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10 Best Soft Surf Racks For Car 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads Luggage Carrier System for Kayak Surfboard SUP Canoe Include 2 Heavy Duty Tie Down Straps, 2 Tie Down Rope, 2 Quick Loop Strap and Storage Bag

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,287
Capacity
Ease of Installation
Security Features

Most important from
1176 reviews

Capacity
Impressive build quality and a good value for carrying kayaks on vehicles without a roof rack.
Ease of Installation
Super easy and quick to install, taking only about half an hour even for a user unfamiliar with the product.
Security Features
Works great even at highway speeds, stows easily in the trunk, and is cleverly designed with bow and stern tie-downs.

The MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads Luggage Carrier System is a versatile option for transporting items like kayaks, surfboards, SUPs, and canoes. One of its main attractions is its universal compatibility; it can be used on cars with or without gutters. With a load capacity of up to 99.2 pounds, it can accommodate 1-3 shortboards or 1-2 longboards, making it quite handy for various outdoor activities.

The straps are of high quality and include 2 heavy-duty tie-down straps, 2 tie-down ropes, and 2 quick loop straps, all designed to ensure a secure fit. The system also features top-grade EVA foam padding, which helps reduce vibrations and prevents scratching or scuffing of your items. Installation is straightforward and requires no tools, making it accessible even for those who may not be particularly handy. Additionally, the foldable design and included storage bag make it easy to store when not in use.

However, some users have noted that while the system is generally secure, it is crucial to ensure everything is tightly fastened to prevent movement during transit. This product is well-regarded for its flexibility and ease of use, but it may require careful setup to maximize its security features. It is ideal for anyone needing a flexible and easy-to-use solution for carrying outdoor gear on their vehicle.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,287
Capacity
Ease of Installation
Security Features

Most important from
1176 reviews

Capacity
Impressive build quality and a good value for carrying kayaks on vehicles without a roof rack.
Ease of Installation
Super easy and quick to install, taking only about half an hour even for a user unfamiliar with the product.
Security Features
Works great even at highway speeds, stows easily in the trunk, and is cleverly designed with bow and stern tie-downs.
#2

Ho Stevie! Surfboard Car Roof Rack Padded System (Holds Up to 3 Boards) Fits Any Car, Silicone Buckle Covers Prevent Damage

Rating
9.6
Capacity
Strap Quality
Ease of Installation

Most important from
471 reviews

Capacity
It worked great on a long trip with three boards, and an easy fix for any noise issues.
Strap Quality
Even after 3.5 years, the straps function perfectly and securely hold boards at highway speeds.
Ease of Installation
Installation is extremely easy, taking under 5 minutes, and it fits any car securely, even with an antenna.
Compatibility
Perfect for strapping various items, not just surfboards—great for things like Christmas trees too!

The Ho Stevie! Surfboard Car Roof Rack Padded System is designed to hold up to three surfboards securely, making it a great choice for surfers who need to transport multiple boards. Its versatility in fitting any car, whether it’s a 2-door or 4-door vehicle, adds to its convenience. The soft padding is a thoughtful touch, protecting both your car and surfboards from damage during transit.

One of its standout features is the silicone buckle covers, which prevent any potential damage from metal buckles—a common concern with other brands. Installing the rack is straightforward and quick, taking about three minutes, and there’s a helpful video guide available. The ease of installation and the option to leave the racks on or remove them easily when not in use is a plus. Additionally, it comes with a carrying case for storage when not in use.

However, the straps may become less durable over time, particularly if they're frequently exposed to harsh weather conditions. Security features are basic, relying mainly on the strap system, which might not provide the highest level of theft prevention. The system holds up well under normal use but may not be the best choice for users who need extreme durability or advanced security features. If you're a casual to intermediate surfer looking for a reliable and easy-to-use rack system, this could be a solid fit for your needs.

Rating
9.6
Capacity
Strap Quality
Ease of Installation

Most important from
471 reviews

Capacity
It worked great on a long trip with three boards, and an easy fix for any noise issues.
Strap Quality
Even after 3.5 years, the straps function perfectly and securely hold boards at highway speeds.
Ease of Installation
Installation is extremely easy, taking under 5 minutes, and it fits any car securely, even with an antenna.
Compatibility
Perfect for strapping various items, not just surfboards—great for things like Christmas trees too!
#3

HEYTRIP Universal Soft Roof Rack Pads for Kayak/Surfboard/SUP/Canoe with 15FT Tie-Down Straps and Storage Bag

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Strap Quality
Padding

Most important from
1612 reviews

Capacity
These racks are of great quality and hold up well with repeated use, making them suitable for transporting surfboards and paddleboards.
Strap Quality
The straps and tie-downs may stretch slightly, so it's advisable to retighten them after driving for 20-25 miles, especially if traveling at highway speeds.
Padding
The padding is decent, but thicker foam blocks might be needed for vehicles with extensive sunroofs to avoid pressure issues.
Ease of Installation
The HEYTRIP soft roof rack is very easy to install and effectively prevents front to rear movement or lift, even at highway speeds.
Security Features
The trunk loop for attaching the bow and stern lines could benefit from thicker or harder rubber to prevent it from popping out.

The HEYTRIP Universal Soft Roof Rack Pads present a versatile and budget-friendly option for transporting kayaks, surfboards, SUPs, and canoes. They boast a respectable load capacity of 176.4 pounds (80kg), suitable for most standard-sized watercraft. The inclusion of 15ft tie-down straps and additional ropes for bow and stern ensures that your equipment is securely fastened during transit. The straps come with padded cam locks for extra grip, enhancing the security of your load, and the EVA foam padding helps minimize vibrations and potential noise, making for a quieter trip.

Compatibility is another highlight, as these soft racks can be fitted to a wide range of vehicles, whether or not they have side rails or gutters, allowing for universal use without the need for a fixed roof rack system. Installation is straightforward with no tools required, and the included instructions make the process even simpler. The foldable design and storage bag add to the convenience, allowing easy storage when not in use.

In conclusion, the HEYTRIP soft roof racks offer a strong combination of capacity, security, and ease of use, making them a solid choice for most car owners seeking a reliable transport solution for their water sports equipment.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Strap Quality
Padding

Most important from
1612 reviews

Capacity
These racks are of great quality and hold up well with repeated use, making them suitable for transporting surfboards and paddleboards.
Strap Quality
The straps and tie-downs may stretch slightly, so it's advisable to retighten them after driving for 20-25 miles, especially if traveling at highway speeds.
Padding
The padding is decent, but thicker foam blocks might be needed for vehicles with extensive sunroofs to avoid pressure issues.
Ease of Installation
The HEYTRIP soft roof rack is very easy to install and effectively prevents front to rear movement or lift, even at highway speeds.
Security Features
The trunk loop for attaching the bow and stern lines could benefit from thicker or harder rubber to prevent it from popping out.

Buying Guide for the Best Soft Surf Racks For Car

Choosing the right soft surf rack for your car is essential to ensure the safe and secure transportation of your surfboards. Soft surf racks are a convenient and versatile option for those who do not have permanent roof racks installed on their vehicles. They are easy to install, remove, and store, making them a popular choice among surfers. When selecting a soft surf rack, consider the following key specifications to find the best fit for your needs.
CapacityCapacity refers to the number of surfboards the rack can hold. This is important because it determines how many boards you can transport at once. Soft surf racks typically come in single, double, or triple capacities. Single capacity is suitable for solo surfers or those with one board, double capacity is ideal for surfers who often travel with a friend or have multiple boards, and triple capacity is best for those who need to transport three boards at a time. Choose a capacity based on the number of boards you need to carry regularly.
Strap QualityStrap quality is crucial for the security and stability of your surfboards during transport. High-quality straps are made from durable materials that can withstand the elements and provide a strong hold. Look for straps with reinforced stitching and heavy-duty buckles. Straps should be easy to adjust and secure tightly to prevent any movement of the boards. If you frequently drive long distances or at high speeds, investing in high-quality straps is essential to ensure your boards remain safe.
PaddingPadding on soft surf racks protects both your car and your surfboards from damage. The padding acts as a cushion, preventing scratches and dents on your car's roof and dings on your boards. Soft surf racks typically feature foam or neoprene padding. Foam padding is lightweight and provides good protection, while neoprene padding is more durable and offers better resistance to wear and tear. Consider the type of padding based on how often you use the rack and the level of protection you need.
Ease of InstallationEase of installation is an important factor, especially if you plan to frequently put on and take off the rack. Soft surf racks should be easy to install without the need for tools. Look for racks with clear instructions and simple mechanisms, such as quick-release buckles or Velcro straps. If you are not very handy or prefer a hassle-free setup, prioritize racks that are known for their user-friendly installation process.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to how well the soft surf rack fits your specific car model. Not all racks are universal, so it's important to check if the rack is compatible with your vehicle's roof type (e.g., flat, curved, or with roof rails). Some racks are designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, while others may be more specialized. Ensure that the rack you choose can be securely attached to your car and provides a stable base for your surfboards.
Security FeaturesSecurity features are important to prevent theft and ensure the safety of your surfboards. Some soft surf racks come with built-in locking mechanisms or can be used with additional locks. These features can deter theft and give you peace of mind when leaving your car unattended. If you often park in public areas or leave your boards on the car for extended periods, consider racks with robust security features.

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