It's not a challenge... Don't go and buy a 20m long set of tiedowns and start stacking boards on the daily drive. But what's your verdict on what's safe to put on a roof? 

For most stand up paddlers out there, it's not really a problem. We see cars on the highway with one or two boards all the time. It's when 4 and 5 boards start piling up that things get crazy. So apart from hitching up a trailer, what's the best way to stack boards on the roof? 

There's a stack (excuse the pun) of ways to do it, but the most popular way is to make one or two stacks, with the boards upside down and the noses to the front of the car. That way, air gets deflected up and over the car, effectively pushing the boards down onto the roof. In theory, the boards will create their own little air pocket and become quite streamlined when you're going down the highway, but there is a limit. Most people say 4 boards is the absolute max, especially if you're leaving the fins on. 

Adding padding between the boards is also a great idea, but be careful not to use anything too bulky. Pool noodles are great when placed across the boards, as are chunks of polystyrene. When it comes to the actual strapping, there's also a few methods. One guy reckon's it's best to strap the boards down in twos, that way if you lose one set of straps, it's only two boards on top that you lose, and two are still on the car. Sucks to be the car behind, but at least two of your babies are safe! Others reckon that putting the straps through the doors (when the doors are open) and under the roof is a safer way of strapping them down. 

All we know for sure, is that whatever you tie on the roof, expect it to come off at some point in time. With that in mind, you're probably going to strap it down a little better! If you're after some inspiration, or you've got some crazy photo's of a car full of stand up paddle boards, post them here in the Seabreeze.com.au stand up paddling forums. 

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