Surf’s Up: A Comprehensive Guide to Safely Mounting Surfboards on Your Car Roof
So, you’ve got the board, the wetsuit, and the stoke. All that’s left is getting your surfboard safely to the beach. While tossing it in the back of a truck might seem easy, most of us need to rely on car racks. Knowing how to properly mount surfboards on the roof of your vehicle is essential for protecting your board, your car, and other drivers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right equipment to securing your boards like a pro.
Why Proper Surfboard Mounting Matters
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s quickly cover why taking the time to do this correctly is so important:
* **Safety:** A poorly secured surfboard can become a dangerous projectile if it comes loose. This poses a serious risk to you, your passengers, and other vehicles on the road.
* **Board Protection:** Incorrect mounting can lead to dings, pressure dents, and even broken boards. Saltwater and sun exposure during transit can also cause damage.
* **Vehicle Protection:** Scratching or denting your car roof is easily avoidable with the right precautions.
* **Legal Compliance:** In some areas, there are laws regarding how items must be secured to a vehicle. Failing to comply can result in fines.
Choosing the Right Roof Rack System
The first step is selecting the appropriate roof rack system for your vehicle. There are two main types:
* **Factory-Installed Racks:** Many vehicles come with factory-installed roof racks. These typically consist of two side rails running lengthwise along the roof and crossbars that attach to them. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the weight capacity and compatibility with surfboard racks.
* **Aftermarket Racks:** If your vehicle doesn’t have a factory rack, or if you need a more robust system, you’ll need to purchase an aftermarket rack. Popular brands include Thule, Yakima, and Rhino-Rack. These racks attach to your vehicle’s door frames or roof using specialized mounting systems. Ensure the rack is specifically designed for your vehicle’s make and model.
When choosing a rack, consider the following factors:
* **Vehicle Compatibility:** The rack must be compatible with your vehicle’s roof type and dimensions.
* **Weight Capacity:** Ensure the rack can handle the weight of your surfboard(s).
* **Durability:** Look for a rack made from high-quality materials that can withstand the elements.
* **Ease of Installation:** Consider how easy the rack is to install and remove.
* **Type of Crossbars:** Crossbars come in different shapes: square, round, and aerodynamic. Aerodynamic crossbars are generally quieter and more fuel-efficient, but they may be more expensive. Square and round bars are more economical and often more durable. For surfboards, the shape isn’t typically a major concern.
**Important Note:** Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing your roof rack system. Improper installation can compromise its safety and effectiveness.
Essential Accessories for Carrying Surfboards
Besides the roof rack itself, you’ll need a few essential accessories to protect your surfboards and ensure they’re securely mounted:
* **Roof Rack Pads:** These pads cushion your surfboards and prevent them from rubbing against the hard surface of the crossbars. They come in various lengths and thicknesses. Choose pads that are long enough to cover the entire area where your surfboards will rest. Wrap-around pads are recommended for superior grip and protection.
* **Surfboard Straps:** Heavy-duty straps are crucial for securing your surfboards to the roof rack. Look for straps that are at least 1 inch wide and made from durable materials like nylon or polyester. Cam buckle straps are generally preferred over ratchet straps, as they’re easier to tighten and less likely to overtighten.
* **Tie-Downs (Optional):** Tie-downs can be used to further secure the nose and tail of your surfboards to the front and rear of your vehicle. This helps prevent them from shifting or lifting in strong winds. Use rope or webbing straps for tie-downs.
* **Nose and Tail Protection (Optional):** Foam pads or protectors specifically designed for the nose and tail of your surfboard can provide extra cushioning and prevent damage. They are especially useful for longer boards.
Step-by-Step Guide to Mounting Surfboards on Your Car Roof
Now, let’s get to the actual process of mounting your surfboards:
**Step 1: Prepare Your Surfboards**
* **Remove Fins (Recommended):** Removing the fins can significantly reduce wind resistance and prevent them from being damaged during transit. If you choose not to remove the fins, make sure they are pointing upwards or downwards to minimize drag.
* **Clean Your Surfboards:** Wipe down your surfboards with a clean, damp cloth to remove any sand, salt, or debris. This will prevent them from scratching the roof of your car.
* **Use Board Bags (Highly Recommended):** Board bags offer the best protection against scratches, dings, and sun exposure. Invest in quality board bags that fit your surfboards snugly.
**Step 2: Position Your Surfboards on the Roof Rack**
* **Direction:** Place your surfboards on the roof rack with the fins facing either upwards or downwards, but ideally facing the sky. Placing them facing upwards is often preferable, as it helps reduce drag. The nose of the board should point forward. Some people prefer nose backward for aerodynamics but make sure to tie down very well if choosing this method.
* **Stacking:** If you’re carrying multiple surfboards, stack them on top of each other, with the largest board on the bottom and the smallest on top. Place a towel or extra padding between each board to prevent them from rubbing together.
* **Placement:** Center the surfboards on the crossbars, ensuring that the weight is evenly distributed. Make sure the pads are properly positioned underneath the boards.
**Step 3: Secure Your Surfboards with Straps**
* **Position the Straps:** Run one strap over the surfboards and under the crossbar, near the front of the boards. Repeat with a second strap near the tail of the boards. Ensure the straps are positioned over the widest part of the boards for maximum security.
* **Tighten the Straps:** Thread the strap through the cam buckle and tighten it firmly. Be careful not to overtighten the straps, as this can damage your surfboards. You should be able to fit your fingers comfortably between the strap and the board. A general rule is to tighten until snug, then give another firm pull. The boards should not be able to move easily.
* **Check for Twisting:** Ensure the straps aren’t twisted, as this can weaken them. The cam buckle should be positioned on the side of the crossbar, not on top of the surfboards.
* **Secure Excess Strap Length:** Tuck the excess strap length under the strap or tie it off to prevent it from flapping in the wind. You can also purchase strap keepers to keep the straps neat and tidy.
**Step 4: Use Tie-Downs (Optional but Recommended for Long Distances or High Winds)**
* **Attach Tie-Downs:** Attach one end of the tie-down to the front bumper or tow hook of your vehicle. Run the other end over the nose of the surfboard and secure it to the roof rack or crossbar. Repeat this process for the tail of the surfboard, attaching the tie-down to the rear bumper or tow hook.
* **Tighten Tie-Downs:** Tighten the tie-downs until they are snug but not overtightened. The tie-downs should provide additional support and prevent the surfboards from shifting or lifting.
**Step 5: Double-Check Everything**
* **Strap Tightness:** Give the straps another tug to ensure they are still tight. Check for any slack or movement.
* **Board Security:** Gently try to move the surfboards from side to side and up and down. They should feel secure and not move excessively.
* **Tie-Down Security:** Check the tie-downs to ensure they are properly attached and tightened.
* **Clearance:** Make sure the surfboards are not obstructing your view or interfering with the operation of your vehicle.
Driving with Surfboards on Your Roof
Once you’ve properly mounted your surfboards, it’s important to adjust your driving habits to ensure a safe and uneventful journey:
* **Reduce Speed:** Drive at a slower speed than you normally would, especially on highways or in windy conditions. A good rule of thumb is to stay below 65 mph.
* **Avoid Sudden Braking:** Be extra cautious when braking, as the added weight on the roof can affect your vehicle’s handling. Allow for more stopping distance.
* **Take Turns Carefully:** Take turns slowly and smoothly to prevent the surfboards from shifting or tipping.
* **Be Aware of Overhead Obstacles:** Watch out for low-hanging branches, bridges, and parking garages. The added height of the surfboards can make it difficult to clear these obstacles.
* **Stop and Check Regularly:** After driving for a short distance, pull over and check the straps and tie-downs to ensure they are still tight. Repeat this process periodically throughout your journey.
* **Listen for Wind Noise:** Unusual wind noise can be a sign that your surfboards are not properly secured. If you hear excessive noise, pull over and inspect your setup.
Tips and Tricks for Surfboard Roof Rack Success
* **Use High-Quality Straps:** Invest in good quality straps that won’t stretch or fray easily. Cheap straps can fail, putting your surfboards and other drivers at risk.
* **Protect Your Car’s Roof:** Place a towel or blanket on your car’s roof before loading your surfboards to prevent scratches.
* **Remove the Rack When Not in Use:** Removing the roof rack when you’re not carrying surfboards can improve your fuel economy and reduce wind noise.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** Practice mounting and securing your surfboards at home before heading to the beach. This will help you become more comfortable and confident with the process.
* **Consider a Soft Rack:** If you don’t want to invest in a permanent roof rack system, consider using a soft rack. These racks are easy to install and remove, and they’re a good option for occasional surfboard transport. However, they are generally less secure than hard racks.
* **Pay Attention to Weather:** High winds and storms can pose a significant risk when transporting surfboards on your roof. If possible, avoid driving in these conditions.
* **Learn from Experienced Surfers:** Ask experienced surfers for tips and advice on surfboard mounting and transportation.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
* **Straps Keep Loosening:** This can be caused by using worn-out straps or not tightening them properly. Replace your straps and make sure to tighten them firmly.
* **Surfboards are Shifting:** This can be caused by not centering the surfboards on the crossbars or not using tie-downs. Adjust the position of your surfboards and use tie-downs for added security.
* **Excessive Wind Noise:** This can be caused by the surfboards not being properly streamlined or by loose straps. Adjust the position of your surfboards and tighten the straps.
* **Damage to Surfboards:** This can be caused by overtightening the straps, not using padding, or not protecting the nose and tail of the surfboards. Use proper padding and avoid overtightening the straps.
Conclusion
Carrying surfboards on the roof of your vehicle is a common practice, but it requires careful planning and execution. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your surfboards are safely and securely mounted, protecting both your equipment and other drivers on the road. Remember to always prioritize safety and double-check your setup before hitting the road. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can enjoy the thrill of surfing without worrying about the safety of your board or vehicle. Now get out there and catch some waves!