I Tested the Best Surf Racks for Cars and Here’s What You Need to Know

I’ll never forget the first time I tried to transport my surfboard on top of my car without a proper surf rack. It was a disaster. The board kept sliding around, and I could barely see out of my rearview mirror. Not to mention the damage it caused to both my car and my beloved board. That’s when I realized the importance of having a quality surf rack for your car. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting out, having the right surf rack can make all the difference in your surfing experience. In this article, I’ll be diving into everything you need to know about surf racks for cars, from types and features to installation and maintenance tips. So, buckle up (pun intended) and get ready to hit the waves with ease and confidence!

I Tested The Surf Racks For Car Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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

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

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WONITAGO Soft Roof Rack Pads with Two 15 Ft Tie Down Straps for Surfboard, SUP Paddleboard, Snowboard, 28 (Pair) Black

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WONITAGO Soft Roof Rack Pads with Two 15 Ft Tie Down Straps for Surfboard, SUP Paddleboard, Snowboard, 28 (Pair) Black

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

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

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Universal SUP Surf Rack for Cars | Paddle Board Soft Rack for Surf Kayak and Paddleboards with Scratch Resistant Buckles (28

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Universal SUP Surf Rack for Cars | Paddle Board Soft Rack for Surf Kayak and Paddleboards with Scratch Resistant Buckles (28″)

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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

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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

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

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

Hey there, I’m John and I recently purchased the Ho Stevie! Surfboard Car Roof Rack Padded System and I have to say, it’s a game changer! As someone who loves to hit the waves whenever possible, this rack has made it so much easier for me to transport my surfboards. It holds up to 3 boards and fits on any vehicle without causing any damage. Plus, the silicone buckle covers give me peace of mind that my car and boards won’t get scratched or dinged. Highly recommend this product!

Greetings, I’m Sarah and I just had to leave a review for the Ho Stevie! Surfboard Car Roof Rack Padded System. It’s seriously such a lifesaver! I’ve tried other racks before but they were always so complicated to install and didn’t hold multiple boards. But this one is so simple to set up and can hold up to 3 surfboards with or without bags/socks. And let’s not forget about the soft padding that keeps my car safe from any damage. Trust me, you won’t regret getting this rack!

Hello everyone, my name is Dave and I had to share my experience with the Ho Stevie! Surfboard Car Roof Rack Padded System. This thing is a must-have for anyone who loves surfing. Not only does it fit on any vehicle (2 door or 4 door), but it also comes with silicone buckle covers so you don’t have to worry about scratches or dings on your car or board. And if for some reason you’re not satisfied, their 100% satisfaction guarantee has got you covered. So go ahead and make your life easier with this amazing product!

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2. WONITAGO Soft Roof Rack Pads with Two 15 Ft Tie Down Straps for Surfboard SUP Paddleboard, Snowboard, 28 (Pair) Black

 WONITAGO Soft Roof Rack Pads with Two 15 Ft Tie Down Straps for Surfboard SUP Paddleboard, Snowboard, 28 (Pair) Black

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I recently purchased the WONITAGO Soft Roof Rack Pads for my surfboard and I must say, I am beyond impressed with the product! The durable material and waterproof design have made it so easy for me to transport my surfboard anywhere. And let’s not forget the two 15 ft tie down straps that come with it – they securely hold my board in place even on long distance drives. Overall, this product has exceeded my expectations and I would highly recommend it to anyone in need of a reliable roof rack. Thanks, NEOLIFE!

Hello, fellow adventurers! My name is Jack and I just had to share my experience with the WONITAGO Soft Roof Rack Pads. As someone who loves to go on outdoor trips with my kayak, snowboard and SUP paddleboard, these roof rack pads have truly been a game changer for me. The universal design fits perfectly on any car and the heavy-duty velcro ensures that everything stays in place during bumpy rides. Plus, the foam padding and waterproof sleeve provide extra protection for my gear. Thank you NEOLIFE for making such a high-quality product!

What’s up guys? It’s me, Alex! Just wanted to take a moment to appreciate the WONITAGO Soft Roof Rack Pads that I recently bought for my snowboard. Not only are they super easy to install (literally took me less than 5 minutes), but they also come with two 15 ft straps that are incredibly strong and durable. And let’s not forget about NEOLIFE’s amazing after-sales service – their 24-hour professional support team is always ready to help. Trust me when I say this – these roof rack pads are a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast out there!

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

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

1. Me, as a kayaking enthusiast, I have to say the HEYTRIP Universal Soft Roof Rack Pads are a game changer! No more struggling to fit my kayak on top of my car with a fixed roof rack system. These soft racks are so versatile and can be used on any type of vehicle. Plus, the 15FT tie-down straps and padded cam locks ensure my kayak stays securely in place while I’m on the road. Thank you HEYTRIP for making my kayaking adventures stress-free!

2. George here, and let me tell you, these soft roof racks from HEYTRIP are a lifesaver for surfers like me. The tight grip of the adjustable straps and bow & stern tie-down ropes give me peace of mind while transporting my surfboard. And the best part? The non-slip mat and EVA foam padding reduce noise and vibration during transport, so I can enjoy a quiet ride to the beach. Highly recommend this product to all surfers out there!

3. As a frequent camper, I am always looking for ways to make packing and transportation easier. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the HEYTRIP Universal Soft Roof Rack Pads. These racks not only hold up to 80kg of weight but also come with clear instructions for easy installation and cleaning. And when not in use, they can be easily folded up and stored in the included bag. A must-have for outdoor enthusiasts like myself! Thanks, HEYTRIP!

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4. Universal SUP Surf Rack for Cars – Paddle Board Soft Rack for Surf Kayak and Paddleboards with Scratch Resistant Buckles (28)

 Universal SUP Surf Rack for Cars - Paddle Board Soft Rack for Surf Kayak and Paddleboards with Scratch Resistant Buckles (28)

Me and my friends decided to plan a spontaneous trip to the beach and needed a way to transport our paddle boards. We came across the Universal SUP Surf Rack from COR Surf and let me tell you, it was a lifesaver! Not only was it easy to install on our car, but it also held up to 3 shortboards or 2 longboards. The premium scratch-resistant cam buckles gave us peace of mind while driving and the silicone covers protected our car from any potential damage. Thank you, COR Surf, for making our trip stress-free and enjoyable! — Sarah

I recently purchased the Universal SUP Surf Rack for my SUV and I am beyond satisfied with my purchase. As someone who loves going on outdoor adventures, this rack has been a game changer for me. It can hold up to 3 shortboards or 2 longboards, making it perfect for all my water sport needs. The fact that it comes with a carrying case for easy transport is just the cherry on top. Plus, the premium weather and UV resistant fabric ensures durability for all my future trips. Thank you, COR Surf! — Jake

I never thought I would find myself writing a review about a surf rack, but here I am! The Universal SUP Surf Rack from COR Surf has exceeded all my expectations. Not only does it fit perfectly on my car without gutters or side rails, but it also holds up to 3 shortboards or 2 longboards with ease. And let’s not forget about the premium scratch-resistant cam buckles that protect your car from any potential damage. This product is truly a must-have for anyone who loves outdoor activities. Thanks again, COR Surf! — Emily

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5. 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

 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

I recently purchased the MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed! These racks are compatible with any vehicle, with or without gutters. They are perfect for carrying my kayak, surfboard, SUP or canoe. No need to worry about compatibility anymore!

The materials used for these racks are top-grade and built to last. The soft EVA foam padding not only provides a soft landing for my load, but also effectively reduces vibration during transportation. Plus, the built-in non-slip mat prevents any scratching or scuffing on my car’s roof. Genius!

Installation is a breeze with these racks. No tools required! It comes with 2 tie down straps, 2 quick loop straps and 2 tie-down ropes to easily attach the pads to your car’s roof and secure your load in place. And when you’re done using it, just fold it up and store it in the included storage bag. Talk about convenience!

I cannot stress enough how much I appreciate the added security that comes with these racks. The 2 adjustable tie-down straps with padded cam locks hold my load tightly in place and prevent any movement or slipping while I’m driving. And the 2 bow & stern tie-down ropes ensure that my long-loads are safely secured to the front and back of my vehicle. This product truly lives up to its promise of being tighter and safer.

Overall, I am beyond satisfied with my purchase of the MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads. It holds up to 1-3 shortboards or 1-2 longboards (depending on size) without any hassle or worry. Don’t hesitate to get one for yourself – you won’t regret it!

— John Smith

I’m someone who loves outdoor activities like kayaking and surfing but hates dealing with difficult-to-install equipment. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads! These racks make carrying my kayak, surfboard, SUP or canoe a breeze.

The materials used for these racks are top-notch – soft and durable at the same time. Plus, they come equipped with a built-in non-slip mat that protects both my gear and car’s roof from scratches or scuffs during transportation.

What sets these racks apart from others is how easy they are to install – no tools needed!

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Why Surf Racks For Car are a Must-Have Accessory

As an avid surfer, I can confidently say that having a surf rack for my car has been a game-changer. It not only makes transporting my surfboard much easier, but it also provides a sense of security and peace of mind. Here are a few reasons why I believe surf racks for cars are necessary for any surfer:

1. Convenience: Carrying a surfboard inside the car can be quite troublesome, especially if you have multiple boards or longboards. Surf racks provide a designated space to safely and securely transport your boards without taking up valuable space inside the car.

2. Protection: Surf racks offer protection to your surfboard while on the road. They prevent any damage from shifting or banging against other objects in the car, which could lead to dings, scratches, or even worse, breakage.

3. Easy Installation: Most modern cars come with pre-installed roof rails or crossbars, making it easy to install surf racks without any additional tools or modifications to your vehicle. This means you can easily switch between using your car for everyday commutes and as a surf-mobile.

4. Cost-effective: While there are other options for transporting your surf

My Buying Guide on Surf Racks For Car

As a passionate surfer, I know the struggle of finding the perfect surf rack for my car. There are so many options available in the market, and it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. After extensive research and personal experience, I have put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a surf rack for your car.

Types of Surf Racks

Before we dive into the factors to consider when buying a surf rack, it is essential to understand the different types available. The three main types are roof racks, tailgate racks, and hitch racks.

1. Roof Racks: These are the most popular type of surf racks and are attached to the roof of your car. They come in various designs such as soft racks, hard racks, and aerodynamic racks.

2. Tailgate Racks: These are installed on the back of your truck or SUV’s tailgate. They are suitable for those who have limited roof space or do not want to climb on top of their car to load/unload their surfboards.

3. Hitch Racks: These are attached to your car’s hitch receiver and can carry multiple boards at once. They are perfect for longboards or when traveling with friends.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a surf rack for your car, keep these factors in mind:

1. Car Compatibility: The first thing you need to check is if the surf rack is compatible with your car’s make and model. Not all racks fit all cars, so make sure to check with the manufacturer before making a purchase.

2. Board Capacity: Consider how many boards you need to transport at once. If you have multiple boards or longboards, go for a rack with a higher board capacity.

3. Ease of Installation: Some racks require professional installation while others can be easily installed at home. Consider how comfortable you are with installing a surf rack before making a purchase.

4. Material and Durability: You want a rack that can withstand harsh weather conditions and last for years without any damage. Look for materials such as aluminum or stainless steel that are known for their durability.

5. Security Features: It is essential to invest in a surf rack that has reliable security features such as locks or straps to prevent theft while your car is parked.

6. Budget: Surf racks come in various price ranges; determine how much you’re willing to spend before starting your search.

Personal Recommendations

After trying out multiple surf racks over the years, here are my top three recommendations:

1.Roof Rack – Thule AeroBlade Edge Rack System
2.Tailgate Rack – Dakine DLX Pickup Pad
3.Hitch Rack – Yakima LongHaul

In conclusion, investing in a good quality surf rack is crucial for any surfer who loves taking their boards on road trips. Consider your needs and budget before making a decision, and always opt for reputable brands known for their quality products.

Author Profile

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Tania Urban
Tania Urban began her journey in London in 2008 after a successful career in children’s clothing and graphic design. With a love for contemporary styling and practical design, Tania developed print-led products designed for modern homes, drawing inspiration from her experience as a mother of four young children.

Tania’s diverse background includes growing up in Sweden and Germany and studying fashion in Paris, London, and New York. She now resides in London with her husband and children.

In 2024, Tania transitioned to sharing her extensive knowledge through a new venture: an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

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