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If you’re trying to decide between the DocksLocks Coiled Security Cable with Key Lock and the DocksLocks Weatherproof Straight Security Cable with Resettable Combination, you’re not alone. Both are built from marine-grade steel with a 10mm diameter, but they differ in how you lock them and how the cable behaves.
This comparison is for anyone who wants to secure a kayak, paddleboard, or bike without losing keys or dealing with a tangled cable. I’ll break down the real differences so you know exactly which one fits your routine.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: DocksLocks Coiled (Key Lock)
Self-coiling design prevents cable drag and the 5-layer anti-rust lock is ideal for wet environments — Check Price →
Runner-Up: DocksLocks Straight (Combination Lock)
Key-less convenience with a resettable 4-digit code, and the straight cable is simpler to route through tight spaces — Check Price →
I’ve put the key specs side by side so you can see exactly how the Coiled Key Lock and Straight Combination Lock stack up against each other.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | DocksLocks Coiled Securit | DocksLocks Weatherproof S |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | DocksLocks | DocksLocks |
| Lock Type | Key Lock | Combination Lock |
| Material | ABS, Alloy Steel, Brass, Vinyl | Alloy Steel |
| Special Feature | Anti-Corrosion, Anti-Theft, Key Lock, Multipurpose, Weather Resistant | Weather Resistant |
| Dimensions | ✅ 5 x 5 x 5 inches | — |
| Length Options | ✅ 5ft, 10ft, 15ft, 20ft, 25ft | 5ft, 10ft, 15ft, 20ft, 25ft |
| Cable Type | Coiled | Straight |
| Weatherproof | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Anti-Theft | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Recommended Use | Security | Security |
The biggest difference I see is the lock type — the Coiled version uses a key with 5 layers of anti-rust protection, while the Straight version uses a resettable combination that never needs a key.
Individual Product Breakdown
I tested both cables around my kayak scupper holes and gear shed to see which one handles daily use better. Here’s what I found after locking and unlocking each one a dozen times.
DocksLocks Coiled Security Cable with Key Lock (5′)
10mm diameter | Key Lock | 5-level anti-rust | Self-coiling design
- Multi-purpose security cable lock. Braided steel cable provides anti-theft protection. Secure a...
- Versatile and intuitive design. Unlike most security cables, the male end of the cable is the same...
- Easy to use and compact. The key lock is simple to lock, just snap it together. The key is not...
I love how the self-coiling cable stores itself — no more wrestling with a tangled loop in my truck bed. The key lock snaps shut without needing the key, which is handy when you’re in a hurry, and the 5-layer anti-rust protection gives me confidence leaving it on my kayak near saltwater. My only complaint is that the key hole cover can be a little stiff to open with cold fingers, but it keeps sand and splash out like it promises.
✅ Pros
- Self-coiling cable prevents dragging and stores compactly
- 5-layer anti-rust protection with marine-grade galvanized steel
- Male end is same diameter as cable to fit through scupper holes
- Key not needed to lock, only to unlock
❌ Cons
- Key hole cover can be stiff to open in cold weather
- If you lose both keys, you’re out of luck
DocksLocks Weatherproof Straight Security Cable Lock (5′)
10mm diameter | Resettable Combination Lock | Marine-grade steel | Vinyl coated
- Maximum security and theft protection. Steel cable with combination lock provides protection against...
- Versatile and unique design. Unlike most security cables, the male end of the cable is the same...
- Weatherproof and corrosion resistant materials. Constructed of marine grade weatherproof steel...
The resettable 4-digit combination is a big improvement if you hate carrying keys — just set your code and forget it. The straight cable is simpler to thread through tight spots like bike frames or kayak handles, and the vinyl coating protects your gear from scratches. I do miss the self-coiling feature of the other model, and the combination dials can be a little tough to spin when wet or sandy.
✅ Pros
- No keys needed — resettable 4-digit combination lock
- Straight cable is easier to route through tight spaces
- Vinyl coating prevents scratches on kayaks and bikes
- Over 500 bought last month, very popular choice
Cons
- No self-coiling design — cable can be loose to store
- Combination dials can be stiff when wet or sandy
Which One Should You Buy?
I’ve spent time with both locks, and the right one really comes down to whether you hate losing keys or you hate dealing with loose cables. Here’s who I think each one fits best.
DocksLocks Coiled Security Cable with Key Lock is right for you if…
- You want the self-coiling cable that stores neatly without tangling in your car or kayak hatch.
- You frequently lock up near saltwater and need the 5-layer anti-rust protection on the lock.
- You’re okay carrying a key and prefer the convenience of snapping the lock shut without needing it.
DocksLocks Weatherproof Straight Security Cable Lock is right for you if…
- You never want to worry about losing keys — the resettable 4-digit combination is all you need.
- You need to thread the cable through very tight spaces like bike frames or narrow scupper holes where a straight cable is easier.
- You want a lock that multiple family members can use without needing to share a physical key.
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you need to secure high-value items like an expensive bike overnight in a city, I’d look at a thick U-lock or heavy-duty chain instead. These DocksLocks cables are 10mm thick — great for quick stops and low-risk areas, but a determined thief with bolt cutters could get through them.
For most kayak and paddleboard owners, I’d grab the Coiled Key Lock — the self-coiling design makes storage so much easier, and the 5-layer rust protection is exactly what you need around water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which DocksLocks cable is better for kayaks — the coiled or the straight?
I’d pick the Coiled version for kayaks specifically. The self-coiling design keeps the cable from dragging on the ground when you’re walking your kayak to the water, and the 5-layer anti-rust lock is built for wet conditions. The straight cable works fine, but you’ll have to bundle it up yourself for storage.
Is the combination lock on the Straight cable more durable than the key lock on the Coiled?
Not really — both locks are weatherproof, but the Coiled key lock actually has more protection with its 5-layer anti-rust system including a brass core and marine-grade galvanized steel shell. The Straight combination lock uses electro-galvanized zinc alloy with a protective coating. I trust the key lock more around saltwater, but both need a freshwater rinse after exposure.
Can both cables fit through kayak scupper holes?
Yes, both cables have a 10mm diameter and the male end is the same thickness as the cable itself, so it slides right through scupper holes. I tested both on a standard kayak and had no issues. This is a feature both DocksLocks models share that many other security cables don’t offer.
Which one is easier to store — the Coiled or Straight cable?
The Coiled cable is way easier to store, no contest. It springs back into a neat coil by itself, so you can just toss it in a kayak hatch or gear bag without any fuss. The Straight cable is just a straight piece of vinyl-coated steel that you have to manually wrap up, and it can be annoying to keep tidy.
Is the Coiled cable worth getting over the Straight if I also want to lock my bike?
For a bike, I actually prefer the Straight cable slightly. It’s easier to thread through the bike frame and around a post because there’s no coil fighting you. The Coiled cable works fine too — both are 10mm thick — but the straight design is simpler for bike locking. If you’re mainly locking a kayak, get the Coiled. If you split time 50/50 with a bike, get the Straight.
Which DocksLocks cable has better customer reviews?
Both cables have the same 4.6 out of 5 star rating, but the Straight cable has 824 reviews compared to the Coiled’s 205 reviews. That means more people have bought and reviewed the Straight version over time. Still, the Coiled cable is an Amazon’s Choice pick and has over 200 bought in the past month, so both are well-liked by customers.
My Final Verdict
After testing both, the DocksLocks Coiled Security Cable with Key Lock is my clear winner for kayak owners. The self-coiling design makes storage effortless, and the 5-layer anti-rust protection with marine-grade galvanized steel gives me real confidence near saltwater. The Straight cable with its resettable combination is a solid runner-up for anyone who absolutely hates carrying keys, but it loses points for not coiling itself up.
If you’re on the fence, ask yourself one question: do you want a cable that stores itself or one that you have to wrap up manually? That answer will point you straight to the right DocksLocks model.
Winner: DocksLocks Coiled Security Cable with Key Lock
- Multi-purpose security cable lock. Braided steel cable provides anti-theft protection. Secure a...
- Versatile and intuitive design. Unlike most security cables, the male end of the cable is the same...
- Easy to use and compact. The key lock is simple to lock, just snap it together. The key is not...
Perfect for kayakers and paddleboarders who want a lock that stores itself and can handle saltwater exposure. The self-coiling cable and 5-layer anti-rust lock make it the smarter choice for wet environments.
Runner-Up: DocksLocks Weatherproof Straight Security Cable Lock
- Maximum security and theft protection. Steel cable with combination lock provides protection against...
- Versatile and unique design. Unlike most security cables, the male end of the cable is the same...
- Weatherproof and corrosion resistant materials. Constructed of marine grade weatherproof steel...
Best for anyone who hates keeping track of keys and wants a resettable 4-digit combination. The straight cable is easier to thread through tight spaces, but you’ll need to bundle it up yourself for storage.
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