How to Lock Up A Kayak
Locking up a kayak is important to prevent theft and protect your investment.
There are a few different ways that you can lock up a kayak, depending on what type of locking system you have and what type of environment you’ll be leaving your kayak in. Read on for tips on how to lock up your kayak properly.
If you have a locking system, the first step is to secure the kayak to something that is immovable, such as a tree or a dock. Make sure that the object is sturdy and won’t move if someone tries to pull on the kayak.
Next, run the cable or chain through the handles/holes of the kayak so that it is completely encircled. If you have a lock, insert it through the links of the chain or cable.
How to Lock Up A Kayak
If you don’t have a locking system, you can use a rope to secure the kayak. Wrap the rope around the kayak and the object that it’s attached to, then tie a knot to keep it in place.
You can also use a cable tie or zip tie to attach the kayak to an object. Make sure that it’s tight so that it can’t be easily undone.
Types of Lockups
– Around the Kayak: If you’re looking to secure your kayak by threading a rope or cable around it, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the rope or cable is long enough to go around the kayak and also reach a solid anchoring point – you don’t want it to be too short and risk the kayak floating away.
Second, try to avoid any sharp edges on the kayak that could potentially damage the rope or cable. And finally, when you’re tying off the kayak, be sure to use a strong knot that won’t come undone easily.
You can help ensure that your kayak is securely locked up by following these tips.
Inside the Kayak: There are many ways to securely lock up a kayak, but one of the simplest methods is to thread a cable or chain through its holes. This will prevent the kayak from being towed away or stolen.
To do this, you’ll need a cable or chain that’s long enough to wrap around the kayak several times and a padlock to secure it. You can find both of these items at most hardware stores.
First, measure the length of your cable or chain and cut it to size. Then, use a hole puncher to make two holes at either end of the cable or chain.
Next, pass one end of the cable or chain through one of the kayak’s handles, and then do the same with the other end. Finally, use the padlock to secure the two ends of the cable or chain together.
Recommended Products
01. Seattle Sports Cradle Cable Lock for Kayaks
The Seattle Sports Cradle Cable Lock is a great way to secure your kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or surfboard.
The vinyl-sheathed 6mm galvanized steel cable protects from corrosion and prevents scratches on your craft and vehicle. The lock is compatible with cradles, roof racks, wall mounts, or any solid anchor point.
02. Lasso The Original Kayak Lock
Lasso The Original Kayak Lock is an easy to use security cable with an integrated combination lock.
The high impact protective plastic keeps your vehicle and kayak from being scratched, while the smaller vinyl coated cable and lighter lock make it supple and easy to work with. With Lasso protecting your kayak, would-be thieves are likely to go looking for an easier target.
03. Kayak Drain Plug Kit
This drain plug is perfect for kayaks! It’s made of high-quality plastic and durable rubber, making it perfect for long-term use. Plus, the rubber gasket on each plug protects your boat from damage.
Installation is simple – just drill a few holes and insert the plugs. And finally, our easy to install drain plugs are perfect for draining water out of your kayak’s inner hull.
Different Lockup Locations
01. An Anchor Point: There are a few ways to do this. One way is to use a carabiner and a length of rope.
The carabiner is clipped to the kayak, and the rope is thrown over an anchor point, such as a tree or large rock, and then tied off. Another way is to use a kayak strap. The strap goes around the kayak and then has a hook that attaches to an anchor point.
And finally, you can use an anchor weight. The anchor weight is attached to the kayak by using either a carabiner or strap, and then it’s thrown overboard and allowed to sink down until it hits bottom.
Once it’s in place, the line from the weight can be used to tie off to an anchor point.
02. With Each Other Kayaks: There are a few different ways to lock up a kayak with another kayak. One way is to use a carabiner or two to attach them together. You can also use a locking cable, like the ones used to secure bikes, to connect them together.
Another option is to use straps or ropes to tie them together. Whichever method you choose, make sure that the kayaks are securely fastened and will not come apart in strong winds or waves.
03. A Roof Rack: There are a few different ways that you can go about locking up your kayak on a vehicle roof rack. One way is to use a cable lock, which you can thread through the handles of the kayak and then secure to the roof rack.
Another option is to use a strap with a padlock, which you would loop around the kayak and then secure to the roof rack. Whichever method you choose, just make sure that the lock is secured tightly so that it cannot be easily cut or broken.
04. A Kayak Holder: There are a few different ways that you can go about locking up your kayak on a vehicle roof rack.
One way is to use a cable lock, which you can thread through the handles of the kayak and then secure to the roof rack. Another option is to use a strap with a padlock, which you would loop around the kayak and then secure to the roof rack.
Whichever method you choose, just make sure that the lock is secured tightly so that it cannot be easily cut or broken.
05. A Wooden/Concrete Beam Dock: When locking up a kayak at a Wooden/Concrete Beam Dock, the use of a cable lock is the best way to secure it. Make sure that the kayak is facing the water and wrap the cable lock around both the kayak and dock beam.
Insert the key and turn to secure. If there is not a dock beam, wrap the cable lock around both the kayak and post. Again, insert a key and turn to secure
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Visual Explanations
i. Wooden Dock Lockup
ii. Two Kayaks Lockup:
iii. Anchor Point Lockup:
Tips to Secure Your Kayak
– Note your Hull Identification Number: Yes! You can definitely find a lost kayak by hull identification number. Most kayaks have their hull identification number (HIN) stamped or engraved into the plastic or metal near the cockpit.
The HIN consists of a series of letters and numbers that identify the make, model, and a serial number of the kayak. By providing this information to the manufacturer, they should be able to track down your kayak’s history and help you locate it.
– Place a Secret Code Somewhere on the Kayak: By using a secret kayak code, you are able to identify your kayak as your own and prove its authenticity.
This code can be anything–a personal identification number (PIN), a combination of numbers and letters, or a specific set of words or sounds.
No matter what type of secret kayak code you choose, it’s important to keep it safe and hidden from others. Only you should know the code, and you should never share it with anyone else.
If you lose your kayak or someone steals it, you’ll want to be able to prove that it is really yours by providing the correct secret code.
– Apply for Kayak Insurance: It’s generally a good idea to have some sort of insurance when engaging in any outdoor activity, especially if you’re going to be using equipment like kayaks that can be expensive to replace.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how much coverage you need and what kind of risks you’re willing to take.
Kayak insurance could give you peace of mind while out on the water and help you recover financially if something does happen to your kayak or else if somebody robbed it.
– Keep it Out of Sight: It’s important to keep your kayak out of sight because it will make it less likely that someone will steal it.
If you leave your kayak in plain view, someone who is looking for an easy target may see it and take it. If you keep your kayak hidden, however, it will be much less likely to be stolen.
Thieves are more likely to steal something that is visible and easy to access, so if you can keep your kayak out of sight, you’ll be less likely to have it stolen.
– Have an attachable Quick Identification: It’s not strictly necessary to have an attachable Quick Identification (QID) in your kayak, but it can be very useful in certain situations. For example, in our case, you can quickly identify your kayak if somebody walks away within it.
QID can be a lifesaver. Additionally, if you’re ever involved in a search and rescue operation, having a QID attached to your kayak can help the authorities find you more easily. So while it’s not essential, we would recommend having a QID handy just in case.
– Store it in a Storage Shed: A storage shed is a great way to keep your kayak safe and secure. If you live in an area where there are severe weather conditions, it is especially important to have a shed to protect your kayak from high winds and heavy rains.
A storage shed keeps your kayak out of the sun, away from animals that might damage it and also thieves looking fr steel things.
Conclusion
Locking up your kayak is a great way to prevent theft and keep your investment safe.
There are a few different ways to do it, depending on what type of locking system you have and what type of environment you’ll be leaving your kayak in. Follow the tips above to lock up your kayak and deter thieves properly.
FAQ
01. How to lock up an inflated kayak?
There are a few different ways to lock up an inflated kayak. One option is to use a cable and padlock system, which you can either loop through the kayak’s handles or tie around the entire craft.
Another possibility is to use a heavy-duty strap with a built-in lock, which you can thread through the kayak’s D-rings or other attachment points.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to secure the kayak to a solid object like a tree or fence post so that it can’t be easily stolen.
02. Is there kayak insurance?
Yes, you can get kayak insurance! Most homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies will cover kayaks, but make sure to check with your insurer first. You may also want to look into specialty kayak insurance policies for additional coverage.
03. How to choose a good kayak lock?
There are a few things you should keep in mind when choosing a kayak lock: First, consider what type of lock you need. There are two main types of kayak locks: cable locks and chain locks.
Cable locks are typically lighter and more portable, while chain locks are heavier and more difficult to transport.
Second, think about what level of security you need. If you’re just looking to deter casual thieves, a basic cable lock will suffice.
However, if you’re concerned about someone cutting through your lock or otherwise breaking it open, you’ll want to opt for a stronger chain lock.
Finally, make sure the lock you choose is compatible with your kayak’s hull material. Not all locks work with all materials, so be sure to check before you buy.
04. Is there a hull identification number for every kayak?
Yes, every kayak has a hull identification number (HIN), which is typically located on the stern of the vessel.
The HIN consists of a combination of letters and numbers that uniquely identify your kayak. You can use the HIN to register your kayak or check for any recalls.
05. Which types of kayaks are easier to lock up?
There are a few different types of kayaks, and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to locking it up.
The easiest kayaks to lock up are inflatable kayaks. They’re lightweight and easy to carry, and they can be quickly deflated and stored away in a small space.
However, they’re also the least durable type of kayak, so you’ll need to be careful not to damage them while they’re locked up.
Hardshell kayaks are more durable than inflatable kayaks, but they’re also heavier and harder to transport. They can be difficult to fit into small spaces, but there are a number of locks that are designed specifically for locking them up.
