[Paddlewise] Roof Racks

I'm guilty.  For a few years, I totally ignored the roof rack
discussions because I'm a die hard truck owner, and I build racks from
steel pipe that carry my boats, lumber, extension ladders, and a lot of
sailboat fuel.

Well, I now find myself in a not so "die hard" position where I'm
considering putting a rack on a car, probably the new Mazda 3 hatchback.
But, I have no knowledge of roof racks.

What do you folks use and how do you like it?  I'd also like to hear
about things you DON'T LIKE so I have a better sense of what to steer
clear of.  I know opinion plays into this a lot, but if a lot of folks
have the same opinion, then that clearly speaks volumes.

The rack would be used for 1-4 boats traveling short distances (2-20
miles), and maybe once or twice a year, 1-2 boats for distances up to
about 1500 miles.

I'm 5'9" with good flexibility and physically fit, so the issue of
lifting a boat up into a cradle would not be an issue for the most part.

I do know enough to tie the bow and stern down to the actual car, and
not just rely on the cradle and rack.  Other than that, what can you
tell me????  Best Brands?  Features?  Etc?

Thanks,

Rick
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