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10 Best Surfboard Roof Racks 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
9.9
Chosen by1,408
Capacity
Security
Ease of Use

Most important from
1160 reviews

Capacity
Handles highway speeds with ease, even with a 13-foot kayak.
Security
The kayak remained secure with no shifting, even at speeds up to 50 mph.
Ease of Use
Installation was quick and easy, taking just about 30 minutes even for someone unfamiliar with the product.

The MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads offer a versatile solution for transporting your kayak, surfboard, SUP, or canoe. Its standout feature is its universal compatibility, meaning it works with vehicles with or without gutters, making it suitable for a broad range of cars. The rack's load capacity of 99.2 pounds is sufficient for carrying 1-3 shortboards, 1-2 longboards, or kayaks, depending on their size.

Security is well-handled with the inclusion of two 15ft adjustable tie-down straps with padded cam locks and two 15ft bow and stern tie-down ropes, ensuring that your equipment is tightly secured during transportation. The top-grade EVA foam padding is a thoughtful addition, providing a soft landing for your load and reducing vibration and noise while on the move. The non-slip mat helps prevent scratching or scuffing of your car's roof, adding to the durability of the product. Installation is straightforward and tool-free, which makes it user-friendly even for those not particularly handy.

The foldable design and accompanying storage bag make it convenient to store when not in use. However, one potential drawback could be the reliance on straps for mounting, which may not be as sturdy or permanent as fixed roof racks. While it's a great option for occasional use, those needing to transport heavy or large loads frequently might prefer a more robust, permanent solution. Securing the load might take a bit of practice to ensure everything is tightly fastened. Still, for the average user looking for a flexible, easy-to-use surfboard roof rack, the MeeFar Soft Roof Rack Pads are a solid choice.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,408
Capacity
Security
Ease of Use

Most important from
1160 reviews

Capacity
Handles highway speeds with ease, even with a 13-foot kayak.
Security
The kayak remained secure with no shifting, even at speeds up to 50 mph.
Ease of Use
Installation was quick and easy, taking just about 30 minutes even for someone unfamiliar with the product.
#2

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

Rating
9.8
Compatibility
Capacity
Security

Most important from
469 reviews

Compatibility
Extremely easy to install, taking under 5 minutes each time, and fits any car securely.
Capacity
Holds a 9'3 longboard securely on a small car, even with an antenna in the way.
Security
The straps still function perfectly even after 3.5 years, holding boards securely at highway speeds.
Ease of Use
Extremely easy to install, taking under 5 minutes each time, and fits any car securely.
Durability
The straps still function perfectly even after 3.5 years, holding boards securely at highway speeds.

The Ho Stevie! Surfboard Car Roof Rack Padded System is designed to hold up to 3 surfboards securely on any vehicle, whether it has 2 doors or 4. One of its main strengths is its universal compatibility, making it suitable for virtually any car. It also features soft padding that protects both the vehicle and the surfboards, ensuring no damage during transport. The silicone buckle covers are a thoughtful addition, preventing any scratches or dents that metal buckles could cause.

Another advantage is the ease of installation – it takes just about 3 minutes to set up, and the system can be removed or left on the car as needed. The package also includes a carrying case for convenience when the racks are not in use. Durability seems to be a positive aspect, with materials designed to withstand regular use. Some users might find the soft rack system less secure compared to hard rack systems, particularly in extreme weather conditions.

In terms of capacity, holding up to 3 surfboards is sufficient for most users, though those needing to transport more boards may need to look for alternative options. The product is relatively lightweight at 2.5 pounds, making it easy to handle and store. The Ho Stevie! Surfboard Car Roof Rack Padded System is a versatile and user-friendly option for surfers needing to transport their boards, though it may have some limitations in terms of security and protection compared to more robust systems.

Rating
9.8
Compatibility
Capacity
Security

Most important from
469 reviews

Compatibility
Extremely easy to install, taking under 5 minutes each time, and fits any car securely.
Capacity
Holds a 9'3 longboard securely on a small car, even with an antenna in the way.
Security
The straps still function perfectly even after 3.5 years, holding boards securely at highway speeds.
Ease of Use
Extremely easy to install, taking under 5 minutes each time, and fits any car securely.
Durability
The straps still function perfectly even after 3.5 years, holding boards securely at highway speeds.
#3

Yakima SupDawg Fully Assembled Rooftop SUP & Surfboard Mount, Holds 2 Boards up to 36" Wide, Tool-Free Installation, Integrated Rollers, SKS Locks

Rating
9.6
Capacity
Security
Ease of Use

Most important from
201 reviews

Capacity
Install and loading process is quick and efficient, taking roughly 6 minutes to secure two boards.
Security
Locks both the unit and the boards for added security during long-distance travel.
Ease of Use
Extremely easy to get the board onto the racks with the roller ball system.
Durability
Sturdy and reliable even at highway speeds of 80-85 mph.

The Yakima SupDawg Rooftop SUP & Surfboard Mount is a convenient solution for transporting your boards. It comes fully assembled, so you can use it straight away without needing any tools. This rack can hold up to two boards, each up to 36 inches wide. The integrated rollers make loading large boards easy, and soft padding ensures they won't get damaged during transit.

The mount also includes bow and stern tie-downs and SKS locks, which help secure your boards and prevent theft. This rack fits most crossbars, including Yakima's round, factory, aero, and square bars, and its sleek black finish looks good on modern vehicles. With a load capacity of 30 kilograms, it is sturdy enough for most needs.

At 14 pounds, it may add some weight to your vehicle. Additionally, it might be on the pricier side compared to other options. If you want a high-quality, easy-to-use rack that offers good protection and security for your boards, the Yakima SupDawg is a great choice.

Rating
9.6
Capacity
Security
Ease of Use

Most important from
201 reviews

Capacity
Install and loading process is quick and efficient, taking roughly 6 minutes to secure two boards.
Security
Locks both the unit and the boards for added security during long-distance travel.
Ease of Use
Extremely easy to get the board onto the racks with the roller ball system.
Durability
Sturdy and reliable even at highway speeds of 80-85 mph.

Buying Guide for the Best Surfboard Roof Racks

Choosing the right surfboard roof rack is essential for safely transporting your surfboard to and from the beach. A good roof rack will keep your board secure, protect it from damage, and make it easy to load and unload. When selecting a surfboard roof rack, consider the type of vehicle you have, the number of surfboards you need to carry, and how often you plan to use the rack. Here are some key specifications to consider when making your choice.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the roof rack will fit your vehicle. This is important because not all roof racks are universal, and some are designed to fit specific makes and models of cars. To ensure compatibility, check the manufacturer's guidelines and measure your vehicle's roof dimensions. If you have a car with factory-installed roof rails or crossbars, make sure the rack can attach to them. If your car has a bare roof, look for racks that come with mounting systems designed for such roofs.
CapacityCapacity indicates how many surfboards the roof rack can hold. This is crucial if you plan to transport multiple boards or if you often surf with friends. Roof racks typically range from holding one to several boards. If you only need to carry one or two boards, a smaller rack will suffice. For larger groups or families, look for racks with higher capacity. Consider your usual surfing habits and choose a rack that meets your needs without being overly bulky.
SecuritySecurity features ensure that your surfboards are safely locked in place during transport. This is important to prevent theft and to keep your boards from shifting or falling off while driving. Look for racks with locking mechanisms, such as straps with buckles or integrated locks. Some racks offer additional security features like anti-theft locks. If you frequently leave your car unattended with boards on the roof, prioritize racks with robust security options.
Ease of UseEase of use refers to how simple it is to install, load, and unload the roof rack. This is important for convenience and efficiency, especially if you use the rack frequently. Look for racks that come with clear instructions and require minimal tools for installation. Features like quick-release mechanisms and adjustable straps can make loading and unloading your surfboards easier. If you often surf alone, choose a rack that allows for one-person operation.
DurabilityDurability indicates how well the roof rack can withstand the elements and regular use. This is important for long-term reliability and protection of your surfboards. Racks made from high-quality materials like stainless steel, aluminum, or heavy-duty plastic tend to be more durable. Consider the climate and conditions you typically encounter; if you often surf in harsh weather, opt for a rack with weather-resistant features. A durable rack will last longer and provide better protection for your boards.
PaddingPadding refers to the protective cushioning on the roof rack that prevents damage to your surfboards. This is important to avoid scratches, dents, and other damage during transport. Look for racks with ample padding, such as foam or rubber, especially in areas where the boards make contact with the rack. If you have delicate or expensive boards, prioritize racks with extra padding. Ensure the padding is securely attached and covers all critical contact points.

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