10 Best Kayak Covers To Buy In 2024
Have you ever asked why you’ve changed your kayak severally in the past years and yet your pals who you went shopping together at the same time and for the same product still paddle their kayaks to date?
Here is the secret you wish you’d known before now; many kayakers have mastered the art of proper storage!
There are several ways to own kayaks that would last a lifetime aside from buying promising products from well-known brands. While that is of utmost importance to most paddlers, proper storage of your watercraft when not in use is not in any way less important.
You’ll agree that it is not always possible to paddle all year round without getting to a time when you have to put your boats away until the waters come calling on you again.
While you enjoy the best weather that supports kayaking, you should also deem it fit to protect your investment against elements like; water, dust, molds, critters and sunlight by using the appropriate kayak cover.
Whether you store it outside or inside, covering your kayak guarantees that it is not only ready for the next season’s adventures but for subsequent years to come. Here is a list of the best kayak covers on the market that will save your investment.
1. iCOVER 13ft Kayak Cover
The iCOVER Kayak Cover gives your kayak or boat complete coverage and exceptional protection when it comes to long-term storage. Taking all your worries away and ensure that vessels are kept safe from rain, snow, UV, spiders, and many more.
It comes in various sizes ranging from 10ft to 16ft long. However, the size of your boat determines the size of the cover you should get. For kayaks or boats that are 10ft long with widths up to 27 inches, the iCOVER 10ft kayak cover would suit perfectly.
Also, the iCOVER 13ft kayak cover is made for kayaks, boats or canoes that are 13ft long and with beam widths up to 30 inches while the iCOVER 16ft kayak cover (the biggest size) suits boats that are 16ft long and have up to 36 beam width.
This cover is made from a durable material of 300D marine grade polyester, premium fabric for all-weather protection. It is waterproof, tear-resistant, UV resistant and can be easily cleaned.
It’s a perfect design with reinforced stitches at all seams. It comes with sturdy handles sewn on both ends of the stern and bow with all stress points having bar tacks.
Also features a zipper that is almost halfway long, allowing you to carefully slide in your kayak and zip close it for complete coverage and protection.
Speaking of the full-cut, it makes extra room for essentials such as paddles, life jackets and other paddling accessories. The complete package includes 1 kayak cover and 1 storage bag.
Key Features:
- Heavy-duty Fabric: constructed with premium 600/300 Denier PU coated marine grade polyester, a virtually waterproof fabric, UV resistant, tear-resistant and pretty easy to clean.
- Reinforced With Sewing Stitches: for additional durability, all seams are sewn with reinforced stitches.
- A Zipper: the zipper is halfway long, allowing full coverage and unbiased protection from the elements. It prevents your kayak from dust, rain, snow, spiders and any other thing that could shorten its lifetime.
- Sturdy and Convenient Strap Handle: located at each end of the cover is a sewn strap handle which makes carrying much easier.
- Storage Bag: the included convenient storage bag helps to keep the cover, saves space when it is not in use and is helpful for long-term storage.
Technical Specs
- Bag-style kayak cover
- 300D Marine Grade Polyester
- Fits 13ft long kayaks up to 30″ wide
- Available in three different sizes
- 3.51 pounds
Pros:
- Made of durable 300D marine grade polyester
- Great UV protection, waterproof and tear-resistant cover
- Conveniently fits most kayaks and canoes
- The full-cut makes for easy slide of other necessary paddling and fishing accessories
- Covers kayak completely from head to toe
Cons:
- Has a zipper which makes it vulnerable to water seeping through.
2. Explore Land Universal Kayak Cockpit Cover
The Explore Land Universal Kayak Cockpit Cover is designed for paddlers who are on a budget but want a kayak cover that is perfect for off-season indoor and outdoor storage. If money is your problem, this heavy-duty cover can be a suitable option to go for.
It’s a Universal Kayak Cockpit Drape Waterproof Seal Cover, protecting the cockpit from all weather and giving full coverage against rain, wind, dust, fog, dirt, and scratch hence, keep your ‘yak looking like new.
It is made from premium durable 600D marine grade fabrics with waterproof undercoating. An excellent fit for SUPs with foam foot pads, seats on sit-on-top kayaks and particularly for sit-in kayaks that are with/without a distinct rim.
The included quick-release hooks on the cover are attached to deck lines in such a way that the drape is prevented from sliding.
Also, transporting kayaks from place to place is made possible and even safer with the help of the adjustable bungee cord that hooks the D-ring which of course, is made to wrap around the kayak bottom such that it attaches to the opposite one.
Key Features:
- Waterproof Material: made with durable 600-denier marine polyester with water repellant undercoating that keeps moisture, critters and debris away from the cockpit
- Quick-Release Hook: the hatch is protected against rain, dust and every other thing that could damage the cockpit. The adjustable bungee cords and built-in hooks hold firmly to achieve a snug fit. Connecting the hooks on the cover to deck lines also helps to hold the drape in place.
- Windproof Tighten System: the windproof tighten system protects the kayak against the wind while transporting.
Technical Specs
- Cockpit drape cover
- 600-Denier Marine Grade Polyester construction
- Fits regular outer cockpits up to 40″ length and 23” width
- Available in two different sizes (regular and larger)
- 39 Pounds
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Made from durable waterproof material
- The absence of zip makes the kayak cover less vulnerable to water seeping through
- Adaptable bungee cords give a snug fit
Cons:
- Fabrics tend to tear easily when frequently used for transportation
- Limited available sizes
3. Best Marine 600D Kayak Cover
The Best Marine 600D Kayak Cover is an extra thick waterproof cockpit cover, ideal for both indoor and outdoor storage, designed to protect cockpits from rain, sun, snow, dust and bugs.
However, extreme heat and sun can reduce the cover’s lifespan when stored outside for a longer period. The good news is that, it is suitable for kayakers who place a preference on a clean, low-maintenance kayak.
The cover comes in a simple but effective shower cap style, providing multiple adjustment straps that allow you to wrap up the cover tightly around your kayak to make sure that water drains effectively.
The cover is particularly great when it comes to transporting kayaks, due to its tightness, noise from flapping caused by blowing wind is hereby prevented. Plus, the drawstring bungee with the wrap-around buckles allows you to create a perfect custom fit for your kayak or canoe.
The Best Marine 600D Kayak Cover comes in three universal sizes, this eliminates the hassle and challenge that comes with finding the perfect size cover for any kayak. All you are required to do is to measure the length of your kayak and pick the perfect size cover.
Key Features:
- Easy to Adjust Straps and Bungee Drawstrings: the 4 adjustment straps are used to wrap up kayaks and to hold the cover in place to ensure that water drains efficiently and prevent noise when transporting. With the drawstring bungee and straps, paddlers can customize to fit.
- Upgraded Material: the old 210D polyester covers were scrapped, tripled and redesigned to deliver durable waterproof 600D covers. It is designed ideally for peak season protection and off-season storage and is well built for long-lasting usage.
- Safety From Damaging Weather: the cover keeps your kayak safe from unpalatable elements like the sun, snow, rain and other harsh weather that could enhance tear and deterioration. Note that by allowing water to pool for long periods, water will eventually seep through. In such a case, a boat cover support pole could be adopted to allow water to run off.
Technical Specs
- Shower cap style cover
- 600-Denier oxford polyester construction
- Fits 9ft-15ft Kayaks
- Available in four different sizes
- 4 pounds
Pros:
- Less expensive
- Offers multiple adjustment straps
- Adjustable bungee drawstrings make for great transport
- Thick material
Cons:
- Not usually the easiest cover to fit any kayak
- Does not cover the kayak completely
4. Dulcii Universal Camouflage Kayak Canoe Boat Cover
If you are looking for a cover that works perfectly with a wide range of kayaks, the Dulcii Universal Cover is one of your sure bets.
It keeps your kayaks, paddle board and canoe from off-season storage damage. It is waterproof and also functions as a sunblock cover.
It protects kayaks from dust, dirt, storm, leaves and UV. However, extra coverage is required to get complete waterproof storage. The lightweight cover keeps your investment dry when stored and blocks up to 99% of ultraviolet rays.
It is made from durable Oxford polyester. It comes with an elastic strap and three buckle straps for security. The included storage bag ensures that the neatly folded cover is safe when it is not in use.
Key Features:
- Security Buckle Straps: the three buckle straps hold the kayak or canoe in place by ensuring that they don’t collapse because of rain accumulated on the top or blown away by a storm, it is rather kept secure and stable.
- Adjustable Elastic Drawstring: the elastic strap allows the cover to snug fit onto the kayak and makes the cover go on and off easily.
- A Storage Bag: the storage bag keeps the kayak cover safely when it is not in use.
- Multi-Function: the cover functions as waterproof, snow protection, anti-dust and UV repellant.
Technical Specs:
- Shower-cap-style kayak/canoe boat cover
- Durable Oxford Polyester
- Fits 9.8-11.5ft long kayaks
- Available in six different sizes
- 1.37 pounds
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Durable and lightweight
- Available in a wide range of sizes
Cons:
- Will eventually sag
- May require additional protection to attain full waterproof covering
5. Kohree Kayak Cover/Canoe Storage Dust Cover
If you would like to get the best protection for your medium-sized kayaks then, you can trust Kohree Kayak Cover for all weather protection. The cover is constructed for wide usage, protecting your kayaks, canoes, paddle boards and fishing boat from damaging UV rays, dust, rain, critters and other unfavorable weather.
It offers long-term storage solutions for vessels when they are not in use. This waterproof and dust-repellant cover also makes extra room to store and keep a few paddling equipment and fishing accessories.
The manufacturer went the extra mile by constructing the cover with premium, durable polyester Oxford material, coated with silver to enhance waterproof performance and UV resistance.
What’s more, the design uses stretchy drawstrings and roll clip closure to hold onto kayaks and canoes while the two provided straps offer additional security.
Key Features:
- Easy and Convenient: the elastic drawstring ensures a better fit and makes for easy on/off.
- Two Straps: the two built-in straps design tightens the cover of the kayak, avoids collapsing due to rain gathering and prevents it from being blown away by a storm.
- Silver coating: the silver coating protects vessels from all outdoor elements, reflects Ultraviolet rays from the sun and repels water and dust.
- Protective Material: made of durable, premium polyester Oxford fabrics
- Wide Usage: ideal for kayaks, paddle boards, canoes and fishing boats
Technical Specs
- Shower-cap style cover
- Polyester Oxford
- Fits medium sized kayak
- Available in two different sizes
- 1.87 pounds
Pros:
- High-quality material, minimizing the tendency for tears and rips
- Easy and convenient on/off
- Waterproof and UV protection
- Elastic drawstring and straps improve security
Cons:
- Not suitable for all kayak and canoe sizes
6. Perception TrueFit Kayak Cockpit Cover
It is not an overstatement that anything from Perception turns out to be top-notch. Perception always looks out for the best of your precious kayak. The manufacturer understands kayakers better because they breathe ‘yak too.
Perception Truefit Kayak Cockpit Cover is not an exception in the family. It is designed to give extra protection to Perception’s kayaks. This is not in any way a deal breaker as it also accommodates other brands.
And to crown it all, it comes in various sizes. All you need to do is to check for the sizing details and get the perfect fit for your watercraft. The beauty of this cockpit cover is seen in its unique design.
It is constructed from durable Urethane-coated nylon oxford, keeping water, dust, bugs and other unwanted critters away from kayaks and canoe cockpits. The cherry on top of the cake is its compatibility with many kayak brands.
The Perception Truefit Kayak Cockpit Cover is suitable for sit-inside kayaks. It has sticky edging that enables it to grip the cockpit tightly and securely. Also comes with a rear bungee rand that can be tightened for a snug fit and easy removal.
Key Features:
- Sticky Edging: the sticky edging forms a strong grip by holding the cockpit rim tightly, and also enhances durability.
- Bungee Rand: the built-in bungee rand offers easy installation and effortless removal.
- Compatibility: the kayak cockpit cover is compatible with Perception’s kayak as well as every other kayak model.
Technical Specs
- Kayak cockpit cover
- Urethane-coated nylon oxford
- Fits kayak cockpits with lengths up to 34-36 and widths up 18-20 inches
- Available in five different sizes
- 0.52 Pounds
Pros:
- Comes in various sizes to match many kayak cockpits
- The sticky edging and rear bungee rand offer extra security
- Durable material
- Snug to fit onto kayak cockpits
Cons:
- Not transportable on car top
7. Seals Kayak Cockpit Drape Cover
Getting a suitable storage cover for kayaks with a wide cockpit opening might be a whole lot of work when shopping for one.
The Seals Cockpit Drape Cover is designed to take care of the troubles that come with searching for kayak covers for large and oversized cockpits from the most popular brands.
The drape does a great job with home-built kayaks, skin-on-frame and inflatables. It is designed to cover the deck pads of SUPs and as well a great covering for seat wells of sit-on-top kayaks.
The Cockpit Drape Cover fits virtually all cockpits with widths up to 26″. It is made from medium-weight coated nylon pack cloth material.
The fabric is not just durable but also waterproof. It keeps your kayak dry for off-season storage and protects your hard-to-cockpit rims from dust, bugs, and dirt.
It has a front tether hook that helps to keep the cover forward on the vessel and the adjustable bungee cords secure and keep the cover in place by wrapping itself around the hull of the kayak. And for extra security, it features a strap with a clip attachment.
Key Features:
- Universal Fit: works perfectly for rims that have no precise sizing. Ideal for sit-inside kayaks that have no pronounced cockpit rims or hard-to-fit cockpits.
- Adjustable Bungee Cords: the bungee cords wrap themselves around the hull of kayaks and as the name implies, they ‘seal’ out the elements to prevent harm from coming to your investment.
- Durable Fabric: constructed with medium-weight packcloth fabric with nylon coating that protects against UV and repels water easily.
Technical Specs:
- Kayak cockpit cover
- Medium-weight packcloth fabrics with nylon coating
- Fits Cockpits up to 26” wide and 5.2ft long
- Universal fit
- Available in three different sizes
- 0.5 pound
Pros:
- Suitable for a wide variety of kayak brands
- Came as a solution to hard-to-fit cockpit rims
- Applicable for sit-on-top kayaks deck pads of SUPs
Cons:
- Only covers a smaller portion of the entire kayak
- Not suitable for car-top transportation.
8. Classic Accessories StormPro Heavy-Duty Kayak/Canoe Cover
Nothing feels good like spending less to acquire an incredible protective, high-quality kayak/canoe cover. Classic Accessories has designed the StormPro Heavy-Duty Kayak/Canoe Cover to support your adventure and lifestyle all the way.
It is easy to use, pleases the eyes and is built to protect your kayaks against damage whenever you take a break from paddling.
StormPro Heavy-Duty Kayak/Canoe Cover is made from a durable polyester fabric, protecting your precious kayak from gross weather and is great for long-term storage. This heavy-duty cover is PVC free and backed by a five years warranty.
The StormPro cover is waterproof and resistant to ultraviolet rays. It is incredibly resilient even when exposed to prolonged sun. There is no need to worry about stretching or any form of shrinkage since it does not contain PVC.
It gives full coverage to your vessels, completely covering kayaks, canoes or boats from head to toe. What’s more, accessories such as life vests, paddles and other fishing accessories can also go into it.
You can achieve maximum resistance by ensuring that a kayak with the StormPro cover is stored upside down or on its side to prevent water from entering through the zipper.
Key Features:
- Classic Fabric: the high-strength polyester makes for durability, water resistance and UV protection.
- Effortless Opening/Easy Access: the dual zipper opening provides easy opening and quick access to kayaks.
- Full Cut: the full-cut silhouette feature offers additional space for paddles, Life jackets and other accessories.
- Helpful Handles: the handles are positioned strategically for easy installation and carrying.
Technical Specs:
- Bag-style kayak cover
- 600D polyester
- Fits 12′-16′ long kayaks with widths up to 40″ wide
- Available in two different sizes
- 7.4 Pounds
Pros:
- Ideal for kayaks and canoes
- Classic, durable material
- All weather protection, from mildew resistance, water repellent to UV protection
- Does not stretch beyond the limit nor shrink when exposed to the sun
- Covers your vessels completely
Cons:
- Not designed for rooftop transportation
- Water seeps through the zip when not properly positioned as directed.
9. VULKIN Kayak Cover and Carrier
The Vulkin Kayak Cover is designed such that it doubles as a carrier. While it protects your kayak for off-season storage it also enables easy transport of yaks. This innovative and revolutionary design integrates a basic cover concept with a carry sling to create a unique model.
The cover is made of 420D polyester coated in a waterproof and repels ultraviolet sunlight. A sling is attached to the cover, this sling has loops and closes with 2 inches of industrial buckles.
The loops are carefully positioned because of your oar so that the oar can serve as a support handle that relieves you of some of the weight from your shoulder anytime you are carrying the kayak.
You can adjust the shoulder strap to fit and as well detach it from the cover whenever you like. The strap is well padded with thick foam, giving maximum comfort and allowing for convenient carrying from one paddling spot to another.
This cover is a great option for kayaks that are up to 7-12 ft long, and it is necessary to add that the oar loops are universal, meaning that it is one-size-fits-all. It is compatible with almost all kayak paddles or oars.
Key Features:
- High Quality: a premium quality indoor and outdoor cover made for you to extend kayak life by protecting it from snow, sun, dust and rain. Made of durable material preventing tears and ripping off.
- Removable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap: attached to the cover is a lightweight strap padded with foam to give ultimate comfort and reduce muscle fatigue.
- Innovative and Revolutionary Design: the unique design doubles as a kayak cover and a carrier. Not a common design. The sling alone aids lifting and can be hung when not in use.
- Industrial Strength Buckles: the 2 inches strength buckle prevents kayaks from sliding out of place, securing loads alongside the scratch-free grip pad and the VULKIN red double stitching.
- Universal Fit and Universal Oars: the cover is ideal for kayaks with lengths up to 7-12 ft. The universal oar loops are one-size fits all paddles or oars.
Technical Specs:
- Shower-cap-style kayak cover/carrier
- 420D Premium polyester construction with PE foam padding
- Fits 7-12 ft’ long kayaks
- Available in one size only
- 2.5 Pounds
Pros:
- Comes with a comfortable padded shoulder strap for convenient carrying of the kayak
- Unique design
- Water resistance and UV protected
- Industrial strength buckle and scratch-free grip hold the kayak in place when transporting
Cons:
- The one-size fits all oar design doesn’t work for all.
10. Docooler Breathable Adjustable Kayak Cockpit Cover
The Docooler Breathable Adjustable Kayak Cockpit Cover is a smaller cockpit cover that is designed to solve many problems for shorter periods.
It tends to be a great option for travelling or a vacation that requires you to take your kayak or canoe along. This lightweight and easy-to-put-on and-off cockpit cover could be used consecutively for a couple of days.
And if you intend to use it for a longer period of storage, you should combine it with a full kayak cover. It is designed to protect kayaks against rain, snow, dirt, bugs and leaves.
Made from tear-resistant Oxford fabric hence, a durable and breathable construction. Featuring shock cord with an adjustable clip that helps to make the perfect fit. Also includes sealed seams, double stitch, UV protection and water repellant.
Key Features:
- Durable And Resistant Fabrics: breathable and durable Oxford fabric construction to resist ultraviolet and water-repellant
- Double Stitch: the cover is reinforced with a double stitch and comes with seams that are sealed.
- Shock Cord: the included shock cord with an adjustable clip is used to attain the perfect fit.
Technical Specs:
- Kayak cockpit cover
- Oxford cloth
- Fits Cockpits up to 37.4″ long and 22″ width
- Available in five different sizes
- 0.2 pound
Pros:
- A wide range of sizes to choose from
- The shock cord with adjustable clip helps the cover to snug fit the kayak
Cons:
- Does not cover the entire kayak
How To Size A Kayak Cockpit Cover
As the name implies, “cockpit cover” covers just the cockpit of a kayak. It is quite different from full kayak covers, it does well by preventing water, dirt, critters, or bugs from getting into the cockpit of your kayak.
Most cockpit covers are usually ideal for transport and are quite easy to fit and remove. The issue now is how to select the right size that fits perfectly around the rim of your kayak.
All measurements to be taken should be focused on the outside edge of the cockpit rim and this you get by taking your kayaks’ dimensions.
This is why most manufacturers work with length, width and at times the circumference of the cockpit. Therefore, to get the actual size of your cockpit cover, follow these procedures;
- Measure the length: take this measurement from the back of the cockpit to the front.
- Measure the width: take this measurement at the widest point of your cockpit and measure from side to side. The widest point is usually located around where your hips are meant to sit.
- Measure the circumference: measure this using a flexible measuring tape by running it around the outside edge of your cockpit. Another way to get this done if you do not have a flexible measuring tape is to take a piece of string and run it around the outside edge of the cockpit and thereafter, leave a mark on the endpoint. Straighten out the string on a flat surface and measure to the marked endpoint.
Once you get these measurements done and over with, go to the website of the brand of the kayak cockpit you plan to purchase from as most manufacturers provide size charts on their site.
Compare the available sizes with the measurements with you and pick the one that would fit your cockpit perfectly.
However, nylon covers can stretch to some extent, the same applies to neoprene covers when selecting to ensure that they fit your cockpit perfectly to prevent unnecessary wear or tear.
How To Make A Kayak Cover
Getting a perfect fit for your kayak sometimes seems impossible so, you may need to resort to making one for yourself. Here are simple DIY steps on how to make a cockpit cover.
You should start by picking a durable material that can resist tears and rips, withstand elements and give the exact amount of stretch needed for a snug fit. It could be Oxford fabric, polyester, nylon or neoprene. We’re going to be making use of these materials;
Materials:
- 1 yard of neoprene, polyester, Oxford packcloth or nylon.
- One mitten Hook
- 8 ft Shock Cord
Step 1: Trace cockpit shape
You can either place your fabric directly over the cockpit or lay paper to mark out the shape. (We’re going to adopt the paper option here)
Step 2: Pin the paper to your fabric
Pin the created pattern to the fabric that you intend to make the cockpit cover out of.
Step 3: Extend the pattern onto the fabric
Using tailor chalk, extend the created shape onto your fabrics by 3″. The chalk helps by calling your attention to the line when you start to sew.
Step 4: Make another 1′ back
Make another one-inch line back from the line drawn, this makes the second line and it will be 2″ away from the paper pattern. The additional inches would be folded to form a sleeve where the shock cord can run through.
Step 5: Cut out the fabric
Following what you drew in step 3, cut the fabric to the outside seam.
Step 6: Make a buttonhole
Turn to the back of the skirt where the shock cord will leave the sleeve and make a buttonhole. This is done by sewing two bar tacks (about ¼” away from each other) parallel to each other.
Sew two additional bar tacks at about 90° to the first two that were already sewn. A box of stitches would have been made by closing the buttonhole. Afterwards, cut a slit into the fabric such that it runs inside the stitches.
Step 7: Make a sleeve for the shock cord
Remember the seam made in step 4? Fold the seam and double-stitch it. Your sleeve for the shock cord is now achieved. Run the shock cord through the sleeve and test fit the cover on your kayak cockpit.
Step 8: Tidy up
To tidy up your designed cover, check for any stitches that run across the fabric. Should in case you find any, seam seal the stitches found.
You can now put the cover on your kayak with zero worries about water gaining access into your cockpit when rain falls or critters making it a dwelling place.
By now you ought to have known that your investment deserves to be well protected to serve you better for subsequent seasons of adventure on the water.
When you look out for durability, versatility and practicality in your search for a great kayak cover, the above list would guide you in your quest to get a perfect one!
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