common Question

How much do Roof Racks cost?

As a roof racks retailer, this is a question we’re asked all the time, but there’s no single, tidy answer. The good news is that you can break the cost down into a few clear categories that make it much easier to estimate the overall expense.

At Roof Racks Calgary, we like to start with one simple question — what does your roof already have on it?

What’s on Your Roof?

Navagate To:

• Naked Roof or Fixed Points
• Flush Rails
• Raised Rails
• Pre-Existing Cross Bars
• Truck Bed & Canopy

Vehicle roof types generally fall into the above categories. Each of these styles requires a slightly different solution, which affects price. So let's get into what each category is and how many components are required to build your adventuring set up.

Naked Roof or Fixed Points

A naked roof has no rails or bars installed from the factory - it's exactly what it sounds like. Fixed points are similar, though they include designated mounting points hidden under trim or covers.

Most naked roof systems require three components:

• A fit kit (specific to your vehicle)
• A foot pack
• Load bars / cross bars

There are also some more temporary, out-of-the-box options available. These tend to be best suited for lighter loads and less frequent use.

Price Range:
$199 – $740 + GST

Rack Options for Naked Roofs or Fixed Points

• $ – Malone Versa Rail
• $$ – Thule Square Bar
• $$$ – Thule Wing Bar Evo

Flush Rails

Flush rails run front to back along the roof, but sit tight against it. Like naked roofs, these setups usually require three components:

• A fit kit (specific to your vehicle)
• A foot pack
• Load bars / cross bars

Note: Some flush rail systems require fixed point fitting. The pricing, however, is more or less the same.

Price Range:
$485 – $740 + GST

Rack Options for Flush Rails

• $ – Thule Square Bar
• $$ – Thule Wing Bar Evo
• $$$ –Thule Aeroblade Edge

Raised Rails

Raised rails are rails that run front to back with visible space between the rail and the roof. This setup offers the most flexibility and is often the most cost-effective.

Why? Because raised rail systems are quite universal and typically require only one or two components.

Price Range:
$189 – $530 + GST

Rack Options for Raised Rails

• $ – Malone Airflow 2
• $$ – Thule Wing Bar Evo
• $$$ – Thule Aeroblade Edge

Pre-Existing Cross Bars

Some vehicles come from the factory with cross bars already installed. If that’s you, you’re ready to add accessories like ski carriers, cargo boxes, bike racks, and more, no aftermarket cross bars required.

That said, you might still want to upgrade if:

• You need a higher weight capacity
• You want wider bars
• Your accessory requires a specific fit (the Thule Hullavator is a good example)

It’s also worth noting that some factory cross bars have significantly lower weight ratings than aftermarket options. Always check your owner’s manual or consult your vehicle dealer for limitations.

Truck Bed & Canopy Racks

While you can mount racks on the cab of a truck, many people prefer systems designed specifically for the truck bed or canopy. There are plenty of configurations available, depending on how you plan to use your pickup.

Price Range:
$320 – $1,600 + GST

Note: There are many options in this space. What’s listed below is just a small selection. If you’d like detailed advice, feel free to contact us any time. We'd be happy to help

Rack Options for Truck Beds & Canopies

Canopy

• Thule Top Tracks

Truck Bed

• Thule Xsporter Pro
• Yakima Overhaul HD

Truck Bed Extenders

• Malone Axis Bed Extender
• Malone Axis Bed Extender with Versa Rail
• Yakima LongArm Bed Extender
• Yakima LongArm Hitch-Mount Truck Bed Extender

Rain Gutters

One last note — it’s common for vans and older vehicles to have rain gutters. They prevent rain from spilling into the car, and while helpful, it can affect what roof rack you’re getting.

Fortunately, rain-gutter systems mount directly to the gutter itself and it isn’t too much more hassle than regular racks. Price-wise, they’re similar to raised rail systems. The fastening mechanism is a bit different, but they’re generally a simple two-component setup.

Summary

So there you have it, a quick(ish) breakdown of roof types, rack options, and price ranges for base rack systems. We hope this helps make sense of the choices and gives you a clearer idea of what to expect.

Our team would love to help you outfit your vehicle, or simply point you in the right direction with solid, practical advice. Feel free to contact us anytime, and thanks for checking in.