Water sports such as paddle boarding are becoming increasingly popular nowadays. Usually, summertime is the best time to do paddle boarding. But how to carry them? There are many types of paddle board carriers for cars available in the market, and every vehicle might require a different model. But which one should you choose? Don’t worry; I am here to guide you. I have compiled the best paddle board carrier for cars, which will be examined in detail in this complete guide, and many questions will be answered. Let’s get started, shall we?
List of the best paddle board carrier for cars:
Paddleboard carriers can be hard to find since many brands of windsurfing and surfboard car racks. Hence, I want to help you find the right paddle board carrier by compiling a list of the eight best paddle board carriers for cars.
- It can be mounted on a car
that has no racks, rails,
gutters, or bars. - A quick and easy setup
makes this item useful for a
variety of purposes. - There is a pass-through
strap included that secures
soft roof rack pads. - Vibrations and wind noise
are reduced by the
aerodynamic design. - It is a portable car rack that
can be easily removed
when required.
- Installing inflatable straps
does not ensure 100%
water tightness.
HandiRack’s inflatable paddle board carrier system is extremely easy to use and incredibly smart. It is a multifunctional product and also one of the best sellers on Amazon. Inflatable bars usually are attached through the car’s interior and buckled together on the outside.
Key features
- It can handle loads up to 175 pounds.
- It is convenient for kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding.
- From moving apartments to shopping, this rack system is highly versatile.
- The cost is also pretty reasonable.
paddle board carrier
- The device is easy to use and
has a simple operation. - It features a ratchet-style
lock that’s reliable. - This product is lightweight
and compact. - The look is quite elegant.
- At a time, it can hold only
one SUP.
Amazon has ranked this product as one of its top sellers. In this product, several different smaller boards can be accommodated by the two-strap system. There is something elegant and simple about this strap system. There is smoothness and security to the lockdown system as well.
Key features
- The system uses a single loop secured to your vehicle’s roof and designed to fit around surfboards.
- Foam padding between the surfboard and the vehicle’s roof provides cushioning.
- There is a high level of build quality in this product which is great.
Premium Surfboard Car Racks
- It is very easy to use this
rack Compared to other
racks by this brand,
it is even more affordable. - Instructions are included
in the package. - There is a very secure lock
system included.
- No warranty is provided.
An Amazon favorite, this carrier also comes in various colors. Besides being smaller and cheaper, this product is also not bulky. This bag can still hold two full-side paddleboards or longboards, so it’s a great buy.
Key features
- A maximum of three shortboards or two longboards can be stored in it.
- The floating strap system makes loading easy.
- There is a ratchet mechanism for tightening it securely.
- This product comes with a lock and a key.
board carrier
- This rack is significantly
less expensive than
complete rack systems
due to the simplicity
of its design. - The price is very reasonable.
- This product lasts a long
time and is durable.
- The mechanism for locking
is absent.
When it comes to roof racks and accessories, Thule is at the top of the game. Their accessories are pretty extensive. Thule’s roof racks are individual because they are designed for specific boards instead of a one-size-fits-all rack.
Key features
- Wind noise and drag are reduced, and fuel efficiency is improved with the aerodynamics of this product.
- The AcuTight tool is included to ensure that it is fitted correctly.
- The capacity is 165 pounds.
- The bag comes with additional padding and straps.
- A storage bag and tie-down
straps are included. - It is capable of carrying all
kinds of water sports. - All hardtop vehicles are
compatible with this product. - It is a durable product.
- The price is reasonable.
- For vehicles without soft tops,
this product is not suitable.
This DaKine rack includes only pads and straps, unlike the INNO and Thule racks. A roof rack bar can be attached using existing roof rack hardware. Your gear can then be secured to the vehicle’s top by installing the included ratchet straps on the Aero bars.
Key features
- A 28″ wide pad is included.
- A 600D polyester fabric is used to make it.
- This hoodie has a loop closure and a hood.
- A wide range of crossbars can also be fitted with custom extruded foam.
board carrier
- Oversized padding protects
against scratches and bumps. - There are also tie-down
straps included in the
package. - A paddle holder is also
included with this product. - Factory crossbars in squares
and ovals can be used
with this product.
- Assembly is difficult.
Carrier Racks are another popular product today. With this kit, you can transport a kayak vertically on the roof of your car quickly and easily, and it fits square and oval cross rails.
Key features
- The product is quite versatile.
- It can accommodate up to 158 lbs of weight.
- A high-quality, durable material is used to make it.
- A lightweight aluminum alloy is used to make it.
- It is a corrosion-proof and weatherproof product.
- A variety of boards and boats can be accommodated using the J-Cradle system.
- This rack is significantly
less expensive than
complete rack systems
due to the simplicity of
its design. - The price is very reasonable.
- This product lasts a long time
and is durable.
- The mechanism for locking
is absent.
This is another popular product on Amazon which holds two soft paddle boards. In addition to being foam-padded, this bag is also easy to carry. With this rack, you can carry any water sports board and fit any hardtop vehicle with or without cross rails.
Key features
- The container can hold up to 90 pounds.
- It weighs only 3.3 pounds and is lightweight.
- EPE foam is used to make it.
- Straps are long-lasting and waterproof.
- It is easy to install and remove.
- It comes with a silicone
sleeve, which protects
your vehicle and board. - Various loads can be tied
down with this product. - The capacity of the unit is
600 pounds. - It can be stored easily.
- It is extremely cost-effective.
- Padding is not included with
this product.
With these tough nylon straps, your board is not only securely tethered to your rack, but you can also rest assured that no one will be able to take it. The straps are available with either a key lock or a passcode. These are great for SUP Boarders who are worried about losing their keys on the water.
Key features
- ·It can be locked with a passcode or two keys with a key lock.
- Two straps are included in the package.
- A stainless steel cable reinforces the straps for security.
- It prevents straps from slipping during transit with its premium cam buckle.
Tie Down Strap carrier
Paddleboard carrier for car roof: Tips for using them
- If the board slips back, a strap will catch the fin, so it does not fall off the car.
- To minimize the wind resistance/turbulence you will create while driving, ensure that your paddle board is loaded upside down into your car.
- For tall vehicles, the board can be placed upside down on the rack and slid up and onto it (with the fin facing forward).
- Ratcheting straps on a rack can damage your board if they are tightened too much.
- You should carefully place strap buckles on your board or vehicle so they will not bang off while driving.
- Ensure that loose straps are tucked into the car to avoid flapping around.
- Once your board has been secured, give it a good shake to ensure it’s not moving.
- Make sure the board is secure after going a few miles to ensure that you can continue your journey.
- Roof rack manufacturers may display the load capacity, but your vehicle determines the actual load capacity. Before loading up, make sure that’s the case.
Things to consider before purchasing a paddle board carrier for car: Buyers Guide
With the right rack system, you don’t have to worry about transporting stand-up paddle boards. You can easily find the model that suits your needs if you know what to look for and expect. I’ll explain what you need to look for when choosing a paddleboard carrier for your car.
01. Rack compatibility and rack compatibility
A SUP roof rack’s compatibility with your vehicle is the most important factor to consider. Rather than attaching to the car’s roof, these SUP racks fit existing roof racks. Certain racks are compatible with only certain systems. Make sure your new racks are compatible with the rack system by checking with each manufacturer. SUP racks are adapted to fit a variety of roof rack shapes, varying from oval bars to circular racks.
02. The capacity of the board
If you plan to paddleboard with your partner, you shouldn’t buy a car carrier that can fit only one board. Some SUP roof racks can only safely carry one board, even though most of them can carry two. Make sure your board’s width fits within the rack’s maximum width. The majority of racks can accommodate boards up to 34 inches wide. Very few sup roof racks can carry more than two boards. Inflatable stand-up paddle boards or a tow trailer are great options if you want to bring more boards.
03. Lock system
The lock systems of some paddleboard roof racks enable you to leave your boards without worrying about them being stolen in a parking lot. It’s nearly impossible to break into some racks because they have up to four locks. For those who plan to take their boards on a road trip or like to stop along the way, it’s a vital feature. Invest in a roof rack that can lock your SUP boards if you’re unsure about leaving them vulnerable to thieves.
04. Loading systems
Many paddle boards weigh over 30 pounds and are notoriously heavy. This might not be an issue for tall, strong people or those who own small cars. A tall car might prove difficult for petite people to load their heavy boards. The loading system for stand-up paddle boards should fit your paddle board. So choose wisely.
05. Hard vs. soft
Vehicles with roof racks installed usually cannot use rugged roof racks. People leave them on their vehicles because they are harder to install. It can usually cause lower gas mileage, but soft top racks are safer and sturdier. Soft roof racks are great when owning a vehicle without a roof rack because they make transporting boards to the water safe.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Does using roof racks cause paddle boards to break faster?
Does my paddle board fit on a normal roof rack?
Can I travel fast with a paddleboard at the top of my car?
Do I have to inflate my paddle board before transporting it?
What causes the humming sound on the roof of my paddle board?
Conclusion
Buying a carrier for paddle boards requires careful consideration of the product’s load capacity and ensuring that the carriers are wide enough for the boards you intend to transport. When identifying quality options, you should ensure that your paddleboard is appropriately padded and secure. Please let us know your thoughts on our favorite paddle board carrier systems and accessories if you ever need help finding them in the future. We’d love to hear about your personal favorites if they aren’t listed as well. Happy purchasing!
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