The Surfboard Racks Blog

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Ocean and Earth is probably one of the most recognized companies in the world of surfing. They have just about everything an enthusiastic surfer could ask for. From surfboard pads to wax, from surfboard bags to clothing, they pretty much have it all. That being said they also have, one of our favorite racks, the ocean and earth rap rax surfboard system. The Rap Rax system is very similar to the block surf single surfboard rack mentioned above. Both systems utilized a two strap system that goes through your car doors, front and back, which is then tightened. Once this is in place, you then place your surfboard onto the pad and then use the other straps to secure in place. Both systems also incorporate the quick cam buckle system. This mean as you pull the strap through the buckle, it will not go back the other way unless you press in on the buckle to release the locking mechanism. These is much faster and easier than some of the old school ratcheting systems and makes both, loading and unloading, a heck of a lot faster. Speed here is strictly up to the user.

Both Block Surf and Ocean and Earth rack systems are very effective for keeping your surfboard, or whatever board you have, in place on your vehicle. However, the Ocean and Earth has a convenient velcro strap you can use to bundle up the excess strap and keep from blowing in the wind. Block Surf recommends this can be achieved by just placing the excess strap in the car and shutting the door. While I usually like to excess strap inside the car, do to annoying wind noise the velcro straps works pretty effective as well. Most wind noise comes from taunt  straps that vibrate in the wind. The velcro strap helps to keep this down to a minimum. You will obviously have more excess strap with the less you carry on your racks. A maximum of three for each.

Judging the two side by side I think the Ocean and Earth strap seems also made a little better. I also like the carrying case for the ocean and earth, compared to the block surf, as it incorporates side air holes to help dry the rack faster after you use it with wet gear. I suppose if you don’t use the carrying bags for either, then this shouldn’t be a problem either way. Most of the time I just leave them in the back seat any way.

ocean and earth rap rax

In conclusion, if you are willing to spend the extra 6 – 7 bucks, go with the Ocean and Earth Rap Rax system over the Block Surf. Especially if you will be using these racks on a regular basis. But as for time and speed it takes to set up both racks work just fine. However, if your strapped for cash you seriously can’t go wrong with the block surf. I have had mine for years and have never had an issue.

If you also looking to carry more than three boards, both Block Surf and Ocean and Earth have double systems, to pads per main strap, which allow you to carry a total of six boards. I suggest buying these for your friends so they can carry your surfboards around too.

To learn more about this rack system and to see more images just click on the image above.

Technorati Tags: surf racks, surfboard racks

Need extra space? If you live in a apartment or somewhere with limited space, a ceiling surfboard rack is an awesome idea. Here are a few to get you pointed in the right direction.

T-Rax Ceiling Surfboard Racks are made of aluminum with a black satin brushed finish.  All hardware for mounting your racks is included.   No worries about scratching your boards, the racks are covered with quality foam padding.  They come in one board racks for $100 through to three boards for $120.  Here is what they look like.

Another novel idea is the Surfboard Wall or ceiling sling. It’s a practical method of storing or displaying your board.  Where other wall racks will jut out, if you are pressed for space, the sling will fits nice and snug against a wall and anyone can install it. It consists of two straps and two good sized screws to affix it to the ceiling.  Priced at around $10, if you tight on space and tight on cash – this could be what you are looking for. Here is what a sling looks like, this particular one can be purchased on Amazon.

The ceiling rack for surfboards, by Gatekeeper, is a nice neat modular design and will hold two surfboards or more.  The ceiling rack will store your boards in a horizontal position, and you can access your boards from each side, rather than having to slide them out.  The unit simply bolts together and you can add more racks as required, depending on space. If you have a high ceiling such as an exposed beam ceiling as in a shed, you could possibly had up to 4 racks, or a total of 120lbs.  There’s plenty of space in between each rack.  A neat part of the design is the turned up ends of the rack, so you can be sure your board is not going to slip off. This is one is one of my favorites. It can be found at http://www.esurfboardracks.com/products/gatekeeper-ceiling-rack

Storing your surfboards out of the way need not be a complex issue, there’s heaps of different ways to store or display your boards that are tidy and look great. Happy Surfing.

Technorati Tags: ceiling surfboard racks, surf racks, surfboard racks