Transporting your surfboard safely requires reliable tie down straps designed to protect your board and vehicle. This guide reviews the top surfboard tie down straps available on Amazon, focusing on durability, ease of use, and overall effectiveness. Below is a quick comparison table summarizing the key aspects of the featured products.
| Product | Brand | Length | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thule 531 Express Surf Strap | Thule | Adjustable Stretchable | UV resistant webbing, looped ends for vehicle load bars |
| Ho Stevie! Surfboard Tie Down Straps (Pair) | Ho Stevie! | 15 ft | No Scratch silicone buckle covers, stackable boards capability |
| DORSAL Surfboard Kayak SUP Tie Down Straps (2-Pack) | DORSAL | 15 ft each | UV resistant nylon, triple reinforced stitching, no-scratch buckles |
| BPS ‘Magic’ Tie Down Straps for Roof Rack (2-Pack) | BPS | 15 ft each | Silicone buckle cover, bright blue buckles for visibility, recycled materials |
| DAKINE Baja Tie Down Straps 12FT | Dakine | 12 ft | Heavy duty cam buckle with neoprene housing |
Thule 531 Express Surf Strap
The Thule 531 Express Surf Strap offers a stretchable design that adjusts to secure different sized surfboards and stand-up paddleboards safely. Its webbing is strong and UV resistant, enhancing durability under sun exposure. The looped ends fasten securely around vehicle load bars, ensuring stable attachment without slipping. This strap is ideal for those who require adaptable length with a focus on protecting their gear during transit.
Ho Stevie! Surfboard Tie Down Straps (Pair)
These 15-foot Ho Stevie! straps are designed for easy use on vehicles with roof rack crossbars. Unique ‘no scratch’ silicone buckle covers protect both board and car from dents and scratches. The straps allow surfboards to be stacked, perfect for multiple boards, and work well for SUPs, kayaks, and canoes too. Their compatibility with almost any vehicle type makes them versatile and beginner-friendly alternatives.
DORSAL Surfboard Kayak SUP Surf Roof Rack Tie Down Straps
DORSAL’s 15-foot straps provide premium strength and safety. Constructed from durable UV-resistant nylon with triple reinforced stitching and heavy-duty anodized zinc alloy cam buckles, these straps can hold up to four boards or similar cargo securely. The cam buckle includes a protectant pad to prevent vehicle damage, making it a dependable choice for long-term use.
BPS ‘Magic’ Tie Down Straps for Roof Rack
BPS offers a 30mm strong webbing paired with a molded silicone buckle cover that prevents damage to surfboards and vehicles. Their bright blue buckles are designed for easy visibility and quick use in outdoor conditions, enhancing convenience when loading boards in low light or cold weather. The sustainable packaging and included carry bag add eco-friendly appeal and portability.
DAKINE Baja Tie Down Straps 12FT
The DAKINE Baja Tie Down Straps provide a reliable 12-foot length with a heavy-duty 1-3/8 inch cam buckle. The neoprene buckle housing offers extra protection to prevent scratches and damage during use. These straps integrate easily with Dakine boardbags, making them a practical solution for users who want secure transport combined with convenience in surf and travel setups.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best Surfboard Tie Down Straps
Choosing the right surfboard tie down straps involves considering several important factors for secure and damage-free transportation:
Material and Durability
UV resistance and weather-proof materials like nylon webbing help prolong strap life when used frequently under sun and water exposure. Reinforced stitching provides added strength to withstand tension during transport.
Length and Adjustability
Straps need to be long enough to accommodate multiple boards stacked or larger paddleboards. Adjustable or stretchable designs offer flexibility for different board sizes and vehicle types.
Buckle Type and Protection
Look for cam buckles with protective silicone or neoprene covers that prevent scratching of both boards and vehicles. Corrosion-resistant buckles are preferable for durability against saltwater and weather conditions.
Ease Of Use and Setup
Quick-release buckles and accessible strap ends reduce loading time and frustration, especially in cold or wet conditions. Features like Velcro loops to manage excess strap length can increase convenience and reduce wear.
Compatibility With Vehicle Roof Racks
Ensure the straps have looped ends or designs that fasten securely around your vehicle’s roof rack, crossbars, or load bars for stability. Some straps are versatile for any vehicle with existing racks, while others may have specific fitting preferences.
Additional Features
Some straps include storage bags for easy transportation and eco-friendly packaging. Brightly colored buckles improve visibility, and stackability supports transporting multiple boards safely.
By weighing these features carefully, you can select tie down straps that provide maximum security, protect your surfboards, and offer ease of use for every trip to the water.