Navigation
Paddle board roof racks are becoming more in-demand these days because many people visit the beach during weekends to unwind. Most would enjoy the waves, which is why a lot of people bring their surfboards and paddle boards. Moreover, more families are making it a habit to have a good time on the beach.
It’s not easy to bring paddle boards on the beach, regardless if you have a car. You can’t bring solid ones these inside the vehicle, or fold these for easy-storing. Hence roof racks for paddle boards are necessary. With these, you can bring your boards anywhere without any hassle. You can even bring more than one with the help of these racks.
Top 10 Best Paddle Board Roof Racks in Review
If you are looking for the best paddle board roof rack, you might stumble on various options. Some buyers are having difficulties in deciding because most frames look the same, even though these have particular edges. If you can’t decide what to choose, here’s a list of the best paddle board roof racks.
- 2 Pairs J-Bar Paddle Board Roof Rack HD by TMS
- Lockdown Premium Car Paddle Board Roof Racks by Curve
- Downloader Folding J-Style by Malone
- Universal 2 Pairs J- shape Rack HD by Car Rack & Carriers
- 810001 SUP Taxi XT Roof Rack by Thule
- SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack by Malone
- Folding J-Style with Universal Mounting Bracket
- Aluminum Roof Top Cross Bar Set by CargoLog
- Premium Folding Car Carrier Racks by Best Marine and Outdoors
- INA445 Board Locking Roof Carrier by INNO
#1. 2 Pairs J-Bar Rack HD by TMS – Best Overall Paddle Board Roof Rack
[amazon fields=”B00873J0YY” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“Paddle board roof rack” image_alt = “2 Pairs J-Bar Rack HD by TMS” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Length: 17.5 inches
- Width: 6 inches
- Weight: 4.99 pounds
- Capacity: 75 pounds
- Construction: Steel
The 2 Pairs J-Bar Rack HD by ZUP is one of the most recommended roof racks for people who love kayaking, surfing, or paddling. It comes with two pairs, for alternative usage, making it more convenient for users. They don’t have to remove the installed racks if they need to use a different car. Moreover, this set also comes with two straps, along with mounting hardware.
These racks come from high-quality steel material, making these very durable. You’d love these more because it can hold up to 75 pounds, as well as any board that measures 36 inches by width. Furthermore, despite being able to accommodate up to 75 pounds, it only weighs 4.99 pounds.
The 2 Pairs J-Bar Rack HD is available in black only, and it’s compatible with most load bars and crossbars. Aside from using sturdy material, these racks have a rust-resistant coating for protection, especially when it’s raining. Furthermore, it comes with adjustable padding.
Most buyers love how these racks are easy to install and remove. The wide-mouth, J-style of these racks makes it more comfortable for users to load and unload their boards during trips. Furthermore, buyers get to enjoy a lifetime warranty.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has a J-Style form for easy loading and unloading | Requires crossbars on the vehicle's roof |
| Has rust-resistant coating | Not available in different colors |
#2. Lockdown Premium Car Paddle Board Roof Racks by Curve – Most Versatile Roof Rack
[amazon fields=”B00K3BTFWK” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“Paddle board roof rack” image_alt = “Lockdown Premium Car Paddle Board Roof Racks” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Weight: 3.31 pounds
- Capacity: 1 to 6 shortboards, 1 to 3 longboards, or 1 to 2 paddle boards
- Construction: 600D Polycanvas with metal components
The Lockdown Premium Car Racks by Curve is one of the most suggested soft roof racks for cars. It’s versatile because it doesn’t need any crossbars. It comes with a bed from high-quality padded neoprene material, which keeps the paddle boards from touching the roof of the car. Moreover, the foam of the cushion is 0.98 inches by thickness.
Aside from the bed, this paddle board roof rack also comes with durable straps to keep the rail from damages. There are three ways to connect these, which is through the gutter or sills, thru-doors, or load bars. Buyers find it more convenient to use because of its single tightening point. Getting the board is also more comfortable, thanks to the top load hook.
Another edge of the Lockdown Premium Car Racks is that it uses the “lockdown” system. It lets users pull both the boards and the roof racks down in a single loop. This system also provides ease as they move the boards from side to side, despite windblasts.
When it comes to capacity, this soft roof rack can hold one to three paddle boards or longboards. It’s also suitable for most vehicle types, which makes it very competitive in the market. Furthermore, it comes with a utility bag for storage.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides maximum protection on both boards and roof | The longevity of the padded straps is poor |
| Doesn't need crossbars for installment | The strap is too short for multiple boards |
#3. Downloader Folding J-Style by Malone – Best Foldable Roof Rack
[amazon fields=”B004O990KO” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“Paddle board roof rack” image_alt = “Downloader Folding J-Style by Malone” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Length: 17 inches
- Width: 6.5 inches
- Capacity: 75 pounds
- Construction: Aluminum
The Downloader Folding J-Style by Malone is the best foldable roof rack for paddle boards because it comes with a set, which most users find very handy. It comes with two carriers, two Jawz Kits that comes along with mounting hardware, and Cam buckle straps. Aside from the 132-inch belt, this set also comes with two bow and stern protection lines.
These J-style racks feature a foldable structure, which makes it very convenient for users to store and install on the roof of their cars. The frame comes from a premium-quality of aluminum material that’s corrosion-resistant, making it very sturdy. Furthermore, the frame comes with foam paddings and replaceable fabric sleeves to protect the paddle boards further as the car moves.
Users will not have a hard time installing on crossbars of various vehicles. These racks are also durable and can hold up to a 75-pound capacity. Most buyers love this roof rack because they provide ease to users as they load their boards on top. Also, storing is more comfortable because it can shrink from 19.5 inches high to 6 inches as you fold it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent fit to paddleboards | Doesn't work without crossbars |
| Foldable to 6-inch high | Not suitable for aero crossbars |
#4. Universal 2 Pairs J- shape Rack HD – Most Durable Racks
[amazon fields=”B0722PL3PV” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“Paddle board roof rack” image_alt = “Universal 2 Pairs J-shape Rack HD by Car Rack and Carriers” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Length: 17.5 inches
- Width: 6.5 inches
- Weight: 14.5 pounds
- Capacity: 150 pounds
- Construction: Steel
The Universal 2 Pairs J-shape Rack HD by Car Rack & Carriers is accessible in the market for paddle board roof racks because of its exceptional durability. Despite being weighty, these racks come from a premium-quality of steel material, with thick tubes that measure 0.06 inches. Furthermore, these can withstand any weather condition because of its glossy out-door paint.
This set comes with two pairs of roof racks, along with four straps. This strap has patches to protect everything from scratches. The frames are ideal for any vehicle with crossbars. It’s apt to any style, regardless of its round, oval, blade, or square shape.
Buyers love using the Universal 2 Pairs J- shape Rack HD because the quick on/off hardware makes it convenient for removal and installation. Moreover, the racks have rubber pedals and foam paddings for further protection.
You can maximize these racks in holding a 36-inch board without any hassle. Another extraordinary thing about these is that it’s anti-slip, as well.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The set comes with two pairs of racks | Not usable for cars without crossbars |
| Suitable for any crossbar-shape | Too weighty |
#5. SUP Taxi XT Roof Rack by Thule – Meek yet Handy
[amazon fields=”B0791YNVXV” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“Paddle board roof rack” image_alt = “SUP Taxi XT Roof Rack by Thule” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Length: 34 inches
- Width: 6.5 inches
- Weight: 18.5 pounds
- Capacity: 1 to 2 paddle boards
- Construction: Steel
The 810001 SUP Taxi XT Roof Rack by Thule may look meek, yet this roof rack is one of the handiest. It comes from a premium-quality of steel material, which guarantees its durability. It features a telescoping style, providing a custom fit-advantage. Furthermore, it can hold up a paddle board that’s 34 inches by width.
You’ll find these roof racks easy to assemble because these use a speed-link mounting system. The locking cam, including two locks cylinders, are also easy to use. Furthermore, these racks fit any round bars.
One of the best things about the 810001 SUP Taxi XT Roof Rack is that it features a newly styled push-button lock system. It’ll let users unlock the strap easily and quickly. Also, it has paddings, which are salt water-resistant and UV-resistant, guaranteeing protection as it stays outside for long hours.
These roof racks provide a minimalistic look as it’s available in black or grey color. These will not even look like racks for your paddle boards because it can blend with the color of your crossbars.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Resistant from UV rays and saltwater | Only available on vehicles with crossbars |
| Features a minimalistic vibe | Longevity in holding paddleboards |
#6. SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack by Malone – Best Racks for Crossbars
[amazon fields=”B0015QADX2″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“Paddle board roof rack” image_alt = “SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack by Malone” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Length: 27 inches
- Width: 6 inches
- Weight: 10.5 pounds
- Capacity: 70 pounds
- Construction: Nylon
The SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack by Malone is one of the best roof racks because it’s ideal, not only to paddle boards but also for canoes. It comes from an excellent quality of nylon material, which is corrosion-resistant. It comes with Jawz mounting hardware that’s apt to most oval cross rails. Moreover, it measures 27 inches long and 6 inches wide, holding up to 70 pounds.
This pair of roof racks feature a single saddle style, which makes it ideal for low-profile canoes or boards. Users love using these racks because it’s convenient to set up, and it doesn’t consume too much space on the vehicle’s roof. Furthermore, it flexes lightly to support the boat, which can enhance the gas mileage.
The SeaWing Saddle Style Universal Car Rack has a cam-style strap for loading, which also has buckle protectors. You’ll find it very convenient as it doesn’t need any tools upon installation. Moreover, it comes with bow and stern protection tie-downs.
Buyers love using this pair of racks because they don’t have to lift the paddle boards from time to time with maximum effort. They can quickly push it upward as they load any boards. Also, the frames are rust-resistant.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hassle-free in installing and removing on crossbars | Unstable as the vehicle runs under 40 miles per hour |
| Flexible | Not apt for more full paddleboards |
#7. Folding J-Style with Universal Mounting Bracket by Rhino-Rack – Best Racks for Aero Bars
[amazon fields=”B00AK6Y4TW” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“Paddle board roof rack” image_alt = “Folding J-Style with Universal Mounting Bracket by Rhino-Rack” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Length: 22 inches
- Width: 7 inches
- Weight: 14 pounds
- Capacity: Up to 4 paddle boards or canoes
- Construction: Stainless steel
The Folding J-Style with Universal Mounting Bracket by Rhino-Rack is one of the most admired roof racks for vehicles with crossbars. This set has two cradles, which come from high-quality stainless steel material. It’s one of the most durable frames in the market because it can hold up to four paddle boards or kayaks at once.
These racks also have tube paddings from a quality rubber material, which prevents the boards or the roof of the car from unwanted scratches. What makes this product exceptional is that it features a universal mounting, making it apt to most car roof racks. Moreover, it comes with four tie-down straps to further secure the boards, even if you speed up.
Buyers also enjoy the Folding J-Style with Universal Mounting Bracket because it’s hassle-free to assemble. You’d also love these further because it carries a space-saving style. It’ll let you mount additional accessories, like a luggage carrier. Furthermore, there’s no doubt in its longevity because toughness is these rack’s advantage.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ideal for aero bards | Not apt for square bars |
| Heavy-duty | Straps are short |
#8. Aluminum Roof Top Cross Bar Set by CargoLog – Best Space-Saving Rack
[amazon fields=”B00GA2HKAU” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“Paddle board roof rack” image_alt = “Alumnium Roof Top Cross Bar Paddle Board Rack by CargoLog” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Length: 52.5 inches
- Width: 3 inches
- Weight: 8.6 pounds
- Capacity: 150 pounds
- Construction: Aluminum
The Aluminum Roof Top Cross Bar Set by CargoLog is one of the best space-saving racks, thanks to its minimalistic vibe. This two-piece roof rack comes from the premium quality of aluminum material, which assures durability to all users. It can hold up to 150 pounds of paddle boards. Moreover, it’s not only ideal for boards. It’s also suitable for skis or bikes.
The clamping mechanism will make sure that these racks will fasten these to the side rails inflexibly. Buyers also love how these have a keyed locking tool to secure the boards from thieves. Furthermore, it comes with a 46-inch span from end to end side rails.
The Aluminum Roof Top Cross Bar Set is easy to assemble as well thanks to its adjustable clamps. You can attach these with ease to the side rails. Also, it’s not weighty, providing further convenience to users as they disassemble these for storing. Moreover, if you need racks with a minimalistic vibe, you should consider buying these.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with a keyed locking mechanism | Not suitable for cars without crossbars |
| Features a space-saving style | Requires crossbars for installation |
#9. Premium Folding Car Carrier Racks – Nifty and Well-Made
[amazon fields=”B082Q413L4″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“Paddle board roof rack” image_alt = “Premium Folding Car Carrier Racks by Best Marine and Outdors” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Length: 17 inches
- Width: 10.5 inches
- Weight: 10.6 pounds
- Capacity: 100 pounds
- Construction: Steel
The Premium Folding Car Carrier Racks by Best Marine and Outdoors Is one of the suggested paddle board roof racks because it’s very durable. It comes from a premium-quality of steel material, and it has rubber paddings to prevent the roof of the car from getting scratches. Furthermore, this set comes with sturdy straps and hardware to assure boards’ security.
Users love this paddle board roof rack because it can hold up to 100 pounds, which makes it suitable for kayaks. If you’re versatile in participating in different water activities, you’ll find these racks very handy. Aside from the two 12-foot tide-down straps, this set also comes with two 15-inch safety ropes.
What makes the Premium Folding Car Carrier Racks more advantageous is that it uses a rust-resistant coating, making it more durable despite any weather condition. It’s also easy to assemble on crossbars or long bars, which makes it more convenient to use.
These roof racks are also one of the most suggested roof racks because of the minimalist design. This pair is suitable for any car. Moreover, you can also use them on trucks, which makes it handier. Also, these racks are foldable, which makes it easier to store.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to install on any vehicle | Not ideal for cars without crossbars |
| Apt for trucks | Too weighty on small-sized vehicles |
#10. INA445 Board Locking Roof Carrier by INNO – Modest by Look, Outstanding by Performance
[amazon fields=”B007QR621Q” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“Paddle board roof rack” image_alt = INNO Board Locking Paddle Board Roof Carrier” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specification
- Length: 31.8 inches
- Width: 5.6 inches
- Weight: 12.1 pounds
- Capacity: two paddle boards, one canoe, or one kayak
- Construction: Stainless steel
The INA445 Board Locking Roof Carrier by INNO may look modest, yet this pair of racks is one of the handiest. It’s advisable to use on cars with crossbars because it can hold up to two paddle boards or one canoe. Furthermore, you can assure your board’s security because it features a ratcheting mechanism, which tightens the strap as you maneuver.
This set of roof carriers measures 31.8 inches long, where it can accommodate any board with ease. The cable comes from a premium quality of stainless steel material, which guarantees its sturdiness despite any board-size. Moreover, the universal mounting system of these racks makes it apt for round or square bars.
Customers admire the INA445 Board Locking Roof Carrier further because it’s convenient to set up. It features a floating strap system, which makes it more convenient to load the boards up. Furthermore, it comes with keys and locks, which make these racks competitive against other brands.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with locks and keys | Requires crossbars or load bars |
| Features secure tightening | Doesn't have board pads |
Top Pick – The Best Paddle Board Roof Rack
The 2 Pairs J-Bar Rack HD by TMS is the best paddle board roof rack because it comes with an excellent deal, where you get two pairs of durable frames from quality-steel material, mounting hard, and two straps.
It’s the best overall paddle board roof rack because it can hold other board types securely, such as surfboards and kayaks. It has a capacity of up to 75 pounds, and it can hold up a board that measures 36 inches wide.
Users love its convenience because it’s easy to install, and it’s suitable for any crossbars and load bars. The J-style of the racks also makes it easier for users to load and unload the boards. Furthermore, it doesn’t only use high-quality steel to assure durability. Moreover, these racks have a rust-resistant coating to protect it further.
What you’ll love further about the 2 Pairs J-Bar Rack HD is the adjustable padding, which protects the bars of the racks from scratching or damaging the roof of the car.
Exploring the History of Paddle Boards
Paddle boarding has one of the most exciting stories in the history of humanity. It started in South America, where old fishers utilize these as boats. They use reed vessels, along with long sticks, which serve as paddles.
Back in the 15th century, ancient fishermen refer to these paddle boards as “Caballito.” These old boats were famous before Spaniards colonized the region.
Paddle boarding became fascinating in the 17th century after people started using these in Venice. People refer to it as “gondolas,” and they use these to transport passengers. However, these days, there are few gondolas in the watered city, which some utilize for tourists or wedding parties. Nonetheless, these never fail to set a romantic mood, even up to now.
As days pass by, fishers were able to improve their vessels and boats for hunting. Nonetheless, these paddle boards continue to exist, even up to know, and enthusiasts love these more.
Nowadays, people utilize paddle boards as one of the most popular water activities on the beach, especially in Hawaii. Hawaiians prefer to do this water activity for fun. Tom Blake is one of the pioneers of this board, where the constructed hollow boards with a lesser weight that old, wooden ones.
Paddle boarding is entering the professional level, which draws the attention of people further. You’d see a lot of people on the beach, enjoying their time as they stand up on a longboard and paddle.
Brief Overview about Paddle Boards: What You Should Know
There are various paddle boards, yet the Stand-up paddle board or SUP is one of the most popular types utilized for recreational activities these days, aside from surfing and jet skiing. It’ll require you to use your arms as you lie, stand, or kneel on the board while moving. Others who want a chill time on the beach prefer to use paddle boards instead of surfboards because it’s hassle-free to use. Furthermore, you can even have an exceptional time solely standing and paddling.
The two common types of paddle boards are inflatable and solid boards. Here are the differences between these two:
- Inflatable Paddle boards – This type of paddle board is convenient to store, mainly when you have limited space at home or in your car. It’s also portable, making it ideal for traveling. Furthermore, this type is suitable for people who do yoga.
- Solid-type Paddle boards – This type is ideal when it comes to performance. You can paddle quickly, and you’ll feel more stable as you stand on this paddle board. You may need roof racks if you own a solid board because this type is not portable. Furthermore, you need space for storage at home.
If you own a solid-type paddle board, you’d need the best paddle board roof racks.
Buying Paddle board Roof Racks – Buyers Guide
Most people are also giving paddle boarding a try. Hence, a lot buy their boards instead of renting these on the beach. Most paddle board owners have cars because carrying these boards is not convenient. Therefore, paddle board roof racks are also necessary. Here’s a guide to consider if you’re looking for the best roof racks for your vehicle.
Types of Roof Racks
You need to consider the type you need for your car. There are three types, which are soft roof rack, hard roof rack, and roof strapping. Here are the differences between these:
Soft Roof Rack
These are compatible with any car-type, especially SUVs. Roof rails are not necessary because these come with a strapping system to hold the board to the roof of the car.
Hard Roof Rack
These are best for paddle boards and surfboards. It needs roof rails, as well as crossbars. You need to check the size first because these are not always compatible with all cars. On the other hand, these are very sturdy.
Roof Strapping
These need crossbars and roof rails as well. It’s cheaper because these are straps, it’s not weighty, and storing it is hassle-free.
Other Stuff to Consider
Aside from the type of roof rack you need for your car, you also need to consider the following points:
Versatility
If you want to carry more than just a paddle board, you should look for a versatile roof rack that can also bring other board-types.
Durability
It’s essential to make sure that the roof racks you’re buying are sand-resistant and salt water-resistant. Don’t compromise quality when it comes to roof racks because these should be from high-quality materials.
Security
You also need to consider if the roof racks you prefer to have locking features. Some roof racks have this feature, yet most don’t. You should consider buying frames with these features to secure your expensive paddle boards even when you leave these on top of your car.
Accessories
Aside from the roof rack frames, some set offers additional tie-down straps, case, and roof rack pads. These will prevent the racks from scratching your car’s roof.
Noise
You should also consider whether the roof rack will make undesirable noises as your vehicle moves. If you don’t like such sounds, you should buy sets with aerodynamic designs.
Paddle boarding is one of the most in-demand water activities these days because it’s suitable for any age. Families enjoy this water activity because they don’t have to be a pro to enjoy it, which is they bring their own. However, since it’s not easy bringing these to the beach, bringing a car is ideal. You need exceptional roof racks that will hold the boards securely. If you can’t decide what to buy, you should consider these paddle board roof racks.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
âś… What are “aero bars” and why are they ideal?
Some customers look for paddle board roof racks that are ideal for aero bars, yet not everyone knows what these are. These aluminum bars have slots on top, and these have an aerodynamic oval figure. These are more practical to use because it’s quieter, compared to rectangular bars. Moreover, these look better than rectangular ones.
âś… Which is better between a soft rack and a hard one?
It depends on what you prefer. If you need a more durable rack, you choose hard frames. However, these are weighty. If you’re traveling short distances from your house to the beach, soft ones are recommendable. On the bright side, these don’t need rails for installation.
âś… What safety provision do I need to take in securing paddle boards?
You should frequently check your racks if there are damages, like broken buckles, pointy edges, or tattered straps. You should mount these before placing your paddle boards. Furthermore, you should not overload it, or else, it will damage your car’s roof.
âś… Are paddle board roof racks challenging to install?
It depends, yet most roof racks are easy to install. It depends whether you’re using a soft or a hard one because hard ones are more challenging to remove and mount. If you’re looking for the easiest way to install one, you should consider soft racks.
âś… How high should paddle board roof racks be from the car’s roof?
You should allow at least 5 inches from the roof of your car if you’re installing roof racks. This space will prevent the boards from hitting and damaging the roof as you drive.
Related Resources
