10 Best Soft Surf Racks For Car 2026 in the United States

The Ho Stevie! Surfboard Car Roof Rack Padded System is designed to hold up to three surfboards securely, making it a great choice for surfers who need to transport multiple boards. Its versatility in fitting any car, whether it’s a 2-door or 4-door vehicle, adds to its convenience. The soft padding is a thoughtful touch, protecting both your car and surfboards from damage during transit.

One of its standout features is the silicone buckle covers, which prevent any potential damage from metal buckles—a common concern with other brands. Installing the rack is straightforward and quick, taking about three minutes, and there’s a helpful video guide available. The ease of installation and the option to leave the racks on or remove them easily when not in use is a plus. Additionally, it comes with a carrying case for storage when not in use.

However, the straps may become less durable over time, particularly if they're frequently exposed to harsh weather conditions. Security features are basic, relying mainly on the strap system, which might not provide the highest level of theft prevention. The system holds up well under normal use but may not be the best choice for users who need extreme durability or advanced security features. If you're a casual to intermediate surfer looking for a reliable and easy-to-use rack system, this could be a solid fit for your needs.

The MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads Luggage Carrier System is a versatile option for transporting items like kayaks, surfboards, SUPs, and canoes. One of its main attractions is its universal compatibility; it can be used on cars with or without gutters. With a load capacity of up to 99.2 pounds, it can accommodate 1-3 shortboards or 1-2 longboards, making it quite handy for various outdoor activities.

The straps are of high quality and include 2 heavy-duty tie-down straps, 2 tie-down ropes, and 2 quick loop straps, all designed to ensure a secure fit. The system also features top-grade EVA foam padding, which helps reduce vibrations and prevents scratching or scuffing of your items. Installation is straightforward and requires no tools, making it accessible even for those who may not be particularly handy. Additionally, the foldable design and included storage bag make it easy to store when not in use.

However, some users have noted that while the system is generally secure, it is crucial to ensure everything is tightly fastened to prevent movement during transit. This product is well-regarded for its flexibility and ease of use, but it may require careful setup to maximize its security features. It is ideal for anyone needing a flexible and easy-to-use solution for carrying outdoor gear on their vehicle.

The FCS Premium D-Ring Soft Surfboard/SUP Car Rack is a solid choice if you want a soft rack that can carry 1-2 stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) or surfboards securely on various vehicles, including cars, vans, and 4WDs, even if you don’t have traditional roof racks. Its capacity is decent for solo or light duo use. The rack features heavy-duty 32mm webbing straps made with durable 1000D fabric, which suggests good strap quality and reliability for holding your boards tight while driving.

The padding uses high-density foam that’s aerodynamic and wide (740mm), offering effective protection against dents or scratches on the boards and the vehicle roof. Installation is fairly straightforward since it straps directly onto the car, eliminating the need for permanent fixtures, and it comes with a handy storage pouch to keep everything organized when not in use. Compatibility-wise, it works with most vehicles and a variety of board shapes, making it versatile for many users.

On the security front, while the straps are strong and the foam padding protective, this type of soft rack generally does not offer locking features, so it’s best used in safe areas or while the vehicle is attended. Some users might find it less convenient if they frequently transport multiple boards or need the security of hard racks. This rack fits well as an easy-to-use, protective, and non-permanent solution for carrying your SUP or surfboard, especially for casual or occasional surfers.