11 best car rack pads

Car rack pads are essential accessories for individuals who engage in water sports like surfing and windsurfing.These pads are designed to protect both your surfboard or windsurfing board and your vehicle's roof while securely transporting your equipment. Here are some key points about car rack pads:

  1. Protection: Car rack pads are primarily used to protect your surfboard or windsurfing board from damage during transportation. They act as a cushioning layer between the board and the roof of your car, preventing dents, dings, and scratches.

  2. Versatility: These pads are versatile and can be used on various types of roof racks, including traditional crossbars, aero bars, and even soft roof racks. They come in different sizes and shapes to accommodate different board lengths and styles.

  3. Materials: Car rack pads are typically made from durable and weather-resistant materials like foam, neoprene, or a combination of both. These materials ensure that the pads can withstand exposure to the elements and prolonged use.

  4. Installation: They are easy to install and remove. Most rack pads have Velcro straps or buckles that secure them to the roof rack bars. The board is then placed on top of the pads and secured with additional straps or tie-downs.

  5. Protection for Your Vehicle: In addition to safeguarding your board, car rack pads also protect your vehicle's roof from potential damage caused by the pressure exerted by the board's weight.

  6. Compatibility: Car rack pads are designed to be compatible with a wide range of vehicles, from sedans and SUVs to trucks. They can also accommodate various board sizes and styles, including shortboards, longboards, and windsurfing boards.

  7. Convenience: Car rack pads are a convenient solution for transporting boards, as they eliminate the need for permanent roof racks. They are ideal for occasional users or those who don't want to install a dedicated roof rack system.

  8. Cost-Effective: Compared to purchasing and installing a full roof rack system, car rack pads are a more cost-effective option for transporting your surfboard or windsurfing board.

  9. Durability: High-quality car rack pads are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use and regular exposure to water, sun, and wind. They are built to last and provide reliable protection for your equipment.

In summary, car rack pads are essential accessories for surfers and windsurfers who need a convenient and effective way to transport their boards while protecting both the equipment and their vehicle. They are versatile, easy to install, and cost-effective solutions for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy water sports.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best car rack pads on the market
  

Aero Car Roof Rack Pads for Surfboard Kayak SUP Snowboard [Pair] 28" & 19" - for Large Aero Bars (19 Inch Black Small)

COR Surf

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price

Product description

COR Surf Rack Pads are the answer to a more aerodynamic foam pad for your existing roof rack crossbars. Our rack pads now come in two sizes and fit most factory and after-market car racks. If you have small and narrow cross-bars, then you will want the small. If you have large, wide and thick cross-bars, you will want the large. Both Sizes are available in 19” or 28”. Protect your surfboards, paddleboards or kayak while driving out to your spot. Set of two rack pads Durable 600D oxford fabric with PVC coating COR Surf Rack Pads are the answer to a more aerodynamic foam pad for your existing roof rack crossbars. Our rack pads fit most factory car racks. Protect your surfboards, paddleboards or kayak while driving out to your spot.

  • Now in TWO Sizes to fit ALL Style of Cross-Bars! Our NEW Small Size Fits Flat and Narrow, Plank size crossbars. The Large and Wide Aero Pads fit wide and thick Thule and Yakima style aero cross bars. The COR Surf Aero Rack Pads are PERFECT for SURFBOARDS, PADDLEBOARDS, KAYAKS and CANOES!
  • EXCEPTIONAL DURABILITY: Made out of Strong, Weather Resistant Material Built to Last. Made from Durable 600D oxford fabric with PVC coating With 50+ anti-UV to keep the color from fading in the sun
  • The Large Size fit Aero Bars Approximately 5.5" - 8.0" [ 14-20cm ] bar circumference like the Thule or Yakima Aero Bars. The SMALL will work with racks approximately 3" wide that are extremely flat and narrow. For example, stock factory cross-bars that come on an Outback or Rav 4.
  • SUPER-STRONG Velcro fastening, great for high speeds and reducing gas mileage. Aero Dynamic Design helps keeping noise down at high speeds.
  • COR SURF is a Family run company of Surfers and Paddle Boarders. Our products work because we are constantly testing them! 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED! We are so confident that you will like our Kayak SLING that if you return it within 30 days, we will give you a full refund no questions asked

LINGVUM Soft Roof Rack Pads with Two 15 Ft Tie Down Straps for Kayak, Surfboard, SUP Paddleboard, Snowboard 28inch (Pair) Black/Blue

LINGVUM

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price
  • High Quality Crossbar Roof Rack Pads --- 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 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 (Please confirm whether it fits the crossbar of your vehicle)
  • 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
  • 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 polyester waterproof sleeve protects boards and boats from damage, anti-slip material helps keep your gear in place
  • WHY CHOOSE LINGVUM --- This Roof Rack Pads is the perfect choice for outdoor activities. What you get is not only the high-quality professional products of LINGVUM 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

User questions & answers

Question: Will these fit Yakima jetstream crossbars
Answer: I don't know if it will fit in 19 inches of space, but I can tell you it's a flimsy piece of garbage that I wouldn't trust to hold a gun. I sent mine back because the holes on the various parts didn't line up. You can find something better than this piece of junk.

Product features

Why choose LINGVUM roof rack pads?

  • The premium lightweight roof racks wrapped with 600D polyester material to protect your car and surfboards from scratches.
  • The soft roof rack pads can be used in all weather conditions, UV resistant and waterproof. The 15 ft straps with durable buckles are strong and high performance.
  • Eqiupped with heavy duty velcro, Easy to install, which will firmly fixed on the crossbar for a better journey

MORE DETAILS

Lashing Strap made of high tenacity polyester fibers and rust-resistant alloy quick-release thumb buckle, 550lbs working load capacity,allows you to use safely

Foam Padding and Polyester Waterproof Sleeve

Protects boards and boats from damage, anti-slip material helps keep your gear in place

Sedans
SUVs
MPVs
Vans

BougeRV 6 Packs Car Scratch Protector for Trunk Bike Racks Bike Rack Pads Car Paint Protective Pads Bike Car Rack Accessories Anti-Scratch Protection Black Trunk Paint Protector

Based on 159 reviews Check latest price
  • 【Scratch Protector】BougeRV Car Scratch Protector provides a simple solution to safeguards your vehicle from potential scratches, damage and keep your car in good shape after using a trunk bike rack.
  • 【Universal Fit】This Car Scratch Protector is tailor-made precisely to fit all kinds of trunk bike racks, its one-to-all feature makes it straightforward to choose and use.
  • 【Excellent Performance】These bike rack pads are made of premium TPU material with anti-scratch, waterproof, self-healing features, 6 packs included, durable enough to hold up for a long time.
  • 【Easy Installation】These bike rack pads include an easy-to-follow instruction in the package with vivid illustration to help you set up in one minute. But always install the rack and hang up your bike carefully to avoid any accidental damage.
  • 【7/24 Customer Service】BougeRV will regard our customers' satisfaction as our first priority and keep our 12-month warranty conmittment for any product issue.

User questions & answers

Question: What's its material? Will it make more scratch on the trunk
Answer: They are pretty universal. They velcro around so I am sure they would fit
Question: Is there an instrcution with it
Answer: Steel, with a small gage steel cable lock
Question: Are these removable
Answer: No Sorry, it fits all trucks except this one
Question: How does it attach to the car
Answer: Never used it, but you would put cable through trigger housing and put the lock on the end of the cable

Product features

BougeRV Car Anti-Scratch Protector

Get frustrated with those car paint scratches using the bike racks? BougeRV anti-scratch protector will help you get rid of this.

Why BougeRV Car Anti-Scratch Protector is your ideal choice--

  • TPU material with anti-scratch & waterproof & resilient features;
  • Easy installation (instruction card in package) without any adhesives attachment;
  • Fit all kinds of car trunk bike racks;
  • 6 packs in one package for full coverage;

DORSAL Aero Crossbar Roof Rack Pads for Car Surfboard Kayak SUP Snowboard Racks 28 Inch Long [Pair]

DORSAL

Based on 304 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Are You Looking For An Effective And Efficient Way To Convey Surfboards Snowboards and most Kayaks As Well As Stand-Up Paddle Boards. Start Using the Dakine Thule and Yakima Aero (Flat Bar) 5.5 - 8.0 [ 14-20cm ] bar circumference compatible Rack Pads. NarrowFlat bar Compatible Dorsal SUP Rack Pads Set Armed With Essential Features That Make This Product Apart From The Rest. Easy Convey Of Surfboards Kayaks As Well As Stand-Up Paddle Boards This 28 inch (Dakine Style) Dorsal SUP Rack Pads set offer an effective way to convey surf boards snowboards kayaks as well as stand-up paddle boards. Fits Aero (Flat Bar) 5.5 - 10.0 [ 14-25cm ] bar circumference. For Square or Round Bar See Dorsal's Round Bar Pads (see diagram). Reliable Material For Longer Life - This rack pads set is integrated with top grade EVA foam and is secured by a weather proof nylon sleeve. It comes with pads that will secure a kayak or board from your cars cross bars. This is also perfect for bigger surfboard roof rack transport in a smooth aerodynamic style. This is wide enough to transport surfboard with care. Securing Your Surf Boards - Keep your surf board secure and safe for the next journey with the amazing and state of the art Dorsal Origin Car Surf Kayak SUP Rack Pads; which is made of with durable 600D polyester material. Top of the bar is padded for sleek fit. It comes with heavy duty velcro 28 inches long pad as well as it fits a lot of factory auto car racks.Order Today By Clicking On Add To Cart And Keep Your Board Safe And Secure For Your Next Surf Trip With The DORSAL Aero Rack Pad

  • Long lasting performance with durable 600D nylon construction with UV resistance
  • Easy on and off with hook and loop closure design along bottom of pads
  • Surfboards SUPs and boats are well protected during transport with these high density foam core pads
  • Integrated no-slip top construction pads keeps loads in place
  • To be used with Dorsal load straps or Locking Straps (sold separately)

User questions & answers

Question: Do these stop the vibration noise?i use straps for my paddle board. but the vibration noise is so strong i worry it's going to snap my board in half
Answer: Hi. Its material is TPU. It has a soft touch and will protect your car paint from scratch.
Question: Will these fit oval cross bars
Answer: Yes. There is an instruction paper included in the package. If you have any query using this product, please feel free to contact via g*mail of bougerv.
Question: How long are they
Answer: Yes. It could be taken off from your bike rack straps easily.
Question: Will this fit thule xsporter 500x? . (4inch wide & 1in thick. total diameter 10inches
Answer: I just purchased the scratch protectors. As soon as I put them to use I will provide an update.

DORSAL Sunguard (No Fade) Aero Roof Rack Pads 28 Inch Wide 15 ft Long Straps Surfboard Kayak SUP

DORSAL

Based on 256 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Are You Looking For An Effective And Efficient Way To Convey Surf Boards Kayaks As Well As Stand-Up Paddle Boards Start Using The Thule Dakine Style Dorsal SUP Rack Pads and Straps Set That Is Armed With Essential Features That Make This Product Apart From The Rest. Easy Convey Of Surf Boards Kayaks As Well As Stand-Up Paddle Boards This 28 inch (Thule Yakima Dakine Style) Dorsal SUP Rack Pads and Straps set offers an effective way to convey surf boards kayaks as well as stand-up paddle boards. Fits Aero (Flat Bar) 5.5" - 10.0" [14-25cm] bar circumference.

For Square or Round Bar See Dorsal's Round Bar Pads (see diagram). Reliable Material For Longer Life - This rack pads set is integrated with top grade EVA foam and is secured by a weather proof nylon sleeve. It comes with pads and straps that will secure a kayak or board from your cars cross bars. The middle positioned closure straps keep the rack pads secured while using. This is also perfect for bigger surfboard roof rack transport in a smooth aerodynamic style. This is wide enough to transport surfboard with care.

Securing Your Surf Boards - Keep your surfboard secure and safe for the next journey with the amazing and state of the art Dorsal Origin Car Surf Kayak SUP Rack Pads; which is made of with durable 600D polyester material. Top of the bar is padded for sleek fit. It comes with hook & look straps 28 inches long pad as well as it fits a lot of factory auto car racks. Order Today By Clicking On Add To Cart And Keep Your Board Safe And Secure For Your Next Surf Trip With The DORSAL Aero Rack Pads and Straps.

  • Long lasting performance with durable 600D nylon construction with UV resistance
  • Easy on and off with hook and loop closure design along bottom of pads
  • Surfboards SUPs and boats are well protected during transport with these high density foam core pads
  • Integrated no-slip top construction pads keeps loads in place
  • Pack includes Dorsal l

User questions & answers

Question: Do these pads work as a wind reducer as well
Answer: I do not know. I haven’t put them on yet. Sorry!
Question: I have a sup for the first time. how are the straps any differant than ratchet straps
Answer: These straps you just pull to tighten. Ratchet straps will be tighter just don't over tighten. These work just fine for me, so far.
Question: Does thus work without crossbars on car
Answer: No
Question: Will this fit a Yakima Railbar crossbar
Answer: Yes. It looks like the Yakima Railbars are oval rectangular shaped and this is exactly what the pads are made for.

DORSAL (No Fade Sunguard Aero Roof Rack Pads Car Crossbar Surfboard Kayak SUP Snowboard Racks

DORSAL

Based on 106 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Our CrossBar pads combine security and protection with a soft foam core and an anti-slip material over the eintire surface that holds on to your gear. Durable hook and loop closures are designed to secure around roof rack attachment points and accessories to get a more customized fit for your vehicle.

  • Long lasting UV Resistant performance with durable PVC Cloth construction
  • Easy on and off with hook and loop closure design along bottom of pads
  • Surfboards SUPs and boats are well protected during transport with these high density foam core pads
  • Integrated no-slip top construction pads keeps loads in place
  • To be used with Dorsal load straps or Locking Straps (sold separately)

User questions & answers

Question: Will these fit the Thule Aeroblades
Answer: The trick to stopping the vibration noise is twisting the straps then putting it through the buckle. These are just pads to protect the board.
Question: Will it fit a Chevy blazer flat bar
Answer: Yes. These are for the stock oval cross bars.
Question: These do not velcro on? Looks like velcro on them when picture is enlarged
Answer: Enough to be OK. for a 12.6 x 28" paddle baord
Question: Will this work on top of a larger suv? like a gl mercedes
Answer: Definitely not. I bought them for my TracRac crossbars and they are way to small to go around the wide bars.

Alfa Gear No Color Fading Fabric Areo Car Roof Rack Pads Cross Bar Pads When Hauling Kayak/Canoe/Surf Board/SUP/Snow Board Ski Board Size 17" X13.4"X0.8" 4 pcs/Set with Hood Loop and Trunk Loop Straps

Alfa Gear

Based on 144 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Alfa Gear Roof Carrier Management---Soft Roof Rack Crossbar pad When you car do not have a cross bars,you may not easy to carry a Kayak/Canoe/Surfboard/Paddle Board/SUP/Snow board, So invest a $50 Soft Folding Roof Rack Pad is better than invest a $100 Plus for a Cross Bar with whistle noise during long drive. Our Soft Roof Rack pad is 2 pcs per set, with 2 extra Hood loop tie down strap, Hood and Truck tie down strap Alfa Gear Roof Carrier Management---Soft Roof Rack Crossbar pad When you car do not have a cross bars,you may not easy to carrr a Kayak/Canoe/Surfboard/Paddle Board/SUP/Snow board, So invest a $50 Soft Folding Roof Rack Pad is better than invest a $100 Plus for a Croof Bar with whistle noise during long drive. Our Soft Roof Rack pad is 2 pcs per set, with 2 extra Hood loop tie down strap, Hood and Truck tie down strap and 4.7 ft nylon thread to help you hold all your gears on your car roof with stable and secure. Pls do not hesitate to press the buy button Specification: - Material: Foam Padded with Heavy duty fabric and straps - Unfolded size:17" Lx4.5""Wx3.1""H single unit - Total weight: Approximately 2.64 LBS

  • Best car-topping stuff for SUP's and Kayaker's .Adjustable car roof rack pad,to cover the length from 17" to 34" ,or even maximum length of your cross bars, leave the middle space help protect the extra wide Canoe,Ladders, Furniture, etc. And pay attention to the Perimeter that you want to cover, within maximum is 12", We offer 4 pcs/set protected foam pad,2 15ft Nylon Tie down straps
  • Universal fit for most of OEM factory Cross bar,like Oval Cross bar(4"-6"), Large Aero Flat Cross bar(4"-6") Round Bar(Dia 2") Square Cross bar(2"-3"), with perimeter within 12” (31CM) For special large and Thick crossbar,pls choose our 34" Long kits for you
  • No color fading fabric, UV treat Fabric help to keep the fabric in original Black color. If you do not use this roof rack pad for a long time, we recommend to remove them and keep in the storage bag.
  • Easy installation and Anti Vibration, 2 layer 0.8"thickness High Density Foam padded help to reduce the Vibration on the road, with capacity of 100 lbs on board. Heavey Duty fabric with 1.5" wide Strong Nylon straps and steel rachet with capacity of 400 lbs for breaking test. Securing the Kayak or Surfboard by using the Short straps on top.
  • When you do not have crossbar but still want to go out for water sports, just secure the pads on the straps. Follow the instruction you will find the solutions.

User questions & answers

Question: Can this be used without any roof bars? I have a 2017 durango and it has no roof racks, so plbar top..will this work
Answer: They are flexible in size, and will wrap around very large cross bars
Question: does this include 2x 34 " pads or 4x 17" pads
Answer: I believe that it will. It worked really well on my daughter’s Subaru Outback flat bar.
Question: How long are the Nylon Rachet Straps
Answer: Yes they have Velcro ..... and they are a awesome product! I love them ! Worth the money absolutely.
Question: pads have a tendency to roll on the aero style cross bars. am i missing something
Answer: They work on top of my ford excursion, which is the largest SUV. It depends on if you have the roof rack cross bars to wrap the dorsal pads around. They are very flexible is size and will fit around a very wide cross bar.

Dakine Aero Rack Pads 34" X-Large - Black

Dakine

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Padding where you need it. These aero rack pads put plenty of padding against your board while leaving a more aerodynamic profile under the crossbar than a traditional pad. Easy to use hook-and-loop closure secures them in place. The XL width is designed for larger SUVs and truck racks. The heavy-duty build handles the wear and tear of sun and weather.

  • Fits wider/ thicker rack cross bars
  • Only pads top of bar for sleek fit
  • Durable UV resistant 600D polyester material
  • Hook and loop closure

User questions & answers

Question: Will these fit the tesla model y aero roof bars
Answer: HI, Thanks for your message, the Rachet Straps with length of 4.5 M. .Hope it can help you. Customer Service
Question: Are these good for flat or round roof racks
Answer: Perhaps your Aero pads are slimmer than this pad can accommodate..you probably need to “pad” it up to make it bulkier a material that is non skid contacting the bar. I hope this helps..when I put the rack on top of the paddings, it didn’t roll because of the weight.

Dakine Long Aero Rack Pad, 2-Piece (Black)

Dakine

Based on 462 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Since 1979, DaKine has been a mainstay in the action sports industry and the the Long Aero Rack pad demonstrates the function and quality for your play!

  • 600D Polyester
  • Only pads top of bar for sleek fit
  • Durable 600D polyester material
  • Hook and loop closure

User questions & answers

Question: Will this fit my TracRac system
Answer: I am using on my Toyota RAV4 and it’s fit perfectly. I am not sure about Tesla’s
Question: How many
Answer: Flat rack
Question: How long are these pads? It doesn't state this anywhere in the product description
Answer: I think if I had no cross bars, I'd use the foam blocks that are readily available on Amazon. These are mounted with velcro, meant to wrap around a round, square, or aero bar.
Question: Does the pad secure flat on the bottom (for flat crossbars)? Or is the entire thing oval with velcro securing in the back
Answer: 4 x 17” pads

Dakine Aero Rack Pads 34" - Black

Dakine

Based on 121 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Dakine Aero Rack Pads are the answer to a more aerodynamic foam pad for your existing roof rack crossbars. With all the same features and performance of our existing Rack pads, our new 34" pads fit most factory car racks, and are perfect for larger SUVs and trucks. Protect your surfboards while driving out to your spot, with generous upper padding and a sleek hook-and-loop closure to hold boards in place.

  • Only pads top of bar for sleek fit
  • Non fading UV resistant 600D polyester material
  • Hook and loop closure

User questions & answers

Question: Dakine aero rack pads 34 inch is set of
Answer: Width of pad is good for TracRac, but velcro won't close. Bought some 1.5 inch double sided velcro for $10 and problem solved. With this mod, these pads work great.
Question: Will these fit my 2019 highlander roof rack? They are a bit thicker, certified Toyota part
Answer: 2 pads. Thanks.
Question: Will they fit 2010 tahoe
Answer: They are 28" long (10" longer then the aero rack pads) and fit flat crossbars with a circumference of 5.5-8 inches
Question: Are these pads thick enough to protect a kayak or are they too compressible? (My kayak is 65 lbs
Answer: The pads are flat on the bottom and fit our flat Honda factory crossbars and also fit our Thule Aero crossbars. The Thule bars are wider, so the pads are just about at the limit of fitting well. Although the Velcro is very strong, I don't leave them on the Thule bars when I'm not using them.

Thule Surf Pads

Thule

Based on 151 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Quick and easy way to carry all types of watersports gear safely and securely.

  • Boards and boats are well protected during transport with these high density foam pads
  • Integrated no-slip grip on top of pads keeps loads in place
  • Long lasting performance with durable 600D nylon construction with UV resistance
  • Easy on and off with hook and loop closure design along bottom of pads
  • Ideal for carrying surfboards, SUPs, sailboards
  • To be used with Thule load straps or Locking Straps (sold separately)
  • Fits Thule WingBar Evo, Thule AeroBlade, Thule ProBar, Thule Xsporter Pro Rack Systems

User questions & answers

Question: Will this product fit onto 2016 toyota highlander stock crossbars? if so, which size is recommended, the narrow or the wide? thanks
Answer: Yes
Question: Will the wife 20 “ fit my 2019 Vw atlas Thule crossbars. The narrow one does not work
Answer: These rack fit really tight to my Thule Aero Blades so if they’re thicker it will also depend on the width of your rack. They fit mine like a glove and because of that you should really compare the measurements of the thule against yours.
Question: Are these sold as a pair
Answer: As long as the crossbar is somewhat flat and not round or circular, it should fit.
Question: Is this for 1 pad or two
Answer: Yes. I use them to protect my roof racks when transporting my kayak that is about the same weight.

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