What are raised rails?

Raised rails run along the roof of the vehicle with a visible gap underneath the rail. They’re one of the most common roof rack mounting styles on SUVs, wagons and crossovers.

Raised rail roof racks clamp around the rail itself using vehicle-compatible foot packs and crossbars. The right setup depends on the rail size, shape and your intended use.

Raised Rail Roof Rack Features:

  • Simple fitment

    Raised rail roof racks clamp directly onto the factory rails, making them one of the simplest roof rack systems to install.

  • Strong and versatile

    Raised rail systems are ideal for carrying bikes, roof boxes, skis, kayaks and general cargo.

  • Compatible with accessories

    Most modern raised rail systems include T-track channels for mounting bike racks, ski racks and roof boxes.
thule wingbar edge 720400 raised rail roof rack kit mounted on a vehicle with a thule proride 598001 bike rack attached

Overhang or flush-fit bars?

Raised rail vehicles can often run either an overhang bar for extra usable width, or a lower-profile flush-fit setup for a cleaner look.

If you’re unsure which style is better for your vehicle, our Thule WingBar Evo vs Edge comparison guide breaks it down clearly.

Read the Evo vs Edge Comparison →

Popular raised rail roof rack fitments

Raised rails are common on many SUVs and wagons. Start with your vehicle below, or browse our full roof rack range.

Subaru Roof Racks
Toyota Roof Racks
Mazda Roof Racks
Volkswagen Roof Racks
Nissan Roof Racks

Not sure whether your vehicle has raised rails, flush rails, fixed points or a bare roof? Send us a photo or use our vehicle selector and we’ll help match the right kit.

Browse All Roof Racks →

Raised Rail Roof Racks

Raised Rail Roof Rack FAQs

Are raised rails the same as flush rails?

No. Raised rails have a visible gap underneath the rail, while flush rails sit close to the roof. They use different roof rack mounting systems, so it’s important to choose the correct fitment for your vehicle.

Do all raised rail vehicles use the same roof racks?

Not always. Rail size, shape and bar length can vary between vehicles. Always check fitment compatibility before trying to use on another vehicle.

Can I install raised rail roof racks myself?

Yes, raised rail roof rack systems are usually straightforward to install at home with basic tools. Always follow the fitting instructions for your specific system.

What can I carry on raised rail roof racks?

With the right roof rack setup, you can carry bikes, skis, snowboards, kayaks, roof boxes and general cargo. Always check the vehicle roof load rating and rack system load rating before loading gear.

Complete your roof rack setup

  • Thule Snowpack Queenstown

    Ski & Snowboard Racks

    Carry skis and boards securely on your raised rail roof rack setup.

    Shop Ski Racks 
  • Thule Motion3 Roof Box

    Roof Boxes

    Add enclosed storage for road trips, ski missions and family holidays.

    Shop Roof Boxes 
  • thule topride bike rack with a polygon gravel bike attached

    Roof Bike Racks

    Carry bikes on the roof when you don’t have, or don’t want to use, a towbar rack.

    Shop Roof Bike Racks 

Browse all roof rack systems and fitment options →

Collection of Thule packaging on a textured surface

Other Roof Rack Mount Types

Not all vehicles use the same roof mounting system. Explore other common roof rack mounting styles below.

About Stoke Equipment Co.

We're a dedicated roof rack store, based in Nelson, New Zealand.
We are proud stockists of roof rack solutions from Thule and Rhino-Rack, with options to suit vehicles with raised rails. Secure and reliable cargo solutions for carrying skis, snowboards, bikes, kayaks, or extra gear.
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