10 Best Cross Bar Pads
for June 2023

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If you're an avid fan of outdoor sports and love hitting the waves with your surfboard or kayak, then investing in a good set of cross bar pads is a must! These pads fit perfectly over your car roof's crossbars, providing a cushioned and safe spot for your boards to rest during transportation. But with so many different types and brands out there, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your particular needs. That's why we've compiled a list of the 10 Best Cross Bar Pads for Sports & Outdoors enthusiasts. These pads are designed to offer extreme durability and fade-resistant properties, and come in handy for all your surfing, SUP, kayaking, and cycling equipment needs.

Our top picks include the original polyester cross bar pads that come with high-density foam wrapped in durable 600D Oxford fabric, which offers excellent equipment protection and cushioning. We also have the new PVC Sunguard material pads that come coated with a UV-protecting layer to prevent color fading in the sun. Both options are simple to use, with super-strong Velcro fasteners that create a firm grip and ensure quick installation. These pads fit most custom wide and narrow factory-size crossbars and are compatible with Thule and Yakima Aero-style crossbars.

When shopping for cross bar pads, it's essential to choose ones that help reduce wind noise and improve your car's gas mileage. Our patented foam kayak blocks pads are designed to reduce noise by only padding the top part in a pre-formed shape that fits tightly around the crossbar. This design also helps to wrap around your crossbars, reducing wind noise and creating a sleek appearance.

Whether you're a pro-surfer or a recreational kayaker, having the best cross bar pads can save you money in the long run as they prevent damage to your equipment and keep it secure during transportation. Our top 10 list provides you with a range of options to choose from, making it easy to find the perfect cross bar pads for your needs.

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9.7
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Dorsal Aero Roof Rack Pads for Factory and Wide Crossbars - Surfboards Kayaks Sups Snowboards Polyester 28

Dorsal Aero Roof Rack Pads Factory for and Wide Crossbars

by DORSAL
What We like

Specifications of the DORSAL Surf Aero Roof Rack Pad Set: 2 in a set; fit large and factory aero (flat bar) crossbar racks 5.5" - 8.0" (14 - 20cm) bar circumference; suitable for Thule, Yakima, Rhino roof racks.

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Product Features

  • Extreme Durability and Fade Resistant: Our cross-bar car roof rack pads have high density foam wrapped in 600D Oxford fabric or with a PVC - UV protecting coating so they wont fade in the sun. We developed our heavy duty polyester fabric that's extra durable and waterproof. High quality equipment protection and cushioning allows for balanced with long-lasting functionality.
  • Simple to Use: Our Surfboard Kayak and Paddleboard roof rack pads come with super strong velcro fasteners for a firm grip and fast, convenient installation. You can be driving at any speed and still be assured that the pads and your gear will still stay in place. Just simply wrap around your existing cross-bars are youre ready to go!
  • Now in TWO Styles! Our Original Polyester and our New PVC Sunguard Material Fit most custom wide and narrow factory size crossbars and are compatible with Thule and Yakima Aero style cross bars. Our Sets includes two rack pads , Durable 600D oxford fabric or with PVC coated with 50+ anti-UV to keep the color from fading in the sun.
  • Noise Reducing and Better Gas Mileage: Our patented foam kayak blocks pads only have foam padding on top that come in a pre-formed shape, so it's easy for them to fit tightly around the vehicle crossbar rack. Our pads dont wrap all the way around your crossbars, it reduces wind noise and helps your gas mileage.
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9.5
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Sclvdi Car Roof Top Rack Pads Soft Cross Bars for Kayak Canoe Surfboard Paddleboard SUP Snowboard Ski Board Universal (Pair)

Sclvdi Car Roof Top Rack Pads Soft Cross Bars for Canoe Kayak Surfboard Paddleboard SUP Snowboard Ski Board Universal (Pair)

by Sclvdi
What We like

PACKAGE INCLUDE---2 pcs of hood trunk tie down straps,2 pcs tie down Straps,2pcs long rope with hook, 2 pcs soft roof rack and 1 pcs storage bag

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Product Features

  • DURABLE MATERIAL---Made with the highest quality 600D material for abrasion-resistant tear-resistant and the best resistance against water, harsh weather, corrosion, UV.Multi-layer foam padding effectively protect surfboard or other items
  • EASY INSTALLATION---No tools required,attach the pads to your cars roof and hold the load in place,fully tightening the strap and then buckle it.Either thru doors or via roof rails
  • UNIVERSAL FITMENT---Fit for most vehicle whether your car with/without roof rack or side rails.The 49inch soft roof rack pad can be use to transfer your Kayak/SUP/Canoe/Surfboard/Paddle Board/Snow Board/Ladders in any season
  • ULTRA CONVENIENCE---Soft rack is light weight,no damage to your car. You can fold it and put into our equipped bag when not use it.Easy to store and carry
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9.5
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Dorsal Aero Roof Rack Pads - Sunguard (No Fade) for Factory and Wide Crossbars - Surfboards Kayaks Sups Snowboards PVC 28

Dorsal Aero Roof Rack Pads

by DORSAL
What We like

Specifications of the DORSAL Surf Aero Roof Rack Pad Set: 2 in a set; fit large and factory aero (flat bar) crossbar racks 5.5" - 8.0" (14 - 20cm) bar circumference; suitable for Thule, Yakima, Rhino roof racks.

more infoarrow_drop_down

Product Features

  • Extreme Durability and Fade Resistant: Our cross-bar car roof rack pads have high density foam wrapped in 600D Oxford fabric or with a PVC - UV protecting coating so they wont fade in the sun. We developed our heavy duty polyester fabric that's extra durable and waterproof. High quality equipment protection and cushioning allows for balanced with long-lasting functionality.
  • Now in TWO Styles! Our Original Polyester and our New PVC Sunguard Material Fit most custom wide and narrow factory size crossbars and are compatible with Thule and Yakima Aero style cross bars. Our Sets includes two rack pads , Durable 600D oxford fabric or with PVC coated with 50+ anti-UV to keep the color from fading in the sun.
  • Noise Reducing and Better Gas Mileage: Our patented foam kayak blocks pads only have foam padding on top that come in a pre-formed shape, so it's easy for them to fit tightly around the vehicle crossbar rack. Our pads dont wrap all the way around your crossbars, it reduces wind noise and helps your gas mileage.
  • Simple to Use: Our Surfboard Kayak and Paddleboard roof rack pads come with super strong velcro fasteners for a firm grip and fast, convenient installation. You can be driving at any speed and still be assured that the pads and your gear will still stay in place. Just simply wrap around your existing cross-bars are youre ready to go!
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9
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HIKULA 28

HIKULA 28" Soft Aero Roof Rack Pads for Various Crossbars with 15' Two Premium Scratch Resistant Silicone Buckle Tie Down Straps for SUPs

by HIKULA
What We like

Easy to Use - Install the roof rack pads on your crossbars, and then fasten your kayaks or SUPs on the front and rear crossbars with two 15ft tie down straps in the package, put the whole set in the included storage bag when not use for convenient storage

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Product Features

  • Durable & Premium Material - This roof rack pads is made of 600D oxford fabric with durable PVC coating and anti-UV 50+ keep the color from fading in the sun, durable and waterproof, giving you a safe and efficient way to transport your SUPs, Surfboards, Kayaks and Canoes
  • Protection & Paint Security - We have widened the heavy duty velcro to better fasten and match various crossbars, the thicken foam inside of the rack pads can support more than 150 pounds above your car cross bar, and the 15ft tie down straps with extra Scratch-Resistant Silicone Cover can protect your car paint from scratching
  • Fits Most Car Rack - Our universal 28" roof rack pads comes with widened velcro to fit for most crossbars in the market to give you all-round protection, not only small round crossbars but also wide aero crossbars, we can give you free return if not match
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8.9
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SUNPIE Crossbar Pads for Roof Rack Car Ski Snowboard Rood Racks Luggage Carrier System for Kayak Surfboard SUP Canoe Fits for Square/ Round/ Aero/ Oval Cross Bars

SUNPIE Crossbar Pads for Roof Rack Car Ski Snowboard Rood Racks Luggage Carrier for System Kayak Surfboard SUP Canoe Fits for Square/ Round/ Aero/ Oval Cross Bars

by SUNPIE
What We like

[What You Get] Package of the crossbar pad including 2 pieces 30inch crossbar pad, 2 pieces of 15ft tie down strap, 2 pieces of nylon tie down ropes, 2 pieces of 10 inch strap with release buckle and one storage bag. Sunpie provide two years service for this pad, you can ask a replacement for any issue, including package damage, missing part and so on.

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Product Features

  • [Why You Need Crossbar Soft Roof Pack] The crossbar soft roof pads allow you to secure your crossbar of the roof. It protects the vehicle boards and crossbar as well as the bottom pad of the boat, yacht you holding. Protect the crossbar rust or damage.
  • [Easy to Attached, No Tools Need] 30inch crossbar pad is super easy to install, Tie the crossbar via the velcro firstly and loop it up by the strap. Soft racks are just a simple tie, stretch and buckle process. No tool is needed.
  • [Universal Fit] Crossbar pad is a universal kit, it fit for all crossbar with 30inch wide and the crossbar pads soft will give your crossbar a full protection. Preventing your kayak/surfboard/SUP/canoe or any other luggage from being scratched and damage.
  • [Top Quality Material] Soft roof rack for crossbar with foam padding made from nonslip material to protects boards, boat, and your vehicles exterior from damage. 30 inch length fits most stand-up paddle boards, surf boards and fishing kayaks.
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8.8
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Timilge Roof Rack Pads 30

Timilge Roof Rack Pads 30" Universal Crossbar Soft Pads for Skiboard Surfboard Canoe Snowboard Kayak SUP Ladder with 15Ft Tie Down Straps and Storage Bag(1 Pair)

by Timilge
What We like

Foldable & Convenient -- You can fully tighten the convenient and flexible strap and then buckle it, fit tightly around the car, easy to use, no tools required. It is lightweight and compact for easy storage, supplied with handy storage bag to conveniently pack away in a vehicles boot.

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Product Features

  • Protection and Anti-slip Design -- 2 Pieces/Set. Accessories include 2 tie down straps with padded cam locks(15ft)/2 quick lop straps/2 tie-down ropes(15ft).padded cam locks provide secure gripping for your load,tie-down rope help to attach the soft rack to carensure that your boards will not slip or move around during transit, helps keep your gear in place.
  • Wide Application -- Using it alone can protect your car's roof from scratches. When used with a luggage rack, it can effectively avoid abrasion and scratches between the crossbar and the equipment, and at the same time extend the service life of both. Can be used to carry skis surfboard canoe snowboard ladder and kayak.
  • Universal Fit -- This soft roof rack pads is works on almost any type of vehicle. It can be used alone on cars without rails/gutters or can be used with luggage racks on cars with rails/gutters. soft roof rack maximum weight will carry up to 176lbs.
  • High Quality Materials -- The soft roof rack pad is made of top grade EVA foam and is secured by a weather proof oxford sleeve,fix tightly to reduce wind noise,soft materials can avoid scratches or scuffs on the vehicle.EVA foam effectively reduces vibration during transportation.
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8.1
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Alfa Gear No Color Fading No Scratch Crossbar Pads for Kayak/Canoe/SUP/Knee Board/Surfboard/Ladders with Hood & Trunk and Ratchet tie Down Rope Size 34

Alfa Gear No Color Fading No Scratch Crossbar Pads for Kayak/Canoe/SUP/Knee Board/Surfboard/Ladders Hood with & Trunk and Ratchet tie Down Rope Size 34" Narrow Version

by Alfa Gear
What We like

How to choose the right size for your Crossbar? General idea is Flat and Narrow Version is suitable for most of Flat, Oval, Aero, Square shape standard crossbar Wide Version is more suitable for large, Thick and Round Crossbars, this will easy to move around on a flat and standard crossbar Pls feel free to let us know before you return of the products. We will send you the right size for you

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Product Features

  • 2 pcs 16.4 ft long 1/4" Ratchet tie down polypropylene heavy duty ropes, help to securing the front and end of your gears on rooftop. This can be use for tarp, tent or clothing thread for outdoor camping. 2 pcs of 1.5" wide 15ft long Lashing Tie down straps with 1200 lbs capacity of breaking strength.
  • Best car-topping stuff for SUP's and Kayaker's,suitable for the Flat,Areo,and Oval Standard size Crossbar Not the Large and Thick CrossbarRacks.Adjustable Soft roof rack pad to cover the length 34"
  • Tips on How to reduce the Humming Noise from car top Tie Down straps.Twist one half of the straps to make an aerodynamic shape to avoid the vibration of car top tie down straps. Not over twisted and Not flat, this is the tricky to avoid Humming noise.
  • No color fading fabric, UV treat Fabric help to keep the fabric in original Black color. Extra Anti slip backing and super strong Loop and Hooks construction, help to keep the bar pads stay in the place, it will not easily move around like others
  • Extra large Storage bag is offered, we recommended to put the crossbar pads and tie down strap in the storage bag, if you did not go out for Kayaking/Boating/Skiing, this will help you protect your rack pads for a longer usage.
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7.2
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COR Surf Aero Roof Rack Pads for Paddleboard, Kayak, Surfboards | Crossbar Rack Pads for Wide Style Bars (19 inch, 1 Pair)

COR Surf Aero Roof Rack for Pads Paddleboard, Kayak, Surfboards

by COR Surf
What We like

Specifications of the COR Surf Aero Roof Rack Pads: 2 in a set; fit large aero (flat bar) crossbar racks 5.5" - 8.0" (14 - 20cm) bar circumference; suitable for Thule, Yakima, Rhino roof racks; black

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Product Features

  • Exceptional Durability and Fade Resistant: Our cross-bar car rack pads have high density foam wrapped in 600D Oxford fabric with a PVC - UV protecting coating so they wont fade in the sun. We developed our heavy-duty polyester fabric that's exceptionally durable and waterproof. Premium equipment protection and cushioning is balanced with long-lasting functionality.
  • Keep your cargo secured: COR Surf aero roof rack crossbar pads make getting your surfboard, paddleboard, kayak or canoe effortlessly and quietly while driving out to your spot.
  • Reduced Noise and Better Gas Mileage: our foam kayak blocks pads only have foam padding on top that come in a pre-formed shape, so it's easy for them to fit snugly around the vehicle crossbar rack. Since they dont wrap all the way around your crossbars, it reduces wind noise and helps improve your gas mileage.
  • Easy to Use: our paddleboard roof rack pads come with super strong velcro fastenings for a firm grip and fast, convenient installation. You can be driving at any speed and still be assured that the pads and your gear will still stay in place. Just wrap around your cross-bars are youre ready to go!
9
7.2
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Yakima - CrossBar Pads, Secure and Protect Boats and Boards from Damage, Round 30 inch

Yakima

by YAKIMA
What We like

Fits Yakima CoreBar and JetStream crossbars, factory crossbars and most other aerodynamic crossbars

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Product Features

  • Foam padding protects boards and boats from damage
  • Anti-slip material helps keep your gear in place
  • 30" width fits most SUPs and fishing kayaks
  • Sectioned Velcro attachments fit easily around roof rack towers and accessories
10
7.2
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Round Roof Rack Pads Crossbar Surfboard Longboard Kayak SUP Surf for Round or Square Cross Bars (19

COR Surf Round Roof Rack Pads Crossbar Surfboard Longboard SUP Kayak Surf for Round or Square Cross Bars (19")

by COR Surf
What We like

Choose from 2 Sizes: Long 28" or Short 19" to provide a soft landing on your fixed crossbars for Surfboards, SUPs and Kayaks [set of 2 roof rack pads]

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Product Features

  • COR Surf Car Rack Pads are perfect for surfboards, paddleboards, kayaks and canoes! Designed to Fit Round or Square Roof Rack Crossbars
  • Durable Kayak and Surf Car Rack Pads. The set of two paddle board rack pads features high density foam wrapped in 600D Oxford fabric, a hard-wearing polyester fabric that's extremely durable and waterproof, so quality equipment protection and cushioning is balanced with long-lasting functionality.
  • Fits All standard round and square fixed crossbars [not compatible with oval / aero style crossbars]
  • Versatile Usage: Cor Surf roof rack pads fit all round and square bars. EASY for you to quickly fit the surfboard rack pads snugly around your vehicle crossbar rack.

Cross Bar Pads - A History of Durability and Convenience

For decades, adventurers have been tying their kayaks, surfboards, and other outdoor equipment to the tops of their vehicles, often relying on makeshift and unstable means. This was until the invention of the cross bar pad.

The early versions of cross bar pads were made of simple foam and lacked durability. They were prone to wear and tear and would quickly degrade in the sun's rays. However, as the popularity of outdoor sports grew, manufacturers began to see the need for sturdier and more durable roof rack pads.

In the 1990s, the first cross bar pads made from high-density foam wrapped in nylon fabric hit the market. These pads were a vast improvement and offered significant protection and cushioning for outdoor equipment being transported on vehicles.

As the demand for cross bar pads increased, manufacturers began to develop newer and more advanced materials with superior durability and resistance to fading in the sun. One such material was PVC-coated polyester, which proved to be more resistant to weather, UV rays, and general wear and tear. This innovation helped to make cross bar pads even more long-lasting and reliable.

Today, cross bar pads are made from a variety of materials, each with different features and benefits. Some of the most popular materials include high-density foam, nylon fabric, PVC-coated polyester, and EVA foam.

Further advancements in the design of cross bar pads have included the development of super strong velcro fasteners, making installation even easier, and pre-formed foam shapes that help to reduce wind noise and improve gas mileage by not wrapping all the way around the vehicle crossbar rack.

Nowadays, cross bar pads are a necessary and essential accessory for outdoor sports enthusiasts. They provide protection, cushioning and ease of use as well as noise reduction and help improve gas mileage. Whether you are an avid kayaker, surfer or paddleboarder, cross bar pads are the perfect addition to your gear, making transporting your equipment safe and hassle-free.

As a Sports & Outdoors expert in the Cycling Equipment niche, I have analyzed the product description above and identified several key decision-making factors that are essential for customers to consider when choosing cross-bar car roof rack pads. These factors are durability, ease of use, compatibility, noise reduction, and gas mileage improvement.

Durability: Durability is a crucial factor to consider when choosing cross-bar car roof rack pads. The pads are exposed to harsh weather conditions and need to withstand the pressure and weight of the equipment being transported. The product description assures that the pads are made of high-quality materials, such as high-density foam wrapped in heavy-duty 600D Oxford fabric or PVC with UV protection coating. These materials are extra durable and waterproof, providing long-lasting functionality and equipment protection. Customers can be confident that their gear is safe during transport, and the pads will not wear out quickly.

Ease of Use: Another essential factor to consider is ease of use. Customers want products that are easy to install and use because they want to save time and energy. The product description highlights that the surfboard, kayak, and paddleboard roof rack pads come with super-strong velcro fasteners that allow for a firm grip and fast, convenient installation. Customers can wrap the pads around their existing cross-bars, and they are ready to go. Additionally, there is no need to remove the pads when not in use, further simplifying the process.

Compatibility: Compatibility is a vital factor when choosing cross-bar car roof rack pads. Customers need to consider whether the pads fit their custom wide and narrow factory size crossbars and are compatible with Thule and Yakima Aero style crossbars. The product description assures customers that the sets include two rack pads that fit most crossbars, providing versatility and convenience.

Noise Reduction: Noise reduction is a crucial factor that customers need to consider when selecting cross-bar car roof rack pads. The product description emphasizes that the patented foam kayak blocks pads only have foam padding on top and have a pre-formed shape, making them easy to fit tightly around the vehicle crossbar rack. The pads do not wrap all the way around the crossbars, reducing wind noise during transport. This feature ensures that the pads do not make noise and provide a comfortable and peaceful drive to customers.

Gas Mileage Improvement: Gas mileage improvements are significant for customers who want to save on fuel costs. The product description highlights that the pads' design helps improve gas mileage by reducing wind noise and air resistance during transport. This feature ensures that customers can enjoy fuel-efficient and cost-effective travel.

In conclusion, customers need to consider several essential factors when selecting cross-bar car roof rack pads. These include durability, ease of use, compatibility, noise reduction, and gas mileage improvement. Customers can be confident in their selection by choosing products that meet their specific needs and requirements.

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