Cartop & Truck Racks

Car Top & Truck Racks: Transporting Your Gear with Ease

When it comes to transporting your kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard, having the right car top or truck rack is essential for safety, convenience, and protecting both your vehicle and your gear. Whether you're planning a weekend adventure or a cross-country trip, a reliable rack allows you to secure your watercraft with confidence, ensuring that it stays in place and your vehicle remains scratch-free.

Without a proper rack, trying to fit large watercraft inside your vehicle can be inconvenient and potentially damaging. Car top and truck racks provide an efficient way to transport kayaks, canoes, and SUP boards, keeping them securely mounted outside your vehicle and freeing up interior space for passengers and other equipment. Designed for a range of vehicles, from sedans to SUVs and trucks, racks offer a sturdy and durable solution that will help you travel with ease.

Types of Racks Available

When it comes to transporting your kayak or canoe, there are several types of racks to choose from, each designed to fit different vehicles and meet different needs. Choosing the right type of rack depends on your vehicle, the type of watercraft you own, and how frequently you travel. Let’s take a look at the options:

1. Car Top Racks
   Car top racks are designed to mount directly to the roof of your vehicle. These racks typically require crossbars, which serve as the foundation for securing your gear. Many cars, SUVs, and trucks come with crossbars pre-installed, but if your vehicle doesn't have them, you'll need to purchase crossbars separately and mount them. There are different types of crossbars available (e.g., round, square, and aerodynamic), and it’s crucial to ensure that your chosen rack system is compatible with your crossbars. Always check the specifications of both the crossbars and the rack to guarantee a secure fit.

Pros: Versatile and adaptable to most vehicle types, car top racks can carry kayaks, canoes, SUP boards, and more without limiting interior space.
Cons: Depending on your vehicle’s height, lifting your gear onto the roof may be challenging, especially if your car has features like rear spoilers.

2. Truck Bed Racks
   If you drive a pickup truck, a truck bed rack offers a practical solution for carrying kayaks or canoes. These racks can be mounted to the truck bed, allowing you to safely transport your gear above the bed itself. Truck bed racks are ideal for longer kayaks or canoes, freeing up space in the bed for additional equipment. This setup allows for easy loading and unloading while maintaining easy access to your vehicle’s storage.

Pros: Provides space in the truck bed for other gear; ideal for long watercraft.
Cons: May limit access to the truck bed depending on the size of your gear.

3. Adjustable and Universal Racks
   Adjustable racks offer flexibility for different vehicle sizes and gear types. Universal racks can be mounted on various vehicle types, from cars to SUVs, and often feature adjustable components that can be sized to fit different watercraft. These versatile racks are great if you use multiple vehicles or transport different types of gear. Additionally, these racks can be adapted as your needs change, making them a convenient long-term investment.

Pros: Versatile and adjustable for a range of watercraft and vehicle types.
Cons: Adjustments may require tools or additional accessories depending on the design.

Key Features to Consider

When choosing a car top or truck rack, several key features can help you find the best fit for your needs. From weight capacity to aerodynamic performance, understanding these factors can make your purchase more effective and tailored to your specific needs.

1. Weight Capacity
   Make sure the rack can handle the combined weight of your kayak, canoe, or SUP board along with any additional gear. Always check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the rack can support your load safely. If you’re carrying more than one watercraft, choose a rack with a higher capacity to accommodate the extra weight.
2. Compatibility with Crossbars
   Ensure your rack is compatible with your vehicle’s crossbars. Whether you have pre-installed crossbars or are purchasing them separately, verify that the rack fits the size and type of crossbars (round, square, or aerodynamic) on your vehicle. A secure fit between the crossbars and rack is essential for stability, especially on long trips or at higher speeds.
3. Aerodynamic Performance
   Wind resistance can reduce fuel efficiency and cause noise while driving. The Zephyr Wind Fairing is a great solution for reducing drag caused by wind tunneling under the rack. This accessory redirects airflow, reducing wind noise and improving fuel efficiency during transit. If you plan to drive long distances, especially on highways, using a wind fairing can make your journey quieter and more efficient.
4. Adjustability
   Many racks offer adjustable components, allowing you to customize the fit based on the size of your vehicle and watercraft. Adjustable racks are especially useful if you plan to carry different types of gear or switch between vehicles.
5. Ease of Installation and Removal
   Some racks are easier to install and remove than others. If you frequently mount and remove your rack, look for systems with quick-release mechanisms or tool-free installation. This feature saves time and effort, particularly if you use the rack seasonally or for specific trips. For cars with rear spoilers, loading and unloading can be more difficult, so you may want to consider racks with load-assist features or side-loading options to make the process smoother.
6. Security Features
   Many racks come with additional security features such as lockable straps or mounts, which prevent theft and keep your watercraft securely in place. For extra peace of mind, consider racks with integrated locking mechanisms.

Choosing the Right Rack for Your Vehicle

Selecting the right rack for your vehicle involves more than just matching it to the type of watercraft you own. You'll also need to consider your vehicle type, how many kayaks or canoes you plan to carry, and potential obstacles like spoilers that might affect loading and unloading.

1. Vehicle Type
   Car top racks are ideal for sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs, while truck bed racks are best suited for pickup trucks. For SUVs and larger vehicles, you may want to consider racks with higher weight capacities, while smaller cars will benefit from lightweight, compact racks.
2. Number of Watercraft
   If you plan on transporting more than one kayak or canoe, you’ll need a rack system that can accommodate multiple items. Some car top racks come with the option to add additional attachments or stacking mechanisms, allowing you to transport multiple watercraft without compromising safety or stability.
3. Ease of Mounting and Removing
   If you frequently mount and remove your rack, look for racks that offer easy installation and removal. For cars with spoilers, consider racks with load-assist features or side-loading options to simplify the loading process. Quick-release mechanisms can also make removal easier for seasonal use.
4. Rack Positioning
   Consider how the rack will position your gear on your vehicle. Car top racks keep your kayak or canoe secured overhead, while truck bed racks position your gear behind the vehicle. Each option has its own advantages depending on your vehicle’s layout and how much additional cargo space you need.

Materials and Durability

The materials used in car top and truck racks play a significant role in their strength, durability, and overall performance. Understanding the differences between the materials can help you choose a rack that best suits your needs and ensures long-lasting reliability.

1. Aluminum
   Aluminum is the most popular choice for rack construction due to its lightweight nature and corrosion resistance. Aluminum racks are strong yet easy to handle, making them an excellent option for those who frequently mount and remove their racks. Additionally, aluminum resists rust, which is essential for outdoor use, especially if you’ll be exposing your rack to water, salt, or humid conditions.
2. High-Strength Plastics
   Many racks incorporate high-strength plastics for components like clamps, padding, or mounting brackets. These plastics are often UV-resistant and designed to withstand tough outdoor conditions. While plastic is typically lighter than metal, high-quality plastic components can still offer excellent durability and protection for both your vehicle and your gear.
3. Weather Resistance
   A good rack should be able to withstand the elements without significant wear and tear. Look for racks that are labeled as rust-resistant or weatherproof, particularly if you live in areas with heavy rainfall, salty air, or extreme temperatures.

Care and Maintenance Tips

While car top and truck racks are built to withstand the elements, taking a few steps to maintain them can help extend their lifespan and ensure they stay in top condition for years of use. Here are some care and maintenance tips to keep your racks functioning properly:

1. Regular Inspection
   Periodically inspect your rack for signs of wear and tear, especially if you frequently transport heavy watercraft. Check for any loose bolts, cracked components, or worn straps, and replace any parts that show significant wear to ensure your rack remains secure and stable.
2. Rinse After Exposure to Saltwater
   If you’ve been driving near the coast or transporting your watercraft after a saltwater adventure, it’s a good idea to rinse your rack with fresh water. Salt can corrode even rust-resistant materials over time, so a quick rinse can help prevent any long-term damage.
3. Tighten Components
   Over time, the vibration from driving and the weight of your gear can loosen bolts, straps, or clamps. Regularly check that all the components are tight and properly secured, especially before long trips. A loose rack can lead to instability or damage to both your vehicle and your gear.
4. Store the Rack When Not in Use
   If you don’t use your rack year-round, consider removing it during the off-season. Storing it indoors in a dry, cool place can protect it from unnecessary exposure to UV rays, rain, and snow, prolonging its life. Plus, it helps improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency by reducing drag when the rack is not needed.
5. Use Protectants on Plastic Components
   If your rack has plastic components, you can use UV protectants or conditioners to help prevent cracking and fading from sun exposure. These protectants keep plastic components more flexible and durable, especially in harsh weather conditions.