If you’re an outdoor fan, including camping, biking, skiing, or kayaking enthusiasts, roof racks are an essential attachment for your vehicle. They provide additional space on your car roof, making the conveyance of your adventure gear simpler. Regardless of the size of your vehicle, be it a small car or an SUV, you’ll find a roof rack created to fit your specifications and requirements.
When it comes to choosing the best roof rack, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the type of roof your vehicle has. Some vehicles have factory-installed roof rails, while others have a bare roof. The type of roof will determine the type of roof rack you need. The second thing to consider is the weight capacity of the roof rack. You want to make sure that the roof rack can support the weight of your gear. Finally, you want to consider the ease of installation and removal of the roof rack.
After researching and testing multiple roof racks, we have identified the best roof racks on the market. Our top picks are based on the roof type, weight capacity, ease of installation, and customer reviews. With our recommendations, you can find the perfect roof rack for your vehicle and your outdoor adventures.
Top 3 Best Roof Racks
- MeeFar Roof Rack Carrier Basket
- AA-Racks Model X27 Square 2 Bar
- AA-Racks Model DX36 Compatible Ford Transit Connect
We understand that finding the right roof rack for your vehicle can be a daunting task. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the one that best suits your needs. That’s why we have put together a list of the best roof racks that are currently available on Amazon. Our team has spent countless hours researching and testing these products to ensure that we provide you with the most accurate and unbiased information. So, whether you’re looking for a roof rack for your next adventure or simply need more storage space, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
1. MeeFar Roof Rack Carrier Basket
If you are looking for a roof rack that is easy to install, aerodynamic, and durable, the MeeFar Roof Rack Carrier Basket is a great option.
Pros
- The rack is made of tubular steel in black epoxy powder coating, which makes it lightweight and strong. It is also covered in a rust-free coating.
- The wind shield on the rack helps protect your cargo from wind damage and keeps your vehicle more aerodynamic.
- The rack is easy to assemble and install on your vehicle’s crossbars, mounting with four universal U-bolts. It also comes with a waterproof rooftop bag, a cargo net with attachment hooks, and ratchet straps.
Cons
- The rack is not foldable, so it may take up more storage space than other options.
- It may not fit all types of vehicles, so be sure to check the compatibility before purchasing.
- Some users have reported that the rack can be noisy when driving at high speeds.
We recently used the MeeFar Roof Rack Carrier Basket on a road trip and found it to be a reliable and sturdy option for carrying our extra gear. The rack was easy to install and held up well even in windy conditions. The included waterproof bag was a great addition and kept our belongings dry during a rainstorm. The cargo net and ratchet straps were also helpful for securing our items in place.
Overall, we would highly recommend the MeeFar Roof Rack Carrier Basket for anyone in need of a durable and easy-to-use roof rack.
2. AA-Racks Model X27 Square 2 Bar
We highly recommend the AA-Racks Model X27 Square 2 Bar Set Rain-Gutter Van Ladder Roof Racks Steel Rack for those who need a reliable and easy-to-install roof rack for their van.
Pros
- The unique three-bolt lock design makes it compatible with most van rain gutters, and the adjustable middle square bar is built with 1.5mm steel tube and 2mm actual thickness of steel plates, providing stability for loads.
- The protective rubber covers on both upright clamps prevent metallic friction on the rain gutters, reducing the chance of rusting.
- The oval shape design of the upright clamps is height-reduced, preventing water leakage and wind noise problems while making your vehicle more accessible to most height restrictions.
Cons
- The installation instructions can be a bit hard to understand, but with some time and effort, they can be figured out.
- The racks may start to rust after a few months of use.
- The guides for spacing requirements are not very clear.
We found that the AA-Racks Model X27 Square 2 Bar Set Rain-Gutter Van Ladder Roof Racks Steel Rack is a great option for those who need a sturdy and reliable roof rack for their van. The unique three-bolt lock design makes installation a breeze, and the protective rubber covers on both upright clamps prevent metallic friction and rusting. Additionally, the oval shape design of the upright clamps reduces water leakage and wind noise problems while making your vehicle more accessible to most height restrictions.
The adjustable middle square bar of model X27 is built with the thickness of 1.5mm steel tube and 2mm actual thickness of steel plates, providing stability for loads and making it compatible with most van rain gutters. The X27 also comes with four adjustable ladder stoppers, providing convenience and security for multiple ladder carrying. However, the installation instructions can be a bit hard to understand, and the racks may start to rust after a few months of use.
Overall, we believe that the AA-Racks Model X27 Square 2 Bar Set Rain-Gutter Van Ladder Roof Racks Steel Rack is a great investment for those who need a reliable and easy-to-install roof rack for their van.
3. AA-Racks Model DX36 Compatible Ford Transit Connect
If you’re looking for a sturdy and reliable roof rack system for your Ford Transit Connect, the AA-Racks Model DX36 is a great option. With a 350lb max loading capacity, it can handle heavy cargo with ease.
Pros
- The 17 gauge steel construction ensures durability and strength.
- The adjustable cross bars allow for versatile use with different cargo sizes.
- The high strength steel mounting base provides a secure installation.
Cons
- The rack is not foldable, which may make it difficult to store when not in use.
- Some customers have reported difficulty with installation, particularly if the rack is not specifically designed for their vehicle.
- The powder coating may not be as durable as expected, leading to rusting over time.
We recently installed the AA-Racks Model DX36 on our Ford Transit Connect and were impressed with its sturdy construction and ease of use. The steel construction feels solid and secure, and the adjustable cross bars allowed us to transport a variety of cargo sizes.
Installation was straightforward, although we did need to drill into the roof of our vehicle. We recommend having a ratcheting tool on hand to make the process easier. Once installed, the rack felt stable and secure, even when carrying heavy loads.
One thing to note is that the rack is not foldable, which may make it difficult to store when not in use. Additionally, some customers have reported difficulty with installation, particularly if the rack is not specifically designed for their vehicle. Finally, while the powder coating looks great initially, it may not be as durable as expected, leading to rusting over time.
Overall, we would recommend the AA-Racks Model DX36 to anyone in need of a sturdy and reliable roof rack system for their Ford Transit Connect.
4. VEVOR Universal Roof Rack Cross Bars
If you’re looking for an affordable yet durable roof rack crossbar, the VEVOR Universal Roof Rack Cross Bars are worth considering.
Pros
- The crossbars are easy to install and come with complete accessories.
- With a load capacity of 200 pounds, you can transport large items like luggage racks, surfboards, camping gear, mountain bikes, and skis with ease.
- The aerodynamic aluminum tube design minimizes wind resistance and noise, making your journey peaceful and hassle-free.
Cons
- The mounting feet are made of PP material, which may not be as durable as other materials.
- The anti-theft lock system may not be as secure as other more expensive models.
- The crossbars may not fit all types of vehicles, so make sure to check the compatibility before purchasing.
We found that the VEVOR Universal Roof Rack Cross Bars were easy to install and fit our car’s raised side rails perfectly. We were able to transport our luggage and camping gear with ease, and the crossbars remained steady and secure throughout our journey. The aerodynamic design also minimized wind noise, making our journey peaceful and enjoyable.
However, the mounting feet are made of PP material, which may not be as durable as other materials. Additionally, the anti-theft lock system may not be as secure as other more expensive models. We also found that the crossbars may not fit all types of vehicles, so make sure to check the compatibility before purchasing.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and durable roof rack crossbar that can carry a decent load, the VEVOR Universal Roof Rack Cross Bars are a good option to consider.
5. KOCASO 43inch Universal Car Roof Rack
If you’re looking for a sturdy car roof rack that can carry your bike, kayak, cargo frame, cargo boxes, snowboard, surfboard, and other equipment, then the KOCASO 43inch Universal Car Roof Rack is worth considering.
Pros
- The KOCASO roof rack can handle up to 165 pounds of weight, making it suitable for most vehicles.
- Made from high-strength aluminum alloy materials, this roof rack is durable and stable, even in severe weather conditions.
- The curved shape design at the ends of the crossbar effectively reduces wind noise and resistance, while also preserving the beauty of your vehicle.
Cons
- The KOCASO roof rack is only compatible with vehicles that have a distance between the rain grooves of 109cm-114cm/42.91in-44.88in, so it’s important to confirm the size before purchasing.
- While the anti-theft lock design is a nice feature, it can be a bit tricky to use at first.
- The installation process can be time-consuming and requires some effort to get the roof rack securely attached to your vehicle.
Overall, the KOCASO 43inch Universal Car Roof Rack is a reliable and sturdy option for anyone in need of a roof rack that can handle heavy equipment. With its heavy-duty construction and thoughtful design, this roof rack is sure to provide a secure and stable platform for all your outdoor gear.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a roof rack, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. In this section, we will discuss some of the key features to look for when choosing a roof rack.
Roof Type
The first thing to consider is the type of roof on your vehicle. Not all roof racks are compatible with all roof types, so it’s important to choose one that is designed to fit your specific vehicle. Common roof types include bare roofs, raised rails, flush rails, and fixed points.
Weight Capacity
Another important factor to consider is the weight capacity of the roof rack. This will determine how much weight you can safely carry on your roof. Be sure to check the weight capacity of both the roof rack itself and your vehicle’s roof to ensure that you don’t exceed the maximum weight limit.
Compatibility with Accessories
If you plan on using your roof rack for more than just carrying cargo, it’s important to choose one that is compatible with accessories such as bike racks, ski racks, and kayak carriers. Look for a roof rack that has a variety of mounting options and is designed to work with a wide range of accessories.
Ease of Installation
Finally, consider how easy the roof rack is to install. Some roof racks require professional installation, while others can be installed by the user. Look for a roof rack that comes with clear instructions and is easy to install without the need for special tools or equipment.
By considering these factors, you can choose a roof rack that is safe, secure, and meets your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between Yakima and Thule roof racks?
Yakima and Thule are two of the most popular brands of roof racks. The main differences between the two are the design and the price. Yakima roof racks are generally more affordable and have a sleeker design, while Thule roof racks are more expensive but have a wider range of features and accessories.
How do I choose the best roof rack for a car without rails?
If your car doesn’t have rails, you’ll need to choose a roof rack that is specifically designed for cars without them. Look for roof racks that have a clamp or strap system that attaches to the door frame or rain gutters of your car. Make sure to choose a roof rack that is compatible with your car’s make and model.
What factors should be considered when selecting roof rack cross bars?
When selecting roof rack cross bars, you should consider the weight capacity, the length and width of the bars, and the compatibility with your roof rack system. Make sure to choose cross bars that can support the weight of your cargo and fit securely on your roof rack.
Which roof racks are most suitable for transporting surfboards?
Roof racks that are specifically designed for surfboards are the best option for transporting them. Look for roof racks that have padded arms or straps to protect your surfboard from damage. Some popular brands for surfboard roof racks include Yakima, Thule, and Rhino Rack.
What makes Rhino Rack roof racks a premium option?
Rhino Rack roof racks are known for their high-quality materials and construction. They are made from durable aluminum and have a sleek, aerodynamic design. Rhino Rack also offers a wide range of accessories and customization options, making them a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
How do I determine the compatibility of a roof rack with my vehicle?
To determine the compatibility of a roof rack with your vehicle, you should check the manufacturer’s website or consult with a professional installer. Make sure to provide your car’s make and model to ensure that you choose a roof rack that is compatible with your vehicle.
