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The 7 best Surfboard car racks 2024?

by Lilly Schuster

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Anyone who has invested a lot of money in a good surfboard does not want it to be damaged during the trip. To avoid this, a high-quality and compatible model must be selected from the range of different roof racks for Surfboard car racks.

Avoid buying mistakes:

In our Checklist, we explain what makes a good Surfboard car rack and how to find the model that best suits your requirements. Our list of recommendations, in which we present the 7 best models 2024, will make the purchase decision particularly easy.

Contents:

  1. Top picks: The best Surfboard car racks 2024 reviewed.
  2. Checklist: These features are important in the test.
  3. Bestsellers: The most popular Surfboard car racks at a glance.
  4. FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about Surfboard car racks.

The best Surfboard car racks 2024 reviewed

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

1. best soft Surfboard car rack

Versatile
PROSmart roof rack*

    The PROSmart roof rack consists of 2 parts, each measuring 86 x 10 x 7.5 cm. These have a total load capacity of 75 kg. The soft EVA foam padding provides ideal protection against scratches and reduces vibrations during transportation.

    What we like:

    • Versatility
    • Load capacity
    • Upholstery
    • Longevity
    • Assembly
    What we don’t like:

    • Belt length

    Why we like it: This roof rack can be attached in just a few minutes, but is not suitable for large vans or motorhomes due to the short straps. Nevertheless, it is very versatile and impresses with its high robustness and durability.

    Recommended for: This roof rack is suitable for transporting all surfboards, kayaks, SUPs, canoes or winter sports equipment weighing up to 75 kg.

    2. best hard Surfboard car rack

    Robust
    FISCHER 18096 Topline L aluminum railing carrier*

      The Topline roof rack from the Fischer brand is available in sizes L and XL, each with a length of 120 and 135 cm respectively. These have a maximum load capacity of 90 kg and thanks to the 20 mm nuts, a wide variety of equipment can be easily attached.

      What we like:

      • Robustness
      • Size selection
      • Load capacity
      • Assembly
      What we don’t like:

      • Volume

      Why we like it: This roof rack offers good quality for a reasonable price. It is easy to install and is made of durable stainless steel. However, it is a little noisy when driving fast and transporting heavy equipment.

      Recommended for: This roof rack is suitable if you are looking for a metal rack in various sizes.

      3. best versatile Surfboard car rack

      Inflatable surfboard carrier
      HandiWorld HandiRack Universal roof rack*

        The HandiWorld HandiRack offers a quick and safe solution for transporting surfboards and water sports equipment, ideal for most types of car.

        What we like:

        • Simple and quick assembly
        • Protects surfboards from damage
        • Universally applicable for almost all cars
        • Lightweight and easy to transport
        • Carries loads of up to 80 kg
        What we don’t like:

        • Seat belts in the vehicle interior take some getting used to
        • Additional protective mats recommended

        Why we like it:

        In our test, the HandiWorld HandiRack proved to be an extremely practical and versatile roof rack for surfboards. Particularly noteworthy is the quick and uncomplicated assembly, as the carrier is ready for use in just 10 minutes.

        The hard-wearing nylon materials and the D-straps ensure safe transportation of the surfboards, while the long straps distribute the load evenly.

        A major advantage of the HandiRack is that it is made of soft material. This protects the surfboards from scratches and dents.

        During our test, we placed anti-slip pads under the carriers to provide additional support and protection for the car roof.

        One plus point is the compact design: the HandiRack can easily be stored in the trunk when not in use. The carrying bag supplied also makes transportation and storage easier.

        Despite minor disadvantages, such as the belts in the vehicle interior and the need for protective mats, the HandiRack impresses with its practicality and versatility.

        Recommended for:

        The HandiWorld HandiRack is ideal for anyone who wants to transport their surfboards on the roof but does not want to install a fixed roof rack.

        Thanks to its universal fit, it is suitable for almost all types of car, making it a flexible solution for surfing enthusiasts.

        4. best Northcore roof rack for surfboards

        Inexpensive
        Northcore Single Soft Roof Rack*

          The Northcore roof rack has a 3.2 m long strap, making it a versatile fit for many vehicles. The roof supports measure 43 x 13 x 3 cm and offer space for up to 3 boards. A durable neoprene cover prevents damage to the board during transportation.

          What we like:

          • Assembly
          • Longevity
          • Weight
          • Price
          What we don’t like:

          • Speed limit

          Why we like it: This roof rack weighs just 950 g and features robust straps that reliably hold the equipment in place. However, vibrations occur at speeds above 100 km/h.

          Recommended for: This rack is suitable if you are looking for a lightweight and inexpensive roof rack for several surfboards.

          5. best Surfboard car rack from Thule

          Durable
          Thule SURF PAD M AMPLIA Negro Wide M*

            This Thule roof rack cover is made of robust 600D nylon with high durability and UV resistance. However, the EVO roof rack is required for installation. Together with this, a load capacity of up to 75 kg is possible.

            What we like:

            • Load capacity
            • Upholstery
            • Longevity
            • Assembly
            What we don’t like:

            • Compatibility

            Why we like it: This support for surfboards only needs to be attached to the roof rack with Velcro fasteners. It has an anti-slip surface which, together with the foam padding, holds the surfboards securely.

            Recommended for: This product is suitable if you are looking for a surfboard carrier for a Thule roof rack.

            6. best Surfboard car rack in different sizes

            High quality
            COR Surf roof rack for surfboard kayak SUP*

              The COR surfboard carriers are made of high-quality 600D Oxford fabric and are easy to attach to any roof rack. The surfboards can be attached to them very easily and have a good grip during transportation. They also weigh only around 360 g.

              What we like:

              • Size selection
              • Assembly
              • Weight
              • Price
              What we don’t like:

              • Versatility

              Why we like it: Although this product offers a practical and large selection of sizes, the individual models are not very versatile. Nevertheless, they are extremely robust, weather-resistant and safe.

              Recommended for: This roof rack is suitable if you are looking for a rack that fits your surfboard exactly.

              7. best Surfboard car rack with storage bag

              Gentle
              Feelglad Universal soft car roof rack*

                The Feelglad roof rack can be used universally for all vehicles. It is made of strong 600D nylon and has a maximum load capacity of 80 kg. No tools are required for installation as it inflates automatically. The flexible straps make it easier to attach the surfboards.

                What we like:

                • Load capacity
                • Security
                • Assembly
                • Weight
                What we don’t like:

                • Price

                Why we like it: This model impresses with a weight of less than 2 kg for a complete set of roof racks and fastening straps. These are very hard-wearing and well padded. However, it is relatively expensive for a fabric roof rack.

                Recommended for: This roof rack is ideal when many surfboards need to be transported safely and gently.

                8th Best Surfboard car rack classic with soft support

                Weather resistant
                Northcore Double Soft Roof Rack*

                  These roof racks have a neoprene cover that ensures high weather resistance. The straps are approx. 3.2 m long, which means they can be fitted to almost any vehicle. However, this takes more time than with other models.

                  What we like:

                  • Versatility
                  • Longevity
                  • Size
                  • Security
                  What we don’t like:

                  • Assembly

                  Why we like it: The Northcore Double carrier secures your beloved surfboards during transportation with strong padding. The robust metal buckles and webbing are very strong and ensure a high load-bearing capacity.

                  Recommended for: Depending on the board size, these roof racks offer space for up to 10 surfboards.

                  9. best cheap Surfboard car rack

                  Mounted quickly
                  Frostfire Moonracks universal roof rack*

                    The Frostfire universal roof rack is made of high-quality polyester and features soft padding to make transportation as safe as possible. It is quick and easy to fit, but cannot be folded like other fabric carriers. It is 84 cm wide in total.

                    What we like:

                    • Load capacity
                    • Assembly
                    • Versatility
                    • Price
                    What we don’t like:

                    • Pack size

                    Why we like it: Special heavy-duty buckles ensure a high load capacity of up to 80 kg. The large belt offers space for up to 5 surfboards, canoes or other bulky vacation equipment.

                    Recommended for: This surfboard carrier is ideal if you are looking for an inexpensive yet reliable product and pack size is not an issue.

                    Surfboard car rack Checklist: These features are important in the test

                    • Type: Soft roof racks for surfboards are inexpensive and easier to install. The boards are attached using straps that are clamped through the car doors and are therefore compatible with all cars. Fixed roof racks, on the other hand, are particularly safe, even under higher loads.

                      Good to know: It is often more difficult and time-consuming to attach a fixed roof rack. This is mainly worthwhile if the roof rack can remain on the same car. Roof rails are also required.
                    • Compatibility: Before buying, it is essential to check whether the size and width of the respective Surfboard car rack is compatible with the car and that the load limit of the car is not exceeded. The requirements for installation must also be taken into account.
                    • Use: It is best to choose a Surfboard car rack that is easy to attach and use. Customer reviews help you to get a better feel for the product. A model with a lock can also be selected for greater security.

                      Tip: Before transporting the surfboard over longer distances using the roof rack, you should test whether the roof rack and board are really stable and securely fastened.
                    • Intended use: The number of surfboards and the load capacity for which the roof rack is intended is relevant. It is also crucial whether the roof rack is only to be used for the surfboard itself, for the board, mast and sail or for other equipment.

                      If you wish, you can choose versatile models that are also suitable for additional water sports equipment, skis or as bicycle carriers.

                    • Material: Roof racks can be made of aluminum, steel or foam, for example. It is important that the materials are robust and do not damage the car roof or the surfboard during use.

                    Did you know? These are the best surfboards of the year (2024).

                    Bestsellers: The most popular Surfboard car racks

                    What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

                    (**Last update 2024-12-03)

                    FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers

                    surfboard-rooftop-faq

                    Which is the best roof rack for surfboards?

                    A good roof rack for surfboards is compatible with your own car, stable, does not damage the car or the surfboard and is as easy to use as possible. Hard models are particularly safe. Which model is best must be decided on the basis of the intended use and the budget.

                    How much does a Surfboard car rack cost?

                    Many Surfboard car racks cost around 100 $. However, inexpensive models can be purchased for less than 50 $.

                    Where to buy Surfboard car racks?

                    A roof rack for a surfboard can be conveniently ordered online. Alternatively, you can look for suitable models in water sports or car accessory stores.

                    What alternatives are there to Surfboard car racks?

                    As an alternative to roof racks, trailers can also be used to transport surfboards. However, these come at a higher cost and are more suitable for very large and unwieldy water sports equipment such as kayaks.

                    Is there a test from Consumer Reports or Which? on Surfboard car racks?

                    There has not yet been a roof rack test by Stiftung Warentest or Ökotest. To find your personal test winner, we nevertheless present the most popular models in the bestseller list.

                    Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

                    *Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

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                    Lilly Schuster

                    Expert for swimming, ice skating and winter sports
                    Lilly has spent many hours of her life on ice skates. When she's not sitting at her laptop studying, she likes to be out and about in nature or enjoying the icy winter air while ice skating and skiing.

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