A kayak, even a budget model, should provide many years of fun and enjoyment. After all, there is nothing to go wrong with a kayak as there are hardly any moving parts. Unfortunately, exposure to the elements can fade and even degrade your kayak’s hull, and it can become brittle and crack as a result.
This is easy to avoid if you store your kayak indoors, but if you don’t have space and need to store your kayak outside, the elements can noticeably shorten the life of your kayak.
That’s where the best kayak cover comes in.
A fabric cover will protect your investment from rain, dust, snow, sleet, and ultraviolet light, all of which can damage the hull. Most covers are easy to fit and can be left on for months at a time if necessary, ensuring your kayak is ready for that break in the weather when you can go out paddling again.
A cover may seem like an unnecessary add-on, but if you store it outdoors, they should be considered all but essential. So, don’t neglect your kayak. Use a cover to protect it so that, when it’s time to paddle, your boat is in the best possible condition.
Best Kayak Cover
Amazon.com
1. Wilderness Systems Universal Fit
Features
- 601 denier marine-grade polyester is tough against tears, water resistant, and tested to withstand 500+ hours of UV exposure.
- Contoured and adjustable mid-deck design allows larger stadium style seats and other accessories to remain installed while the cover is on.
- Bungee hem is easy to install and wraps the contours of your kayak with ease.
- Adjustable hull straps keep the cover on with confidence during transport.
- Perfect for kayaks from 9-1/2 to 11 feet long, 32 inches wide and up to 18 inches tall
Kayas are made to last, but they are not indestructible. Long-term exposure to the elements can degrade them, leaving them discolored and prone to cracking. If you want your kayak to last (and last, and last!), you need a cover. This Wilderness Systems universal kayak cover will preserve the life of your sit-on top boat.
Key Features
- 601 denier marine-grade polyester for UV and water protection
- Contoured to fit snugly
- Bungee hem for a secure fit
- Adjustable straps for security
- Available in five sizes
While this product IS a universal cover, it’s still important that you buy the right size for your kayak. But, once you’ve for the right one, this cover is easy to fit and will protect your kayak from rain, dirt, snow, and UV light.
Pros
- Easy to deploy and remove
- Fits all sit-on kayaks
- Contoured for a snug, secure fit
- Well-made
Cons
- Doesn’t protect the bottom of your kayak
Available from extra-small to extra-large, these covers will protect kayaks measuring nine feet to 15 feet. The contoured shape means it fits snugly, even if you leave your seat(s) and other accessories attached. Easy to deploy and remove, this is an excellent cover for sit-on kayaks.
2. GymTop
Features
- ★THICKENED AND HIGHLY FADE-RESISTANT MATERIAL -- The UPGRADED kayak cover adopts 300D Thicken and Durable oxford Taffeta material with silky hand felt and glossy surface with silver paint material back inside, is more fadeless, UV resistant, waterproof and ripstop
- ★ADD THE DESIGN OF BANDAGE -- An adjustable reinforcement bandage is added on a previous basis of elastic strap.The Bandage length can reach 4 feet,you can feel free to adjust it according to your kayak,and offer your excellent protection from being hit by rain, wind and waves
- ★SPECIALLY SUPPLIED DRAWSTRING BAGS -- Drawstring bag is specifically designed to contribute significantly to carry or storage the large-sized kayak cover
- ★APPLY TO VARIOUS KAYAKS -- Excellent choice for the protection or quick cover for your boats like kayaks, fishing boat, hobie Pro Angler,wilderness System Radar on the beach or in the backyard
- ★7 SIZES FOR OPTION -- Suitable for 7sizes of kayaks or canoes: (2.6-3m/7.8-9ft), (3.1-3.5m/9.3-10.5ft), (3.6-4m/10.8-12ft), (4.1-4.5m/12.3-13.5ft), (4.6-5m/13.8-15ft), (5.1-5.5m/15.3-16.5ft), (5.6-6m/16.8-18ft)
If you plan on leaving your kayak outside in all weathers and seasons, this is NOT the cover for you. But, if you want to keep it free from dust and protect it from sunshine in mild weather, this well-priced option could be just the product for you.
Key Features
- Made from lightweight 300 denier ripstop polyester
- Double-stitched seams
- Available in eight colors and seven sizes
- Elastic drawstring hem for easy fitting and removal
- Water and UV resistant cover
- Silver-lined for increased heat and UV resistance
- Three lateral straps to hold the cover in place
- Supplied with a drawstring storage bag
This budget-friendly cover will protect your kayak from sun, dirt, and rain, but it’s not really tough enough for severe weather. It’s easy to slip on and off your kayak, and its simple design means it should fit most sit-in and sit-on options. But you get what you pay for, and this lightweight cover will probably only last a couple of seasons.
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Budget-friendly
- Available for kayaks from 8 feet to 18-feet long
- Good range of colors/designs
- Packs down small
Cons
- Not as strong as other 600D covers
- Users report that this cover fades and becomes brittle after prolonged sun exposure
This cover is half the thickness of the more heavy-duty products on review, but it’s much less than half the price too! If you want an option for mild outdoor conditions, this budget-friendly model is well worth considering.
3. iCover
i COVER
Free shipping
Features
- FITS MOST KAYAKS AND CANOES: Our kayak and canoe cover is designed to accommodate various sizes. Choose from three available models: Model A fits kayaks up to 10ft long and 27inches wide (beam width), Model B – 13 ft (L)x30”(W), Model C – 16ft(L)x36”(W). The full-cut design provides extra room for paddles, life jackets, and other fishing accessories.
- HEAVY-DUTY FABRIC AND REINFORCED SEWING STITCHES: Made with 600 Denier heavy duty marine grade waterproof fabric, which is also tear resistant, U.V resistant. All weather protection, Easy clean. FOR UTMOST WATERPROOF, PLEASE STORE YOUR KAYAK ON IT SIDE OR BOTTOM UP WITH THE ZIPPER ON THE BOTTOM TO AVOID WATER ENTERING THROUGH ZIPPER. All seams are sewn with reinforced stitches for extra durability. (Note: Becareful to use the zipper down to avoid the water in it)
- EASY CARRYING AND FAST IN AND OUT: The cover features sturdy and convenient strap handles sewn at each end, making it easy to carry. The zipper extends almost halfway, allowing you to effortlessly slide your kayak or canoe inside and zip it closed for complete coverage and excellent protection against UV rays, rain, snow, spiders, leaves, and branches.
- CONVENIENT STORAGE BAG INCLUDED: We provide a storage bag with the cover, allowing you to pack it away and save space when not in use. For long-term storage, ensure that the cover is completely dry to prevent any damage.
- WARRANTY & GUARANTEE: iCOVER offers a one-year warranty for any quality-related issue. Please refer to the iCOVER boat cover size chart to select the appropriate size for your kayak.
This zip-up cover provides all-round protection for your kayak. More of a bag than a cover, it will prolong the life of your kayak by protecting it from dust, water, and UV light. It’s not the most heavy-duty option on review, but it should be substantial enough for all but the harshest weather conditions.
Key Features
- Made from 300-denier marine-grade polyester
- Reinforced seams
- Heavy-duty zipper
- Double-stitched seams
- Available in three sizes and five colors
- Bow and stern carry handles
- Supplied with a storage bag
Unlike a lot of zipped covers, the zip on this bag only does not go all the way around. While this makes putting your kayak into the bag a little harder, it actually increases waterproofness as zips are prone to leaking. Also, a shorter zip means there is less to go wrong with this well-priced kayak cover.
Pros
- Well-made
- Good price
- Easy to use
- Good protection from the elements
- Should fit sit-in and sit-on kayaks
Cons
- Seams are not taped, which means they could leak
More expensive covers have taped seams, which will keep out even very heavy rain. The seams on this cover are reinforced, but not taped. That means it could leak and let in water. However, for UV and dust protection, this well-priced option is more than up to the task.
4. Kohree
Kohree
1 used from $25.64
Free shipping
Features
- 【All Season Protective Shield】The paddle board cover is made of premium polyester and thickened 300D oxford with inner silver coated for better waterproof performance, UV-resistant, weatherproof, snow-proof, dust-proof, and critter protection.
- 【Windproof Straps Design】 Improved by adding two Adjustable straps with buckle, which can prevent the SUP cover from being blown away even in heavy winds and avoid collapsing because of rain gathering on the top.
- 【Easy On/Off】The built-in Adjustable elastic drawstring makes the canoe cover goes on and off easily without tools and stays in place, convenient to use.
- 【Wide Usage】This kayak cover offers protection for your fishing boat, canoe rowing, and paddle board. You also can use it as off-season storage or a quick cover.
- 【Two Sizes Available】Perfect for kayaks or canoes. Model A:3.1-3.5m/10.17ft~11.48ft ; Model B:3.6-4m/11.8ft~13.1ft.
Do you need a cover for your kayak that’s both easy to use and very budget-friendly? This could be the product for you. Available in two sizes, this lightweight cover won’t stand up to really harsh weather, but for protection from mild to moderate weather, and for the price, this cover is tough to beat.
Key Features
- Made from silver-coated oxford polyester for UV and water protection
- Elastic drawstring for easy deployment and a snug fit
- Twin straps for extra security
- Available in two sizes
- Universal fit for sit-in and sit-on kayaks
This cover is ideal for small to medium-sized kayaks. The small cover will fit kayaks from 10 to 11 ½ feet while the large cover fits kayaks up to 13 feet in length. Easy to put on and take off, this cover is ideal for storing your kayak outside or protecting your kayak during transport.
Pros
- Very well-priced
- Good quality
- Easy to use
- Suitable for most kayaks
Cons
- No protection for the bottom of your kayak
Costing a tenth of some more expensive covers, this product is perfect for anyone who wants to protect their kayak without spending a fortune. Easy to use, this is a well-made cover that will help prolong the life of your kayak during storage or transport.
5. Hobie Pro Angler 14 Cover
Hobie Pro Angler 14
Features
- Straps and pull strings adjust for a tight fit
- Cross straps provide security during transport
- Red storage bag doubles as safety flag during transport
- Fitted for the Pro Angler 14
- 100% polyester covers are UV/water resistant with double layered double stitched seams
If you’ve got a 14-foot Hobie Pro Angler fishing kayak, this is the cover you need to protect your purchase, whether it’s in storage or for transport. It should fit most other 14-foot angling kayaks, but it’s specifically made to fit this particular Hobie model.
Key Features
- Straps and drawstrings for a secure fit
- Red storage bag for cover that can also be used as a warning flag during transport
- Made from 100% double-layered polyester for UV and water protection
- Double-stitched seams
The Hobie Pro Angler 14 is not a cheap kayak. Protect your investment with this bespoke cover. It will shield it from the damaging ultraviolet light that can degrade your kayak and make it brittle. This cover is ideal for long-term outdoor storage as well as transporting your kayak to and from the water.
Pros
- Perfect fit for the Hobie Pro Angler 14
- Fits very snugly and securely
- Well-made
- Should last a very long time
Cons
- Expensive
- Light color – harder to keep clean
When you’ve spent a lot of money on a kayak, it makes sense to spend a little more on a cover that will prolong its lifespan. This cover may not be cheap, but it’s a small price to pay for a cover that will protect your expensive kayak from the elements and ensure it provides you with many years of faithful service.
6. iiSport
Features
- Waterproof & Durable Material - This kayak cover is made of sun ray reflecting and waterproof polyester material,which offers excellent weather protection for your kayaks, fishing boat, hobie Pro Angler,wilderness System Radar, rowing shell & paddle board!
- Easy On And Off For Your Kayaks Makes This Cover A Winner - The elastic draw string on it to pull it snug makes this UV resistant canoe cover go on and off easily and stays in place, great investment for preventing bugs and spiders from crawling in and surprising us during water trips.
- Prolonging The Life & Look Of Your Beloved Kayak - This storage cover is light and easily folded and packed,very durable to prevent sun & snow & rain & dust damage, excellent for any sort of undisturbed storage.
- Adjustable Fit For Different Size - You can choose a suitable size for 8.5'-10',12'-13',13.5'-15' Kayak,good coverage for your kayak.
- Satisfying Service for You - We will offer you a satisfying service or solution if you have any issue. Don't lose anymore valuable items from your kayaks storage!
The iiSport cover will protect your beloved kayak from the sun, rain, snow, dirt, and dust. Easy to fit and remove, this budget-friendly cover is available in three sizes and will fit sit-on and sit-in kayaks.
Key Features
- Made from 210 denier polyester
- Elastic drawstring hem for a secure fit
- Available in three sizes and three colors
- Waterproof and UV resistant
- Small pack size
Made from lightweight polyester, this cover is available in three sizes – 8.5-10 feet, 12-13 feet, and 13.5-15 feet. It’s not contoured, so it won’t fit as snugly as some of the other covers on review, but if you’re looking for a cheap cover for your yak, this product is worth considering.
Pros
- Well-priced
- Easy to fit and remove
- Generously sized
- Lightweight and rolls away easily
Cons
- Won’t protect the bottom of your kayak
- Water could pool in the top
- Some users report that the material fades quite quickly
This lightweight cover will probably only last a couple of seasons, but that’s okay considering the very modest price. It’s not the most robust cover on review, but it will definitely protect your kayak from the elements during storage.
7. Maymii
Features
- Our Kayak cover exellent for off-season storage or as a quick cover for kayak Canoe Paddle Board. Our cover can protects against damaging built-up, sun and rain damage,Protect your boat on the beach or in the backyard.This kayak cover is made of sun ray reflecting and waterproof polyester material,which offers excellent weather protection for your kayaks, fishing boat, hobie Pro Angler,wilderness System Radar, rowing shell & paddle board!
- Adopting 210D Durable oxford Taffeta material with silky hand felt and glossy surface with silver paint material back inside, well Sun Protection UV resistant, waterproof and anti-dust.
- Easy On And Off For Your Kayaks Makes This Product A Winner - The elastic draw string on it to pull it snug makes this UV resistant canoe cover go on and off easily and stays in place, great investment for preventing bugs and spiders from crawling in and surprising us during water trips.
- The annular elastic to paraphrase more convenient, Easy to operate without the need of any other tools.Prolonging The Life & Look Of Your Beloved Kayak - This storage cover is light and easily folded and packed,very durable to prevent sun & snow & rain & dust damage, excellent for any sort of undisturbed storage.
- For your choice,Suitable for 7sizes of kayaks: (2.6-3m/7.8-9ft), (3.1-3.5m/9.3-10.5ft), (3.6-4m/10.8-12ft), (4.1-4.5m/12.3-13.5ft), (4.6 -5m/13.8-15ft), (5.1-5.5m/15.3-16.5ft), (5.6-6m/16.8-18ft)
Whatever size kayak you’ve got, there is a Maymii cover that will fit. Available in seven sizes and nine fun and funky colors/designs, this is a good cover for winter protection and should fit sit-in and sit-on boats. This is a budget-friendly cover and is made from lightweight polyester.
Key Features
- Made from 210 denier polyester
- Available in seven sizes and nine colors
- Elasticated drawstring hem for easy deployment/removal
- Waterproof and UV resistant
- Universal fit
This cover provides UV protection for your kayak but is not itself UV resistant. Users report that prolonged exposure to the sun makes these covers brittle and fade. That means one of these covers probably won’t last more than a season or two. Protect your new cover with a UV screen, or keep your cover out of the sun.
Pros
- Well-priced
- Light and easy to use
- Secure fit
Cons
- May fade and become brittle with repeated exposure to the sun unless treated with a UV guard
- Will probably only a season or two
While you will need to replace this cover in a year or so, at this price, you can afford to do just that! It’s not the most robust cover, but it will do the job, and without breaking the bank either.
8. Storm Pro Heavy-Duty
StormPro Heavy-Duty
$51.10 in stock
1 used from $51.10
Free shipping
Features
- Fits most kayaks or canoes up to 12' Long and is full-cut to allow extra room for accessories such as paddles, life vests, etc
- Fabric coating technology for max water Repellency, protection, structured vents stay open to prevent wind lofting & are lined with mesh barriers resistance and all-weather protection
- Made with heavy duty 600D polyester that is PVC-Free, won't shrink or stretch, designed for extra durability
- NOT designed for Roof top travel
- For maximum water repellency, it is best to store kayak with cover upside down or on its side so water does not enter through the zipper.NOT designed for Roof top travel
Lack of space means that a lot of paddlers have to store their kayaks outdoors. Open to the elements, this can take years off the life of even the best-made kayak. This heavy-duty cover is designed to stand up to the worse possible weather, which is good news for those who can’t store their boats indoors.
Key Features
- Made from 600 denier polyester with a secondary water-repellent coating
- Two sizes available
- ¾ length top zip for easy loading and unloading
- Built-in carry handles
- Supplied with a stuff sack for storage
- Backed by a five-year warranty
- UV resistant fabric
This high-quality cover is suitable for sit-in and sit-on models. Available in two sizes – up to 12-feet and 12-16 feet, they’re big enough to accommodate paddles, life vests, and other accessories too. Well made, these heavy-duty products should provide many years of protection.
Pros
- Hardwearing
- Very well made
- Waterproof, and UV and mildew resistant fabric
- Heavy-duty zip
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Not designed for rooftop travel
- No cinch straps for a snugger fit
If this cover has a downside, it is that you can’t tighten it up to make it fit more snugly. That’s why it’s not really suitable for rooftop transport; too much flapping material. But, for storing your kayak outdoors, this tough-as-nails kayak cover is tough to beat.
9. Universal Kayak Cockpit Drape
Universal Cockpit Drape
Free shipping
Features
- Large size fits outer cockpit length from 44 to 57 inch, width from 18 to 25 inch. Actual cover size: 60 x 29 inch.
- Made of durable 600D marine grade polyester with waterproof undercoating, universal kayak cockpit drape fits for sit-in kayak with or without pronounced rim, also the seat on sit-on-top kayaks and the foam foot pads of SUPs.
- Adjustable bungee courd hooks the D ring and wrap around the kayak bottom to attach the opposite one. Tighten each cord to snug fit especially in transportation.
- Hooks on the cover attached to deck lines can prevent the drape from sliding.
- Perfect to keep dust, rain, sand and debris from entering the hatch during storage. 2 YEARS WARRANTY for any quality-related issue.
With sit-in kayaks, it’s not always necessary to cover the whole boat. In fact, you may only need to cover the cockpit to keep your kayak serviceable. Smaller covers are also much cheaper than full-sized models. If you paddle a sit-in kayak, this could be the ideal cover for you.
Key Features
- Made from 600 denier coated marine-grade polyester
- Supplied with three bungees to hold the cover in place
- Double-stitched seams for strength
- Available in singles or pairs – for tandem kayaks
- Available in two sizes – medium and large
Whether you are storing your kayak or transporting it to the water, this cover will stop rain and debris entering your cockpit. Well-made and well-priced, this is a space and pocket-friendly alternative to a full-sized kayak cover.
Pros
- Easy to fit and remove
- Fits all sit-in kayaks
- Well-priced
- Simple, strong design
Cons
- Won’t protect your hull from UV light
This cover is not meant for all-season use. It’ll stop rain and snow entering your kayak but won’t offer much UV protection in the summer. But, if all you want to do is stop your kayak from filling up between paddles, this product is a viable option.
10. Seals Kayak Cockpit Drape
Seals Cockpit Drape
Free shipping
Features
- Cockpit covers for hard-to-fit kayak cockpits, Sit-on-Tops, fishing kayaks & SUP pads. Perfect for storage to keep out bugs, leaves and rain. Fits cockpits up to 26" wide
- Medium-weight coated nylon packcloth is durable and UV resistant
- Tether hook at front keeps the cover from blowing away. This cover is not intended for use while driving.
- Adjustable bungee cords wrap around hull of kayak to keep the cover tight and in place
- Proudly Cut, Sewn and Made in the USA by Seals Spray Skirts, USA.
You don’t always need a full-length cover to keep water and other debris out of your sit-in kayak. This cockpit drape from Seals just covers the opening on the top of your kayak, which is enough to keep out rain, snow, dirt, dust, and leaves when storing your kayak between paddles.
Key Features
- Made from medium-weight, coated nylon pack cloth
- Fitted with bungees and hooks to hold the cover in place
- Waterproof and UV resistant
- Available in two colors and three sizes to suit all cockpits
- Designed, cut, and sewn in the USA
Because it’s small and compact, this cover is a whole lot easier to put on and take off than a full-length cover. It doesn’t protect your hull from the ravages of UV light, but for keeping water and debris out of your cockpit, it’s more than up to the job.
Pros
- Quick and easy to fit and remove
- Well-priced
- Secure fit
- Well made
- Fits most cockpits, with or without raised edges
Cons
- Leaves your hull unprotected
Whether you want to keep water and dust out of your kayak or keep your life vest and other equipment in while transporting your boat, this cover could be just what you are looking for. Well-made and budget-friendly, this product is highly recommended.
11. Advanced Elements
Features
- Large Cover fits kayaks up to 15' in length
- Covers fit boats up to 73" in circumference at their widest point
- Easy to Use
- Country Of Origin : China
Kayak covers can be expensive. That’s okay if you’ve got a top-of-the-range kayak but may not be so appealing if your kayak is more of the budget variety. This well-priced cover is durable and will provide more than adequate protection for your kayak without breaking the bank.
Key Features
- Made from 600 denier polyester
- Roll-and-clip closure
- Slide-in design for complete protection
- Made for sit-in kayaks
- Available in two sizes – medium and large
- UV and waterproof
This cover is available in two sizes; medium for kayaks up to 11 feet and large for kayaks up to 15 feet. Just slide your kayak inside the cover, roll and clip the end closed, and it’ll be protected from all the elements.
Pros
- Well-priced
- High level of UV, dirt, and water protection
- Suitable for long-term storage as well as transportation
- Universal fit
Cons
- Won’t fit wide-beam kayaks
- Not as easy to use as over the top type covers
This kayak storage bag is sealed at one end. That means you’ll need to slide your kayak into it, like putting on a sock. This may be harder than it sounds, especially if you are on your own. However, once your kayak is inside the cover, it’ll be protected from all the elements, and without a hefty price tag.
Bottom Line
If you’ve got a kayak and store it outdoors, you should protect it with a cover. Kayaks are made to last, but their longevity can be affected by exposure to the elements, especially ultraviolet light. UV light can degrade your hull, leading to cracks, and fade the color of your kayak. A cover will ensure it remains in tip-top condition for many, MANY years!
There are several different types of cover you can buy, from top-only covers with elasticated hems to kayak bags with and without zips. For sit-on kayakers, there are also mini-covers designed just to seal the cockpit.
Each one is easy to use, and there are models to suit all budgets. Heavy-duty covers offer the most protection, and usually last longest, but are also more expensive. Budget models offer a decent level of protection but tend to fade and degrade within a couple of seasons’ use.
Which is right for you? Only you can decide! But, whatever you choose, you’ll find the best kayak cover reviewed within this article so you can buy with confidence.
Check out the OutdoorWorld Reviews homepage for more expert information and detailed kayak reviews including other accessories such as roof racks!
The Review
Kayak Cover
Choosing the best kayak cover is easy with our detailed reviews and ratings.
Review Breakdown
-
Wilderness Systems
-
GymTop
-
i COVER
-
Kohree
-
Hobie Pro Angler 14
-
iiSPORT
-
MAYMII
-
StormPro Heavy-Duty
-
Universal Cockpit Drape
-
Seals Cockpit Drape
-
Advanced Elements
Kayak Cover DEALS
We collect information from many stores for best price available
