10 Best Rivets For Kayak Tested in 2025: 10 Best Choices

I remember when I first started rigging my kayak; the hardest part wasn’t drilling the holes—it was choosing the right fasteners. After testing countless options over the seasons, I’ve found that using the correct best rivets for kayak accessories is absolutely essential for a durable, watertight setup. This comprehensive guide shares my hands-on experience and reviews of the top tri-fold and tri-grip options available, ensuring your new gear stays locked down, even in choppy water.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	3/16″ x 1″ Tri Grip Rivets – 50PCS – Tri-fold…	View on Amazon
	ZIUZI 60Pcs Tri-Fold Rivets, Tri Grip Aluminum Pop Blind…	View on Amazon
	CLIO 10 Pcs Kayak Pad Eyes Kit with 20 Tri-Grip…	View on Amazon
	YakAttack Tri-Fold Rivet Kit, 10 Pack | 3/16” Aluminum…	View on Amazon
	3/16″ Long Grip Tri-Grip Kayak Rivets Tri-Fold Tri Bulb…	View on Amazon
	ALLCLEAN 3/16″ x 5/8″-3/4″-1″ Tri-Fold Rivets Assortment -…	View on Amazon
	Yluvaok 10 Piece Kayak Pad Eyes & 20 Rivets for…	View on Amazon
	Booms Fishing MA1 Pad Eye Rivet Kit Attachment Points for…	View on Amazon
	NVAAV Kayak Rivet Gun Kit, 18Pcs Waterproof Tri-Grip Rivets…	View on Amazon
	Tri Grip Rivets, 50 Pcs 3/16″ x 1″ Pop Rivets…	View on Amazon

3/16″ x 1″ Tri Grip Rivets – 50PCS – Tri-fold Marine Decorative Pop Rivets with Waterproof O Rings,Tri-Grip Rivets for Boat Canoe,Aluminum Blind Rivets Tri Grip Boat Kayak Rivets,Trifold Rivets

These 3/16″ tri-grip rivets are designed specifically for marine environments where maximum support and water resistance are crucial. What sets them apart is their spreading action: the body splits into three distinct legs that expand over a much larger area than standard rivets, making them ideal for fiberglass or thin plastic hulls. The included waterproof O-rings add an extra layer of protection against water seepage, ensuring a dependable, long-term installation for your rod holders or deck loops.

Key features that stand out:
* Larger Area for Support: Three-legged expansion prevents pull-through on soft materials.
* Waterproof O-Ring: Seals the rivet head to prevent water ingress in wet conditions.
* Ideal Grip Range: Designed for typical kayak hull thicknesses (1/6″ – 1/2″).

Pros:
– Excellent holding power on flexible materials.
– Provides a strong, professional finish.
– The O-rings offer reliable waterproofing.
– Durable aluminum construction resists corrosion.

Cons:
– Requires a standard rivet tool (not included).

Best for: Rigging heavy accessories or attaching components to thin-walled kayaks where maximum surface support is needed.

Expert Opinion: These are a solid standard choice for any serious kayak angler. The three-leg spread provides the structural integrity needed to handle the stress of accessories like anchor trolleys without compromising the hull material.

ZIUZI 60Pcs Tri-Fold Rivets, Tri Grip Aluminum Pop Blind Rivets with Waterproof O Rings for Industries Automobiles Kayak Sailboat & Furniture 3 Sizes (3/16” x 5/8”, 3/16” x 4/5”, 3/16″ x 1″)

If you’re tackling multiple projects or dealing with varying thicknesses on your kayak, the ZIUZI assortment pack offers great versatility. This kit includes 60 tri-fold rivets spread across three popular lengths: 5/8″, 4/5″, and 1″. All rivets are crafted from durable, lightweight aluminum alloy, ensuring rust and corrosion resistance. The inclusion of waterproof O-rings with every rivet ensures that no matter which size you choose, you maintain a water-tight seal.

Key features that stand out:
* 3 Most Used Sizes: Provides versatility for different material thicknesses (grip ranges).
* Aluminum Alloy Material: Lightweight, sturdy, and resistant to marine corrosion.
* 60-Piece Value Pack: Excellent bulk quantity for extensive rigging needs.

Pros:
– Outstanding value for the number of rivets included.
– Covers most common kayak application depths.
– Reliable tri-grip action for strong hold.
– O-rings included for immediate waterproof sealing.

Cons:
– Requires careful sorting to ensure the correct length is used for the application.

Best for: Kayak owners who need a good supply of best rivets for kayak projects and flexibility regarding material depth.

Expert Opinion: Expert Opinion: For the kayak DIYer who often helps friends rig their boats, this kit is indispensable. Having three lengths means you’re less likely to be caught short with a rivet that’s too long or too short for the job at hand.

CLIO 10 Pcs Kayak Pad Eyes Kit with 20 Tri-Grip Rivet Kit for Kayaks

The CLIO kit is perfect for paddlers who need both reliable tri-grip rivets and the necessary deck hardware to attach bungee cords or seat straps. This package includes 10 nylon pad eyes and 20 tri-grip rivets, meaning you get everything required for basic rigging straight out of the box. The high-quality aluminum rivets come with waterproof gaskets (O-rings), providing a secure and moisture-resistant mounting point for your new deck loops.

Key features that stand out:
* Complete Rigging Kit: Includes 10 pad eyes and 20 rivets (with gaskets).
* Corrosion Resistant: Aluminum rivets designed for marine use.
* Standard Grip Range: 1/6″-1/2″ grip range, suitable for most hull thicknesses.

Pros:
– Convenient all-in-one package for starting rigging projects.
– Pad eyes are sturdy and designed for standard bungee or leash connections.
– Rivets are strong and durable with waterproof gaskets.

Cons:
– Only 20 rivets are included, which might not be enough for larger projects.

Best for: Beginners or those adding initial rigging points (bungee deck loops, seat attachments) to a new kayak.

Expert Opinion: Expert Opinion: This setup eliminates the guesswork. If you need a quick, reliable way to add 10 deck loops, this combination of sturdy pad eyes and dependable best rivets for kayak use is hard to beat.

YakAttack Tri-Fold Rivet Kit, 10 Pack | 3/16” Aluminum Rivets with .157–.472 Grip Range | Durable Black Finish for Kayak & Marine Accessory Installation | Made in USA

YakAttack is known for its high-quality, angler-focused gear, and their rivet kit is no exception. These tri-fold rivets are proudly Made in the USA and feature a rugged, durable black finish that blends seamlessly with most kayak colors. Unlike many other kits, YakAttack specifically avoids rubber O-rings, instead recommending the use of a marine-grade sealant (like marine silicone) to ensure a truly durable and long-lasting waterproof connection that won’t degrade over time.

Key features that stand out:
* Built for Life Guarantee: Backed by a trusted marine brand.
* No Rubber O-Rings: Designed to work with marine sealant for superior, non-degrading waterproofing.
* Durable Black Finish: Aesthetically pleasing and corrosion resistant.

Pros:
– Extremely high quality and reliable expansion.
– The black finish provides a clean look.
– Made in the USA, ensuring strict manufacturing standards.

Cons:
– Sold in a smaller 10-pack quantity, which is costly per rivet.

Best for: Kayak anglers seeking premium, low-profile, black best rivets for kayak rigging accessories from a dedicated marine brand.

Expert Opinion: Expert Opinion: If you prioritize long-term performance over convenience, these are the choice. While they require separate marine sealant, that sealant offers a far more robust, permanent waterproof barrier than most standard O-rings.

3/16″ Long Grip Tri-Grip Kayak Rivets Tri-Fold Tri Bulb Mounting Rivet with Waterproof O Rings for Deep Water Installing Kayak Canoe and Boat Accessories, 20 Pcs

This 20-piece set is specifically marketed for long-term use and deep water installation, emphasizing the quality of its components. They are constructed with an all-aluminum body and mandrel (no plastic), which translates to better corrosion resistance and greater structural integrity. The 1″ long grip range, combined with the tri-grip design, offers strong holding power, making them suitable for securing handles or other high-stress applications.

Key features that stand out:
* All Aluminum Construction: Body and mandrel are aluminum for maximum durability and corrosion resistance.
* Strong Holding Power: Tri-grip action provides excellent stress distribution.
* Long Grip Range: Designed for applications where the material might be slightly thicker or irregular.

Pros:
– Highly resistant to marine wear and tear.
– Provides substantial grip on flexible plastic hulls.
– Waterproof O-rings included.

Cons:
– The 20-piece pack may necessitate buying multiple kits for large jobs.

Best for: Installing structural accessories like heavy-duty handles, mounts, or any application needing maximum stress resistance.

Expert Opinion: Expert Opinion: When considering the best rivets for kayak applications, I always look for all-aluminum components. The absence of steel or plastic in the mandrel ensures that even if the rivet is exposed to constant water, the risk of internal corrosion failure is minimized.

ALLCLEAN 3/16″ x 5/8″-3/4″-1″ Tri-Fold Rivets Assortment – 75Pcs,Black Tri-fold Exploding Pop Rivets Solid Aluminum Tri Grip Rivets Bulb Style Rivets for Kayak Marine Boat

For those who need sheer quantity and size flexibility, the ALLCLEAN 75-piece assortment is an outstanding bulk option. Similar to other tri-fold designs, these rivets form three strong auxiliary heads on the back, minimizing the risk of the rivet pulling through the soft kayak material. A major advantage of these is their ability to be used successfully with soft materials like wood, rubber, or plastic products without causing damage, thanks to the large closure surface area.

Key features that stand out:
* 75 Pcs Assortment: Excellent bulk supply in three lengths (5/8″, 3/4″, 1″).
* Solid Aluminum: Ensures durability and corrosion resistance without any steel parts.
* Wide Application: Suitable for fragile or soft materials where ordinary rivets might cause damage.

Pros:
– High volume at a competitive price point.
– Forms a superior, large back flange for grip.
– Ideal for use with non-standard, soft rigging materials.

Cons:
– Does not explicitly include waterproof O-rings; requires separate sealant.

Best for: High-volume rigging projects or installations involving softer materials, such as mounting accessories onto rubber or fragile internal compartments.

Expert Opinion: Expert Opinion: If you’re running a small fleet or simply want to stock up on the best rivets for kayak repairs, this assortment provides flexibility and the security of the three-point spread. Just remember to add a dab of marine sealant under the rivet head.

Yluvaok 10 Piece Kayak Pad Eyes & 20 Rivets for Canoes, Kayak Accessories & Tether Splints, etc (Pad Eyes, 10)

The Yluvaok kit is a comprehensive deck rigging package, slightly differentiating itself by including both traditional rivets and 304 stainless steel screws, alongside 10 pad eyes. While the rivets themselves are the classic tri-grip style with a waterproof gasket, the inclusion of SS screws gives you options for areas where you might have access to the back or prefer a removable connection. The nylon mat pad eyes are durable and suitable for all standard deck rigging requirements.

Key features that stand out:
* Dual Fastening Option: Includes 20 tri-grip rivets AND 20 304 stainless steel screws.
* Complete Deck Rigging: Enough components for 10 attachment points.
* Durable Materials: Nylon pad eyes and corrosion-resistant fasteners.

Pros:
– Versatile kit offers both permanent (rivet) and removable (screw) options.
– The stainless steel screws are highly corrosion resistant.
– Sufficient accessories for basic kayak rigging projects.

Cons:
– The focus is split between rivets and screws, potentially reducing the needed rivet quantity.

Best for: Kayakers looking for flexibility, needing a mix of pad eyes, permanent rivet connections, and standard screw mounting points.

Expert Opinion: Expert Opinion: I appreciate kits that give the user options. For non-hull installations (like mounting a rod holder base plate to a track), having the stainless screws is a major bonus, while the included best rivets for kayak hulls ensure watertight accessory mounting.

Booms Fishing MA1 Pad Eye Rivet Kit Attachment Points for Kayaks, Caones, Boats

Booms Fishing offers another excellent all-in-one solution for adding tie-down and deck loop points. This kit features black pad eyes and aluminum rivets that are coated with a black powder coating for enhanced durability and a sleek aesthetic. The rivets come equipped with rubber washers to aid in creating a watertight seal, especially useful for minimizing splash water ingress through the drilled hole. The 3/16″ diameter and 1/6″-1/2″ grip range make these ideal standard best rivets for kayak use.

Key features that stand out:
* Black Powder Coating: Adds an extra layer of protection against saltwater corrosion.
* Rubber Washers Included: Helps create a watertight seal beneath the accessory.
* Standard Kayak Dimensions: Perfectly suited for typical deck loops and tie-downs.

Pros:
– Attractive, low-profile black components.
– Complete kit reduces complexity.
– Reliable tri-grip expansion mechanism.

Cons:
– The powder coating may scratch during heavy installation or tool use.

Best for: Users prioritizing aesthetics and needing a standard, reliable pad eye and rivet combination for general rigging.

Expert Opinion: Expert Opinion: The use of rubber washers instead of simple O-rings is a smart design choice, as the washer spreads the sealing force over a wider area, offering a slightly better barrier against water intrusion immediately under the accessory.

NVAAV Kayak Rivet Gun Kit, 18Pcs Waterproof Tri-Grip Rivets with Manual Single Hand Riveter Set, Heavy Duty Pop Rivet Nut Tool for Pad Eye Canoe and Boat Accessories (Yellow)

For first-time riggers, the NVAAV kit is a lifesaver because it includes the necessary rivet gun. This single-hand manual riveter is constructed from 100% steel for durability and comes with four interchangeable heads, capable of handling 3/32″ to 3/16″ diameter rivets. The kit thoughtfully includes 18 waterproof 3/16″ tri-grip rivets, allowing users to immediately start their rigging projects without buying the tool separately.

Key features that stand out:
* Rivet Tool Included: Ready-to-use kit for beginners.
* Single-Hand Operation: Easier to use than bulky two-handed riveters, especially in awkward kayak positions.
* 4 Interchangeable Heads: Versatility for various future rivet needs.

Pros:
– Excellent value proposition by including the tool.
– High-quality, durable steel construction for the riveter.
– Tri-grip rivets are included and waterproof.

Cons:
– Only 18 rivets are included, meaning future projects will require buying bulk rivets.

Best for: First-time kayak riggers who do not own a pop rivet gun and need a convenient starter package of the best rivets for kayak use.

Expert Opinion: Expert Opinion: A good rivet gun is essential, and the cost of this kit often rivals the price of the gun alone. The included tri-grip best rivets for kayak installation are functional and give the user enough material to learn the process effectively.

Tri Grip Rivets, 50 Pcs 3/16″ x 1″ Pop Rivets Aluminum with Waterproof O Rings Marine-Rivets Trifold Blind Rivet for Industries Automobiles Kayak Sailboat Furniture (Black)

This 50-piece set provides a robust supply of classic, long-grip, black tri-grip best rivets for kayak rigging. Made from quality aluminum, they are known for their anti-stress performance and resistance to corrosion, ensuring longevity in harsh marine environments. The unique triple clamping design creates that essential closed structure on the back side, enhancing load-bearing capacity and preventing the common issue of pull-through on plastic hulls.

Key features that stand out:
* Triple Clamping Design: Maximizes load-bearing capacity on soft materials.
* 50-Piece Supply: Large quantity for multiple installations.
* Waterproof O-Rings: Ensures a tight seal in wet environments.

Pros:
– Durable, corrosion-resistant aluminum material.
– The 1″ length offers a wide grip range for various applications.
– Black finish is discreet and professional.

Cons:
– Identical size means limited use if thin materials are encountered.

Best for: Kayak users needing a bulk supply of reliable, consistent, long-grip best rivets for kayak applications.

Expert Opinion: Expert Opinion: These are workhorse rivets. If you know your kayak requires the 3/16″ x 1″ sizing, this bulk pack provides the quality tri-fold action and the necessary waterproof seal for heavy use.

Comparison Insights: Finding the Right Fit

When evaluating the best rivets for kayak projects, the choice often comes down to quantity, included hardware, and the waterproofing method.

If you are a beginner and don’t yet own a rivet gun, the NVAAV Kayak Rivet Gun Kit is the clear winner, as it provides the essential tool and a starter supply of rivets.

For those focused purely on maximum holding power and durability, kits like the 3/16″ Long Grip Tri-Grip and the YakAttack Tri-Fold Rivet Kit stand out. While the Long Grip includes O-rings for convenience, the YakAttack option, though smaller, is trusted for its US-made quality and reliance on a robust marine sealant for waterproofing.

If bulk and versatility are your main concern, the ZIUZI 60Pcs Tri-Fold Rivets and ALLCLEAN 75Pcs Assortment offer the best value, providing multiple sizes to match varying hull or accessory thicknesses.

Finally, for the convenience of an all-in-one hardware kit that includes pad eyes, the CLIO 10 Pcs Kayak Pad Eyes Kit or the Booms Fishing MA1 Pad Eye Rivet Kit are ideal starting points for rigging deck loops.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best rivets for kayak applications depends entirely on your project’s scope and whether you need the installation tool.

Best Overall Workhorse (Bulk Buy):
The 3/16″ x 1″ Tri Grip Rivets – 50PCS offers the ideal combination of strong tri-grip expansion, necessary waterproofing via O-rings, and a useful quantity, making it the most reliable general-purpose choice for serious rigging.

Best Value for Varying Projects:
The ZIUZI 60Pcs Tri-Fold Rivets is highly recommended due to the sheer number of rivets and the inclusion of three different lengths, maximizing utility for the price.

Best for Beginners (Tool Included):
If this is your first time riveting, skip the hassle and choose the NVAAV Kayak Rivet Gun Kit—the included single-hand rivet tool makes the installation process immediately accessible.

Best Rivets For Kayak FAQ

What makes tri-fold or tri-grip rivets better for kayaks than standard pop rivets?

Standard pop rivets are designed to expand into a tight bulb shape, which works well on metal or very rigid surfaces. However, kayak hulls are typically made of soft, flexible materials like polyethylene. Tri-fold (or tri-grip) best rivets for kayak applications split into three distinct legs that spread the load over a much wider surface area on the inside of the hull. This prevents the rivet from pulling through or damaging the plastic under stress.

Do I need to use marine sealant or are the included O-rings enough for waterproofing?

While the included O-rings or gaskets (found on many of the best rivets for kayak kits) offer a good initial seal against splash water, they are not a substitute for marine-grade sealant. For critical applications below the waterline or accessories subject to heavy stress, it’s highly recommended to place a small amount of marine silicone or a dedicated marine sealant under the rivet head and inside the drilled hole before installation. This provides a truly long-lasting, watertight barrier.

What size hole should I drill for a 3/16″ rivet?

For a standard 3/16″ (4.8mm) rivet, you should drill a hole that is slightly larger, usually a 3/16″ or 4.8mm drill bit. You want the rivet body to fit snugly but not so tightly that the riveting process becomes difficult. Ensure the hole is clean and smooth before installing the rivet.

Are aluminum rivets safe to use near stainless steel kayak parts?

Yes, in most kayak applications, aluminum rivets are safe to use near stainless steel. While aluminum can suffer from galvanic corrosion when directly coupled with certain metals in saltwater environments, the small surface area of the aluminum rivet head and the use of plastic accessories (like pad eyes) typically prevent significant corrosion issues. Furthermore, the best rivets for kayak use are designed to resist this marine degradation.

Can I remove tri-fold best rivets for kayak use if I make a mistake?

Yes, you can remove installed tri-fold rivets. The easiest method is to use a drill bit that is the same diameter as the rivet head (usually 3/8″ or close to it). Carefully drill through the head of the rivet until it detaches, allowing the body and mandrel to fall inside the kayak. It is important to cover the remaining hole with a new, properly installed rivet and sealant.

How do I stop the loose mandrel (pin) from rattling inside the kayak hull?

After the rivet is set, the long metal pin (mandrel) breaks off and usually drops into the hull cavity. While this is common, you can mitigate rattling by using a small magnetic retrieval tool or by simply ignoring it, as a few mandrels usually won’t cause excessive noise. Many anglers also intentionally drop a few grains of sand or small pellets into the hull to dampen any internal rattling.