So what you’re looking for in a good surfboard travel rack would have to be “no movement,” and that is what I’ve found the Curve Lockdown racks deliver.
Many times the slogans and claims of surf companies are suspect. For example, take a look at this one from Curve: “Quite simply the strongest, simplest and most protective soft racks you can buy.” This begs the following questions.
Are the Curve Lockdown racks strong?
The 900D PU coated water resistant fabric, zinc plated spring loaded lock, and solid steel load hook not only look tough but (during my trial test) have also been hanging tough for over three months of almost constant use. I generally load three boards (one being a large 9 ft. Supersoft for my kids), and the Curve Lockdown is showing no sign of wear. According to their website, the Lockdown is suitable for 1-6 surfboards.
Are the Curve Lockdown Racks simple?
The Lockdown racks are super simple. There are literally four steps to loading and securing your boards. Lay your racks on the roof; feed the strap through the lock; place your board into the padded strap; then pull tight.
Are the Curve Lockdown Racks protective?
This is where I see the biggest advantage to the Lockdown. The 25mm foam padding protects surfboard rails by not only enveloping them in padding, but also by tightening around all sides of the surfboard. There is a downward force that secures your boards like no other rack I have tried.
So in summary, the Curve Lockdown surfboard racks are solid and live up to the company’s claims. At about $50, they are a tad pricier than some of the lesser quality racks. However, based on my several month trial, I would say that they are worth the extra coin.
