Best Ford F150 Roof Rack

How to Find the Best Ford F150 Roof Rack

Finding the perfect roof rack may be a challenge. There are many options to choose from and they may overwhelm you. A Ford F150 roof rack isn’t something you should buy on the fly. There are some factors you need to consider to make an informed decision when looking for the best Ford F150 roof rack.

Some of the things you need to consider are the load capacity, design, color, and so forth. Compatibility is something else you need to factor in. With all these features, it’s not easy for someone unfamiliar with roof racks to get a good one. If you are in such a predicament, read on to know everything about Ford 150 roof racks.

Our Top Ford 150 Roof Racks Picks

There are many Ford 150 roof racks available in the market. Some are of great quality while others are designed more for aesthetics than carrying extra luggage. If you are looking for one, check out our list of the top roof racks for the F150.

We thoroughly researched seller websites, F150 fans pages, and reviews from current users to compile a comprehensive list of the best roof racks for the F150.

Traveler Cross Bar Roof Rack

Traveler Cross Bar Roof Rack

If you want one of the best solutions to enhance your F150’s cargo carrying capacity, check out the Traveler Black Cross Bar roof rack. It’s a sturdy 60-inch load bar designed to keep your longer items and cargo secure on the truck’s roof. Additionally, the product is designed specifically for vehicles without gutters or roof rails.

When it comes to construction, the rack features high-quality aluminum construction. Although it’s lightweight, users have stated it has long-lasting functionality. The product is available in a bold and black powder-coated finish designed to protect it from corrosion, abrasion, and other damages.

Such features make it a great option, especially for off-road enthusiasts. For extra security, the rail clamps have anti-theft key locks.

Designed for the 2015 – 2022 F150, it fits your truck using a hassle and drill-free installation. You need basic hand tools and light mechanical skills to install the product.

Pros

  • Lightweight anodized aluminum construction
  • Direct bolt-on installation
  • Premium black powder-coated finish
  • Rail clamp with anti-theft key locks
  • Great for longer items

Cons

  • Not for all F150 models

Surco Urban Roof Rack

surco urban roof rack ford f150

The first thing you notice is the 250 square inches you get on your roof. Furthermore, the smart design offers ample space to secure your cargo to prevent the cargo from making a premature exit.

The product’s construction is a result of high-quality aluminum. It has been sprayed with a durable black powder-coat finish. This gives you an attractive finish and lasting toughness for years to come. There is a 4-inch deep basket to make sure your cargo is firmly slotted into place.

You will notice that the package includes two crossbars. It means you don’t have to get special attachments for accessories such as a jack mount or spare tire mount. The crossbars are sold as part of the package meaning you don’t incur additional costs.

Installation is a breeze considering it’s a quick bolt-on affair. Owners have stated that with a few hand tools you should be able to install the product in an hour.

Pros

  • Wide slots for hooks and tie-downs
  • Crossbars included
  • 4-inch deep basket
  • Black powder coat finish
  • Fits all 1997 – 2022 Ford F150 models

Cons

  • Requires Surco’s roof rails and channel adapter

Surco Urban Roof Rack | Amazon
$422.30

From Roof Racks to Deck Racks, RV and Van Ladders to Bike Racks, Surco has been manufacturing rugged, high-quality accessories for cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and RVs that increase your vehicle's versatility, helping you get more gear to your next adventure or worksite, right here in America.

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02/18/2024 04:52 am GMT

Smittybilt Defender Roof Rack

Smittybilt Defender Roof Rack ford f150

For starters, the rack features an aerodynamic styling that adds to the aesthetics of your truck. The rack has a carrying capacity of 150 lbs. Even weight distribution is possible thanks to the 2 rear and 4 front welded light tabs combined with the integrated flooring style.

The Defender from Smittybilt is manufactured using top-notch fully welded 1-inch steel tubing. This results in unparalleled rigidity and strength. Additional protection against corrosion is thanks to the black powder-coated external finish.

The design ensures it can fit in any F150 roof as long as you get the mounting kit that is sold separately. You will not need additional drilling when you get the mounting kit. Warranty is limited on manufacturing defects with the finish having a 5-year limited warranty.

Pros

  • 2 rear and 4 front welded light tabs
  • Integrated flooring styling with aerodynamic design
  • 16 gauge fully welded 1-inch steel tubing
  • Several mounting locations for convenient attachment
  • Black textured powder-coated finish

Cons

  • Installation requires a separately sold roof rack mounting kit

Smittybilt Defender Roof Rack | Amazon

Smittybilt has the answers to all your storage and cargo needs. The Smittybilt Defender Platform Rack maximizes your cargo carrying capabilities while boasting aerodynamic styling that complements today's vehicles.

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SeaSucker Monkey Bars

Seasucker SX6150B Monkey Bars

One of the rack systems designed to fit a Ford 150 is SeaSucker Monkey bars. The first thing you note is it doesn’t need to be adjusted to fit the roof of your truck. It’s a dual-bar system with stellar reviews from people who have or are using it.

You can use it to carry any gear from surfboards to skis. The design is impressively versatile allowing you to mount it on any type of roof including glass. There are 6-inch vacuum cups that come with the package to make installation easy. Pressing the pump on each cup a few times gets the job done.

The product is corrosion-resistant and durable. It’s because the aluminum crossbars have a silver powder coat finish.

Pros

  • Fully compatible with the F150
  • Zero adjustments required during installation
  • Compatible with any type of roof
  • 6-inch vacuum cups for easy installation
  • Crossbars with a corrosion-resistant silver powder finish

Cons

  • Not recommended for carrying heavy loads

SeaSucker Monkey Bars | Amazon

The SeaSucker one-size-fits-all roof rack system is designed for extreme versatility & portability.

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AA-Racks Model X202-TR

AA-Racks Model X202-TR ford f150

This is a great option for the F150. It comes with two color options namely glossy white or glossy black. The design is a single crossbar developed to carry a variety of items. Heavy gauge steel is the material used to make this roof rack. This means it can carry heavy loads of up to 300 lbs.

To prevent corrosion, the crossbar is powder-coated and measures 72 inches. Additionally, the manufacturer used stainless steel to ensure you don’t have to worry when you use it on long drives.

The product comes ready to install. You don’t need to consult a professional as you can get an installation guide to help you out. It’s durable considering the pair of ladder stoppers, nuts, washers, and bolts are made with stainless steel.

Pros

  • 2 color options
  • A load capacity of up to 300 pounds
  • Easy to install
  • Made using stainless steel
  • Measures 72 inches

Cons

  • Pricey

Rhino-Rack Vortex 2500

Rhino-Rack Vortex 2500

The Vortex 2500 was specifically designed for the 2015 and 2016 Ford F150. If you have one of these models, you should consider getting this rack. There are a lot of perks of getting a product specifically designed for your vehicle’s make and model. For example, you will never worry about installation or fit.

Apart from being stylish, the roof rack compliments most models of F150. Being strong and durable, you can expect to use it for many years. Additionally, it reduces the amount of wind noise making them comfortable to use for long distances.

The rack sits approximately 35 mm above rails. This means it’s ideal for people looking for low clearance. Go for it if you like these features.

Pros

  • Reduces the amount of wind noise
  • Fits and compliments most F150 models
  • One of the most stylish options in the market
  • Great installation and fit

Cons

  • Not easy to find in common online vehicle part stores

Rhino-Rack USA JA2741 2500 Multi Fit Vortex Aero Roof Rack System

Made from strong lightweight material. Designed for the everyday traveler or tradesman. Quick and easy installation. Includes pad and clamps.

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MaxxHaul 70115

MaxxHaul

The MaxxHaul 70115 offers you cargo space with a 150-pound weight limit. It comes with simple U-bolts you use to attach the crossbars to the roof of your vehicle.

It comes with a rust-resistant finish to allow you to travel anywhere without worrying about the elements or the weather conditions. Damage to your truck’s exterior is prevented by the protective caps on the U-bolts. Weighing 25 pounds and measuring 46 x 36 by 4 ½ inches, this is a good choice for the F150.

Pros

  • Rust-resistant finish
  • U-bolts with protective caps
  • Lightweight (only 25 pounds)
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Not recommended for loads exceeding 150 pounds

MaxxHaul 70115 | Amazon
$109.99

MaxxHaul roof rack is constructed from durable rugged steel with a powder coat finish. 

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02/18/2024 03:28 pm GMT

Pro-Series HTVANRK

Pro-Series HTVANRK 500 lbs. Capacity Multi-Use Van Rack

If you want to haul heavy loads on the roof of your F150, then go for this model. It’s a real beast considering its load capacity is a whopping 500 pounds. This means it can carry most loads used by people in various professions such as the plumbing, construction, and technical industries.

You will notice it has wide and tough crossbar uprights. They spread the load evenly on your vehicle’s roof to avoid damaging the roof. The Pro-Series HTVANRK is made more secure by using rope hooks on each upright. This also makes securing your load easier.

Considering it attaches to your truck’s rain gutter means installation is a breeze. You get to choose from three height settings. It means you can adjust the height to suit any load you want to carry. Adjustments are between 56inches and 77 inches. Lastly, it’s resistant to rust, scratches, and all types of weather conditions.

Pros

  • Amazing 500-pound load capacity
  • Crossbar uprights spread the load evenly on the roof
  • Easy to install
  • Choose from 3 height settings
  • Resistant to rust and extreme weather conditions

Cons

  • Pricey

Ford F150 Roof Rack Buying Guide

The above roof racks fit different models of the F150. If you didn’t find that meets your preferences, check out our buying guide below. It gives you details on the considerations you should make before you purchase a Ford F150 roof rack.

The Fit

The most crucial thing to consider is the fit of the roof rack. Even some products have modular components, the model and year of your vehicle determine the options you get. Some brands have a solution or two for the F150. Others have a variety of choices from the greatest and latest rack to those that are currently discontinued.

How About Cost?

Once you have known the fit, the next step is knowing your budget. Some stores try to stock used or return items at lower price points. From such sites, you can get an F150 roof rack at amazingly low prices. These stores also have options of new racks to let you have a variety of price points to choose from.

Make sure you check out the reputation of the store before you buy any product. You can do this by checking out reviews and ratings by people who have shopped in the store. You also get insight into the highest quality racks and information on what to expect when you purchase.

The price of a base brand and model depends on whether you want new, used, or aerodynamic profiles. You can find racks going for about $150 for a used one for older models. The price goes higher the newer the model of our vehicle and the newer the rack.

What Will You Carry?

Some people buy roof racks because they want to install some specific mounts on them. For example, some people get them purposely to install cargo boxes, kayak carriers, and bike rack mounts.

You will notice that some products are compatible with several crossbar types. Others need you to get adapters that you buy separately. Once you figure out what you want to carry, you can narrow down the options you have.

Materials

The materials used to make a roof rack determine how durable and strong the product will be. For starters, polyester/foam or soft neoprene racks are easy to use and extremely light. They should only be used for lighter gear. Aluminum is strong and light, and it can be rust-resistant when it’s powder-coated. Steel is the strongest material, but it can rust and is heavy.

Ropes and Straps

The durability and strength of ropes and straps are determined by the material used to make them. Nylon is lightweight and thin. On the downside, it won’t last as long as high-quality polypropylene tie-downs.

Bungee or rubber straps are used to secure gear inside your truck. This means you should not use them on your roof rack as they may get loose and send your cargo flying off while you drive. The best straps and ropes are polypropylene. They can handle high tension to ensure your gear is secured properly.

Storage

Consider a cargo carrier or a basket if you plan on getting more storage space for your luggage or camping gear. For the cargo carrier, get one that’s weatherproof and lockable. A basket is great as you can attach it to the roof rack and pack odd-shaped and/or smaller items with plenty of tie-down points.

Restraints

Anything you place on your roof rack needs to be properly secured to prevent injuries and accidents. Restraints secure everything to your roof rack to prevent any mishaps. The types available include, but are not limited to, fuel canister holders, tool and shovel holders, spare tire, and gas bottle restraints.

To safely secure the heaviest or lightest loads, you can use cable locks, cargo nets, shackles and chains, elastic straps or bungee cord, ratchet straps, or tie downs.

Aesthetics

Everyone has their specific preferences. Some love square crossbars while others prefer round ones. Figure out if you need extra height or you want it as low-profile as possible. Colors are another thing to consider.

All rack manufacturers have their style and color choices. Check out all the styles available before you make a final decision.

roof rack

Ford F150 Roof Rack FAQs=

Question: Is Fuel Consumption Affected by Roof Racks?

Answer: Yes. In some tests on F150, there were indications that a roof rack impacts approximately 2% of the fuel consumption. This means if you are installing the rack for looks and not functionality, know your MPG will be affected.

Question: Do Ford F150 Roof Racks Damage Your Truck?

Answer: As long as it’s properly fitted, it will not damage your truck. Overloaded, badly fitted, under tightened, and over tightened roof racks can damage your vehicle.

Question: Is there a Difference Between Roof Bars and Roof Racks?

Answer: Roof bars run across your F150’s roof. They are rail mounted, mounted to factory-fitted fix points, or clamp mounted. Roof rails run from the front to the rear of the roof and are found on both sides of the roof.

Question: What Items Can I Carry On my Roof Rack?

Answer: There is a variety of items you can carry on your roof. You can carry anything from surfboards to bikes. The cargo you can carry is determined by the load capacity of the rack and compatibility to haul the said cargo.

Bottom Line

Finding the best Ford F150 roof rack is not a challenge as long as you know how to go about it. Check out our list of the most popular F150 roof racks according to past and current owners. The list gives you insight into the different types and the model of F150 they are best suited for.

If you didn’t find anything you like, don’t worry we got you covered. Check out our buying guide and look at the various factors you need to consider when buying an F150 roof rack. Use all this information to ensure you get the best Ford F150 roof rack to suit your needs.

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