roof rack question

[gosobohemia]

just bought a 2013 Rav4 w/ the roof rack, havent had the board on it yet.  the bars on it are arched & I was wondering how much of a problem that might be?  I have pads that will make up for some of it but I'd hate to do anything to damage the board.  anybody else had this issue?

[14 West]

Despite what a lot of people do, you shouldn't (and don't need to) really be clamping the board down enough to run the risk of damaging it, just enough to snug things up so they won't move around such that friction takes over and the board isn't going anywhere. Ever noticed how when you undo a strap you often can't just pull the thing out? The wind pushes board up against straps, not down against the rack which adds to that effect. If you are really worried, go fins first.

[AJR]

No problems on my 2006 Rav.  I agree - don't overtighten; you'll possibly crunch your board rails.

I rarely use the rack - take the passenger headrest off and put the board inside...  A 9x30 board fits easily.