How To Strap Surfboards To A Roof Rack

Looking to learn how to strap surfboards to a roof rack? There are a variety of Surfboards on the market today, and each has a unique size, shape, and weight. As a result, the adequate means to strap a surfboard to a roof rack will vary depending on the type of surfboard you have.

In this article, we’ll outline the different types of surfboards and the best practices for strapping them to a roof rack. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of using a roof rack to transport your surfboard.

What Are Surfboards?

Surfboards are a type of watercraft that is used to ride waves. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are made from a variety of materials, including fiberglass, plastic, and wood.

There are three main types of surfboards: shortboard, longboard, and fish. Shortboards are the most popular type of surfboard and are typically used by experienced surfers. 

Longboards are longer and wider than shortboards, making them better for beginners and those who want to ride larger waves. Fish surfboards are shorter and wider than longboards, and are designed for stability and speed.

When choosing a surfboard, it is important to consider the type of waves you will be surfing. If you plan on surfing small waves, a shortboard is the best option. If you plan on surfing large waves, a longboard is the best option.

Different Types of Surfboards

When it comes to surfing, there are a few different types of boards to choose from.

The most common type is the longboard, which ranges in length from 9 to 10 feet. They are designed for beginner and intermediate surfers and are great for riding small to medium waves.

Another popular type is the shortboard, which is about 6 to 7 feet long. These boards are narrower and more compact than longboards, making them ideal for experienced surfers who want to catch bigger waves.

There are also several specialty boards available, such as the stand-up paddleboard (SUP), the bodyboard, and the skimboard. If you’re not sure which type of board is right for you, it’s best to consult with an experienced surfer or do some research online.

Best Practices for Strapping Surfboards to a Roof Rack

So, you’ve just got yourself a fresh surfboard and you’re eager to hit the waves. But before you can, you need to strap it to your roof rack.

Here are a few tips on how to do it properly:

1. Ensure your roof rack is properly secured to your car.

2. Use soft surfboard straps to avoid damaging your board.

3. Fasten the straps around the panel and the roof rack numerous times, for maximum security.

4. Make sure the straps are tight enough so that the board doesn’t move around during transport.

5. If possible, use a surfboard travel case to protect your board from scratches and dings.

Reasons For Strapping a Surfboard to a Roof Rack

You might be wondering about the reasons to strap a surfboard to a roof rack in the first place. After all, it’s just a big piece of foam, right? Wrong. A surfboard is a large, heavy object, and if not properly secured, it could fly off your car and cause some serious damage.

In addition to being dangerous, not securing your surfboard can also lead to decreased fuel efficiency and decreased performance of your vehicle. That’s why it’s so important to use a roof rack and properly clasp your surfboard in place.

There are many different types of roof racks available, so be sure to select the one that is most suitable for your needs. Also, ensure to heed the manufacturer’s guidelines on the manual for proper installation.

The Pros and Cons Associated With Using and Strapping Surfboards on a Roof Rack

Surfboards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to decide on the right roof rack type to use before you start strapping them down. There are three main types of roof racks:

1. Hitch racks are affixed to the bumper or hitch of your vehicle and can hold multiple boards at once. They’re a popular choice for trucks and SUVs, but they can be difficult to install and remove.

2. Roof racks are attached to the vehicle’s roof and can hold a variety of items, including surfboards, skis, and kayaks. They’re easy to install and remove, but they can be expensive and difficult to use with small cars.

3. Rail mounts attach to the rails at the car’s rooftop, used to fasten at least one or two surfboards. They’re easy to install and remove, and they don’t take up any valuable roof space.

Once you’ve chosen the right type of roof rack for your vehicle, it’s time to start strapping down those surfboards! There are a few things you need to keep in mind when doing so:

1. Make sure the boards are secure; they should not be able to move around at all while driving.

2. Ensure to avoid damaging both the surfboard and roof rack while applying excessive force or tension.

3. Make sure the straps are tight enough that the board won’t fly off while driving, but not so tight that they will damage the board or rack.

Tops On How To Strap Surfboards To A Roof Rack

Now that you know the different types of surfboards, it’s time to learn how they can be strapped to a roof rack. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Ensure the roof rack is properly hitched to the car. The last thing you want is for your boards to fly off while you’re driving down the highway.

2. Use quality straps and buckles to secure the boards. You don’t want them to come loose and fall off while you’re driving.

3. Make sure the boards are tightly hitched on the roof rack. This will help prevent them from bobbing and getting damaged.

4. If possible, try to place the heaviest board on the bottom and work your way up from there. This will help keep the load balanced and avoid any unnecessary strain on the roof rack and car.

5. Travel at moderate speeds when transporting your boards. Excessive speeds can cause the boards to bounce around and damage both the car and roof rack.

Conclusion

Different boards have different shapes and sizes, and each one is designed for a specific type of surfing. If you’re not sure what type of surfboard you need, do some research before buying one.

Once you’ve chosen the right board, it’s important to strap it securely to your rack. Not doing so can cause damage to both your board and your car.