Kayak Security
By Mike Toma-QWS Kayak Instructor

A subject becoming more popular these days around the camp fire is kayak theft. Unless you or a paddling buddy have become a victim of kayak theft, your knowledge of kayak security systems and resources is probably limited. Try doing an internet search and you will find a very limited selection, and most likely what you discover is nothing more than a glorified bicycle lock.

My search for a security system began shortly before a trip to Madison Wisconsin last June. My itinerary for the trip included traveling across Lake Michigan via Lake Express to Milwaukee and returning three days later, driving during the early morning hours through Chicago on my home to Michigan. Unfortunately the tight schedule forced me to stay at a hotel during my stay in Madison which made me abandon my boat during night while it rested peacefully on-top the Aztek. Now I fully understand the Aztec is not the most intimidating vehicle, actually the message it delivers is “kick me”. So, I needed peace of mind at night and the antidote I found was Lasso Security Cables.

Why Lasso? After some homework it was an easy decision. Lasso uses thick, vinyl-coated, galvanized steel, aircraft cable. The cable simply looks mean and most security systems are effective as a theft deterrent even before an actual attempt is made. A determined thief would probably have an easier time stealing your entire roof rack than getting through this cable system.

How does this system work? The Lasso Security Cable is exactly that, a lasso. One lasso is placed around the bow and the other around the stern. The cable then is looped around your cross-bars and attached together using a combination lock.



The combination lock system is what you find on the “Classic” Lasso Security Cable and is what I purchased last year. The combination is a simple barrel/tumbler system that utilizes a four-digit numerical code.

Just make sure you don’t forget your code. Late last year the “Classic” lasso received a partner appropriately called “Kong”. The difference between the two cable systems is the “Kong” can be locked by either combination or key. The Lasso cable is truly a “one size fits all”.

It is worth noting that this cable system is not exclusive to a car-top carrier. The Lasso cable can provide security off your vehicle and only requires that an object, such as a tree, is secured to the ground. Also, every Lasso Security Cable purchase includes a free Cordura Stuff Sack!

MSRP for the Classic Lasso Security Cable is $48.95, however, piece of mind knowing your partner in paddling is safe…..priceless! lassosecuritycables.com