Yakima 'Foam Blocks' Rack

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” my dad used to say when I’d pester him to get a real rack instead of the homemade 2×4 eyesore we had U-bolted to the top of our family wagon. It was years before I saw the wisdom in dad’s ways. Now, there’s a lot to be said for a simple, yet functional solution. Apparently that is what the folks at Yakima think as well. The company’s Foam Blocks rack system is available for the cost of a cheap date ($35).

The Foam Block solution continues to be a popular choice for penny-pinchers and lovers of minimal gear. They are available for roofs with or without an existing rack, feature anti-slip pads, and come with a mesh storage bag. Simple and easy.

For something a little more substantial, Yakima has just released the EvenKeel attachment system. It is designed to conform to differing hull shapes, comes with straps, and tie-downs, and offers security options if desired. The EvenKeel retails for $99 and fits round, square and most factory crossbars. I think even dad could get behind that.

—T.C. Worley