Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is a popular water sport that has gained immense popularity in recent years. It is a fun and exciting way to explore water bodies while also getting a full-body workout. However, transporting and storing SUP boards can be challenging, which is why investing in a reliable and sturdy SUP rack is crucial.
A good SUP rack should be able to securely hold your board(s) while also being easy to install and use. There are different types of SUP racks available, including wall-mounted racks, ceiling-mounted racks, and freestanding racks. When choosing a SUP rack, it is essential to consider factors such as the size and weight of your board, the storage space available, and the type of mounting system that works best for you.
We spent hours researching and testing different SUP racks to identify the best ones on the market. In this article, we will review the top SUP racks that offer the best combination of functionality, durability, and affordability. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddleboarder, our comprehensive guide will help you choose the right SUP rack for your needs.
Best Sup Rack
We know that having the right gear is essential for stand-up paddle boarding. One of the most important pieces of equipment is a reliable sup rack. Whether transporting your board to the beach or storing it at home, a good sup rack will keep it safe and secure. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best sup racks on the market. We’ve tested and researched each product to ensure that our recommendations are top-notch. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best sup racks.
INNO INA446 Board Locking Roof Carrier w/Board Pads (US $204)
If you’re looking for a versatile and secure way to transport your kayaks, canoes, and boards, the INNO INA446 Surf-Wind-Long Board Locking Roof Carrier w/Board Pads is a great option.
Pros
- The crane-style spring-loaded straps make loading and unloading boards quick and easy.
- The rubber coating on the straps and adjustable corner pads help protect your boats and boards from scratches and scuffs during transport.
- The ratcheting straps connect over your boat or boards and tighten with integrated hand knobs to secure your gear.
Cons
- The INNO ISF722 long bolt kit (sold separately) is required if your crossbar height is between 1.25″ and 2″.
- The carrier can only hold one canoe or kayak at a time.
- Some users have reported that the locking mechanism can be difficult to use.
We recently used the INNO INA446 Surf-Wind-Long Board Locking Roof Carrier w/Board Pads to transport our stand-up paddleboards on a weekend trip to the lake, and we were impressed with its ease of use and secure hold. Loading and unloading our boards was a breeze with the floating strap system, and the rubber coating on the straps and adjustable corner pads gave us peace of mind that our boards were protected during transport.
While the carrier can only hold one canoe or kayak at a time, it’s versatile enough to support a variety of board types, including wind, paddle, sail, long, and short boards. The ratcheting straps connect over your boat or boards and tighten with integrated hand knobs to ensure a secure hold, and the crane-style spring-loaded straps make loading and unloading boards quick and easy.
One downside is that the INNO ISF722 long bolt kit is required if your crossbar height is between 1.25″ and 2″, which can add an extra expense and installation step. Additionally, some users have reported difficulty with the locking mechanism, so it may take some practice to get the hang of it.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and secure way to transport your kayaks, canoes, and boards, the INNO INA446 Surf-Wind-Long Board Locking Roof Carrier w/Board Pads is a great option that we would recommend.
Mrhardware Kayak Roof Rack (US $84)
If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable kayak roof rack, the Mrhardware Kayak Roof Rack is a great option.
Pros
- The J-bar design creates more space and is perfect for carrying kayaks, canoes, Suif boards, skis, snowboards, SUP.
- The quick open/close hardware ensures fast installation and removal.
- The industrial-grade carbon steel frame is sturdy and durable.
Cons
- The installation instructions could be clearer.
- The product is not suitable for installation on circular crossbars with a diameter less than 1.2 inches.
- The roof and crossbar must have a 3-inch space reserved to ensure smooth installation.
We recently used the Mrhardware Kayak Roof Rack to transport our kayaks to the lake. The J-bar design made it easy to load and unload the kayaks, and the quick open/close hardware ensured a fast and hassle-free installation.
The industrial-grade carbon steel frame is sturdy and durable, and the additional water and rust-resistant coating provides peace of mind knowing the rack will last for many trips to come.
The thickened and adjustable foam padding protects the kayaks during transportation, and the included mounting hardware and straps make installation a breeze. We did find that the installation instructions could be clearer, but we were able to figure it out with some trial and error.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Mrhardware Kayak Roof Rack for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable option for transporting their kayaks. Just make sure to check that your crossbars meet the necessary requirements before purchasing.
GZDEMYYXGS Kayak Rack (US $62)
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option to transport your kayak, canoe, or SUP paddle, the GZDEMYYXGS Kayak Rack might be a good choice.
Pros
- The wide mouth J-bar design makes loading and unloading easier.
- The package includes 4 Pcs 8Ft Roof Rack Tie Down Cam Straps, which are fast and easy to use and include a quick-release thumb button.
- The rubber pedal and foam protector are anti-slip, water, and sun-resistant, providing extra protection for your equipment.
Cons
- The indented tubing design might not fit circular crossbars, so make sure to check your crossbar’s shape before purchasing.
- The black plastic knobs might need attention to check that they stay tight to hold the J-bar to the crossbars.
- Some users reported that the mounts kept loosening up and bending over during long trips, so make sure to double-check the tightness of the bolts and knobs before hitting the road.
We recently used the GZDEMYYXGS Kayak Rack to transport our SUP paddle on a short trip, and we were satisfied with its performance. The installation was relatively easy, and the package included all the necessary hardware and instructions. We appreciated the wide mouth J-bar design, which made it easy to load and unload the paddle, even by ourselves. The rubber pedal and foam protector provided extra grip and protection, preventing the paddle from sliding or scratching. We also liked the 8Ft Roof Rack Tie Down Cam Straps, which were fast and easy to use, and we appreciated the quick-release thumb button, which allowed us to adjust the tension quickly. However, we noticed that the black plastic knobs might need some attention to check that they stay tight to hold the J-bar to the crossbars, as they tended to loosen up during the trip. Also, the indented tubing design might not fit circular crossbars, so make sure to check your crossbar’s shape before purchasing. Finally, some users reported that the mounts kept loosening up and bending over during long trips, so make sure to double-check the tightness of the bolts and knobs before hitting the road. Overall, we think the GZDEMYYXGS Kayak Rack is a good option for those on a budget who need a simple and easy-to-use solution to transport their kayak, canoe, or SUP paddle.
MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads (US $69)
We highly recommend the MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads for anyone looking for an easy and affordable way to transport their kayak, surfboard, SUP, or canoe on their vehicle.
Pros
- The soft materials and built-in non-slip mat help prevent scratching or scuffing and reduce wind noise during transportation.
- The top grade EVA foam padding provides a soft landing for your load and helps reduce vibration during transportation.
- The rack is easy to install and doesn’t require any tools. It comes with 2 tie-down straps, 2 quick loop straps, 2 tie-down ropes, and a storage bag.
Cons
- The straps can get in the way of the driver’s position in the car, especially for taller individuals.
- The metal D-rings on the black straps can scratch the car’s roof if not used correctly.
- The rack may not be as sturdy as a permanent roof rack and may require frequent adjustments during transportation.
We found the MeeFar Soft Roof Rack to be a great solution for short trips or occasional use. It can hold up to 1-3 shortboards, 1-2 longboards, or kayaks depending on size. The rack is universal and can fit on vehicles with or without gutters.
The soft materials and non-slip mat help ensure that your load stays in place during transportation, and the top-grade EVA foam padding provides a soft landing for your load. The rack is also easy to install and can be folded and stored in the included storage bag when not in use.
While the rack is not as sturdy as a permanent roof rack, it is a great affordable option for occasional use. We recommend using the bow and stern tie-down ropes for added security during transportation. Overall, we found the MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads to be a great product for those looking for an easy and affordable way to transport their water sports equipment.
Goplus Kayak Roof Rack (US $99)
If you’re looking for a kayak roof rack that is easy to install and use, the Goplus Kayak Roof Rack is a great option.
Pros
- The rack can be easily mounted on various vehicles, making it a versatile option for outdoor activities.
- Made of thick aluminum tube, the rack is lightweight yet has a high load capacity of up to 165lbs.
- The folding design and angle adjustment feature make it easy to store and adjust to different kayak shapes.
Cons
- Some users reported that the instructions were not clear, making it difficult to install the rack.
- A few users mentioned that the straps provided were not long enough for their vehicle, so they had to purchase additional straps.
- The rack may not be suitable for larger kayaks or canoes.
We recently used the Goplus Kayak Roof Rack on a weekend trip to the lake, and we were impressed with its ease of use and durability. The rack was easy to install on our SUV’s crossbars, and the wide-open J-shape design made it easy to load and unload our kayaks.
The soft padded design of the rack protected our kayaks from accidental damage during transportation, and the extra tie-down straps provided ensured that our kayaks were securely fastened to the rack. We also appreciated the folding design of the rack, which made it easy to store when not in use.
Overall, the Goplus Kayak Roof Rack is a great option for those looking for a versatile, easy-to-use kayak rack. While there were a few minor issues with the instructions and strap length, these were easily resolved, and we were very satisfied with the rack’s performance.
Onefeng Sports 135LB Kayak Saddle (US $59)
We highly recommend the Onefeng Sports 135LB Kayak Saddle for anyone looking for a reliable and durable way to transport their kayak or canoe on their car’s roof.
Pros
- The kayak bracket is made of high-strength aluminum and stainless hardware, ensuring superior boat security year after year.
- The saddle is adjustable from 0-180 degrees, making it versatile enough to fit any watercraft, boat, ski, SUP, paddleboard, or car top.
- The saddle carries one kayak or canoe and attaches and detaches to your roof rack system in seconds.
Cons
- The tie-down straps may not be long enough for some larger kayaks or canoes.
- The clamp mechanism may not work well with round bars.
- The powder coat finish on the saddle may chip over time.
We found the Onefeng Sports 135LB Kayak Saddle to be incredibly easy to use and adjust to fit our kayak. The soft rubber cover on the tie-down straps prevented any scratches on our car’s paint, and the straps were easy to thread through the holes in the back of the saddle for added stability. The adjustable angle of the saddle made it easy to load and unload our kayak from either side of the car, and the high-strength aluminum and stainless hardware gave us peace of mind during transport.
Overall, we believe the Onefeng Sports 135LB Kayak Saddle is a fantastic option for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile way to transport their kayak or canoe on their car’s roof.
Leader Accessories Kayak Rack 2 Pair (US $89)
If you’re looking for a reliable and heavy-duty kayak rack, the Leader Accessories Kayak Rack is a great option.
Pros
- The rack is made of steel construction with powder coating, making it strong and durable.
- The extra foam padding reduces any scratches and prevents the kayak from rubbing against the rack.
- It comes with four tie-down straps, making it easy to install and secure the kayak.
Cons
- The rack doesn’t fit round bars, so make sure to check your car’s roof before purchasing.
- The installation process can be a bit time-consuming, especially if you’re doing it alone.
- The plastic manual nuts can be a bit tricky to use.
We recently used the Leader Accessories Kayak Rack on a long road trip and were impressed with its sturdiness. The steel construction and powder coating made us feel confident that our kayaks were safe and secure on top of our car. The extra foam padding also gave us peace of mind that our kayaks wouldn’t get scratched during transport.
The installation process was a bit time-consuming, but it was worth it in the end. We appreciated that the rack came with four tie-down straps, making it easy to secure the kayaks to the rack. The plastic manual nuts were a bit tricky to use, but we eventually got the hang of it.
Overall, we would recommend the Leader Accessories Kayak Rack to anyone in need of a heavy-duty and reliable kayak rack. Just make sure to check that it fits your car’s roof before purchasing.
HandiRack Universal Inflatable Soft Roof Rack Bars (US $79)
If you’re looking for a soft roof rack that can transport your gear and luggage without any hassle, the HandiRack Universal Inflatable Soft Roof Rack Bars is the perfect solution.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Fits cars and SUVs
- Includes everything you need
Cons
- Not suitable for vehicles with soft tops or side curtain air bags
- Thin straps and rope may not last long
- Can be finicky to use
We were impressed with how easy it was to install the HandiRack. It took just a few minutes and didn’t require any tools. The soft roof rack also fits a variety of popular car and SUV models, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues.
The HandiRack comes with everything you need, including twin tubes, tie-downs, bow and stern lines, and a user manual. We appreciated the thoughtful design, which includes an aero design to reduce vibrations and wind noise.
However, it’s important to note that the HandiRack may not be suitable for vehicles with soft tops or side curtain air bags. The thin straps and rope that come with it may not last long, so you may need to invest in heavier ropes and straps for added security.
Overall, we would recommend the HandiRack Universal Inflatable Soft Roof Rack Bars for anyone looking for a convenient and affordable way to transport their gear and luggage.
Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack (US $129)
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable kayak rack, the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The heavy-duty construction of this kayak rack ensures it can withstand all weather conditions and last for a long time.
- The folding and ergonomic design of the rack makes it easy to fold and raise the racks when not in use, and the racks can be folded flat for better clearance to drive your car into the garage without having to remove them.
- The foam padding and rubber pedal design of the rack reduces the scratch of your kayak and prevents the canoe or kayak from rubbing.
Cons
- The rack is not compatible with round bars, which may limit its use for some customers.
- Some customers have reported challenges in installing the rack correctly, which may require additional time and effort.
- The included tie-down straps may not be as sturdy as some customers would like.
We recently had the opportunity to use the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack on a weekend kayaking trip, and we were impressed with its performance. The racks are made of 22mm diameter and 1.5mm thick steel tube, making them stronger than other racks we’ve used in the past. The black powder-coated steel also ensures durability and rust prevention, which is essential for outdoor activities.
Installing the kayak rack was straightforward, and the ergonomic quick-release design made it easy to fold and raise the racks when not in use. We also appreciated the foam padding and rubber pedal design, which prevented our kayak from rubbing against the rack during transport.
While we did encounter some challenges in installing the rack correctly, we found that taking the time to do so was worth it. The rack held our kayak securely during transport, and we felt confident in its ability to withstand all weather conditions.
Overall, we highly recommend the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack to anyone in need of a reliable and durable kayak rack. Its heavy-duty construction, folding and ergonomic design, and scratch-reducing features make it an excellent investment for any outdoor enthusiast.
Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack (US $39)
If you’re looking for a sturdy and reliable kayak rack that can transport your kayak safely, you should consider purchasing the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack.
Pros
- The rack is made of heavy-duty steel tube with a black powder-coated finish that provides durability and rust prevention, making it ideal for all weather conditions.
- Its ergonomic quick-release design allows for easy folding and raising of the racks, and the racks can be folded flat when not in use, providing better clearance to drive your car into the garage without removing the racks.
- The foam padding and rubber pedal design reduce scratches on your kayak and prevent the canoe or kayak from rubbing, keeping your kayak safe during transport.
Cons
- The rack is not compatible with round bars.
- The foam padding may start to split after a few months of use.
- The rack may not fit all types of kayaks.
We’ve used the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack for a few months now and have been impressed with its performance. The rack is easy to install and use, and it is compatible with most crossbars, such as square, factory, and aerodynamic crossbars. The rack can be used to transport a variety of water sports equipment, including kayaks, canoes, surfboards, ski boards, snowboards, and SUPs.
One of the standout features of this rack is its quick hood loops, which provide a strong anchor to secure the bow and stern of your kayak or canoe. The rack also comes with extra tie-down straps, including two sets of ratchet kayak bow and stern tie-downs, making it more secure when transporting at higher speeds.
Overall, we highly recommend the Leader Accessories Folding Kayak Rack for anyone who wants a reliable and durable kayak rack for their car.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best sup rack, there are a few things that you should consider. In this section, we will go over some of the key features that you should look for when choosing a sup rack.
Type of Rack
There are two main types of sup racks: wall-mounted and freestanding. Wall-mounted racks are great for those who have limited space, as they can be mounted on a wall and don’t take up any floor space. Freestanding racks, on the other hand, are great for those who have more space and want a rack that can be moved around.
Capacity
The capacity of the sup rack is another important factor to consider. You will want to make sure that the rack you choose can hold the number of boards that you have. Some racks can hold multiple boards, while others are designed to hold just one.
Material
The material of the sup rack is also important. You want to choose a rack that is made from high-quality materials that will last for years. Look for racks that are made from materials such as aluminum or stainless steel, as these materials are durable and long-lasting.
Compatibility
Make sure that the sup rack you choose is compatible with your board. Some racks are designed to hold specific types of boards, so you will want to make sure that the rack you choose is compatible with the board that you have.
Price
Finally, you will want to consider the price of the sup rack. While you don’t want to skimp on quality, you also don’t want to overspend. Look for a rack that is priced within your budget, but still meets all of your needs.
In summary, when choosing the best sup rack, you should consider the type of rack, capacity, material, compatibility, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a rack that will meet all of your needs and last for years to come.
