Sherpak Smart Bars Rack Bar

I bought this rack set-up on the recommendation of my kayak dealer. The price was really attractive compared to a Yakima or Thule system as well. I test fit the system on a Ford Focus and a Ford Edge. I didn't go far with the Edge as the cross bar didn't seem wide enough and the foam feet rested on the flexible roof rather than closer to the edge line where the roof is much more rigid and strong. Putting a load on the system and caving in the sheet metal was not something I was willing to risk. The feet on the Fusion were closer to the edges of the roofline but I had the same concerns, although to a lesser degree. It seems to me that the problem is that a one length fits all approach to the cross bars is the weakness in the system. You can only position the feet as far out as the bar curves. The cross bars were really heavy duty and I had no concerns regarding their load strength. I would recommend this product for certain vehicles where the fit is right. In the end I wound up going with a Yakima system as the towers mount to the strong and rigid roof edge lines.

These racks look like they wouldn't work but they do. I have carried 2 kayaks on them at 70 mph for over 100 miles with no problem. Our car did not come with roof beams and Yakima does not make towers for it. These were our best option and they have worked well.

If you're carrying light load or a small to medium kayak for example then this product is fine. Very easy to install and remove, but one detail (the connection between plastic molding and foam footing) appeared very cheaply done with just glued on velcro. As soon as I received this, I strapped both my kayaks on and drove to the beach. About 15 miles down the road one of the rear foam footings came loose bringing the metal bar down onto the car roof. Luckily the resulting scratch on the roof is barely noticeable but I'm now switching my roof rack gear to something that will grip the side of the roof and stay put when carrying a heavy load like 2 kayaks!

Works perfectly and when not needed comes off easily and quickly.does not leave marks on the car. Easily installed and removed.

The straps are not regular fiber loading straps but are a type of stinky vinyl, like a thick shower curtain. The buckle broke the first time I tried to use them. I have a Versa which is a very narrow car, but the bars were not wide enough. The were about 2 inches short of my rain gutters and caused my roof to dimple when I put them on. The metal bounced back but I didnt want to chance the posibility of a roof dent. This rack is probably fine if you have a beater car and dont mind the posibility of a roof dent. I would also say they are fine if you just need something for a single long haul or two because it does seem sturdy, the straps just dont look like they would hold up to multiple uses.

Easy to put on and take off. Worked great for me. No need to buy expensive roof racks. Also bought a the back rollers to slide my kayak on my Mazda hatchback. I'm 5ft tall and it works for me! Great price too! Suggest the roller too. Wish I bought these sooner.

These work great! I have a 2010 Honda Accord, and had no trouble installing them. I've used them to tow two kayaks many times, and have never had a problem.

Love it. Exactly what I needed. It works great and easy to install.