Our Top Pick:
Steel Kayak Trailer by CE Smith
★★★★★
Best Value:
Ruff-Sport Kayak Trailer by Right-On Trailer
★★★★★
Editor’s Choice:
Kayak Trailer by Portage Pal
★★★★★
Kayaking is a simple yet satisfying experience. It allows you to commune with nature and also makes you feel omnipotent as you try and navigate the water. For many people, kayaking is a stress-busting activity but it can turn into a frustrating and challenging experience when you want to load your kayak on a roof rack.
Kayaks can be quite heavy and loading them on the roof of your vehicle can be tedious. However, investing in a kayak trailer can make it a simple and convenient process to transport it to your favorite kayaking spots. Of course, for lighter kayaks, roof racks are alright but a kayak trailer is a more convenient option. You will realize this fact once you invest in it.
With so many kayak trailers that you can buy online, it is confusing which is the best. Thankfully, you needn’t worry as we have shortlisted the 10 best kayak trailers to help you pick one that best suits your needs. You can also check out our buying guide so that you know what to look for when choosing the best kayak trailer.
| Table: 10 Best Kayak Trailers of 2023 | |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Price |
| #1 Steel Kayak Trailer by CE Smith | Check Price » |
| #2 Ruff-Sport Kayak Trailer by Right-On Trailer | Check Price » |
| #3 Kayak Trailer by Portage Pal | Check Price » |
| #4 Xtralight Kayak Trailer by Malone | Check Price » |
| #5 Kayak Trailer by Malone | Check Price » |
| #6 Kayak Trailer by Yakima | Check Price » |
| #7 MicroSport Two-Kayak Trailer by Malone | Check Price » |
| #8 Xtralight Two-Kayak Trailer by Malone | Check Price » |
| #9 Multi Kayak Trailer by Right-On Trailer | Check Price » |
| #10 Xtralight Single Kayak Trailer by Malone | Check Price » |
Best Kayak Trailers Reviews
#1. Steel Kayak Trailer by CE Smith
This kayak trailer is ideal for people who want to carry more than just their kayaks. It can easily transport not only kayaks, but also paddleboards, small boats, and other types of smaller recreational craft as long as it is not more than 12 feet in length.
Product Specs
- Frame made from galvanized steel
- Hand winch
- 8-inch wheels
- Coupler height of 14 inches
- 11 feet and 8 inches in length
Why We Recommend This Product
We loved the fact that the trailer is lightweight and can be unhitched and moved using your hands. It is possible to slide the kayak trailer into the water to offload or secure the kayak without lifting it. The leaf spring suspension system ensures that the ride is smooth and hassle-free.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Adjustable bunk boards with marine-grade carpet
- 8-inch high-performance wheels
- Weight capacity of 800lb
- Hand winch
- Solid construction
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Upgrading the 8-inch wheels to 12 inches requires a change in fenders
- Takes time to assemble
Tip: The marine carpeting on the bunk boards come with a three-year sun-fade warranty
Info alert: The marine carpeting not only prevents the formation of mold and mildew, but it also ensures that the kayak does not get scratched during transportation and maneuvering.
#2. Ruff-Sport Kayak Trailer by Right-On Trailer
This trailer has 64-inch wide crossbars and hence, you can think of carrying your kayaks without worries. The frame is made up of galvanized steel, ensuring that it is lightweight, long-lasting, and solid. It also has large wheels measuring 4.8 inches x 12 inches to ensure a smooth ride on any terrain.
Product Specs
- Frame made from galvanized steel
- Large wheels measuring 4.8 inches x 12 inches
- 64-inch wide crossbars
- LED lights
- Superior suspension system
Why We Recommend This Product
We really loved the compact construction of the fishing reel. We also found no difficulty in using it and the spool was easy to change. It has a power drag of 261 lb and the aluminum construction makes it rust-resistant. The rubber knobs on the handle make it comfortable to use.
Pros
- Can be used in saltwater
- Tongue stand that can be folded and locked
- LED lights
- Ideal trailer for small vehicles
Cons
- Does not have in-built saddle
- Rack pads have to be purchased separately
Tip: You can use the trailer to carry cargo boxes, bicycles, SUPs, and paddleboards with relative ease.
Info alert: This lightweight trailer is considered apt for smaller cars that cannot manage heavy trailers.
#3. Xtralight Single Kayak Trailer by Malone
If you enjoy kayaking on your own, this is the trailer for you. It is designed to transport a single kayak. It is lightweight and can handle any type of terrain to ensure a smooth ride. It is easy to assemble, as well.
Product Specs
- Can transport one kayak of up to 14 feet
- The frame is made from galvanized steel
- Load bars of 58 inches and they are steel-coated
- Weight capacity of 275lb
- 8-inch high-speed wheels made from galvanized steel
- Made in USA
Why We Recommend This Product
On testing the trailer, we discovered that it is seamless to transport a single kayak. The leaf spring suspension ensures that you can drive over rough and uneven terrain without it disappointing you. Above all, the trailer is affordable.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to assemble
- Ideal for transporting one kayak
- Made from galvanized steel that is of marine grade
- Five years’ warranty
Cons
- Does not have crossbars so you cannot even think of transporting a second a kayak
Tip: The instructions are easy to follow, making assembling a breeze.Tip:
Info alert: While it is designed for kayaks of up to 14 feet, you will not find it tough to transport a slightly longer kayak.
#4. Kayak Trailer by Portage Pal
As a novice kayaker if you are looking for a kayak trailer that is affordable and easy to use then you should take a closer look at this trailer. It can easily transport kayaks measuring up to 12 feet. The trailer is designed to carry two kayaks simultaneously.
Product Specs
- Frame made from powder-coated and galvanized steel
- Has a coil spring suspension system
- 8-inch wheels
- Tire size is 4.8 inches x 8 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
We realize that not everyone who enjoys kayaking has a long kayak. So, it was like a breath of fresh air to find a trailer that can transport smaller-sized kayaks with ease. We really liked the fact that this trailer is affordable. It is made from galvanized steel so you can rest assured knowing that it is durable. The suspension system ensures that the trailer does not bounce around.
Pros
- Affordable
- Does not require a lot of maintenance
- Strong and durable frame
- Smooth ride
Cons
- Not suitable for kayaks that are longer than 12 feet
Tip: Mount the handles to the tongues so that it is easy to move the trailer after you have loaded it.
Info alert: When assembling the trailer, tighten the light brackets to ensure they are grounded and this will get the lights working without a hitch.
#5. Xtralight Kayak Trailer by Malone
This trailer for kayaks by Malone has the ability to transport kayaks that are up to 14 feet in length. Its load-bearing capacity is 275lb. It has a single L-shaped rack, which has 8 stacker blocks.
Product Specs
- Load bars of 58 inches
- Wheels with a diameter of 8 inches
- Galvanized steel frame
- Five-lug hubs
- Can support weights of up to 275lb
Why We Recommend This Product
We loved this kayak trailer has it is well-designed and resilient. It is made from galvanized steel that is of marine grade. That makes the frame rust-resistant, perfect for transporting back a wet kayak. It can even transport deep kayaks with ease. The L-shaped rack comes with 8 stacker blocks and can easily transport up to 4 kayaks.
Pros
- Frame is rust-resistant
- Made from galvanized steel that is of marine grade
- Easy to assemble
- Rides smoothly
Cons
- Some people may find it expensive
Tip: When transporting loaded kayaks, distribute the weight to prevent vibrations when driving between 40 and 45mph.
Info alert: The trailer is lightweight and can easily be pushed after unhitching it from your vehicle.
#6. Kayak Trailer by Malone
If you are looking for one of the best kayak trailers, it does not get better than this. This trailer can easily transport multiple kayaks – up to four. It is of high-quality, reliable, and durable. You will be pleased with its performance and longevity.
Product Specs
- Frame made from pre-galvanized steel
- Dimensions of 78” W x 164” L
- Marine-grade steel frame
- Spare wheel tire
Why We Recommend This Product
We believe this is among the best trailers for kayaks and you will not be disappointed by it. It is robust and easy to assemble. It takes merely 2 to 3 hours to set it up using the comprehensive manual. It can support weights of up to 350 lb and the frame is made out of pre-galvanized steel, ensuring that it is rust-resistant. It also has a warranty for five years.
Pros
- Can transport multiple kayaks at a time
- Has a frame made from pre-galvanized steel
- Five years’ warranty
- Rust-resistant
- Load-bearing capacity of 350lb
Cons
- Can be expensive for some
Tip: The wheels and bearings are durable and of high-quality. They will be able to take the stress of interstate travel.
Info alert: The kayak racks are individually bolted to the frame and this enables you to remove a rack and fix a bike carrier or a cargo box.
#7. Kayak Trailer by Yakima
This trailer is lightweight and can easily handle multiple kayaks, all the way up to 4. It is easy to assemble and once completed, it is solid and can easily take the rigors of being towed. It is made from aluminum and has a simplistic yet functional design
Product Specs
- Crossbar size of 78 inches
- Locking levers
- 12-inch wheels
- Aluminum frame
- LED trailer lights
Why We Recommend This Product
Although it is made from aluminum, the frame is surprisingly solid. It can carry up to 4 kayaks and is easy to tow. It is lightweight and easy to assemble. We loved the LED trailer lights that are long-lasting and do not require replacement for several years. You can attach dedicated carriers to ensure the kayaks are positioned at a 45-degree angle before strapping them to the trailer.
Pros
- Can transport up to 4 kayaks
- Has a weight capacity of 350lb
- Lightweight
- 12-inch wheels for optimal balance
- Easy to assemble
- Smooth ride
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Poor customer support
- Nuts and bolts of different sizes, requiring you to carry multiple sockets
Tip: After unhitching the trailer, fix a carrying handle to convert the trailer into a handcart so that you can transport your kayak to the edge of the water.
Info alert: You can easily carry long kayaks by investing in a tongue extension. The easy-to-use lever helps to slide the tongue under the trailer with relative ease.
#8. MicroSport Two-Kayak Trailer by Malone
If you have a long kayak, this is the best kayak trailer for you. It can transport kayaks up to 18 feet in length and it is designed to carry two such kayaks. The frame is made from galvanized steel, making it durable, resilient, and long-lasting.
Product Specs
- Frame made from galvanized steel
- 60-inch cross rails made from aluminum
- Two sets of SeaWing carriers
Why We Recommend This Product
We liked that the trailer is designed to carry and transport long kayaks. This means that the trailer is robust and strong as you can easily transport loaded kayaks. It comes with instructions, making it easy to assemble. It also has a limited warranty of five years.
Pros
- Designed to transport up to two kayaks
- Easy to assemble
- Limited warranty of five years
- Galvanized steel frame
- Comes with SeaWing carriers
- Spare tire with locking mechanism
Cons
- Takes about two to three hours to assemble
Tip: Install a third wheel to the tongue and this will make it easy to move the kayak using your hands.
Info alert: Make sure you have deep sockets handy when you begin assembling the kayak trailer. It will make your life easier.
#9. Xtralight Two-Kayak Trailer by Malone
This is the perfect trailer if you are not keen on towing four kayaks. This lightweight trailer is designed to transport two kayaks, each of 14 feet. Like all other Malone kayak trailers, this one too is made from steel that has been galvanized, making it solid and rust-resistant.
Product Specs
- 58-inch load bars coated with steel
- Weight capacity of 275lb
- High-speed wheels of 8 inches
- Two sets of kayak carriers
- Five years’ warranty
Why We Recommend This Product
We liked the fact that you do not have to tow two empty carriers if you are transporting just two kayaks. The load bars are resilient, durable, and long-lasting, thanks to the steel coating. Surprisingly, the trailer is lightweight and ensures a smooth ride regardless of the terrain.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Designed for two kayaks
- Made from galvanized steel
- Can support weights of up to 275lb
- Made in USA
- High-speed galvanized wheels of 8 inches
Cons
- Assembling the trailer takes time and effort
Tip: While the racks strong and durable and they will keep the kayaks secure, it is advisable to add padding for optimal protection.
Info alert: The lightweight trailer can easily be pushed with the hands after unhitching from the vehicle.
#10. Multi Kayak Trailer by Right-On Trailer
This trailer is a rack-type trailer that transports kayaks one top of the other. However, the way its base and crossbars are designed, you can always experiment with different arrangements so that you can even carry a cargo box with you.
Product Specs
- Weighs approximately 190lb
- Weight capacity of 800lb
- Two-tier rack-style trailer
- Can transport kayaks of up to 19 feet
- 64-inch wide crossbars on each tier
Why We Recommend This Product
We found the simple yet practical design of the trailer attractive. If you carry a 19-foot kayak on this trailer, you will still have a space of one foot between the vehicle and the kayak. This means no worries about anything. The trailer is lightweight, resilient, and durable.
Pros
- Two-tier trailer with rack-style design
- Weight capacity of 800lb
- Can transport kayaks that are 19 feet in length
- Comes with two crossbars on each level
Cons
- Assembling the trailer takes about three to four hours
Tip: The crossbars prevent the kayaks from sliding to the side, allowing you to easily transport two kayaks.
Info alert: Besides kayaks, you can even use the trailer to transport surfboards, bikes, and paddleboards with relative ease.
Related article: Smart ways to store your kayak in the garage
Buying Guide for the Best Kayak Trailer
If you are looking to buy a kayak trailer, you should know the features that the ones must have. That will enable you to shortlist the best trailers and select one that is perfect for you.
Here are some of the features that you should look for in your kayak trailers.
Number of Kayaks
You should know the number of kayaks you want to carry. Most kayak trailers are designed to carry two kayaks, but you can also get trailers to transport one kayak or four kayaks. Some of them are also designed to transport a bicycle, paddleboard, and surfboard.
Kayak Size
The size of the kayak makes a difference as the trailer should be designed to handle and transport it. All kayak trailers cannot accommodate kayaks of all sizes so ensure you buy one that allows you to transport your kayak with ease.
See our guide to kayaks for big guys here
Weight Bearing Capacity
Check the weight-bearing limit of the trailer so that you can determine whether the chosen kayak can handle the weight of your loaded kayak. Remember, a regular kayak will be about 40lb and hence, that should be the minimum capacity of the kayak.
Material
Since you will be using your trailer to take your kayak as close as possible to the water, ensure that the material used to make the trailer renders it corrosion-resistant.
Also, the right material, such as steel (galvanized) will ensure that your trailer lasts for years to come.
Ease of Assembly
Good kayak trailers ensure that you do not struggle with assembling the trailer. The best trailer should have an instruction manual that makes it easy to follow instructions and assemble the trailer within no time.
Suspension System
The trailer should have a robust suspension system so that you can take the trailer on all types of terrain and still ensure a smooth ride.
Wheel and Tire Size
Pay close attention to wheel and tire size as it affects the performance of the trailer. Smaller sized wheels and tires are perfect for better roads and routes while larger ones are ideal for rough and bumpy terrain.
Final Verdict
These are the 10 best kayak trailers in 2023. Out of these, after stringent and extensive testing, we feel that the Kayak Trailer by Portage Pal is the best. It is affordable, easy to assemble, ensures a smooth ride and the galvanized metal frame is durable, solid, and long-lasting. It has a coil spring suspension system and a wheel size of 8 inches. This kayak trailer is the right choice for smaller-sized kayaks of about 12 feet.
Also, see our top 10 picks for best kayaks under 1000 and best fish finders for kayaks.
Updated: October 28, 2022
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