potential for Rust: May rust in saltwater environments over time.
- Cost: Might be more expensive compared to other storage options.
2. Best Budget Free-Standing Rack: RAD Sportz Kayak Storage Rack
Product Details:
- Materials: Painted Iron, Foam, Nylon
- Dimensions (Each Stand): 24″ (L) x 24″ (W) x 53.125″ (H)
- Maximum Weight Capacity: 100 lbs per Boat, 200 lbs Total
- Color: Orange and Black
Maximize your storage space with this versatile Dual Kayak Storage Rack, designed to hold two kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards vertically. Ideal for garages or boat houses, this rack features J-shaped padded metal arms to ensure your watercraft is protected from damage while stored.
Robust and Weather-Resistant: Constructed from rugged iron tubing, this dual kayak stand supports up to 100 lbs per set of hooks, totaling a weight capacity of 200 lbs. Its painted finish offers weather resistance, making it suitable for exterior use.
Flexible Setup: The base of each kayak hanger is equipped with four adjustable feet, allowing stability on uneven ground. Additionally, hold-down anchors enable you to securely mount the rack to your dock or floor. Once installed, the rack remains easy to move, rearrange, or disassemble as needed.
Customizable Storage: The rack’s dual tripod bases are independently positioned, allowing you to space them apart to accommodate tandem or shorter kayaks. Each arm is fitted with nylon straps to keep your kayaks firmly in place.
Pros:
- Versatility: Accommodates multiple kayaks or canoes of varying sizes.
- Stability: Adjustable feet and hold-down straps provide secure storage.
- Protection: Padded arms protect kayaks from damage.
- Space-Saving: Vertical storage maximizes floor space.
- Easy Assembly: Adjustable and easy to set up.
Cons:
- Weight: Can be heavy and difficult to move once assembled.
- Floor Space: Requires a dedicated space for storage.
- Potential for Damage: Kayaks stored outside may be exposed to weather elements.
- Cost: Might be more expensive than other storage options.
3. Best Multi-Sport Rack: Malone 3 Bike + 2 Kayak + 6 Ski Free-Standing Storage Rack
Specifications:
- Color: Silver, Black
- Brand: Malone
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 47 x 9 x 3 inches
- Is Foldable: No
- Mounting Type: Floor Mount
- Material: Metal
- Item Weight: 67 lbs
- UPC: 856561006872
- Warranty: Lifetime manufacturer warranty
The Malone Multi-Use Storage Rack is a versatile solution designed to accommodate a range of outdoor equipment. With a capacity to hold two kayaks, three bikes, and up to six pairs of skis, this robust rack is perfect for organizing your gear efficiently.
Durable Construction: Crafted from metal with a powder-coated finish, this rack is built to withstand various conditions, making it suitable for use in different environments. The all-metal construction ensures long-lasting durability and resilience.
Adjustable Levelers: Equipped with six adjustable frame levelers, the rack easily adapts to uneven floors, providing a stable and secure storage solution.
Pros:
- Versatility: Accommodates a wide range of outdoor equipment, including kayaks, bikes, and skis.
- Durability: Metal construction with powder coating ensures long-lasting use.
- Stability: Adjustable levelers provide stability on uneven surfaces.
- Storage Efficiency: Maximizes vertical space for efficient storage.
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty offers peace of mind.
Cons:
- Weight: Relatively heavy, making it difficult to move around.
- Floor Space: Requires dedicated floor space for installation.
- Potential for Damage: Equipment may be exposed to dust and other environmental factors when stored indoors.
4. Best Wall-Mount Rack: Suspenz EZ Kayak Rack
Specifications:
- Brand: Suspenz
- Material: Steel
- Color: Yellow
- Style: Modern
- Weight Limit: 125 Pounds
- Rack Extension: 19.5 inches from the wall
The Suspenz EZ Kayak, Canoe & SUP Wall Rack is engineered for strength and convenience, offering a robust solution for storing your watercraft. Crafted from powder-coated steel, this rack combines durability with a sleek, modern design to enhance your storage space.
High-Quality Construction: This rack features rectangular tubing for secure wall mounting and can support boats up to 125 pounds. Its powder-coated steel construction ensures long-lasting performance, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. Note that exposure to saltwater may lead to rust over time.
Versatile and Efficient: Extending 19.5 inches from the wall, the rack efficiently stores kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards by resting them on 600D nylon-covered foam pads, which protect your equipment from scratches and dents.
Secure and Convenient: Fully integrated safety straps keep your watercraft firmly in place, minimizing the risk of accidental slips or falls. Optional Quick Release Wall Mount Brackets (sold separately) allow for easy relocation of the rack to different locations, such as a garage, basement, or dock.
5. Best Ceiling Rack: Suspenz Ceiling Rack (or Under Deck)
Specifications:
- Material: Powder-coated steel
- Weight Capacity: 100 lbs
- Arm Extension: 31 inches (inside dimension 30 inches)
- Ceiling Post Extension: 19 inches
- Bottom Arm Extension: 23 inches
- Padding: Foam-covered arms for protection
- Usage: Suitable for indoor and outdoor environments
Ceiling Kayak and SUP Storage Rack
This ceiling storage rack offers a smart solution for organizing your SUPs, surfboards, and kayaks, ensuring they are neatly stored without consuming valuable space. Designed for both functionality and durability, this rack helps you keep your equipment secure and well-maintained.
Features and Design: The rack evenly distributes the weight of your kayak or boards along its length, providing balanced support. It features adjustable vertical spacing, allowing you to use one or both sides of the rack as needed. The arms extend 31 inches (with an inside dimension of 30 inches) and are padded with foam to protect your equipment from dents and scratches.
Capacity and Construction: Capable of storing boats up to 100 pounds, this rack is built with a powder-coated steel frame, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The ceiling post extends down 19 inches, while the bottom arm extends 23 inches, ensuring ample clearance for various watercraft.
Pros:
- Space-Saving: Maximizes floor space by storing kayaks vertically.
- Protection: Padded arms protect kayaks from damage.
- Versatility: Can accommodate various watercraft sizes.
- Stability: Adjustable feet and hold-down straps provide secure storage.
- Durability: Powder-coated steel construction for indoor and outdoor use.
Cons:
- Installation Difficulty: Requires ceiling mounting and may require professional assistance.
- Lifting Effort: Requires physical strength to lift kayaks onto the rack.
- Ceiling Height: Requires sufficient ceiling height to accommodate the kayak and rack.
- Potential for Damage: Kayaks stored indoors may still be exposed to dust and other elements.
6. Best Portable Stands: Suspenz Universal Portable Boat Stands
Specifications:
- Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum Frame
- Color: Yellow
- Item Weight: 6.61 lbs (for two stands)
- Load Capacity: 150 lbs per stand
- Height: 15 inches
- Platform Size (L x W): 14 x 16 inches
- Folded/Storage Size: 21 x 15 x 3 inches
- Style: Classic
The Suspenz Portable Kayak Stands offer a practical and reliable solution for supporting your watercraft, whether you’re rigging, repairing, or cleaning. Crafted from high-quality materials, these stands are designed to be both lightweight and sturdy.
Features and Design: Each stand is made from 6061-T6 aluminum, ensuring durability and rust resistance. With a load capacity of 150 lbs, these stands are versatile enough to accommodate various types of watercraft, including kayaks, canoes, rowing shells, and paddle boards. They are 15 inches tall and feature a platform size of 14 x 16 inches. The stands are equipped with rubber bumpers to protect your equipment from scratches and dents.
Portability and Ease of Use: Weighing just 3 lbs per stand, these portable kayak stands fold flat for easy storage and transport. They come fully assembled, so you can unfold them and use them right out of the box. Each stand includes a mesh carrying bag for convenient storage and transport.
Kayak Storage Rack Buying Advice
When selecting a kayak storage rack, consider the following key factors to find the best solution for your needs:
Available Storage Space: Assess the space you have available before comparing different racks. For small areas like a cramped garage, a wall or ceiling-mounted rack might be ideal. Conversely, if you have ample space and multiple kayaks, a free-standing rack could be a better fit.
Rack Type: Choose a rack type based on your space and storage needs:
- Free-Standing Racks: Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, these racks can hold multiple kayaks but take up significant floor space.
- Wall-Mounted Racks: Space-efficient but require more installation effort. They need lifting your kayak a considerable distance to store it.
- Ceiling-Mounted Racks: Save floor space and are bolted to the ceiling joists. They also require lifting your kayak high.
- Portable Racks: Ideal for flexibility and ease of movement but occupy floor space when in use.
Supported Kayak Type: Ensure the rack accommodates the type of kayak you own. Recreational and whitewater kayaks with wider hulls may not fit well in racks with small J-shaped cradles, while sea kayaks with hard chines might not sit well in flat bar racks. Measure your kayak and compare it with the rack’s dimensions.
Kayak Capacity: Determine the number of kayaks you need to store. Single-kayak owners may not need a multi-kayak rack, but those with several kayaks should look for racks that offer the necessary capacity. Multi-kayak racks are often free-standing or wall-mounted.
Maximum Weight Capacity: Check the weight capacity of the rack to ensure it can support your kayak(s). Most racks can handle between 100 to 200 lbs, with some providing specific per-kayak weight limits.
Ease of Set-Up: Most racks require assembly, with wall and ceiling-mounted racks needing additional tools and precise installation. Free-standing racks are generally easier to assemble and some, like the Suspenz Universal Portable Boat Stand, come pre-assembled.
Additional Gear Storage Needs: Consider if you need a rack that also stores other gear like paddles, PFDs, or sports equipment such as bikes and skis. An all-in-one system might be beneficial for those with limited space.
The Verdict: Investing in a kayak storage rack is crucial for maintaining your gear and enjoying your paddling experiences. Among the options reviewed, the Suspenz Deluxe Free-Standing Rack stands out for its combination of durability, functionality, and innovative design, making it a top choice for securely storing 2 to 3 kayaks while minimizing damage over time.
