Transporting a kayak is not a child’s play, so you need to know how to use a kayak dolly to make it easier.
Think of all the steps you need to take, from carrying your kayak from your yard to the car, lifting your kayak onto a vehicle, unloading it with the gear, and having to haul them to the water, you will realize you need a kayak dolly.
More than this realization, this article has been prepared to guide you on how to use a kayak dolly. This article will also help you know how a kayak dolly works, the best options, and alternatives to a kayak dolly.
Table of Contents
How to Use a Kayak Dolly
To use a kayak dolly, open the kayak and position the dolly wheels slightly sideways rather than parallel to the kayak.
Then, lift the kayak’s back end and place it on top. Finally, move the kayak until it is in the ideal position with the dolly wheels.
Find the ideal balance by securing the kayak with a strap, checking everything, and moving.
The cart should ideally be positioned close to where your boat is. Be sure the cart is nearby if you would lift the kayak off a car (but not so close it gets in the way of lifting the boat off).
Lift the boat up and onto the kayak cart from the car (or the ground). To attach the cart to the kayak, use the attachment hardware provided by the manufacturer.
Then you lift and pull the boat in the direction you’re going by either holding onto the kayak cart handle or the bow handle.
How Does a Kayak Dolly Work?
To move your kayak more efficiently from point A to point B while on dry land is the primary justification for using a dolly.
Additionally, you can fill your kayak’s cockpit with all your gear and tow it in one trip by pulling it behind a dolly.
Many, but not all, paddlers roll their kayak and its contents into the water using their dolly. For instance, moving a kayak or canoe loaded with a week’s worth of food and camping supplies can be challenging.
The need to lift a heavy kayak is eliminated by rolling it into the water and then taking out the dolly.
It functions with a reasonably straightforward design consisting of a frame, two wheels fastened to an axle, and a device (similar to straps) to secure the kayak during transport.
You can transport your kayak to and from the water easily while moving it over various terrains as smoothly as possible.
You can load your kayak with the extra gear that would otherwise require a second trip with the help of the specially designed kayak dolly.
Best Kayak Dolly Options
When it comes to ease, kayak dollies are crucial. Making a wise choice for your kayak dolly is more critical. So, we have a good selection of options below:
A dolly is the best option for moving larger, heavier models like Pro Anglers and Islands or kayaks that are fully loaded with gear. There are two designs of the dolly. Pro Anglers, the Outback, and Oasis are just a few of the Hobie Kayak models that the universal model will fit.
The ideal, fully adjustable hand dolly is made of aluminum. This dolly can easily transport numerous small boats, canoes, and kayaks up to 350 pounds, thanks to its wide air-filled tires. The length can be altered between 8’6 and “with no tools, up to 14′. The 3 “Wide strap is entirely adjustable for virtually any boat.
Our smallest and most basic dolly is made of lightweight aluminum. One person can carry and launch a small boat, canoe, or kayak weighing up to 300 pounds. This small dolly glides over uneven surfaces to the water with two tie-down points, two padded bunks, and wide air-filled tires.
Universal dolly with tandem axles. The dolly can be adjusted completely. With no tools, the length adjusts from 8’6″ to 13′. Super size tires measuring 18″ x 8.5″ are included as standard. The dolly is intended for big sail and power boats as well as inflatables.
The best aluminum hand dolly for lightness! This dolly can easily transport numerous small boats, canoes, and kayaks up to 300 pounds, thanks to its wide air-filled tires. This dolly is completely adjustable thanks to our “T” bolt construction, which also makes storage simple.
Alternatives to a Kayak Dolly
Other tools can be used, such as kayak trolleys and kayak carts, in addition to or instead of a kayak dolly.
Trolleys
Trolleys are typically made of an aluminum or plastic frame attached to two wheels, which supports the hull of your kayak.
The C-Tug is a common style of kayak trolley. These carts typically have platforms attached to them with 7- to 10-inch wheels that fit snugly against the bottom of your kayak and are secured by a strap around the body.
They work well on rocky or sandy terrain. They take the majority of the weight because they are secured to the center of your boat, making it simple to move it around.
Below are some options suggested for you:
- All-Terrain Super Duty Cart
- KC7
- KC10
- KC11
- Heavy Kayak Cart
- Solid Wheel Cart
- WideTrak ATB Large Kayak/Canoe Cart
Kayak Carts
While you could paddle a kayak or a canoe with a C-Tug, scupper carts are designed for kayaks and are only compatible with scuppers-equipped boats.
Sit-on-top kayaks typically have scupper holes in the deck to allow for water drainage.
Two arms on kayak scupper carts slide into these openings from the bottom. If you have scuppers on your boat, this is an excellent choice.
Here are a few recommendations for you:
FAQs
How do you attach a dolly to a kayak?
To do this, you will need a cart. The first step is to lift the kayak by the stern and gently place it on the cart until it balances.
After this, get a strap and tie it around the wheeled leg of the cart to attach the cart firmly to the kayak. Do this on both sides.
How does a canoe dolly work?
Canoe dollies are used to move a canoe across considerable distances. Canoes are gently balanced on them and strapped, so they do not fall off.
How does a kayak roller work?
A kayak roller makes it easy for you to easily slide your kayak. It prevents unnecessary lifting of your kayak.
Do it yourself, dolly kayak?
Constructing a kayak dolly can be done by oneself instead of purchasing a ready-made cart.
How do you make a cheap kayak trolley?
A cheap kayak trolley can be made using PVC pipes, rubber wheels, glue, and a bungee cord.
How do you make a rolling cart for a kayak?
To make a rolling cart, you need ABS plastic tubes, removable yokes, and soft foam insulations.
The steps include:
– Measure the hull of the kayak
– Cut the ABS tubes to shape
– Construct the wheel
– Attach the components
Final Sentences
Your kayaking trip gets easier and faster with a kayak dolly at hand. No aches, stress, and time get saved when you choose to transport your kayak via a kayak dolly. We have given you a good list of options, so get started!