Smart Bark is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Learn more
Kong's credentials need no introduction – the trusted brand behind the iconic snowman-shaped chew toy adored by dogs and dog-lovers alike.
They have recently turned their attention to dog travel essentials designing a range of car seats, boot liners and harness tethers.
Their new range has been named - 'Ultimate'. Some of the best dog products also claim to be 'Ultimate' but not a lot of them, in our experience, live up to this assertion, so we had to put this Ultimate Cargo Liner & Tether to the test.
If you're in a rush - We've tested a lot of boot liners over the years and the new Ultimate Cargo Liner from Kong is an absolute gem. The designers have considered all the problems dog lovers experience and their innovative boot liner delivers all the solutions. |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Kong Dog Ultimate Cargo Liner & Tether Review
1. Kong Dog Cargo Liner : Features
2. Kong Dog Cargo Tether : Features
Our Verdict
Rest of the Kong Ultimate Range
Kong Dog Ultimate Cargo Liner & Tether Review
1. Kong Dog Cargo Liner : Features
Tired of muddy paws and dog hair taking over your boot?
A boot/cargo liner is a must-have investment for any dog lover. Not only does it save on the car cleaning especially during those muddy winter months, but ultimately it can impact the resale value of your car.
There's all sorts of styles available from full coverage to simple waterproof liners or rubber mats.
The new Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner offers full coverage. The design not only protects the seat backs, sides of your boot, tailgate and the bumper from scratches, it looks better than many far more expensive made-to-measure boot protectors from the likes of Hatchbag and Titan Covers.
What we really like about this boot liner is the finish. The pale grey quilted fabric looks and feels expensive. All the edges are finished with black piping, the zip pulls are in the shape of miniature rubber kong toys (adorable) - as far as styling goes, it ticks all the boxes.
As you'd expect the fabric is multi-layered and includes a waterproof liner along with anti-slip backing because nobody wants the liner moving as you take a corner at speed !
There are two adjustable headrest straps so you can get the best fit and the sides of the cargo liner can be zipped up to create a contained space.
To help achieve a more custom fit for your car, the sides feature versatile velcro strips which can be attached to your car once you're happy with the position of the liner. We found the velcro adhered really well directly to our carpeted boot walls.
What's more there are additional larger velcro strips which will be helpful if your boot walls are plastic rather than carpeted.
Basically, the headrest straps and the velcro mean that the Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner should stay put regardless of how much your dog likes to move around.
The cover's generous overhang acts as a bumper protector, safeguarding your tailgate from scratches and dings. Plus, when not in use, you can zip it up for extra protection inside your boot. It's a lifesaver for dogs who scratch because they just can't wait to get out and explore.
There's even a decent sized zipped pocket to store toys, balls, poo bags etc.
Let's talk size ! This liner is designed for standard SUVs, 4x4's and estate cars, as you can see here, it's a near perfect fit in a Porsche Macan. We've provided full dimensions below so you can measure up.
2. Kong Dog Cargo Tether : Features
Does your dog launch out of the boot like an exocet missile when you open it ?
Kong have considered a solution to this problem too. The design includes two zippers on the rear of the back seats so you can access your car's ISOFIX system.
Whereas lots of rivals simply offer a boot liner, Kong takes the design a step further and include a Cargo Swivel tether to attach directly to your dog's harness. Designed with safety in mind, the tether system prevents your dog from jumping out of the car until you're ready.
The swivel carabiner and double webbing ensure that although your dog is secure, they can move around and get comfortable without getting tangled up.
It attaches to your ISOFIX system through the zipped opening in the cargo liner. The tether itself features an inertia shock absorber.
Simply put, when your dog pulls or jerks on the tether, the inertia shock absorber stretches or compresses, absorbing the force and preventing sudden jolts. This could be invaluable in the event of a crash.
Finally, we should mention that the Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner arrives in it's own travel bag with a Cargo Swivel Tether included. If you need guidance on how to fit the liner or the tether, a QR code on the bag takes you straight to a YouTube video. To be honest though, it's incredibly simple to install.
Our Verdict
The Kong Dog Ultimate Cargo Liner & Tether stand head and shoulders above other 'off-the-shelf' boot liners we've tested.
Clearly the liner has been designed by people who understand dogs. It's exceptionally well made, looks great and is amazing value - less than half the price of many made-to-measure boot liner alternatives.
This innovative tether provides added security and peace of mind during your travels. Knowing your dog is comfortable and safe in case of an accident is priceless.
The only flaw we could find in an otherwise perfect review, is that you can't lower one of your rear seats (if you have a 60/40 split) with the liner in place. And maybe a black option, we loved the grey but black would coordinate with most boot colours and dark colours are always a win for longevity.
But these are incredibly minor points in an otherwise positive review and experience.
We think that the Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner lives up to the 'Ultimate' label and if it fits your car boot, you'd be mad to look at anything else. We guarantee you won't be disappointed.
Reasons to Buy
Best in class
Good value
Design
Anti-slip backing
Quilted fabric
Tether included
Allows use of ISOFIX system
Reasons to Avoid
Doesn't allow 60/40 rear seat split
Only available in grey
Buying Options
Designed right here in the UK, this cargo liner is available from Dog Gear
FREE Shipping on all orders
If you're not convinced by the Kong Ultimate Cargo Liner, why not have a look at the other boot liners and mats we recommend in our top 10.
We look at custom fit rubber mats, budget friendly liners and tailored solutions - Best Car Boot Liners for Dogs
You may be interested....
We also test and feature other products from the Kong Travel range including their HandiPOD poo bag dispenser with integral hand sanitiser or torch in our popular Best Dog Poo Bag Holders & Dispensers and their best in class Hiking Bag in our Best Walking Bag article.
