How to Carry Surfboards on the Roof of a Vehicle

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A surfboard on the roof of a car can act like the wing of an airplane. G-force, lift and drag all come into play. A board flying off a vehicle can become a deadly missile.

Steps

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    If the racks are so-called "soft racks," they should consist of more than just a web strap that wraps around the vehicle.
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    Buckles on the straps should be the cam-spring type and not d-ring style. No-Rust zinc buckles are preferred.
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    This reduces "lift" and the surfboard fins will act as a "stop" to prevent the board from sliding backwards off the rack.
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    Wrap the straps through the side-rails (around the cross-bars) of the rack and over the top of the surfboard(s) then around the cross-bars on the other side. Make sure the strap buckle is not on the rail of the surfboard. Each strap should cross the board twice. Repeat for other cross-bar. [1]
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    [2]
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    Never let it flap in the wind.
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    [3]
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      Tips

      • Check tightness regularly if driving any long distance. If stacking boards, be careful not to ding the tail of the top board with the fin of the bottom board. Pay attention to rockers as to not ding the bottom deck of one with the nose of another. DO NOT speed!
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      • Remove leashes from boards before placing them in racks.
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      • A half-twist in the strap will prevent strap hum.
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      Warnings

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      Things You'll Need

      • Strong roof racks
      • Secure poly webbing straps with Zinc Buckles and buckle pads

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rCIxgKuEoI
      2. ↑ https://www.outsideonline.com/2342291/how-roof-rack-anything
      3. ↑ https://www.outsideonline.com/2342291/how-roof-rack-anything

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