I know the very thought of shopping for kayak racks probably doesn’t fill you with excitement. After all, it’s not exactly the most glamorous purchase you’ll ever make. But if you’re an avid kayaker, it’s an essential one. And when it comes to choosing the right kayak racks for your GMC Sierra, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. First, consider the size and weight of your kayaks. You’ll want to make sure the racks can accommodate them without putting too much strain on your vehicle. Second, think about how often you’ll be using the racks. If you only plan on hitting the water a few times a year, then you can probably get away with something less sturdy and expensive. But if you’re an everyday kayaker, then you’ll need something that can stand up to regular use. Finally, take into account your budget. Kayak racks can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, so it’s important to set a realistic price range before you start shopping. With these factors in mind, you should have no trouble finding the perfect kayak racks for your GMC Sierra.
Best 5 Kayak Racks for GMC Sierra
01. AA-Racks 2 Pair J-Bar Rack
Mounting the AA-Racks 2 Pair J-Bar Rack on your GMC Sierra kinda feel like finally solving one of them garage clutter issues. This thing ain’t plastic junk – it’s made from heavy-duty steel and feels stiff like them gym weight bars. You won’t be worrying too much when you hit 70 on highway with your kayak or even some long ol’ paddle boards strapped in. The foam padding? Not that cheapy stuff, actually holdin’ up okay after a few runs. And the way the mounting hardware clings tight to the crossbars? Solid grip, not jiggly like some racks you probably regretted before.
One weird bit though – fitting ’em the first time’s a hassle, like threading a needle with gloves on. Instructions? Meh, more like “figure it out yourself, bro.” But once it’s on your pickup, it sits snug, no shakey business. And them J-style arms got the shape right for nesting a couple of 10-foot kayaks like it’s made for ‘em. Could’ve used a quicker strap setup, tho. Still, for the price and what you get? Better than half them overpriced brands with the same claims.
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Strong steel construction, feels durable on rough drives
- ✅ Comes with padding to prevent kayak scratches
- ✅ Fits well on GMC Sierra with compatible crossbars
- ✅ Includes tie-down straps for secure hold
- ✅ Can haul 2 kayaks or canoes without much fuss
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Instructions barely helpful, setup’s not beginner friendly
- ❌ Bolts may need retightening after few weeks
- ❌ Strap length feels awkward for wider kayaks
- ❌ No lock feature, so theft protection is on you
- ❌ Won’t work well with naked roofs or curved bars
02. Codinter Kayak Roof Rack
If you got a GMC Sierra and tired of stuffing kayaks in weird angles, the Codinter Kayak Roof Rack actually makes stuff a lot simpler. You ain’t gonna need 10 straps and a prayer anymore. These J-bars fold down like lazy arms when not used, so you ain’t dealin’ with weird rooftop noise all week. Also, the heavy-duty steel tubing don’t rust quick like them budget ones—been coated nice, and the foam padding ain’t just for show either, it grips your kayak without leaving dents. Using it on trucks like GMC Sierra, the width and mounting spacing works out better than some others that sit awkward.
Now it ain’t perfect—you’ll figure that out when loading solo. That top lift angle ain’t for short folks. And those universal U-bolts? Might not hug every aftermarket crossbar like you’d want ‘em to. Still, for under $100, this rack been used on loads of pickups and SUVs and don’t fall apart like them folding racks from unknown brands with weird spellings.
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Folds flat when not hauling, cuts drag and wind noise
- ✅ Solid steel design with anti-rust coating and thick padding
- ✅ Works well with wider roofs like on GMC Sierra
- ✅ Comes with 2 sets, so good for dual kayaks
- ✅ Installation’s not bad if your bars ain’t weird-shaped
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Kinda tricky for one-person kayak loading
- ❌ U-bolts may not fit some custom crossbars snug
- ❌ Straps included feel kinda meh, better use your own
03. Taelakeni 2 Pairs Kayak Carrier Racks
The Taelakeni 2 Pairs Kayak Carrier Racks works fine if you’ve got a GMC Sierra sittin’ tall in your driveway. It fits square or aero crossbars with barely any fuss. The frame’s powder-coated steel don’t flake easy, plus the padding actually ain’t some cheap stuff—it grips okay and don’t chew up the kayak’s sides like some others do. You can mount two kayaks side-by-side, assuming you ain’t carrying one of them big fishing yaks. For Sierra owners, the clearance works fine ’cause of the height.
You ain’t gonna find it heavy, but it’s not feather either. Throwin’ the J-bar rack up ain’t tough, although those U-bolts can test patience if the bar’s wider than usual. You get two pairs, so that’s 4 cradles total—which most folks forget to mention. It’s got straps too, but yeah, keep a backup in the bed, just in case.
✅ Pros
- Fits well on GMC Sierra factory and aftermarket crossbars
- Carries 2 kayaks at once (4 racks included)
- Solid steel frame with anti-rust finish
- Soft foam padding don’t scratch your kayak
- Budget-friendly for multi-boat setups
❌ Cons
- Straps feel light-duty, not best for highway winds
- U-bolts can be tricky for oval or thicker bars
- No quick-fold feature for garage clearance
04. KUAT Class 2 Universal Fixed J-Style Kayak Rack
If you drivin’ a GMC Sierra and wanna haul your kayak without messin’ up the truck bed, the KUAT Class 2 Universal Fixed J-Style Kayak Rack might just got the edge. It ain’t bulky, and it ain’t gonna shake like them cheap racks once you hit 65 on the freeway. You don’t gotta fold it down—it stays fixed, solid as heck. Install it once, and it just sits there like it knows it belongs. Got that matte black powder coat finish that don’t chip off after a month, even if you live somewhere full of dust, salt, or both. Fits most crossbars too, so if your Sierra’s got aftermarket bars, chances are you good.
Now, it ain’t the fanciest rack in town, but what it do, it do well. Holds your boat firm without all them fiddly straps you get with universal kits. The padding—yep, that thick foam—isn’t just for show, protects your fishing kayak, ocean kayak, or even one of them 12-foot touring boats from scrapes. But yeah, you ain’t foldin’ it down, so maybe you get a little wind resistance. For the price though, folks been sayin’ it holds up better than Thule or Yakima in long runs.
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Steel build don’t rust easy and feel solid
- ✅ Universal fitment works with many aftermarket crossbars
- ✅ Holds heavier kayaks like fishing rigs without wobble
- ✅ No-fuss setup—bolts tight and stays put
- ✅ Foam padding reduces hull scratches, even on fiberglass boats
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Fixed position means it ain’t foldable for clearance
- ❌ You gotta buy tie-down straps separate
- ❌ Not the lightest rack if you plan on takin’ it off and on
- ❌ Wind noise might bother ya if you leave it on when not using.
05. Best Marine Folding Kayak Roof Rack
You got a GMC Sierra, big bed, beefy frame—but that ain’t always enough when you’re haulin’ a kayak. This Best Marine Folding Kayak Roof Rack saves your tail. Built solid, it don’t wiggle, even when you’re hittin’ rougher stretches. Fold it down flat when it ain’t needed? Yeah, it do that too. Straps come in the box, no last-minute runs to hardware shops. Folks been using it for SUPs, canoes, even surfboards—it grips ’em all just fine. Fits Sierra crossbars good, like it was made for it.
You probably ain’t tryna scratch up that glossy paint job on your roof. Luckily, this got padded contact points, so your kayak don’t grind up the rails. The J-style cradle lets you load from the side, so you don’t gotta toss it from 6 feet up. That’s handy, especially if your boat’s heavy or if you solo. Just don’t expect magic—if your kayak’s extra wide or bulky, strappin’ it down takes some fiddlin’.
Pros:
- ✅ Folds flat, fits low under garage doors
- ✅ Thick padding keeps your Sierra’s roof clean
- ✅ Works with SUP boards, surfboards, canoes
- ✅ Easy setup—no tools wrestlin’ needed
- ✅ Heavy-duty steel frame don’t flex
Cons:
- ❌ Mounting bolts might be short for thick crossbars
- ❌ Loading extra-wide kayaks can get a bit awkward
- ❌ Finish chips off over time if you ain’t careful storing it
How to Choose the Best GMC Sierra
Picking a GMC Sierra ain’t just about paint and price tag. Lot more’s going on under the hood and around the bed. Folks jump into buying trucks without even checking if the trim matches what they actually need. And if you gonna spend $40K+, it’s gotta last, not just look cool on weekends.
Know What You’re Haulin’ (Or Not)
If you ain’t towing nothing heavy, you don’t need the Duramax diesel engine. But if you’re planning to pull a camper or a loaded trailer? That 3.0L inline-6 diesel engine with 460 lb-ft torque might save your tail, specially uphill. For light chores, the 5.3L V8 works fine and don’t burn fuel like a drunk sailor.
Folks who just use it for city rides end up regretting getting the AT4 or Denali trims. You’ll pay extra for features you never touch. Pick a Sierra 1500 SLE or Elevation if you ain’t off-roading or towing all day.
Bed Length Actually Matters (No Joke)
You get options – 5’8”, 6’6” or 8’. Sounds small difference? It ain’t. The short bed can’t even fit a full sheet of plywood flat. So if you plan on carrying construction tools, kayaks, or dirt bikes, you better check that longer bed. And remember – longer bed usually means longer wheelbase, and that means tighter parking becomes a pain.
People overlook MultiPro Tailgate. That six-function tailgate ain’t just marketing fluff – if you’re loading gear or climbing into the bed regular, it helps like crazy. Not standard on all trims, so double-check.
Cab Size Ain’t Just About Seats
There’s Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab. You want space in the back for folks or gear? Crew Cab’s got full-sized doors and good legroom. Double Cab’s got smaller rear doors – good for pets, not adult humans over 5’10”. If you’re using it for work and parking in tight job sites? Regular Cab’s your bet.
Also worth knowin’ – cab size affects bed length in some combos. Can’t get long bed with Crew Cab in some trims. Weird, but that’s GMC for ya.
Trim Choices: Don’t Get Fooled By Chrome
Denali trim looks real fancy with the chrome grille, heads-up display, adaptive ride control, and premium leather. But you’ll pay loads more just for that shine. Unless you like paying luxury-SUV prices for a pickup, think twice. AT4 is more for the off-road types – got skid plates, 2-inch factory lift, Rancho shocks, and Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires. Great for mud, bad for gas mileage.
SLT is kinda that sweet middle ground – heated seats, decent stereo, still cheaper than Denali. SLE is good for fleets and no-nonsense buyers. Just skip base Pro trim unless your budget’s on strict lockdown.
Check the Payload & Towing Ratings (Always)
Even among trims, payload capacity and towing ratings vary. Some Sierras tow up to 13,200 lbs, others barely hit 8,800. Payload capacity – usually 1,500 to 2,200 lbs – also changes with drivetrain, cab, and engine combo. Don’t just believe the dealer talk – ask for the max tow package if you’re serious about haulin’.
Also don’t forget – adding aftermarket parts like roof racks, kayak carriers, or off-road tires can affect handling and fuel. Always good to calculate your gross weight after mods.
AWD vs 4WD – It Ain’t the Same
4WD with 2-speed transfer case is good if you drive through snow, mud, or sand. AWD isn’t offered on Sierras, but some folks confuse Auto 4WD mode with it. That “Auto” setting helps when the road switches between wet and dry, but it ain’t true AWD. So pick 4×4 if you live rural, otherwise 2WD is lighter and better on fuel.
If you’re adding roof tents, kayak racks, or gear on the bed rails – you might wanna skip the CarbonPro bed. It’s strong, sure, but not ideal for all aftermarket mounts.
Check Fuel Economy… But Don’t Trust It Fully
EPA says the diesel Sierra 1500 gets up to 24 MPG combined, while the 6.2L V8 goes down to 17-18 MPG. But real-world? You’ll likely get 2 MPG less. Load weight, tire size, lift kits – all mess with it. If you’re mostly doing highway runs, the diesel makes sense. If it’s stop-go in city traffic, gas engine’s simpler.
Extra Tech: Some Worth It, Some Just Flash
ProGrade Trailering System is actually helpful – it got camera views, trailer brake control, and hitch guidance. But Super Cruise hands-free driving? Only on Denali Ultimate trim. Most don’t need it unless you’re sitting in traffic on I-10 for 90 mins daily.
Heads-up display, 360° camera, rear camera mirror, and wireless CarPlay – useful if you drive long or with family. But don’t go broke adding what you won’t use. Instead, spend on spray-in bedliner, running boards, and maybe a tonneau cover – things you actually gonna use every day.
Final Thoughts? Nah, Just Don’t Get Duped
You gotta pick your GMC Sierra based on work, not Instagram likes. Think about load, cabin size, where you live, and what you really use it for. Shiny trims don’t tow better. And if it’s just for grocery runs? You probably don’t need a truck this big.
Choose smart, not loud. Truck gotta work for you – not the other way around.
Last modified: June 16, 2025
