Carrying your kayak to and from the water is not very easy because they are bulky, made even harder when the surface you are going to cross is uneven.
Well, that is where kayak carts are of so much importance as we are about to see. After years of using various kayak carts, this is my list of the 10 best kayak carts together with widespread research.
Here is a breakdown of the numerous advantages and disadvantages of each:
What Exactly is a Kayak Cart?
A kayak cart on the other hand can be described as a small wheeled trolley or a dolly that is specific for moving the kayak over different surfaces.
It may contain two wheels, which support the structure base, a frame and straps for holding the kayak. The cart is used where you put your kayak and use the straps to lock it in position; after doing this you pull the cart using your hands to transport your kayak from one point to another.
1. Malone Clipper Deluxe Kayak Cart
The Malone Clipper Deluxe Kayak Cart is for professional or recreational kayakers who require transport of their kayak easily. Constructed of non-rusting marine alloy, this cart can carry up to 200 pounds, ideal for larger and bulkier kayaks and canoes.
The large tubeless oily radial non-puncture packed tires give very smooth running in sands, lawns, and gravels. The wheels on the product are 10-inch quick-release wheels for storage and transport and the amazing thing is that the product can be folded easily it does not occupy much space when not in use and it can be easily fitted in the kayak.
The Malone Clipper has padding in foam to safeguard your kayak against scratches during transport while having the added feature of two straps that hold your kayak in place.
Best For:
Kayakers want a sturdy, reliable cart that won’t need constant maintenance due to flat tyres.
2. C-Tug Kayak and Canoe Cart
C-Tug Kayak and Canoe Cart transform to be ideal and robust equipment to transport kayaks, and canoes besides paddleboards on different surfaces. Made from durable UV-stabilized polypropylene, this cart is lightweight and does not corrode.
It has a maximum carrying capacity which is up to 260 pounds, which makes it good for heavy kayaks. Kiwi wheels do not puncture and are ideal for countries with rough terrains such as sand, rocks and other rough surface without worrying about deflation.
It is easy to assemble, no tool required and for its versatility, the cart can be disassembled to fit most hatches of a kayak. Another feature of the C-Tug is the rubberized pads for the protection of the kayak from scratching while the tie-down strap provides added security in the transport of the kayak.
Best For:
Kayakers looking for a high-quality, durable cart that can tackle different terrains.
3. Bonnlo Kayak Cart with Large Beach Wheels
The Bonnlo Kayak Cart is excellent for those who run across sandy shores more often. Outfitted with huge removable balloon tyres this cart is capable of travelling over soft sand and thus could be ideal for taking kayaks to the beach.
It has been constructed from corrosion-proof aluminum hence it is very strong and it has a carrying capacity of 165 pounds. It has foam bumpers within the frame that protect the kayak and the frame straps anchor the boat into place in a fashion that can be changed according to preference.
The cart also can be folded to be compact for storage and easy moving and the big wheels are easily detachable for easier moving.
Best For:
Beach launches and soft sand terrain.
4. Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart
The Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart is built to accommodate the superior and more unwieldy fishing kayaks and canoes with a total weight capacity of up to 450 lbs.
This is a corrosion-resistant cart with large non-air tire wheels suitably designed for rough terrains and rough calture surfaces. It is sleave is adjustable in width so that it fits different types of kayak hulls and different sizes as well.
Also, the cart is collapsible and can be disassembled for storage and its size allows for storage in a kayak storage area. The same rubber bunks are collapsible and this offers an added cushion to the hull of the boat when moving.
Best For:
Paddlers with heavy or wide kayaks, or those needing a cart that can handle rough terrain.
5. Seattle Sports Paddleboy ATC Cart
The Seattle Sports Paddleboy ATC Cart is a kayak and canoe cart which has been designed specifically to be used with a kayak or canoe on various types of terrain. It comes equipped with large 16” Air-filled tyres, it is designed particularly for the task of transporting watercraft over sands and rocks, and any other terrain that is relatively irregular.
This particular cart has a load-bearing capability of up to 300 pounds and is ideal for most kayaks canoes or small boats. The frame is made from anodized aluminium, which is very strong and will not rust; as for the foldable characteristic, it makes the equipment convenient to stow. It also has straps that help snap your kayak or canoe in position while being transported in the cart.
Best For:
Kayakers who regularly need to traverse rough or uneven terrain.
6. Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart
The Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart is a user-friendly and light cart created to provide a great experience when taking your kayak. With 10” airless tyres, it guarantees that you transport your items across various terrains without having to worry about the tyre depressing.
The frame is of aluminum and the material has been powder-coated for improved durability and resistance to corrosion The frame can support up to 125 pounds.
It has rubber feet that minimize the impact of the kayak on the boat’s surface and a buckle for the tight attachment of the boat. It also has a folding facility to allow, it to become easy to store and even transport because of its compact design.
Best For:
Paddlers who want a durable, low-maintenance cart with easy portability.
7. TMS Kayak Cart Carrier
The TMS Kayak Cart Carrier is the most economical, convenient and efficient equipment for the transportation of kayaks and canoes. Sturdily constructed with a powder-coated aluminium frame this particular machine is capable of supporting up to 150 pounds. It’s 9. Working equally well on sand and gravel, 5” inflatable tyres are complemented by the foam bumpers that prevent the kayak from getting scratched.
The small cart has a handlebar that allows easy loading and unloading while it also has a snap-down kickstand when in use and can also be folded for easy storage. Loops enable the kayak to be anchored firmly and this is made even easier by the adjustable straps.
Best For:
Occasional kayakers looking for an affordable, functional solution.
8. Railblaza C-Tug R with Sandtrakz Wheels
The Railblaza C-Tug R with Sandtrakz Wheels is a Must-Have, All-Terrain, Self-Propelled Cart built to work great and glide effortlessly on soft sand and other abrasive surfaces. Having Sandtrakz wheels that compress and adjust with the surface, it considerably cuts the exercise of dragging heavy kayaks.
Constructed of UV-resistant plastic with stainless steel reinforced axles this cart is virtually indestructible and has a 220-pound capacity. This design also has the advantage of no tool requirement when assembling the cart and it can quickly be assembled and disassembled for easy storage inside the kayak.
It has rubberised pads which protect it from scratching and a strap system to keep the kayak during transportation.
Best For:
Paddlers launching from soft sand or beaches who want maximum ease of movement.
9. ABN Universal Kayak Carrier
ABN Universal Kayak Carrier is a universal and affordable product intended for the transport of kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. With the features of a big inflated tyre, one can easily manoeuvre around different terrains with this cart. This is constructed of high-strength anodized steel and is designed to support up to 200 pounds.
The cart also has foam pads that can help in protecting the kayak hull as well as an adjustable strapping design to hold the kayak properly during transportation. This cart is small and easily collapsible to a flat form which can be perfectly accommodated when not in use and as such, it is one of the best affordable yet portable kayak carts for sale.
Best For:
Budget-conscious kayakers who paddle on paved paths or soft ground.
10. Perception Kayak Cart
The Perception Kayak Cart is strong and simple in construction and is best suited for moving kayaks and canoes with ease. It has no-flat airless wheels for maximum mobility on any surfaces such as sand and other rough surfaces. The outer frame is made of weathering-resistant aluminium and can hold loads of up to 200 pounds.
Materials such as foam padding are combined on the frame to ensure that the kayak is not damaged when in transit. Also, it has a wheelbarrow-type wheel that enables easy pushing and pulling and the cart can be folded to minimize storage space when not in use.
Best For:
Recreational paddlers who need a simple, reliable cart.
Why Do You Need a Kayak Cart?
If someone asks, “Why would I need a kayak cart when I can just portage my kayak?”, read on to know why it is a great need for you. It might not commonly be associated with convenience but a kayak cart can do a lot for you: protect you from a potential injury, spare your strength, and prevent your kayak from getting damaged. Here’s why:
- Weight Distribution: That is why, even small boats such as kayaks can be inconvenient if one has to transport them, for several kilometres for instance. Kayak carts simplify the task of moving the kayak because the weight of the kayak is distributed between the wheels hence pulling the kayak is much easier than dragging it on the shoulder.
- Terrain Navigation: In essence, a number of the ideal kayak launch sites have some kind of coarse surface – be it sandy or gravely ground or pathways with rocks. These surfaces are manageable and easy to push by the kayak carts with either wide or inflatable wheels.
- Preventing Back Strain: Hand-carrying: As is evident from the foregoing discussion, kayaks can weigh between 40 and 100 pounds or even more depending on the specific type of kayak. Taking such kind of load, especially for a long distance is likely to result in back or shoulder strain. A kayak cart helps to offload some of the weight on your body making it less likely for you to be injured.
- Protecting Your Kayak: Hauling the kayak across the terrain is also likely to cause some damage to the hull and this means you have to dig deep into your wallet to get it fixed or replaced. They avoid contact of the kayak with the ground thus preventing it from getting damaged through wear and tear.
Different Types of Kayak Carts
As has been pointed out exemplify this, not all kayak carts are devised in the same manner. There are several aspects which we should know before choosing the cart as the features of a cart change depending on where you are going to take your kayak and how often you are going to use the cart.
1. Plug-In or Scupper-Style Carts
These carts are intended for sit-on-top kayaks that have these scupper holes drilled into them. The cart’s arms fit directly into these holes to support the kayak. This style is very secure since it connects to the kayak itself, but the problem is that it only works for sit-on-top models.
2. Strap-On Carts
Strap-on carts are the most variety of carts you can get. These carts have a frame as well as bands that go around the hull of the kayak to upkeep the frame. They can be used with every type of kayak, including sit-on tops and sit-inside kayaks.
3. Folding Carts
Folding is usually recommended when the cart is required to be stored or transported regularly. After you have towed your kayak to the water you can then collapse the cart and keep it in the kayak especially if you have a long journey ahead of you where you will need the cart as well.
How to Choose the Right Kayak Cart
There are a few things that you should particularly look for when you are selecting the right kayak cart. These factors will assist you in identifying which cart suits you based on the pattern of use you give your kayak.
1. Weight Capacity
Some of the most important features which should be considered include the following: The capacity of the cart in terms of the load that it can support. In that case, if you for example have a high-capacity fishing kayak, then the cart also must be capable of handling more weight. If you aren’t sure, try to find a cart with a sufficient weight-bearing capacity of 150-200 pounds.
2. Wheel Type
The choice of the wheels of a particular cart can help in improving the capability of the cart on certain terrains. For example:
- Airless Wheels: These cannot be easily punctured and for that, they do not need frequent attention but they are not as effective on soft surfaces such as sand.
- Inflatable Wheels: These are suitable for working on rough grounds and lighter surfaces but can easily develop punctures which may need fixing or new ones.
3. Terrain
Another factor is where you normally go to kayak, some products are designed for a certain specific use some may not be multisport. If you mostly work on bicycles within the areas of having pavements or hard surfaces you might not require the cart with big tires. But if you often take off from a beach or cross the rocky landscapes, then the cart with big and with sturdier wheels is crucial.
4. Storage and Portability
Self-deploying carts are ideal if you are going to be carrying the cart with you in the kayak such as folding carts. It is allowed to keep the cart in your hatch or secure it in the kayak during the paddling.
Real-World Benefits: Case Study
Before I proceed to explain how much I agree with the author of the article, let me use a true story from my practice. I once had to get my fishing kayak which weights 75 pounds across a sandy beach, 200 yards away from the parking space. Without the kayak cart, I felt that I kept on breaking and almost got fully tired before even getting to the water.
The second time I used the Bonnlo Kayak Cart with the balloon-style wheels made specifically for sand and it was a completely different story. This way I managed to get the kayak across the beach without having to pull the kayak behind me through the shallow soft sand as I would have had to do. Not only did it prevent me from aggravating my back, but in addition to that, you have far more energy for paddling once the canoe hits the water.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right kayak cart therefore depends on the ground type that is to be traversed and the size of the kayak. If you’re mainly dealing with soft launches with sandy shorelines, then the Bonnlo Kayak Cart with Large Beach Wheels and the Railblaza C-Tug R with Sandtrakz Wheels will be perfect for you. For the one who is inclined to transport larger and bulkier kayaks or travel on rough terrains, there are Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart and Seattle Sports Paddleboy ATC Cart.
But, if you have more frequent usage of your cart then it is beneficial to purchase a better quality cart such as the C-Tug. But if you are limited with cash or do not use the carrier too often, there are quite a few models which are cheaper, for example, the TMS Kayak Cart Carrier or ABN Universal Kayak Carrier.
