A kayak cart is a great alternative to dragging a boat manually to a lake, river or seaside location. Kayak carts can carry kayaks and include wheels that allow them to be rolled instead of carried by hand. By using kayak carts, boaters can devote more energy to enjoying themselves on the water. The cart consists of a small frame with wheels that can be loaded into vehicles and used whenever a kayak is being taking to or from the water to alleviate much of the heavy lifting and carrying.

Best Kayak Cart Models Reviews

• C-Tug Kayak and Canoe Cart

This premium kayak roller cart does not require the use of tools for assembly and is designed to support kayaks and canoes of different shapes and sizes. The cart has a lightweight frame of 10 pounds that can support a boat weighing up to 300 pounds. The puncture-free wheels are lined with rubber tread that can grip surfaces and provide better traction.

• Malone Clipper Deluxe Universal Kayak Cart

To help prevent this kayak caddie from breaking down, a set of removable “Never-Go-Flat” tires that measure 10 inches and require no air have been attached to the frame. The universal padded frame has a 200-pound load capacity and can keep boats from getting damaged. Tie-down straps are also included to help keep kayaks more secure. Additional stability is provided by the locking kickstand.

• Malone Nomad Standard Universal Kayak Cart

Supporting up to 150 pounds, this carrier is ideal for smaller kayaks and consists of a corrosion-free, UV-resistant aluminum frame for maximum stability. Oversized padding on the frame helps keep kayaks intact when they are being transported. The included tie-down straps can secure the kayak in place and prevent it from shifting. The locking kickstand can keep the carrier supported when stationary. No matter the terrain, this kayak wheel carrier is easy to roll.

• Malone Xpress Scupper-Style Kayak Cart

This sit on top kayak cart fits all standard kayaks with scupper holes. The width locking controls can be adjusted to settings of between 6.5 and 16.5 inches. Aluminum that is resistant to corrosion has been used in the frame’s construction. A removable foam pad measuring 6 by 4 inches can give the kayak added protection. Up to 200 pounds of weight can be supported on the kayak trolley.

• TMS Cart-Canoe/Kayak-KY001

Many positive kayak cart reviews have been written about this model, which supports up to 150 pounds and includes a 9.25-inch H spring-loaded stand that gives the cart greater stability onshore when loading a kayak out of the water. The cart’s large flat-free tires measure 9.5 inches in diameter and can traverse effortlessly over sand and other uneven terrain. Aluminum piping that is used in the construction measures 20 by 2 millimeters and is lined with anodized steel for better reinforcement. The cart is also one of the most popular folding kayak cart models on the market that can be stored easily.

• Bonnlo Kayak Cart Canoe Carrier Trolley

This canoe and kayak caddy has tires measuring 10 by 3 inches that require no air and don’t emit unpleasant chemical odors. It can be assembled and dissembled quickly without the use of tools. The spare 12-foot tie-down strap can be used to help secure a large watercraft. A frame made from anodized steel is strong enough to support up to 150 pounds.

• Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart

Powder coating has been added to the aluminum frame of this kayak transport on wheels to help it last longer. It can be folded down to 27 by 13 by 3 inches and carried inside the included mesh carry bag. The 10-inch tires will never go flat and work together with the frame to support boats weighing up to 150 pounds. Durable rubber pads allow the boat to rest on the cart without getting damaged.

• ABN Universal Kayak Carrier

Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and other types of watercraft can be hauled atop this kayak wheel cart. With its 200-pound weight capacity, this model features a high-strength anodized steel frame that weighs just 8 pounds and can be carried with little difficulty. The knobby 9.5-inch tires can be inflated easily and removed with the lynch pin. Being one of the most compactable carriers on the market, it can be folded down small enough to fit inside a large backpack.

• OxGord Universal Kayak Boat Canoe Cart Transportation Carrier

This carrier offers a terrific alternative to portaging and features a V-shaped cradle to support the hulls of different boats. Rolling the cart across sand, grass, dirt and other types of surfaces can be done with ease. Boats weighing up to 165 pounds will have no problem fitting on the carrier. When the carrier needs to be stored or transported inside a vehicle, it can be folded down to a small, easy-to-handle size.

• TMS Kayak Canoe Jon Boat Carrier

Foam bumpers are attached to the solid metal frame to give kayaks and other boats ample support. The arms of the V-shaped cradle are connected with a 13-inch nylon strap to keep the cradle from opening too far. The carrier also comes with a complimentary cellphone bag to help prevent damage to small electronics while boating.

• Seattle Sports Paddleboy Peanut Kayak Cart

Versatile enough to fit most kayaks and other small paddleboats, this floating wheeled kayak carrier features flat-free solid urethane wheels that are able to reduce vibration and ensure smoother movement. A maximum load capacity of 150 pounds makes this option a great choice for avid boaters. Its low-profile design makes it easy to fold down and store when not in use.

How to Choose A Kayak Cart

When shopping for a kayak cart, it is important to choose a model based on its:

• Wheel Size

Most kayak transport wheels from 9 to 10 inches, but it may be possible to find models that have smaller or larger wheels. Larger kayak wheels can often roll over uneven surfaces easier but could make a cart heavier and more difficult to maneuver.

• Weight Capacity

Weight capacities often range from 125 to 300 pounds. A higher weight capacity could mean a bigger cart that is bulkier to handle, and a cart with a lighter weight capacity will likely be more ideal for hauling smaller boats.

• Sit-in vs Sit-on-Top

Some kayak trolleys are made specifically for sit-in kayaks while others are made for sit-on-top boats. Choosing the wrong type of carrier could result in additional hassle and a less secure fit.

• Storage Ability

Kayaks that fold down to smaller sizes can usually be stored easier and take up less space.

• Frame Material

Many frames are made of aluminum or steel to hold the weight of boats more securely. Powder coating is also sometimes applied to the frame to keep it better protected. Buying a model with an anti-corrosion frame is also a good idea if it will be exposed to salt water frequently.

A reliable kayak carrier can eliminate the strain of having to carry a kayak by hand. The right carrier can also keep a boat safer when heading to and from the water.