Is a soft surfboard rack ACTUALLY safe?

Question

I want to buy a soft surfboard rack but was questioning whethere its safe or not. I have an '05 Altima and want to place an 8'2'' board on the rack. What should be the top speed i go and how far can i travel with it. Is going 85 miles an hour for 4 hours ok?

Answer 1

If you install them as directed, and take care putting your boards on, you will be fine. 85 is a tad fast with any kind of rack load, however. Don't forget, going too fast with a rack load burns up LOTS of gas because the aerodynamics of the vehicle are skewed (drag from the rack load).

Answer 2

when traveling with boards i try to keep it at 70 or under no matter what type of rack im using.  soft racks are not as good as hard racks, but if properly installed they work.  if you have no other option go with a soft rack, just make sure that its good and tight.  the damage to a board comes when it starts to be able to move and bang around.  you can go as far as you like, just make sure to check your boards every time you stop for gas or if you start to hear any sounds coming from above.  have a fun trip