5 Best Roof Racks for Overlanding 2023
When it comes to overlanding, having a reliable and sturdy roof rack is essential to carry all the necessary gear and equipment. A good roof rack must be able to handle the weight of your gear without compromising your vehicle’s aerodynamics. It should also be made of durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough terrains.
There are many brands that offer roof racks for overlanding, but some stand out for their quality, versatility, and durability. Here we are going to talk about the 5 best roof racks for overlanding: ARB is a well-known brand that offers a range of roof racks that can handle heavy loads and are easy to install. Front Runner is another brand that offers a variety of roof racks that are lightweight, aerodynamic, and can be customized to fit different vehicles. Rhino Rack is a popular choice for its sturdy and versatile roof racks that can handle various types of gear and equipment. Yakima is also a reliable brand that offers a range of roof racks that are easy to install and can accommodate different types of gear. Prinsu is a newer brand that has gained popularity for its innovative and customizable roof racks that can be tailored to fit specific needs.
Each of these brands has its pros and cons, and choosing the right roof rack for your overlanding needs depends on various factors such as the weight of your gear, the type of vehicle you have, and your budget. In this article, we will review the 5 best roof racks for overlanding, including ARB, Front Runner, Rhino Rack, Yakima, and Prinsu, to help you make an informed decision and find the best roof rack for your next adventure.
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Things to Consider When Buying a Roof Rack
When buying a roof rack for overlanding, there are a few things you should consider to ensure you get the right one for your vehicle and your needs.
Weight Capacity
One of the most important things to consider is the weight capacity of the roof rack. You need to make sure it can support the weight of your gear, especially if you plan on carrying heavy items like a rooftop tent or a kayak. Make sure to check the weight capacity of both the roof rack and your vehicle’s roof before making a purchase.
Aerodynamics
The aerodynamics of the roof rack can also affect your vehicle’s performance and fuel efficiency. Look for a roof rack that is designed to be aerodynamic and reduce wind resistance. This will help improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and reduce wind noise while driving.
Material
The material of the roof rack can also affect its durability and weight. Look for a roof rack made from high-quality materials like aluminum or steel, which can withstand the elements and heavy use. However, keep in mind that steel roof racks can be heavier than aluminum ones, which can affect your vehicle’s performance.
Brand
When it comes to roof racks for overlanding, there are several top brands to consider, including ARB, Front Runner, Rhino Rack, Yakima, and Prinsu. Each brand has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs.
Best Roof Racks for Overlanding
1. Front Runner Slimline II Roof Rack (Top Pick)
Front Runner roof racks are designed to be lightweight, durable, and versatile. They offer a wide range of roof rack options, including full-length racks, low-profile racks, and modular racks that can be customized to fit your needs. One downside of Front Runner roof racks is that they can be expensive compared to other brands.
This is my top pick since the quality is amazing and they have a variety of accessories available to add gear to the roof rack.
Pros
+ The Slimline II Roof Rack is lightweight and strong, with a load capacity of up to 660 pounds, making it suitable for carrying heavy gear or equipment.
+ The modular design of the Slimline II allows for easy customization and configuration, with over 50 accessories available to fit any vehicle and adventure.
+ The Slimline II is made of high-quality materials, including aluminum and stainless steel, which are corrosion-resistant and built to last.
+ Front Runner offers a limited lifetime warranty on their products, giving customers peace of mind and confidence in their purchase.
Cons
– The Slimline II is not the most aerodynamic roof rack on the market, which can impact fuel efficiency and increase wind noise while driving.
– While the Slimline II is designed to fit most vehicles, some models may require additional mounting brackets or modifications to install properly.
– The cost of Front Runner products can be higher than other brands, which may not be ideal for budget-conscious buyers.-
2. Rhino Rack Pioneer Platforms
Rhino Rack is an Australian-based company that specializes in manufacturing roof racks for various types of vehicles. Their roof racks are made from high-quality materials, including aluminum and stainless steel, and are designed to be aerodynamic to reduce wind noise and drag.
Rhino Rack is a reputable brand that offers high-quality roof racks for overlanding and other outdoor activities. While they may be more expensive than some other brands, their durability and versatility make them a worthwhile investment for those who frequently use their roof racks.
Pros
+ Rhino Rack roof racks are durable and can carry heavy loads, with some models capable of carrying up to 220 pounds.
+ They offer a wide range of overland roof rack accessories, including crossbars, platform racks, and cargo boxes, to suit different needs and vehicle types.
+ Rhino Rack roof racks are easy to install and come with detailed instructions and all necessary hardware.
+ Their roof racks are compatible with various accessories, such as bike racks, kayak carriers, and ski and snowboard holders, to enhance their functionality.
Cons
– Rhino Rack roof racks can be expensive compared to other brands, especially when purchasing additional accessories.
– Some customers have reported wind noise at high speeds, although this can be reduced by installing wind deflectors or fairings.
– Not all Rhino Rack roof racks are compatible with all vehicles, so it’s important to check compatibility before purchasing.
3. Yakima LoadWarrior Rooftop Cargo
Yakima roof racks are designed to be easy to install and use, with a wide range of options for different vehicles and gear. Their roof racks are made from high-quality materials like aluminum and feature a sleek, aerodynamic design.
This is probably the best priced option on the list. Although its design is not the most beautiful for my taste, it fulfills its objective of transporting our gear safely.
Pros
+ One of the biggest advantages of Yakima roof racks is their versatility. They offer a range of crossbar options, including lightweight and strong, aerodynamic and burly, or classically round. This means that you can choose the crossbars that best suit your needs and vehicle.
+ Yakima also offers a range of cargo boxes and bags that are built to fit their roof racks, making it easy to transport your gear.
Cons
– Some users have reported that Yakima roof racks can be difficult to install, which may be a drawback for those who are not mechanically inclined.
– Some users have reported that Yakima roof racks can be noisy at high speeds, which may be a concern for those who frequently drive on the highway.
4. ARB Base Rack
ARB is a well-known brand in the off-roading community, and their roof racks are no exception. Their racks are designed to withstand the toughest conditions and are made from high-quality materials.
Their roof racks are made from strong, lightweight aluminum and feature a sleek, aerodynamic design.
Pros
+ This roof racks known for their durability and strength, making them perfect for off-roading adventures.
+Their racks are designed to be low-profile, which improves aerodynamics and reduces wind noise.
+ARB offers a wide range of accessories that can be added to their roof racks, making them highly customizable.
+Their racks are easy to install and remove, which is great for those who don’t want a permanent roof rack on their vehicle.
Cons
– Some users have reported that the racks can be difficult to install, especially if you are doing it alone.
– ARB roof racks are on the pricier side compared to other brands.
5. Prinsu Roof Rack
It is designed to be lightweight, durable, and customizable. They offer a wide range of roof rack options, including full-length racks, low-profile racks, and modular racks that can be customized to fit your needs.
They are a great choice for those who want a high-quality, customizable, and versatile roof rack for their overlanding adventures. While they may be more expensive than other brands, the added features and accessories make them worth the investment for those who want the best.
Pros
+ They are modular, which means they can be customized to fit your specific needs and preferences.
+ They are made of high-quality materials, such as aluminum, which makes them lightweight and strong.
+ Prinsu roof racks have a low profile, which improves aerodynamics and reduces wind noise.
+ They are easy to install and remove, which makes them convenient for those who want to switch between different vehicles.
Cons
– They can be expensive compared to other brands, which may not be suitable for those on a tight budget.
– Some users have reported that the installation instructions can be unclear or difficult to follow.
– May not be suitable for heavy-duty use, such as carrying large or bulky items, as they have weight limits that can vary depending on the model.
Overlanding Roof Racks FAQ
When it comes to overlanding roof racks, there are a lot of questions that come up. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions, along with their answers:
What is the weight capacity of a roof rack?
The weight capacity of a roof rack can vary depending on the brand and model. However, most roof racks can handle a weight of around 150-200 pounds. It’s important to check the weight capacity of the specific roof rack you are interested in before making a purchase.
Do roof racks affect aerodynamics?
Yes, roof racks can affect the aerodynamics of your vehicle. They can increase wind resistance, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency. However, many roof rack brands have designed their products to be as aerodynamic as possible to minimize this effect.
What materials are roof racks made of?
Roof racks can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminum, steel, and plastic. Aluminum is a popular material because it is lightweight and durable, while steel is more heavy-duty and can handle heavier loads. Plastic roof racks are typically less expensive, but may not be as durable as metal options.
How do I install a roof rack?
The installation process for a roof rack can vary depending on the brand and model. However, most roof racks come with detailed instructions and can be installed with basic tools. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and ensure that the roof rack is securely attached to your vehicle and to have the correct overland roof rack setup.
Do I need to remove my roof rack when not in use?
While it’s not necessary to remove your roof rack when not in use, it’s a good idea to do so if you’re not planning on using it for an extended period of time. This can help prevent damage to the roof rack and your vehicle, and can also improve fuel efficiency by reducing wind resistance. If you have a pick up consider installing a overland bed rack.
Conclusion
When it comes to overlanding, having a reliable and sturdy roof rack is essential. We’ve covered some of the top brands in the market, including Front Runner, Rhino Rack, Yakima, ARB, and Prinsu. Each brand has its own unique features and advantages, as well as some drawbacks.
Front Runner is another popular brand that offers a range of roof racks for different vehicles. Their racks are known for their durability and versatility, and they come with a wide range of accessories to customize your setup. However, some users have reported issues with noise and wind resistance.
Rhino Rack is a well-known brand that offers a range of roof racks and accessories. Their racks are made from lightweight materials and are designed to be aerodynamic, which helps to reduce wind noise and drag. However, some users have reported issues with durability and rusting.
Yakima is a brand that offers a range of roof racks and cargo carriers for different vehicles. Their racks are known for their sleek design and easy installation, and they come with a variety of accessories to suit different needs. However, some users have reported issues with wind noise and durability.
ARB offers a range of roof racks that are made from high-quality materials and designed to withstand heavy loads. Their racks are easy to install and come with a variety of accessories to suit different needs. However, they can be quite expensive compared to other brands.
Prinsu is a brand that specializes in modular roof racks for overlanding. Their racks are known for their strength and durability, and they come with a range of accessories to customize your setup. However, they can be quite expensive compared to other brands.
Overall, choosing the right roof rack for your overlanding setup will depend on your specific needs and budget. We hope that this article has provided you with some useful information to help you make an informed decision.
