Rating the Best Kayak Carts of 2023
ABN Universal Kayak Carrier
Seattle Sports Scupper Swift Kayak Cart
Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart
by Chris Riley Updated on February 16, 2023. In Kayak
It’s no secret that kayaking is an exhilarating outdoor activity that ushers in profound positivity of exercise, fun, and adventure rolled into one. However, the main setback with kayaks lies in their transportation. Moving a boat to and from the water shore feels like hours of gym activity.
Fortunately, here’s where the best kayak cart comes into play. It gets rid of the hassles that come with heavy lifting and safely transporting your kayak from your home or parking lot to the beach, river, or lake.
Kayak trolleys are the most ideal way to transport these heavy vessels without overexertion or injury. Moving a kayak from one place to another using a cart is hassle-free and time-efficient. You can rest easy knowing that it won’t damage your boat compared to dragging it to and from the waterfront.
In the end, there’s enough time to spend on the waters as opposed to wasting energy transporting the boat. Keeping that in mind, this guide explores the best kayak cart to purchase that’ll give you value for your money along with the tips and tricks for selecting the best option. Read on!
1. ABN Universal Kayak Carrier
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, then the ABN Universal Kayak Carrier is just what the doctor ordered. It eliminates the hassle of transporting items and pairs well with kayaks and other watercrafts. As one of the most affordable kayak dolly models, you’ll find 9.5-inch kayak wheels that are easy and quick to inflate. They usher in streamlined movement on different terrain.
When it comes to portability, you can fold down the ABN Carrier for enhanced transport and storage. Simply remove the tires with a lynchpin and conveniently tuck them away in a large backpack or the kayak as you’re out exploring the water.
For practicality, this boat carrier comes with a 12-foot tie-down strap that safely holds your kayak, floating mat, paddleboard, or paddles, in place. It has a spring-loaded kickstand that delivers easy and fast loading.
With oversized foam pads, users can safeguard their kayaks against dents and scratches when in use. Designed with durability in mind, this kayak dolly is built from heavy-duty anodized steel that guarantees longevity while maintaining a carrying weight at 8 pounds. Nonetheless, it has a 200-pound weight capacity.
Pros
- Easy to load and unload the boat
- Ensures longevity
- Inexpensive
- Allows smooth movement on rough surfaces
- Easy to assemble and dismantle
- Built from heavy-duty anodized steel
Cons
- Bike pump sold separately
- Kayak wheels don’t lock in place
2. LISM Kayak Dolly
With a sturdy double-deg kickstand and strong aluminum frame, the LISM Kayak Dolly that’s built from anodized steel has a maximum weight capacity of 165 pounds. It’s this sturdy construction that ascertains longevity.
The big and solid kayak wheels with a depth of 10 inches and a width of 3 inches are built from heavy-duty PU. It’s not only a breeze to inflate the wheels, but they also roll smoothly on rough surfaces such as wooded areas and sand gravel.
You can fold or load the LISM Kayak Dolly in a jiffy without using any tools, courtesy of the spring-loaded kickstand. Several fulcrums guarantee enhanced load-bearing capability. And you’ll stumble upon foam bumper pads on each arm that keep your boat safe from scratches, bumpers, or dents on the feet. In turn, this prevents your vessel from wearing off easily.
You can assemble and dismantle the Dolly firmly with stainless steel fasteners. The chrome lynchpin also allows you to remove and attach the tires with ease. With a 12-foot tie-down strap, you can firmly secure your kayak.
Pros
- Can hold up to 165 lbs
- Spring kickstand for easy loading
- Rolls smoothly on rough surfaces
- Foam bumper pads to protect your boat
- Compact and easy to store
- Hassle-free transportation
- Tires are easy to deflate and inflate
Cons
- Wheels have a strong chemical smell
3. Bonnlo Kayak Cart
With a generous carrying capacity of 165 pounds, transporting your boat on the Bonnlo Kayak Cart is a walk in the park. It has foam bumpers and a solid aluminum frame that protects the hull of your boat.
The full, large PU kayak wheels with measurements of 10 inches X 3 inches roll smoothly across gravel and sand. The kayak dolly is a breeze to assemble and disassemble with no tools needed. Moreover, this adds a layer of convenience for transport and storage.
The support stand comes with a 12-inch spring-loaded stand that keeps the kayak dolly cart propped up onshore for fast and easy loading from the water. It also has ratchet straps measuring 7.75 inches, thus ensuring you can safely hold your boat while transporting and storing the cart without any hassle.
Pros
- Generous carrying capacity
- Kayak wheels roll smoothly
- Spring-loaded stand for enhanced support
- Pocket-friendly
- Handy accessories for better storage and transport
- Hassle-free assembly and disassembly
Cons
- Fragile
- Doesn’t come with a manual
4. Bonnlo Scupper Kayak Cart
Are you on the quest for a product that was built with longevity in mind? Then the Bonnlo Scupper Kayak Cart wraps up your search. It has solid PU kayak wheels measuring 10 inches (depth) and 3 inches (width) that roll seamlessly on the sand and other types of gravel.
Moreover, it has an aluminum frame coupled with a rubber cushion that safeguards your boat against abrasion. The distance between the two poles can be adjusted anywhere between 4.5 and 26 inches.
The plastic connector, along with the aluminum pipe (20mm X 2mm), delivers a maximum carrying capacity of 165 pounds. If you own a sit-on-top kayak, you’re in luck because the cart’s 360-degree pluck design is a snug fit for boats with scupper holes of any width and at least 0.75 inches in diameter.
Pros
- Adjustable width
- Solid wheels that roll smoothly
- Perfect for sit-on-top kayaks
- Affordable
- Constricted from durable and sturdy material
- Large iron galvanizing ring included
Cons
- Nuts break easily if mishandled
- Strong plastic smell
5. Seattle Sports Scupper Swift Kayak Cart
As a budget-friendly option, the Seattle Sports Scupper provides excellent support to your kayak. What’s even better is that it doesn’t need straps. Instead, you can mount your boat on the cart in a jiffy, after which it rests on rubber pieces that sit at the base of the posts.
The rubber discs are broader than the holes and provide your kayak with unmatched stability. The sit-on-top Seattle Sports Swift Kayak Cart has an adjustable axle that allows you to alter its width for a snug fit in your boat’s scupper holes.
Remember, while the sturdy frame supports your kayak, don’t overload it. The large and solid wheels allow you to pull this cart across any surface.
Pros
- Maximum load capacity of 150 pounds
- Easily slid your boat on and off the cart
- Airless tires and anodized frame to prevent flats
- Adjustable width to fit boats of different sizes
- Easily attached
- Rubber connectors
- Sturdy
Cons
- Rubberized finish wears off faster than other models
6. Wheeleez Kayak Beach Cart
With overly large soft rubber kayak wheels, the Wheeleez Beach Cart rolls smoothly on the sand and other surfaces. Furthermore, the wheels are soft enough to make sure you don’t get stuck as you make your way down to the waterfront. Carrying your kayaking essentials is also a breeze with the sturdy frame.
The Wheeleez Beach Cart has a V-shaped cradle that’s layered with foam to safeguard your boat’s hull against dents and scratches. It also has a long tie-down strap that firmly holds your kayak in place. With a 6-month warranty, users get the much-needed peace of mind upon purchasing this kayak dolly.
Pros
- Large wheels for enhanced maneuverability
- Perfect for the sand
- Weight limit of 165 pounds
- Comes with a 6-month warranty
- Durable aluminum frame
Cons
- Pricier than other models
7. Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart
If you’re searching for reliability, then the Suspenz Smart Airless DLX is right up your alley. With a powder-layered aluminum frame, this cart has unrivaled resistance to corrosion and light impact. Furthermore, its V-shaped design with rubber padding as a substitute for the foam to prevent slipping and firmly keep your kayak in place.
It also protects the hull. Rubber paddling has superior durability compared to foam. The wheels on this universal kayak dolly are designed from rubber for smoother and more stable rides compared to plastic.
The Suspenz Smart Airless DLX comes with buckled straps for attaching your boat and gear securely. For portability, it can be easily folded, and the wheels are removable.
Pros
- Comes with a mesh bag
- Corrosion-resistant aluminum frame
- Rubber padding
- Removable wheels
- Dual-arm kickstand
- Weight capacity of up to 150 pounds
Cons
- Gets stuck in heavy grass
- Not compatible with tandem kayaks
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Kayak Cart
Granted, the purpose of a kayak dolly/kayak cart is incredibly straightforward. But there are a few categories that you can attach and position your kayak differently. In turn, you may gravitate to one over another. Furthermore, not all carts have the same build quality. With that being said, let’s explore some important buying factors to consider that will permit an informed decision.
1. Attachment Method
There are three ways in which your boat can be attached to a kayak cart.
- End Cart: It enhances the maneuverability of your boat. End carts come in handy and contain a hook to attach to the kayak to firmly hold it in place. But remember, they can’t be adjusted. So, ensure that your kayak is a snug fit through the cart’s hole. Moreover, given that they’re positioned at the end, an end cart can only bear a small amount of weight, which leaves most of the heavy lifting to your hands.
- Scupper Holes: Some kayaks have these for then excess water that seeps in to escape. Kayak carts with scupper holes use them for attachment, which is a lifesaver. Bear in mind that the diameter and position of the holes differ from one vessel to another. Therefore, your cart must be adjustable for a perfect fit. Alternatively, you’ll need to measure beforehand.
- Cradle: Synonymous with a platform cart, you strap it to your kayak. For uniform weight distribution, which eliminates the strain from your arms. Upon putting your vessel in the desired position, use the straps to bond everything in place. In doing so, ensure your kayak cannot move on the cart.
2. Wheels
The main purpose behind getting a kayak cart is to transport your vessel to and from the shore easily. So, selecting a cart with flimsy wheels negates the purpose. The major types of wheels are inflatable, plastic, and rubber.
While the plastic counterparts are pocket-friendly, there’s a downside. They’ll get the job done on flat surfaces such as tarmac. However, when it comes to sand and uneven terrain, they get stuck, which can leave you in frustration.
Therefore, unless you’ll always transport your kayak on a flat road, it’s advisable to select a better option such as inflatable tires. They provide increased stability on uneven terrain.
If you purchase a model that has broad tires, you can roll on the sand without any qualms. Some carts have puncture-resistant kayak wheels, which are your best bet. They are permanently inflated with polyurethane or built from rubber.
3. The Material of the Frame
It’s an essential checkpoint when selecting the best kayak cart. After all, you want a kayak dolly that’s designed with durability in mind, which is where the material comes into play. You can take your pick from composite, stainless steel, aluminum, and plastic.
These materials have unmatched resistance to corrosion, which is essential because the cart will frequently get wet. When it comes to the materials, plastic is susceptible to breaking and can’t withstand tough handling unless it’s uniquely constructed and reinforced.
Contrarily, steel is durable and sturdy but heavy. Therefore, aluminum is your best bet. While it’s durable and sturdy, it’s pleasantly lightweight, which is a plus if you intend to carry the cart in your vessel.
4. Types of Straps
As mentioned earlier, a kayak must be strapped to a cart. Granted, some have straps that are more adequate to tie down the kayak. But, if a kayak dolly doesn’t come with straps, quick and simple straps will get the job done, more so, if the vessel isn’t overly heavy. Ratchet straps are the best option because they tightly bind everything.
5. Versatility
Keep your eyes peeled for a kayak dolly that’s not only foldable but also easily adjustable. A multitude of carts ushers in the possibility of altering the width to permit the mounting of various vessels.
It’s the perfect solution for those that will be using the cart for kayaks of varying sizes. Furthermore, it comes in handy if the cart can be disassembled for easier storage on your kayaking adventures.
6. Weight
The weight of a kayak cart is an essential factor to consider. Tandem kayaks, for instance, weigh more. Moreover, you should count the gear you’ll bring along for the ride. For a kayak dolly to have the uncanny ability to transport two kayaks at a go, it must have unmatched endurance without breaking. So, pick a model that has a weight capacity that falls anywhere between 100 and 300 pounds.
7. Accessories
Pick a kayak cart that comes with a boatload of accessories ranging from spring-loaded kickstands to overly long straps. Spring kickstands are essential as you load the boat as it requires minimal lifting while maintaining stability.
The additional straps aid in tying down life jackets and paddles with the boat, thus ushering in extra perks for users. Keep your eyes peeled for carts that come with bumper pads. They are a beast at keeping your kayak safe and protecting from any damage that may arise from impact.
8. Width
Kayaks fall into three main categories.
- Recreational and Sit-on-top Kayaks: These typically have a width of 25 to 30 inches.
- Fishing or Hunting Kayaks: Their width usually exceeds 30 inches.
- Sea Kayaks: They’re the narrowest, with a width that falls anywhere between 20 and 25 inches.
Each kayak type varies in width, depending on the stability required for the activity they’re designed for. So, the kayak dolly you opt for must be sufficiently wide to meet your vessel’s needs.
To Wrap Up
Now that you know the best kayak carts to buy and the essential factors to consider, the ball is now in your court. After all, knowledge is power! It’ll make your life considerably easier when it comes to transporting your vessel from one place to another.
Upon making your purchase, you can say goodbye to the struggles of struggling to transport your boat. So, make your order today, and your future self will thank you!
Categories: Kayak
