How to Tie a Surfboard to a Roof Rack: A Beginner’s Guide
If you’re an aspiring surfer or beach lover, having a reliable and secure way to transport your surfboard is essential. One popular method is using a roof rack, which allows you to safely carry your board on top of your vehicle while leaving the interior space free for your companions. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of tying a surfboard to a roof rack, ensuring your board stays safe and secure during travel.
Gather the Necessary Supplies
Before you can start tying your surfboard to a roof rack, it’s important to gather all the essential supplies. You don’t want to find yourself mid-way through the process only to realize you’re missing a crucial item. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Surfboard – Obviously, you’ll need a surfboard! Make sure it is clean and free from any debris or wax that could damage your vehicle.
2. Roof rack – Ensure you have a sturdy roof rack installed on your vehicle. It should be properly adjusted and tightened to ensure stability.
3. Cam straps or tie-down straps – These straps are specifically designed to secure your surfboard to the roof rack. Look for straps with a minimum load capacity of 400 lbs.
4. Soft rack pads – These pads add an extra layer of cushioning and protection between your surfboard and the roof rack. They are particularly useful if your roof rack has metal bars.
Secure the Surfboard to the Roof Rack
Now that you have everything you need, follow these step-by-step instructions to tie your surfboard securely to your roof rack:
1. Position your surfboard – Place your surfboard on the roof rack with the fins facing upward. Make sure it is centered and positioned parallel to the vehicle. If you have multiple boards, place them side by side with a slight gap between them.
2. Attach the soft rack pads – If you have soft rack pads, place them on the roof rack’s bars where the surfboard will be resting. These pads will protect both your surfboard and your vehicle from potential scratches or dings.
3. Thread the straps through the roof rack – Take one strap and thread it through the roof rack’s crossbars on one side of your surfboard. Repeat this step with the second strap on the other side of the surfboard. Ensure the straps are evenly positioned and taut.
4. Lay the straps on the surfboard – Gently place the loose ends of the straps on the surfboard, ensuring they are in the middle of the board’s width.
5. Cord-lock or buckle the straps – Wrap the loose ends of the straps around the roof rack’s bars and back under the straps themselves. Insert the loose ends through the buckles or cord-locks to secure them tightly. Make sure the straps are snug but not excessively tight, as this can damage your surfboard.
6. Tighten the straps – Before hitting the road, tighten the straps further to ensure they are secure. Firmly pull the straps to remove any slack, maintaining equal tension on each strap.
7. Test the stability – Give your surfboard a gentle shake and push to verify its stability on the roof rack. If it moves excessively, re-tighten the straps as necessary.
Additional Tips and Safety Precautions
To ensure a smooth and worry-free journey with your surfboard on the roof rack, here are a few additional tips and safety precautions to keep in mind:
1. Check the straps during the trip – It’s essential to periodically inspect the straps during your journey. Stop at a safe location to verify that they remain tight and secure.
2. Drive cautiously – When transporting a surfboard on your roof rack, it’s crucial to adjust your driving behavior. Be mindful of height restrictions, park in spaces with enough clearance, and avoid excessive speed and sudden maneuvers.
3. Protect your board from the wind – Strong winds can create drag and buffet your surfboard, potentially damaging it or loosening the straps. Consider using an additional strap or bungee cord to secure the front and back of the board to the roof rack.
4. Avoid leaving your board unattended – Leaving your board unsupervised on the roof rack can invite theft. If you need to leave your vehicle, ensure it is parked in a secure location or consider removing the board and storing it safely inside.
By following these simple steps and taking necessary safety precautions, you can now confidently tie your surfboard to a roof rack and embark on countless adventures in pursuit of the perfect wave. Happy surfing!