Transferring the SUP board is intimidating. However, it is mandatory if you want to have joy in the water. So, buy SUP (Stand up paddle) board car roof racks to make sure your paddle board is secure and convenient to take with you.
In this article, we’ve selected and reviewed the 15 best paddle board roof racks for your car. Let’s go through it one by one. However, before proceeding with the discussion of the top 15 roof racks, let us have a glance at several pre-purchase factors listed below:
- Board size
- Rack compatibility
- Lock system
- Loading system
- Hard versus soft
- Board size
Usually, roof racks hold two paddle boards, still, that’s not the rule. In case you have to go with a friend, remember that the carrier can hold two boards. However, if you increase the rack’s volume in weight or width, you must be risking its safety.
- Rack compatibility
Check if the roof rack is compatible with the car that you use. There are several models that can fit onto the roof racks available on the vehicle, whereas others will fit only with particular systems. So, make sure to verify with the brand whether the rack fits on your car. Several brands have a compatibility chart as well to make your job easy.
- Lock system
Several roof racks have strong and durable lock techniques to prevent theft as well as slipping. Furthermore, soft frames are less safe than hard frames. Keep in your mind the locations you go as well as the security level you prefer so that you can select the roof rack appropriately.
- Loading approach
Usually, paddle boards are heavy. Hence, it is a great challenge to load one above the car especially if the car is tall. Remember that several SUP board roof racks have an easy loading system as well. Having that easy loading system will less likely cause damage or injury to the SUP board or to you.
- Hard versus Soft
First, check if your car has a roof rack. Hard frames can be used on vehicles with already installed roof racks. On the other hand, opt for a soft frame in case if the car does not have a roof rack. It can be simple to set up and can be removed easily. Still, they are comparatively less safe. At the same time, transportation is more efficient.
Now, let us go through the 15 best paddle board roof racks one by one.
LIST OF 15 BEST PADDLE BOARD ROOF RACKS
- Yakima SUPDawg SUP Board Rooftop Rack
- Thule Hull-a-Port Pro Rooftop Kayak Car
- Dorsal SUP Roof Rack Tie Down Straps
- Woowave SUP Paddle Board Roof Rack
- OrionMotorTech Universal Soft Rack
- Lockdown Premium Soft Rack
- Block Surf Roof Rack
- Wontiago SUP Roof Rack Pad
- Heytrip Roof Rack Pads Aero Crossbar Pads
- Artipoly Kayak Roof Rack
- Lingvum Car Soft Roof Rack Pads
- Ikuram R Roof Carrier Rack
- Alfa Gear Universal Rack
- Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack
- TraverseSolo Aero Roof Rack
Yakima SUPDawg SUP Board Rooftop Rack
Company Description
Yakima has a record of creating bold moves in new horizons. In 1979, two hardcore kayakers and cyclists bought the company. In 1984, during the Summer Olympics, they decked out every race vehicle with innovative aerodynamic fairings. Currently, they lead this niche for the widest skies as well as the open road.
Pros
- Comes completely assembled
- Carries two SUP or surfboards along with SKS locks and straps
- The slider can be adjusted to suit boards till 36” in width
- Can easily fit most crossbars including Yakima, factory, aerodynamic, and square
- Easy to pile and install within 10 minutes
- Has integrated rollers that help in reducing the attempt of loading huge sized SUP boards. Its strap adjustment system helps to straps the edges during travel
- Soft paddling is done along the mount cradle to safeguard the board from dings and scratches
- Attractive design
Cons
- Could be noisy
- Expensive
Review 4.8/5
Price: $299.00
Customer Reviews
Since the product comes as a fully assembled one, it is easy to fit above the car. Excellent padding in order to protect the boards from scratches. Very easy to install since it takes less than 10 minutes only.
Check the video by clicking the link below:
Thule Hull-a-Port Pro Rooftop Kayak Carrier
Company Description
Thule is always focused on developing products with 4 major strong values such as safety, quality, ease to use, and great design. Their goal is to design, evaluate, and manufacture long-lasting products. Already they are proud of their design awards, they got more renowned in developing quality products that can be used in everyday lives for demanding users.
Pros
- Versatile that can hold 1-2 kayaks
- Can be easily folded flat when not in use
- Can be assembled completely out of the box
- The universal mounting design fits all loads up to 80 mm in width
- Includes buckle bumpers, load straps, as well as stern tie downs
- The universal mounting design fits any load bars up to 80 mm in width
- Supports 1-2 kayaks between 75lbs to 130lbs.
- Locks available to load bars with Thule’s one key system. It is sold separately.
Cons
- Used mostly with Kayaks
- Not fit for all vehicles
Review 4.7/5
Price $259.95
Customer Reviews
Very compact and versatile. It doesn’t occupy much space. So, when not in use, we can fold it and keep it aside. Quite strong and durable.
Dorsal Roof Rack Tie Down Straps
Company Description
Headquartered in the US, DORSAL is the globally recognized manufacturer of premium surfboard rack pads, bodyboard fins, board leashes, surf fins, surf hardware, as well as its accessories. This company has many distribution channels domestically and internationally. They have surf shops, wholesale outlets, as well as retail chains.
Pros
- Universally applicable
- Premium-type tie-downs will make it easy and quick
- Its straps can assure to hold the boards in position, thereby avoiding damage
- Its superior buckle and straps can hold any load safely.
- Can hold 1-4 boards with the utmost security
- UV-resistant
- Durable without causing any scratch on your car
- This package comes with two straps of 15 feet in length and 1-inch in width. The load limit will be 700 lb.
- No need of drilling your car
Cons
- Uncertain quality
Review 4.5/5
Price $17.95
Customer Reviews
Fit for a week-long trip of driving up to 70mph in rainy and windy seasons. Do not fade in the sunlight. Top-notch quality with outstanding design from the straps to the cams.
Woowave SUP Paddle Board Roof Rack
Pros
- The package comes with two tie down straps and a portable bag
- Safe and highly durable
- This roof rack is composed of EPE degree foam pad in the internal part, ultraviolet resistant ballistic nylon type covering in the external part, and bungee cord straps.
- The length of this rack is 33 inches
- It can be used in any weather condition
- Its universal design can fit in all the vehicles
- It can safely transport surfboards, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, canoes, snowboards, longboards, and other outdoor cargo.
- Perfect option for open-air activities
- Lightweight and compact
- Can store easily
- One year warranty with one-year free replacement exchange
- UV resistant, water-resistant, and abrasion-resistant
- Its flexible and convenient strap makes it easier to tighten and buckle
Cons
- During rainy times, water may get into the car through the strap
- You may require more straps for extra safety
- There may be an occasional issue with the buckle
Review 4.5/5
Price: $90.57
Customer Review
Easy to strap these racks to your car within 5 minutes. They provide nice support to the car. Easy to install and distribute the load evenly. Hence, the pressure that may bend the car top gets minimized.
OrionMotorTech Universal Soft Rack
Company description
Headquartered in the US, Orion Motor Tech offers a wide range of automotive tools that can be used to enhance your vehicle that includes pressure gauge tools, air compressor tools, ball joint tools, wheel spacer, bearing tools, cooling system, roof racks, accessories, and parts.
Pros
- Universal and fully adjustable that fits most of the vehicles
- Can carry a substantial load volume of over 165lbs
- Includes aircraft buckles as well as an ultra-long strap to protect the luggage from falling
- Assured strength and top-grade safety
- Prevents scuffing and vehicle scratching due to its soft material
- Light weight, soft, and has an anti-vibration property
Cons
- At times, the strap may break. So, it is better to buy an extra strap.
- The locking mechanism is not so good
- It will not last for a longer duration
Review 4.4/5
Price $45.99
Customer Reviews
Super cost-effective, easy to install. No scratches on the car. No loud noise.
Lockdown Premium Soft Rack
Pros
- There are two connection options available – either through doors or roof rails
- Innovative security – Its curved lockdown system secures your surfboards on your vehicle’s roof. This setup can eliminate sliding or surfboard lift even during windy seasons
- One inch foam pad can act as a cushion between vehicle roof and surfboards with inward neoprene-type lining for complete protection
- Compatible with bare roofed vehicles where there are either 4 opening doors or a combination of front doors as well as two rear opening windows.
- Each strap is protected by a strong zinc cast for ultimate safety
- Simple to use with a single tightening point in each rack.
- Can hold 1-4 short surfboards or 1-3 long ones
- In case the soft racks make a humming noise, you can alleviate it by adding a twist to each strap
- Easy to store
Cons
- Quite difficult to mount
Review 4.2/5
Price $53.00
Customer Reviews:
Excellent value for money. Works perfectly by keeping the paddleboards secure due to its innovative locking system. This locking system does not loosen while driving as well. Just a couple of minutes is enough to put up and take down. Sustains the heavy rainy season and windy times.
Block Surf Roof Rack
Company Description
Headquartered in the US, BlockSurf is renowned for developing and manufacturing surfing accessories such as leashes, board bags, tail pads, car racks, and storage racks.
Pros
- Can fit universally in any car including SUVs as well. It has got straps which help in tightening the roofs.
- Easy to load and unload. It can be installed within minutes.
- This package comes as a single set including one pad in the front and back with straps to set up.
- Even when you are chasing the waves at high speed, the straps and buckles can take care of your surfboards
- Can hold 2-3 surfboards including wavestorms, longboards, and thrusters according to the size and thickness.
Cons
- Too loud and heavy. Make sure to place it laterally on the roof to avoid that loud vibration sound.
- Water enters the vehicle while driving at high speed
Review 4.2/5
Price $49.95
Customer Reviews
Pretty good product for the given price. Long-lasting. Quick to install. Easy to place the pads and straps on the board without any hassle. Easy to store well when not in use.
Check the video by clicking the link below:
Wontiago SUP roof rack pad
Pros
- Suitable for all types of cars as well as SUVs, since the roof rack is universal anti-slip designed
- Successfully protect the boards so that it is possible to drive for a long distance
- Its buckles can be fitted to the edges of the rack pads so that they will not rub the car roof
- Gives a tight and secure fit
- The perfect option for outdoor activities
- Durable for a prolonged duration
- Easy to install and use
- Suits all weather types
- Waterproof and sun-resistant
- Strong and durable buckles that provide great performance
- You do not have to buy more metal-type racks
- High quality at an affordable price
- Strong and concrete pads
Cons
- Cannot drive with full speed
Review 4.0/5
Price $53.99
Customer Reviews
Very easy and simple to use. The straps are too strong, and they are well made. The paddleboards will not get loose. Even during the rainy season, water doesn’t enter the car for sure. Their safety instructions are super clear. Great value for the price.
Heytrip Roof Rack Pads Aero Crossbar Pads
Company
Heytrip sells travel-friendly products such as trunk organizers, vehicle soft-shell carriers, and windsurfing car racks as well. All these products come under the automotive category. In case you are looking for a cost-effective product, Heytrip can be your partner.
Pros
- Universally designed to fit all crossbars by giving complete protection. It can prevent the boards from getting scratched
- Easy to use and store when not in use as they are foldable.
- Built with tough durable material so that they can last for years.
- With its built-in non-slip mat, the rack pads can hold the boards tightly and avoid rotating. The buckle straps are strong (made up of Velcro) and adjustable, thereby providing double security.
- Its 4 ultra-long straps can hold 1-3 shortboards/1-2 longboards.
- Top-quality straps
Cons
- Not so long-lasting
Review 3.9/5
Price $46.99
Customer Reviews:
Easy and safe to install with high-quality straps and wide hook fasteners around the crossbars. Its high quality holds even the thick weight material tightly. Even the tie-up cords and carabiner fasteners are strong as well. There is no noise while driving at high speed. Good value for money.
Artipoly Kayak Roof Rack
Company description
ARTIPOLY is a company renowned for transporting water sports equipment such as canoes, kayaks, surfboards, small sailing boats, windsurfing boards, skis, etc… Unlike other companies, Artipoly supplies a multifunctional roof rack along with a paddle holder as well for easy transport.
Pros
- Made up of top-quality aviation-grade aluminum alloys. Its horizontal bar helps in providing better stability than other roof racks
- Rust-resistant, waterproof, sunscreen, lightweight, durable, as well as weather-resistant
- Its rubber-type pedal, as well as foam protector, can provide maximum protection for kayaks, stand up paddle boards, as well as canoes.
- Due to the ultra-high-density foam, there will be reduced friction and scratching between the rack and the board.
- Easy to install and adjust
- Can be folded easily for quick adjustment
- Its single-handed lockdown design can quickly lock down the boards without any additional tool
- The package includes a rack, two bow-stern safety tie-down straps, and three extra ropes. Thus, it can accommodate two kayaks up to 165lbs.
Cons
- Comparatively costly
Review 4.5/5
Price: $139.99
Customer Reviews:
Easy to install and take off in under 5 minutes. You can anyway keep them locked in your vehicle with complete peace of mind. Strong and durable straps for holding the kayaks to the rack properly in front and back of the vehicle. The middle section is easy to adjust and operate.
Lingvum Car Soft Roof Rack Pads
Company
Lingvum company deals with manufacturing high-quality professional surfboards and windsurfing car racks. Furthermore, they are renowned for their 24-hour after-sales service so that you can feel at ease.
Pros
- Universal roof rack pad design
- No need to install any additional crossbar
- Its roof rack is fit for protecting surfboards, paddleboards, kayaks, and snowboards.
- There is no need for a costly fixed roof system
- Highly durable
- Its surf rack pads are composed of EPE foam pad to effectively decrease vibration during transportation
- Better protection from getting scratched.
- The perfect option for outdoor activities
- Easy and safe
- Lightweight and compact for easy storage
- It has a UV-resistant ballistic polyester cover in the exterior portion
- Can be used in any weather condition
- Easy to install and remove
- No extra tools required. You can easily tighten the flexible strap and buckle it around the car to sustain the installation firmly
- UV-resistant, abrasion-resistant, and water-resistant
Cons
- Nil
Review 4.5/5
Price: $49.99
Customer Reviews:
Great product for the price. Very easy to use. The straps are too strong and well made. The water does not enter the car during rainy times. Secures the paddle boards in place and it does not budge even on the highway.
Check the video by clicking the link below:
Ikuram R Roof Carrier Rack
Company Description
IKURAM makes it simple for you to ‘Live with Ease’ and connect with those who care the most. This family-oriented company always had a passion for outdoor activities. And this passion made them develop well-designed products and solutions for outdoor activities such as kayaking, skiing, biking, and camping.
Pros
- Its thick, oversized, and rubber saddles can prevent the paddle boards from getting damaged. This best-in-class top guard paddling gives maximum protection.
- Universal design that can accommodate any square, round, and oval-shaped paddle board easily and quickly
- This kit includes bow-stern safety tie-downs and two heavy-duty straps
- Durable, lightweight, waterproof, rust-resistant, and anti-corrosive for a long duration
- Cost-effective
- The quick fold-down design used to raise or fold when not required
- J-bars can be locked at varied angles easily to accommodate varied shapes of paddle boards. Easy to adjust and lock.
- Due to multiple position designs and oversized padding, it can hold up to two stand up paddle boards.
- J-cradle can be configured in diverse ways to maximize roof space
- Can install in minutes with no extra tools
Cons
- No idea whether this setup supports a big trip
Review 4.4/5
Price: $102.99
Customer Reviews:
Straps are strong and sturdy. Not at all bad for this price. Since it is easy to adjust at any angle, it will be easier to load. Safe and easy to install and use. Great buy for this price.
Alfa Gear Universal Rack
Pros
- Lightweight, easily foldable, anti-vibrational
- This kit includes 2 rooftop long rack and 2 tie-down longer straps
- EPE and polyester high-density foam padded fabric
- Universally fit for most of the cars
- Easy to install
Cons
- Does not last for long
Review 4.4/5
Price: $49.96
Customer Reviews:
Easy to install and work on any vehicle. Simple to use. This kit can successfully distribute the load instead of putting pressure on one side. It successfully protects the roof from scratches as well.
Check the video by clicking the link below:
Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack
Pros
- This kit includes 4 straps and mounting accessories
- Heavy-duty construction with thick and stronger steel tube
- Durable, long-lasting, rust-resistant
- Easy and safe
- Can resist all weather conditions and sustain for a prolonged duration
- Easy to fold and raise the racks. No need to uninstall when not in use. You can just fold it.
- Ergonomic design
- Foam padding with rubber pedal design to prevent the rack from rubbing and scratching
- Easy to install and ready for multipurpose use
- Universal mounting design including aerodynamic and square crossbars. Round ones are not included
Cons
- Quality not up to the mark
- Improper assembling on and off
Review 4.6/5
Price: $139.99
Customer Reviews:
Sturdy and well made. Perfect for garaged cars especially. The quality of the folding racks is fabulous and strong. Easy to install and no scratches or rubbing due to the foam padding.
TraverseSolo Aero Roof Rack
Pros
- This kit includes 2 foam pads, 2 tie down straps, and one drybag with shoulder straps
- Easy to set up, fasten, and transport the paddle boards and kayaks safely to the destination
- Velcro make pads and UV treated webbing helps to fit aero crossbars easily and quickly with utmost protection
- Perfect for a short and long-distance drive
- Corrosion-resistant
- Suits all weather conditions
Cons
- Not suitable for stock roof racks
Review 4.3/5
Price: $39.99
Customer Reviews:
Outstanding. Good find. Great quality. Safe fastening
Final thought
Anyhow, you have already spent a lot while buying your paddle board. Isn’t it necessary to enjoy your water ride safely to the utmost? The systems recommended above will get you on the water instantly without any stress. So, do enjoy the SUP adventure safely!
Did we miss any stand up paddle board roof rack that has worked great for you? If so, do respond and share your review.