Roof Racks for Raised Roof Rails: Strong, Easy to Install & Versatile | OMAC
Raised roof rails are factory-installed rails that sit above the roofline, leaving a visible gap beneath. That clearance lets rack feet wrap and clamp around the rail for a secure, paint-safe, and tool-light installation. OMAC designs roof bars and cross bars specifically for vehicles with raised side rails to deliver high load capacity, quiet aerodynamics, and a clean, professional fit.
Shop vehicle-specific options now in the Raised Roof Rails collection. Need a different roof style? See Flush Mounted Roof Rails, Fixpoints, and Smooth/Naked Roof Racks. Complete your setup with Roof Rack Systems and Roof Rack Accessories.
What Is a Raised Roof Rail?
A raised roof rail runs parallel along the roof and is elevated above the roof skin, creating a clear gap underneath. That gap is what allows rack systems to clamp around the rail—no drilling, no contact with painted door frames, and no searching for hidden anchors. Many SUVs, crossovers, and wagons ship with raised rails specifically to support aftermarket cross bars and carriers.
Why Choose a Roof Rack for Raised Side Rails?
Easy Installation, No Drilling
- Clamp-on feet wrap the rail—no permanent mods to the body.
- Fast setup and removal; great for seasonal or occasional use.
- Paint-safe pads and rubberized interfaces protect finish.
Designed for Performance
- Aerodynamic bar profiles reduce wind noise and drag.
- Anti-theft locking options and secure end caps.
- Rated for heavy loads within vehicle limits.
Adventure & Work Ready
- Roof boxes and cargo baskets for trips and moves.
- Bike trays for cyclists.
- Ski/snowboard holders for winter gear.
- Kayak/canoe cradles for water sports.
- Trade gear: ladders, pipes, conduit.
Build yours from the Raised Roof Rails and Roof Rack Accessories collections.
Raised vs. Flush vs. Fixpoints vs. Smooth Roofs
| Roof Type | Visual Cue | Mounting Method | Pros | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raised Rails | Visible gap under rail | Feet wrap/clamp around rail | Fast installs, flexible spacing | Raised Roof Rails |
| Flush Rails | Rails sit flush with roof | Feet attach to hidden anchor points | Factory look, very quiet | Flush Mounted Rails |
| Fixpoints | Small covers near roof edge | Bolt into fixed anchors | OE-approved strength | Fixpoints |
| Smooth/Naked Roof | No rails, no mounts | Door-jamb clips | Allows racks on rail-less vehicles | Smooth/Naked Roof Racks |
Aluminum vs. Stainless Steel & T-Channels
| Option | Description | Benefits | T-Channel | Noise/Drag |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Bars | Lightweight aero-style bars | Corrosion-resistant, easy handling | Yes | Lowest |
| Stainless Steel Bars | Heavy-duty steel construction | Maximum strength, long-term durability | Varies | Low–Moderate |
Explore options in Raised Roof Rails.
Accessories & Everyday Use Cases
| Use Case | Recommended Setup | Mounting | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family travel | Roof box | T-slot/clamp | Check hatch clearance before tightening. |
| Cycling | Fork/wheel-hold bike trays | T-slot | Stagger tray positions. |
| Winter sports | Ski/snowboard mounts | T-slot | Rinse salt after trips. |
| Kayak/canoe | J-racks/saddles | Clamp/T-slot | Recheck straps after 15 minutes. |
How to Know If You Have Raised Roof Rails
- You can fit your fingers under the rail.
- Rails look lifted and run front-to-back.
- They follow the roofline and are factory-installed.
Installation Overview
- Clean and dry roof rails.
- Assemble feet and bars with approximate spacing.
- Position bars evenly on the rails.
- Clamp lightly on both sides.
- Torque evenly per instructions.
- Install locks/end caps.
- Check hatch/sunroof clearance and retorque after a short drive.
Load Planning & Safety Tips
Know Your Limits
- Follow vehicle dynamic load limits.
- Keep weight centered and low.
- Recheck straps and torque on long trips.
Drive Smarter
- Reduce speed with bulky loads.
- Mind garage and parking structure clearance.
- Remove unused carriers to reduce drag.
Care & Ownership
- Wash bars and feet with mild soap.
- Rinse hardware after winter driving.
- Check torque periodically.
- Replace worn pads or clamps.
Helpful FAQs
Do raised rails make installation easier?
Yes. The gap beneath raised rails lets rack feet clamp securely without drilling.
Will these racks damage paint?
No. Rubberized pads isolate the clamp from painted surfaces.
Which bars should I choose?
Aluminum for quiet aerodynamics and T-channels; stainless steel for heavy-duty environments.
Can I mount large cargo boxes or multiple bikes?
Yes, within vehicle load limits and with proper spacing.
How do raised rails differ from flush rails?
Raised rails allow clamp-on installs; flush rails use hidden mounts for a sleeker look.
Where can I find accessories?
Browse Roof Rack Accessories.
Final Thoughts: Flexible, User-Friendly & Adventure-Ready
Raised roof rails offer a versatile base for cargo solutions. OMAC delivers strength, aerodynamics, and model-specific fitment for reliable everyday use.