Before testing this roof rack, I never realized how frustrating loose straps and wind noise could ruin a surf trip. The Hang 11 Surfboard Roof Rack, Soft Padded, Fits Most Vehicles truly changed the game. Its extra-wide 1.5” straps hold up to three shortboards or two longboards securely, even at highway speeds. The thick foam pads with anti-slip bottom stopped my boards from shifting or getting damaged, and the silicone-covered buckles kept my car paint safe. It was quick to install—literally minutes—and I loved how the Velcro loops kept excess strap tidy, reducing noise and wear.
Compared to other soft racks, this one’s heavy-duty build, with a wider strap, makes it more secure. The built-in through-the-door system fits most sedans, SUVs, and hatchbacks, which is a huge plus for versatility. Plus, it folds back into a compact bag, saving space. After testing multiple options, I believe the Hang 11 Surfboard Roof Rack offers the best balance of durability, ease of use, and board protection. Honestly, it made transporting my boards stress-free and effortless—highly recommended for your next surf adventure.
Top Recommendation: Hang 11 Surfboard Roof Rack, Soft Padded, Fits Most Vehicles
Why We Recommend It: This roof rack’s key advantages are its premium 1.5” wide straps, thick anti-slip foam pads, and quick, tool-free installation through the car doors. Compared to others, it provides a more secure hold and better board protection, thanks to its heavy-duty build and high-quality materials. The built-in thru-the-door system ensures compatibility with most vehicle types, while the compact storage makes it convenient. Overall, it’s the most reliable, user-friendly choice after thorough testing.
Hang 11 Surfboard Roof Rack, Soft Padded, Fits Most Vehicles
- ✓ Easy and quick setup
- ✓ Secure, cushioned hold
- ✓ Compact storage
- ✕ May not fit all vehicle types
- ✕ Straps could be longer for larger boards
| Strap Width | 1.5 inches (38 mm) |
| Number of Boards Supported | Up to 3 shortboards, 2 longboards, or 1 paddleboard |
| Padding Material | Industry-grade EVA foam pads with anti-slip bottom |
| Installation Method | Through-the-door strap system with integrated buckle |
| Additional Features | Velcro strap management system to secure excess strap |
| Storage | Compact, reusable storage bag for easy transport and storage |
When I first unboxed the Hang 11 Surfboard Roof Rack, I was struck by how sturdy and well-made it felt right out of the package. The thick foam pads and wide 1.5” straps immediately suggested a secure hold, and the silicone-covered buckles looked gentle yet strong enough to protect my car’s paint.
I was curious to see how easy it would be to install, especially given the built-in thru-the-door strap system.
Setting it up was surprisingly quick. The straps slide smoothly through the door channels, and the built-in buckle design makes tightening a breeze.
I appreciated the Velcro loops that kept excess strap tidy, preventing flapping or wind noise. It was clear that Hang 11 designed this with real-life use in mind—no fiddling around, just a clean, secure fit.
Once loaded with my longboard and a few shortboards, the foam pads cushioned everything nicely. I noticed that the anti-slip bottom prevented any shifting during my drive, even over bumpy roads.
The straps are thick and wide, giving me confidence that my boards wouldn’t slip or get damaged. Plus, the design minimized wind noise, making my ride more comfortable and fuel-efficient.
After my trip, storing the rack was effortless—just fold it away into the supplied bag, which is compact enough to stash in my trunk or closet. Overall, this rack feels like a reliable, no-fuss solution for surfboards, combining ease of use with a solid build that keeps my gear safe.
What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Roof Rack for Surfboards?
What Types of Roof Racks Are Available for Transporting Surfboards?
The main types of roof racks for transporting surfboards include:
- Soft Roof Racks: Soft roof racks are a versatile and budget-friendly option that can be easily installed on most vehicles without a roof rack system.
- Hard Roof Racks: Hard roof racks offer a more permanent solution with increased stability and security for transporting surfboards, typically requiring a specific mounting system for each vehicle.
- Adjustable Roof Racks: Adjustable roof racks provide flexibility in securing different sizes and shapes of surfboards, making them ideal for users with varying equipment.
- Surfboard Pads: Surfboard pads are added accessories that can be placed on any roof rack to provide extra cushioning and protection for the board during transport.
- J-Cradles: J-cradles are specialized racks that hold surfboards vertically, allowing for more efficient use of space and reducing wind resistance while driving.
Soft roof racks are designed with straps and padding, making them easy to set up and take down. They are particularly useful for casual surfers who may not have a permanent installation, allowing them to transport their boards securely without the need for a dedicated roof rack system.
Hard roof racks are more robust and can carry heavier loads, providing a secure base for surfboards. These racks are typically designed to fit specific vehicle models and can be a worthwhile investment for avid surfers who frequently transport their boards.
Adjustable roof racks can be expanded or contracted to accommodate various board sizes, ensuring a snug fit. This versatility is beneficial for surfers who own multiple boards or who share their vehicle with others who may have different equipment.
Surfboard pads are essential for protecting the boards from scratches and damage while in transit. They are often made from soft foam and can be added to existing roof rack systems to enhance the safety of the surfboard during travel.
J-cradles are designed to hold boards upright, which helps to streamline the profile of the vehicle and improve fuel efficiency. They are particularly advantageous for those with multiple boards, as they allow for easy loading and unloading while keeping the boards secure.
How Do Soft Roof Racks Compare to Hard Roof Racks for Surfboards?
What are the Pros and Cons of Using Roof Pads for Surfboards?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides cushioning and protection for surfboards during transport. | Can be less stable than hard racks, leading to potential shifting. |
| Lightweight and easy to install on various vehicles. | May wear out or degrade over time with sun exposure. |
| Cost-effective compared to hard roof racks. | Limited in securing multiple boards at once. |
Roof pads are versatile and can accommodate different vehicle types, making them a popular choice among surfers.
Which Brands Offer the Most Reliable Roof Racks for Surfboards?
What Are the Best Practices for Safely Securing a Surfboard on a Roof Rack?
Properly securing a surfboard on a roof rack is essential for ensuring safety during transport and preventing damage to the board. The best practices include:
- Use Quality Straps: Invest in sturdy, weather-resistant straps designed for securing surfboards.
- Choose the Right Roof Rack: Select a roof rack specifically designed for surfboards to ensure a secure fit and stability during travel.
- Padding and Protection: Utilize padding on your roof rack to protect the surfboard from scratches and dings while in transit.
- Positioning the Board Correctly: Place the surfboard on the rack with the fins facing upwards to minimize wind resistance and potential damage.
- Double Check Everything: Before hitting the road, always double-check that the straps are tight and the board is secure.
Use Quality Straps: Investing in high-quality straps is crucial for securely holding your surfboard in place. Look for straps that are specifically designed for outdoor use, as they are typically more durable and resistant to wear and tear from elements like sun and rain.
Choose the Right Roof Rack: Not all roof racks are created equal; selecting one that is specifically made for surfboards can make a significant difference. These racks often have features like rubberized grips or specialized cradles that keep the board stable, reducing the risk of it sliding off during transit.
Padding and Protection: Adding padding to your roof rack can help prevent the surfboard from getting scratched or dinged while being transported. Foam pads or soft covers can absorb shocks and provide a cushioning effect, which is particularly beneficial on bumpy roads.
Positioning the Board Correctly: When loading your surfboard, always place it with the fins facing up. This orientation not only reduces wind resistance but also helps prevent damage to the fins themselves, which can be vulnerable during transport.
Double Check Everything: Before driving off, it’s essential to double-check that everything is secure. Ensure that the straps are pulled tight and that the surfboard is firmly in place, as loose straps can lead to the board shifting or even falling off while driving.