A Dakine Tailgate Pad transforms your vehicle's tailgate into a comfortable workspace or resting spot, perfect for camping trips or outdoor activities. Our comparison highlights the key features and performance of these pads to help you make an informed choice.
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Reviews
This updated Dakine tailgate pad combines durable urethane construction with a low-profile design featuring just the right amount of grip. The easy-to-install peel-and-stick backing ensures secure placement, while its compact size stays out of the way when not in use. At a mere 4.3 inches in diameter and just 0.8 ounces, the mat provides reliable boot deicing without taking up much space.
This heavy-duty tailgate protector from DNA Motoring combines 3/4-inch thick padded vinyl with a soft underside to safeguard your truck's paintwork during extended cargo transport. The 61-inch-wide cover features adjustable straps and multiple loops to secure additional cargo, while its built-in liftgate handle flap protects your vehicle's mechanism. Made in China, this durable protector is backed by positive feedback from satisfied customers who appreciate its effective protection and reasonable price point.
The Himal Outdoors tailgate pad provides premium protection for both your truck and mountain bikes with its tough PVC outer layer and soft inner material. Sturdy construction and thoughtful features like tool pockets and an open window keep your bikes secure and accessible. The 3/4" foam core and heavy-duty cover system protect against damage during transport, while the easy-to-install design with reinforced straps keeps everything secure on your tailgate.
A substantial rubber mat that mounts on your tailgate to protect its surface from scratches and dents, while also securing your cargo from shifting during travel. The extra-thick construction absorbs vibrations and road noise, creating a more comfortable ride. The mat's strong non-slip base prevents movement, ensuring safety when accessing the tailgate and protecting your truck's bed from fuel spills and other hazards.
The Dakine universal tailgate pickup pad gives your trusty truck bed rack the upgrade it deserves, with its clever individual frame anchor straps and three webbing cinch straps that keep your load secure while you're cruising to the trailhead. The access flap makes it a breeze to grab your gear when you need it, and with fits for both 54" and 62" beds, it's designed to work with most full-size trucks out there.
Secure your bike gear with this truck-bed cover that handles up to seven bikes on full-size trucks. The padded design lifts the tailgate for easy access, while individual straps keep each bike in place during your ride. Built with durability in mind, this recycled material system has become a reliable solution for serious bike shuttling.
These compact stomp pads bring serious grip to your board while staying out of the way when you're not using them. Made from durable urethane with a peel-and-stick backing, they're easy to install and keep your boots secure on those steep lift rides. The molded spike pattern provides just the right amount of traction without being overly bulky, making them a practical addition to any snowboard.
When you've got bikes and surfboards barreling out of your tailgate, you need something that keeps them secure and organized – not to mention, dry and out of the sun. This full-size tailgate pad from Dakine nails it with its see-through flaps that don't obstruct your view, plus hidden pockets for tools and shoes. With its tough PVC coating that blocks water and UV rays, you can trust it to protect your gear no matter what Mother Nature throws at it.
This three-piece traction pad offers an extended 14-inch width, providing ample coverage for wide-tail boards and larger surfers. The biodegradable EVA foam construction and plastic-free packaging combine environmental consciousness with durable performance. With its positraction grid pattern and precise 7mm center arch with 25mm tail wedge, it delivers customized grip while staying comfortably within the board's boundaries.
These Dakine Spike Stomp Pads combine aggressive traction with practical design, featuring high spikes that cut through snow while remaining effective in powder conditions. The modular design allows riders to customize their grip pattern, and the clear TPU construction lets you see and address any air bubbles during application. While the adhesive requires careful installation, users consistently praise its superior grip and durability.
This fully padded truck tailgate cover transforms your mid-size or compact truck into a five-bike transporter, thanks to its generous 54-inch length and 32-inch width. The heavy-duty PVC construction features a soft velvet underside that cradles your bikes while keeping your truck bed dry and protected from the elements. A convenient middle flap design gives you easy tailgate access while keeping your rearview camera fully functional.
These durable nylon pads protect your truck tailgate from bike scratches while keeping your board secure with its simple hook-and-loop closure. Most users love how well they hold up to frequent use, though some note they block the backup camera. Their universal fit makes them a practical choice for any truck brand, from F-150 to Ram 1500, helping keep your ride looking pristine during your next big surf adventure.
This durable tailgate pad safely carries up to six bikes while protecting your truck's rear panel with its thick padding and multiple securing options. Users particularly appreciate its secure quick-release buckles and generous storage pocket, though some note the lack of detailed instructions for strap usage. Built to handle serious cycling loads, this highly rated pad has proven itself in real-world road tests across multiple truck makes and models.
This padded tailgate cover protects your truck's finish while securely holding up to six bike frames, featuring an adjustable design that accommodates various truck sizes and shapes. The durable PVC construction includes micro-brushed inner padding to keep your tailgate clean, and raised edge bumpers safeguard both your bike frames and truck interior. The integrated camera window design ensures clear visibility when securing multiple bikes behind your vehicle.
This universal truck tailgate pad from MOMO accommodates five bikes or other heavy loads while featuring a protective swede-like interior that shields your vehicle's original paint. Constructed from reinforced PVC, the durable pad includes five safety straps to secure cargo during transit. Its wider truck handle opening ensures clear visibility for backup cameras.
Whether you're a committed cyclist or just starting to explore mountain biking, the GateKeeper tailgate pad provides the protection and security you need for transporting your bikes. With its durable vinyl-coated nylon exterior and soft felt backing, it keeps both your bikes and your truck in great condition during long rides. The built-in locking system allows you to secure your setup with your own chain lock, and the clever strap management keeps everything tight and tidy for a stress-free ride to the trailhead.
Made from biodegradable foam with marine-grade adhesion, the Dakine Launch Surf Traction Pad combines lightweight design with exceptional grip for narrow-tail boards. At just 10.75 inches wide, it delivers confidence-inspiring traction through its 7mm center arch and 25mm vert wedge tail kick, while strategically placed slice holes reduce weight without compromising performance. Users consistently praise its secure feel and durable construction, though a few note the real product color may differ slightly from online images.
The Yakima Gatekeeper Tailgate Pad provides a practical solution for securing multiple bikes in pick-up trucks, with its generous 6-bike capacity and thoughtful design features like a protective felt backing and an integrated camera cover. While some users have encountered issues with the Velcro straps, particularly in colder temperatures, the pad's robust nylon construction and easy installation make it a worthwhile option for those who regularly transport bicycles.
This durable tailgate pad protects your bikes while making it easy to load and unload them from your truck bed. Made from high-quality polyester with thoughtful design features like adjustable straps and a backup camera window, it keeps your ride secure without damaging your truck or bikes. The padded interior prevents scratches, though some users have suggested improvements to better protect the delicate frame areas.
The Yakima Gatekeeper Tailgate Pad elegantly solves the problem of safely transporting multiple bikes while protecting your vehicle's paintwork. With its robust nylon construction and soft felt lining, it provides a secure, stable platform that can support up to five bikes, though its clever design allows convenient single-bike transport as well.
This vintage camo stomp pad brings retro style to your board with its compact 16mm diameter design. Made from durable TPU with a strong peel-and-stick backing, it provides just the right amount of grip underfoot while staying out of the way when you need to ride powder. The sharp spike pattern keeps your boot securely placed on the lift, as numerous satisfied users have confirmed over the years.
A durable curved tailgate protector that holds up to seven bikes with individual straps for each, featuring a convenient backup camera compatible flap and robust security grommets. Made from premium polyester with 2cm of cushioning, it's designed specifically for modern Ford and Dodge trucks while keeping your vehicle protected and looking stylish.
This sleek half-sided tailgate pad lets you sneak two bikes onto your pickup without covering the handles or your trusty rear-view camera. Made from recycled polyester with a weather-resistant coating, it cinches down tight with its adjustable straps and holds your bikes secure with dedicated anchor points. The reflective Dakine logo adds a nice touch while you're zooming down the highway.
This durable, recycled polyester surf pad protects your board while keeping your truck's paintjob pristine. At just the right size to fit under your tailgate without covering handles or cameras, it mounts securely with dual bike straps and web cinch straps that work great with cable locks. The contoured design with padded flaps gives your board premium support during every drive to the beach.
This clear stomp pad gives you just the right amount of grip without covering up your board's design. Made from tough urethane with those teeny-tiny studs, it keeps your boots planted during those critical moments while staying out of the way otherwise. The peel-and-stick install makes it a breeze to put on and take off.
These modular stomp pads give your snowboard extra traction with their three-piece design that lets you customize the fit. Made from durable TPU with a peel-and-stick backing and a built-in snow scraper, they help you get off chairlifts safely and keep your boots secure. The spike pattern provides solid grip while being low enough to avoid getting snagged on your pants.
A sleek black tailgate protector that keeps your truck and bikes clean while securing your rides safely. The padded design and adjustable straps work great on mid-size trucks, though some users find it a bit challenging to install on older models with thinner tailgates. The micro-brushed inner lining is a smart touch that prevents scratches, but the outer material can wear thin in regular use.
Buyer's Guide
When selecting a Dakine Tailgate Pad, several key factors will influence your choice based on how you plan to use the pad and what features are most important to you. Understanding these aspects will help you find a pad that matches your needs for comfort, protection, and functionality.
Material Construction
The padding material determines the pad's durability and cushioning quality. Look for high-density foam cores with impact-absorbing technology, such as closed-cell foam or viscoelastic foam. Top layers may include moisture-wicking fabrics, antimicrobial treatments, or breathable materials to improve comfort during extended use.
Size and Fit
Tailgate pads come in various lengths and widths to fit different vehicles. Measure your tailgate's dimensions before purchasing to ensure a proper fit. Some pads offer adjustable straps or clamps for customized positioning, while others use universal mounting systems compatible with multiple vehicles.
Installation and Mounting
Installation methods vary between models. Standard options include clips, straps, or suction cups, while more advanced pads feature integrated mounting brackets or magnetic attachments. Consider how easy the pad is to install and remove, as well as its weight and portability for regular transport.
Additional Features
Look for added features that enhance usability and storage. Options include built-in cup holders, USB ports for charging devices, or mesh pockets for organizing gear. Some pads incorporate LED lights for visibility in low light conditions or reflective strips for increased safety.
FAQ
What is a Dakine Tailgate Pad?
A Dakine Tailgate Pad is a protective device designed to prevent damage to your vehicle's tailgate when using a bike rack. It mounts to the tailgate and features rubber or foam padding that protects both the tailgate and the bike carrier from scratches and dents during transport.
The pad typically includes mounting hardware and instructions for installation, allowing you to position it in a way that maximizes protection while maintaining proper clearance for your bike carrier's locking mechanism.
How does a Dakine Tailgate Pad work?
The pad works by creating a soft barrier between the tailgate and the bike carrier. When the carrier is locked in place, the pressure from the locks is absorbed by the padding rather than transferring directly to the tailgate's surface, preventing damage.
Some designs also include raised lips or edges that guide the carrier into correct positioning, ensuring proper contact between the carrier and the pad for optimal protection.
Is a Dakine Tailgate Pad easy to install?
Installation generally requires basic tools like a screwdriver and is straightforward for most users. The pad typically mounts to existing tailgate attachment points, though specific installation requirements may vary by model.
Instructions usually include visual diagrams and step-by-step guidelines to help users position the pad correctly for their specific vehicle model and bike carrier configuration.
Can any Dakine Tailgate Pad be used on all vehicles?
No, Dakine tailgate pads are designed to fit specific vehicle models and sizes. It's important to select a pad that is compatible with your particular vehicle make and model to ensure proper installation and protection.
You can find compatibility information on Dakine's website or by contacting their customer service, as mounting points and tailgate designs can vary significantly between vehicle manufacturers and models.
What materials are Dakine Tailgate Pads made from?
Dakine tailgate pads are typically constructed from high-density rubber or foam, designed to absorb shock and resist damage from repeated use. Some models may also include metal reinforcement plates in critical areas to provide additional durability.
The padding material is selected for its balance of impact absorption and resistance to wear and weathering, ensuring dependable protection over time.
How long do Dakine Tailgate Pads last?
With regular use, a quality Dakine tailgate pad should last 2-3 years or more, depending on usage frequency and environmental conditions. Normal wear and tear from repeated locking and unlocking will eventually require replacement.
Users should inspect the pad annually for signs of damage or wear, such as cracks in the rubber or compression of the foam, and replace it if these issues are noted to maintain optimal protection.
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