Boat Racks: 5 Considerations When Buying
Boat racks play a pivotal role in helping to secure your boat and minimize the risk of injury.
It is one of the important boat parts that you need to choose carefully in order to benefit from the right features and enjoy maximum compatibility. Here is a look at some primary considerations that you need to take into account when choosing a boat rack.
Choosing the right boat rack for your needs
Choosing the right boat rack for your needs is similar to purchasing a boat—both decisions require careful thought about your specific requirements. When buying a boat, you consider factors like price, size, type, and usage, and the same goes for your boat rack. Understanding how your boat will be used and stored can help guide you in selecting the ideal rack design. Whether you’re looking for a rack that matches the exact specifications of your boat or opting for a more versatile, universal option, your choice should align with the overall investment you’ve made in your boat.
Take a look at how your preferred boat rack is constructed
Another key consideration is to think about the type of material that has been used to construct your rack.
You have options such as stainless steel, aluminum, or anodized aluminum.
Considering the environment it will be exposed to, anodized aluminum can often be the preferred construction option as it offers the best anti-corrosion properties. You can also further enhance the aesthetic beauty and durability of your rack if you add a brushed finish.
What’s your preference, fixed or swivel?
Another choice to make is whether you opt for a fixed or swivel boat rack.
A fixed design is more affordable. It is also more limited as it remains in place. This can be problematic as it becomes a bit more challenging to retrieve your boat when you have a fixed rack.
Alternatively, a swivel rack allows you more freedom and it is often easier to load and unload your boat when you choose this option.
Finding the right solution for securing your boat
It can be a bit harder to find the ideal fit when you have a static set of racks. You can get around this with the help of adjustable-width forks.
Think about ways to secure your boat and the role that your boat rack will play. This will help you to define a clear preference.
Attachment compatibility
Last but not least, how you attach your rack is something you have to think about and get right.
You need to consider your rack’s attachment compatibility with your boat’s tower. Some racks are manufacturer-specific but you can get universal racks so that you can fit a variety of different towers.
Check whether the boat rack you are looking at will be compatible with the tower.
If you work your way through these important points and considerations you should be able to pinpoint a boat rack that is just right for your needs.