Best Car Surfboard Rack - Top Picks & Guide

Does the thought of strapping your precious surfboard to the roof of your car fill you with a mix of excitement and worry? You’ve just had an epic session in the waves, and now you face the challenge of getting your board home safely. Finding the perfect way to transport your surfboard is a big deal for any surfer. The wrong rack can lead to scratches, damage, or even worse, a lost board on the highway!

Choosing a car surfboard rack can feel like navigating a tricky wave. There are so many types: soft racks, hard racks, roof mounts, and more. How do you know which one fits your car and your board best? You want security without the hassle. This post cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best features and types of racks available.

By the end of this guide, you will know exactly what to look for. We will help you pick a rack that keeps your board secure, protects your car, and makes your next trip to the beach smooth sailing. Ready to find the perfect ride for your surfboard? Let’s dive into the world of car surfboard racks!

Top Car Surfboard Rack Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

Ho Stevie! Surfboard Car Racks - Padded System, Easy Setup Any Car, ‘No Scratch’ Buckles - Strap Up to 3 Boards to Car Roof

🏄‍♂️ HOLDS UP TO 3 SURFBOARDS - Can be used with or without surfboard bags or surfboard socks (we have a few different types of surfboard bags here on Amazon).
🚙 FITS ANY VEHICLE - Thru-the-door style soft rack system fits any vehicle, 2 door or 4 door, without crossbar racks. Soft padding for your surfboards to rest on. Anti-Slip base prevents the pads from moving.
🦾 MAX STRENGTH STRAPS and POWERFUL BUCKLES keep everything tight and won't loosen while driving on the highway.
👌 SILICONE BUCKLE COVERS - No need to worry about damaging your car or surfboard with the metal buckles, because ours are encased in silicone covers… (unlike other brands)
⌚ 3-MINUTE INSTALLATION - Watch our video on this page to see how quick and easy it is to set up these racks on your car. You can leave them on your car, or easily remove them when not using them (carrying case included).

Bestseller No. 2

Abahub Soft Roof Rack Pads with 2 Tie Down Straps, 2 Tie Down Ropes, 2 Hood Loops and Storage Bag, for Surfboard, Kayak, Canoe, Heavy Duty Universal Car Roof Racks System (Black PE)

Ultimate Versatility for All Your Gear : This universal car roof rack is the perfect solution for transporting kayaks, surfboards, SUPs, canoes, snowboards, and more; Designed to fit SUVs, sedans, hatchbacks, and 2-door or 4-door cars;with or without side rails;it’s your go-to for beach trips, mountain adventures, or lake outings; Convenience and reliability guaranteed
Heavy-Duty Cargo Mat for Maximum Protection: Built with durable 1680D fabric and reinforced PVC coating; this EVA foam cargo mat provides a soft, protective surface for your gear; Its non-slip bottom design minimizes movement; reduces noise; and enhances stability; making it ideal for heavy loads and long journeys; Keep your cargo secure and your vehicle scratch-free
Complete Cargo Securing Kit Included: This kit has everything you need for safe and secure load fastening; 2x 13 ft tie-down straps with cam buckles; 4x 16 ft tie-down straps; and 2x T-shape loop straps; Made from high-quality; tightly stitched materials; these straps ensure maximum durability and reliability for all types of cargo
Scratch-Proof Design for Vehicle and Cargo Safety: Our cam buckle features a Neoprene Sleeve to protect your vehicle and cargo from scratches and damage; Pro Tip: Always throw the strap end without the buckle when adjusting to avoid accidental scratches; Safety and care are built into every detail
Quick and Easy Installation : Setting up this roof rack is a breeze; Just follow these simple steps: 1) Clean your car roof; 2) Secure the roof rack with the included 13 ft tie-down strap; and 3) Fasten your cargo using the 16 ft tie-down straps; Perfect for adventurers who value efficiency and ease

Bestseller No. 3

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

Universal Fitment: No longer do you need an expensive fixed roof rack system! HEYTRIP soft roof racks are ideally suited for carrying your kayak/surfboard/SUP/canoe to your favorite paddling spot and have a maximum weight load of 80kg. It works on almost any type of vehicle, no matter whether your car with/without side rails or gutters.
The Tighter The Safer: 2 * 15ft tie-down adjustable straps with padded cam locks provide secure gripping for your load. 2 * 15ft bow & stern tie-down rope ensure that your long-loads are safely secured to the front and back of your vehicle. With such 4 ultra-long straps, it holds up to 1-3 shortboards/ 1-2 longboards or kayaks depending on size.
Reduce Noise and Vibration: Built-in non-slip mat protects your car roof surface from getting scratches and fix tightly to reduce wind noise. Top grade EVA foam padded provides a soft landing for your loads and effectively reduces vibration during transportation. Tips: Putting a twist in the straps will help to reduce wind noise.
Easy to Install and Clean: No tools required, the soft rack set comes with all the attachments and straps necessary to attach the pads to your car’s roof and hold the load in place. Annotated fitting instruction and loading advice are also included. Foldable design, when they are not in use just un-strap them and clean, then keep them in the bag provided.
Satisfaction Assured: The premium soft roof racks are built with tough, durable materials to safely secure your boards and last for years to come. If you are unhappy with any aspect of our soft roof rack or if any parts are missing or damaged, contact us and we'll make it right.

Bestseller No. 4

Golkcurx Universal Soft Roof Rack Pads for Kayak,Surfboard, SUP, Canoe, Snowboard with15FT Tie-Down Straps*2 and Storage Bag*1 (Black)

【UNIVERSAL FITMENT】: It fits most of cars without side rails or cars with side rails but there is more than 1 inch gap between car top and side rails.Good to carry your Kayak,Surfboard, SUP, Canoe, Snowboard
【EASY INSTALLATION】: No tools required, our soft rack set comes with all the attachments and straps necessary for attaching the pads to your car’s roof and holding the load in place. 2 * 15ft tie-down adjustable straps with padded cam locks provide secure gripping for your load. 2 * 15ft bow & stern tie-down rope ensure that your long-loads are safely secured to the front and back of your vehicle. With such 4 ultra-long straps, it holds up to 1-3 shortboards/ 1-2 longboards or kayaks depending on size
【REDUCE NOISE AND VIBRATION 】: Built-in non-slip mat protects your car roof surface from getting scratched and fix tightly to reduce wind noise. Top-grade EVA foam padding provides a soft landing for your loads and effectively reduces vibration during transportation. Tips: Putting a twist in the straps will help to reduce wind noise
【SAFE AND RELIABLE】: Equipped with safety locks and buckles to ensure your cargo is safe during transport. Shockproof construction provides reliable protection. Made with strong and durable materials for long-term use. Resistant to wear and tear. Foldable design, when they are not in use just un-strap them and clean them, then keep them in the bag provided
【UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY 】Designed to fit SUVs, sedans, hatchbacks, and 2-door or 4-door cars—with or without side rails—it’s your go-to for beach trips, mountain adventures, or lake outings，Convenience and reliability guaranteed

Bestseller No. 5

Abahub Soft Roof Rack Pads with 2 Tie Down Straps, 2 Tie Down Ropes, 2 Hood Loops and Storage Bag, for Surfboard, Kayak, Canoe, Heavy Duty Universal Car Roof Racks System (Use with Cross Bar)

Versatile Cargo Compatibility：This roof rack is designed to carry a wide range of gear, including kayaks, surfboards, SUPs, canoes, snowboards, and more. Whether you're heading to the beach, mountains, or lake, it’s the perfect solution for all your outdoor adventures.
Universal Fit for Most Cross Bars：Compatible with various cross bar types, including OEM CROSS BAR, aero CROSS BAR, and FLAT CROSS BAR, this roof rack offers seamless integration with your vehicle. No matter your car’s setup, it’s ready to go.
Heavy-Duty Cargo Mat for Ultimate Protection：Made from durable 1680D fabric with reinforced PVC coating, the PE foam cargo mat provides a soft, protective surface for your gear. Built to withstand harsh weather and heavy loads, it ensures long-lasting performance on every journey.
Complete Cargo Securing Kit Included：This kit includes everything you need for secure load fastening: 2x 13 ft tie-down straps with cam buckles, 2x 16 ft tie-down straps, and 2x T-shape loop straps. Crafted with precision and high-quality materials, these straps ensure maximum durability and reliable fastening for all types of cargo.
Scratch-Proof Design for Vehicle and Cargo Protection：Featuring a Neoprene Sleeve on the cam buckle, our roof rack protects both your vehicle and cargo from scratches and damage. Pro Tip: Always throw the strap end without the buckle when adjusting to avoid accidental scratches. Safety and care built into every detail.

Bestseller No. 6

Hang 11 Surfboard Roof Rack - Soft Padded Surfboard Rack for Car, No-Scratch Buckles, Fits Most Vehicles Without Crossbars, Extra-Wide 1.5” Straps, Carries up to 3 Boards (Single / 3 Boards)

SECURE TRANSPORT - Keep 3 shortboards, 2 longboards or 1 paddle board perfectly secure with our premium surfboard car rack. With extra wide 1.5” straps, thick foam pads with anti-slip bottom, and silicone covered buckles to avoid damaging your car and boards, it’s the perfect solution to transport your surfboards.
FITS MOST VEHICLES - Includes a built-in thru-the-door strap system that installs directly through your car doors and tightens using the integrated buckle design. Works on most sedans, SUVs, hatchbacks, and coupes with solid roof surfaces where straps can be safely routed through closed doors.
LIGHTNING-FAST SETUP - Secure your surfboard in minutes and hit the waves sooner with our surfboard car rack. We’ve also added Velcro loops to secure any excess strap, eliminating the need to clamp it in between the car doors (though you can of course still do so if you prefer). This reduces wear and tear on the surfboard car straps and eliminates wind noise and vibrations. Get on the road faster and enjoy a quieter ride with our surf board car rack!
PREMIUM HEAVY-DUTY BUILD - With a 1.5” width, our straps are wider than other soft surf racks for cars on the market, adding security and reducing the risk of denting your boards. Paired with aerodynamically shaped, non-slip & industry grade EVA foam pads, our design minimizes wind noise, reduces fuel consumption and ensures a secure, cushioned ride for your surfboards.
PACKS AWAY IN SECONDS - Once you're done using it, store the car roof surfboard rack easily in its durable, reusable storage bag. Its compact design fits neatly in your trunk, garage, or even a small closet, making this surf & paddle board car rack the ultimate space-saving solution to transport your boards.

Bestseller No. 7

Ho Stevie! Surfboard Tie Down Straps (Pair) for Roof Rack Crossbars - Easy to Use - 'No Scratch' Silicone Buckle Covers Prevent Damage

SECURELY TIE DOWN your surfboards to your car’s roof rack with these 15’ straps. These tie down straps work with any car, truck, SUV, van, or other vehicle that has roof racks installed already.
SILICONE BUCKLE COVERS prevent your car or surfboard from being dented or scratched by the metal buckle. This is a major benefit… compare to all the other brands with exposed buckles.
SURFBOARDS CAN BE STACKED on top of each other, if you need to tie down multiple surf boards. 15 foot straps are long enough for multiple boards. Can also be used for SUPs (Stand Up Paddleboards), Kayaks, and Canoes.
HEAVY DUTY 1.25” wide, 15’ long straps, with powerful metal buckles (covered in silicone guards) keep your gear secured tightly to your vehicle. Carrying case included, for storing tie down straps. Set of 2 tie-down straps.
100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: As with all of our surfing products, if you are not completely satisfied for ANY reason, simply return your Surfboard Tie Down Straps within 30 days.

Bestseller No. 8

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

High Quality Durable Material --- This soft surf roof rack pads made of durable 600D polyester material with the advantages of soft, durable and waterproof, it will offer an efficient way to convey your surfboards, SUP Paddleboard, snowboards, kayaks
Suitable for All Kinds of Cars --- The car roof racks are made with a universal design to fit nearly every vehicle. With 28/34 inch Pads and over 15ft straps, it is perfect for securing the surfboard, snowboards and Stand-Up Paddle Boards so that it can support the long distance drive quickly
Protection and Security --- Surf rack pads equipped with heavy-duty velcro which will be firmly fixed on the crossbar for a better journey, Foam padding and nylon waterproof sleeve protects boards and boats from damage, anti-slip material helps keep your gear in place
EASY TO USE --- Fix the pads to the crossbar of the roof rack, fasten the board with two 15-foot straps. The two waterproof polyester straps deliver optimal performance for outdoor applications in terms of break strength, UV resistance, water resistance and abrasion resistance
WHY CHOOSE NEOLIFE --- This Roof Rack Pads is the perfect choice for the outdoor activities. What you get is not only the high-quality professional products of NEOLIFE, but also the after-sales service that makes you feel at ease. We will provide you with 24-hour professional services. If you have any questions, please contact us

Choosing the Right Car Surfboard Rack: Your Essential Buying Guide

Getting your surfboard safely to the beach is crucial. A good car rack keeps your board secure, preventing damage and saving you stress. This guide helps you pick the perfect rack for your adventures.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping, check these important features first. They make a big difference in how well the rack works.

Security and Locking Systems

Strap Quality: Look for heavy-duty straps, often made of nylon. They must hold tight and resist fraying from sun and water.
Locking Mechanisms: If you leave your car sometimes, choose racks with built-in locks. This stops thieves from easily taking your board or the rack itself.

Compatibility and Fit

Vehicle Type: Does the rack fit your car? Check if you have crossbars already installed on your roof. Some racks fit directly onto factory rails, while others clamp onto door frames.
Board Size: Ensure the rack can handle the length and width of your longest surfboard.

Ease of Use

Installation Time: Simple racks take minutes to install. Complex systems might need tools and more time. Read reviews about setup difficulty.
Padding: Thick, soft padding protects your board’s rails from dents and scratches while driving.

Important Materials Matter

The materials determine how long your rack lasts and how much weight it can safely carry.

Frame Construction

Aluminum: This is a popular choice. Aluminum is light and resists rust well, which is great near the salty ocean air.
Steel: Steel racks are very strong and usually cheaper. However, lower-quality steel can rust over time if the coating wears off.

Hardware

All nuts, bolts, and clamps should be made of stainless steel. Stainless steel resists corrosion much better than regular metal. This small detail keeps your rack secure for years.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality isn’t just about the brand name; it’s about design and durability.

High-Quality Indicators

Aerodynamics: Better-designed racks often have wind-reducing fairings or shapes. These reduce wind noise (whistling) when you drive fast.
Weight Capacity: A higher stated weight capacity means the rack uses stronger materials and better engineering.

Lower-Quality Red Flags

Flimsy Plastic Parts: Avoid racks that use a lot of thin plastic for crucial clamping parts. These parts often break in the heat or cold.
Poor Finish: If the paint or powder coating looks thin or uneven, rust will likely appear quickly.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you plan to use the rack most often.

Daily Commuters

If you drive to work every day with the rack attached, prioritize low-profile designs and excellent noise reduction. You want something that is easy to leave on the car without causing drag or noise.

Weekend Warriors

If you only use the rack on weekends, consider a removable system. These racks attach quickly when needed and come off when you don’t need them. This keeps your car looking clean and saves fuel.

Off-Road or Rough Travel

For trips down bumpy dirt roads, you need the strongest possible connection. Look for racks that use heavy-duty clamps that grip the door frame tightly, offering maximum stability against shaking.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Car Surfboard Racks

Q: Do I need a permanent rack or a temporary one?

A: Permanent racks (hard mounts) offer the best security and strength. Temporary (soft racks) are cheaper and easy to use for occasional trips, but they strap around your door frames.

Q: Will a surfboard rack damage my car’s paint?

A: If installed correctly with good padding, no damage should occur. Poorly installed racks, or those with metal parts touching the roof, can cause scratches.

Q: What is the main difference between crossbars and side rails?

A: Crossbars run across the width of your roof, connecting the side rails (which run front to back). Most racks attach to existing crossbars.

Q: Are soft racks safe for highway speeds?

A: Soft racks are generally safe up to about 50-60 mph if secured very tightly. For sustained highway driving, hard racks are always recommended for better security.

Q: How do I clean my surfboard rack?

A: Rinse the rack with fresh water after every trip to remove salt. Use mild soap and a soft brush for deeper cleaning. Always dry metal parts to prevent rust.

Q: Can I carry more than one board?

A: Yes, many racks have enough space for two or three boards, depending on the width of your crossbars and the thickness of your boards.

Q: How tight should I make the straps?

A: The straps must be very tight. You should be able to shake the board slightly, but the rack itself should not move at all on the car roof.

Q: Do I need a wind deflector?

A: Wind deflectors (or fairings) sit in front of the crossbars. They push air up and over the boards, greatly reducing annoying whistling noises at higher speeds.

Q: What is the lifespan of a good quality aluminum rack?

A: A well-maintained, high-quality aluminum rack can easily last 8 to 10 years or more.

Q: Does the rack affect my car’s gas mileage?

A: Yes, any item mounted on the roof increases wind resistance, slightly lowering your gas mileage. Aerodynamic racks cause less of a drop than bulky ones.

Best Car Surfboard Rack – Top Picks & Guide