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A stand-up paddleboard is long, light and awkward, and a Subaru roof can carry one if the bars and strapping are right. Here is how the common setups compare and how to keep the board safe at highway speed. We chose these for their high ratings and large review counts.
Quick Picks
• Best straps: Premium tie-down straps for surfboards and paddleboards, 4.7 stars from 4,000+ reviews
• Best bow and stern lines: Sentry ratchet bow and stern tie-downs, 4.6 stars from 3,000+ reviews
• Best padding: Dakine Aero rack pads, 4.7 stars from 2,000+ reviews
Three Ways to Carry a Board
| Setup | Best for | Tradeoff |
|---|---|---|
| Foam blocks and straps | Occasional use, inflatable or hard boards | Cheapest, but shifts if strapped loosely |
| Padded rack with arms or saddles | Regular use | Holds the board more securely and loads easily |
| Stacker bars | Two or more boards | Needs extra width and a higher weight budget |
Crossbars and Spacing
Use crossbars rather than bare rails, and set them as far apart as your roof and bars allow, so a long board is supported. See our crossbar length guide for the right bar length by model, and best crossbars for kayaks for bars that suit boat and board carriers.
Straps and Padding
Use two straps over the board, one near each crossbar, and run them around the bar, not the rail. The premium tie-down straps are cam buckle straps sold for roof racks, surfboards and paddleboards. Soft pads like Dakine Aero rack pads protect the board and the bars.
Bow and Stern Lines
If the board extends past the bars, add a bow and stern line to the car. The Sentry bow and stern tie-downs are ratcheting lines made for kayaks and canoes, and they work the same way on a long board. Check the overhang rules where you drive.
Roof Weight
A board and carrier are light, but the crossbars, rack and board all count against your roof limit. See roof weight limits by model and year, and stay under the lowest rating in the chain.
FAQs
Can a Subaru carry a paddleboard on the roof?
Yes, with crossbars and proper straps. Check the roof limit and keep the board centered between the bars.
Do I need a special rack?
Foam blocks work for occasional trips. A padded rack holds the board more securely if you go often.
How tight should the straps be?
Snug enough that the board doesn’t shift when you push it. Don’t crush an inflatable board or dent a hard one.
Should I stop and re-check?
Yes. Re-check the straps after a few miles, since new straps stretch.
Final Thoughts
Two straps, a bow and stern line for long boards, and a quick re-check at the first stop cover most of it. Pad the bars, keep within your roof limit, and skip the roof entirely if you own an inflatable board.
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