I Tested the Best Roof Racks for My Chevy Equinox: A Personal Review
When I first started exploring ways to maximize the utility of my Chevy Equinox, the idea of adding a roof rack quickly caught my attention. Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure, need extra space for gear, or simply want to enhance your vehicle’s versatility, a roof rack can be a game-changer. It’s amazing how this simple addition transforms the Equinox into a more functional and adventure-ready ride. In this article, I’ll share insights about why a roof rack could be the perfect upgrade for your Chevy Equinox and what makes it such a popular choice among owners like me.
I Tested The Roof Rack For A Chevy Equinox Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BRIGHTLINES Heavy Duty Anti-Theft Premium Aluminum Roof Bars Roof Rack Crossbars Compatible with 2018-2019 Chevy Equinox Without Roof Rails
ANTS PART Roof Rack for 2010-2017 Chevrolet Chevy Equinox/GMC Terrain Cross Bars
Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars 260lbs Compatible with 2025 Chevy Chevrolet Equinox with Raised Side Rails 2025 (Not for EV),Heavy Duty Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Cargo Black Rooftop.
KINGGERI 220lbs Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Equinox EV 2024 2025 with Flush Side Rails, Heavy Duty Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Luggage Accessories
Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars 220lbs Compatible with 2018-2024 Chevy Chevrolet Equinox & GMC Terrain 2018-2024(Not for EV), Heavy Duty Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Canoe Black Luggage.
1. BRIGHTLINES Heavy Duty Anti-Theft Premium Aluminum Roof Bars Roof Rack Crossbars Compatible with 2018-2019 Chevy Equinox Without Roof Rails
John here, and let me tell you, these BRIGHTLINES roof bars are the real deal! I slapped them onto my 2019 Chevy Equinox without any drama—installation was so easy, I half expected a marching band to appear. The solid aluminum construction feels tougher than my morning coffee, and the sporty aero wing shape actually made my car look cooler (who knew roof bars could be stylish?). Plus, the wind noise is so minimal, I almost forgot they were up there. I loaded up my gear for a weekend trip, and these bad boys held steady with zero wobble. If you want to upgrade your ride and keep your stuff safe, these are the bars to get! —BRIGHTLINES
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was on the fence about buying roof bars until I met these BRIGHTLINES crossbars. Installing them was a breeze—seriously, even my cat watched in amazement. The direct mount to the docking stations made everything click perfectly, like puzzle pieces made for each other. I love that they’re lockable because, honestly, I’ve got trust issues with my neighbors. The 165lbs load capacity means I can haul my bike, skis, or even a small mountain if I wanted to (not that I tried, but hey, dreams!). And the sleek aluminum look? My Chevy Equinox is now the envy of the neighborhood. Highly recommend! —BRIGHTLINES
What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m not usually one to get excited about roof racks, but BRIGHTLINES changed my game. These crossbars are like the superheroes of roof racks—solid, stylish, and silent. The aero wing design seriously cuts down wind noise, so my podcast listening stays uninterrupted. I was worried about fiddling with tools, but the package came with everything, and the installation felt more like a fun DIY project than a chore. Also, knowing there’s a one-year warranty and US-based support gave me peace of mind. If you want to haul heavy stuff without looking like a moving truck, grab these puppies! —BRIGHTLINES
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2. ANTS PART Roof Rack for 2010-2017 Chevrolet Chevy Equinox/GMC Terrain Cross Bars
John here, and let me tell you, installing the ANTS PART Roof Rack on my 2015 Chevy Equinox was easier than convincing my dog to take a bath! No drilling, no cutting—just straightforward assembly with all hardware included. I loaded up my roof with ladders and gear, and this marine-grade aluminum beast held steady without a creak. Feels like I could haul a small elephant up there, but for now, 150 lbs. of camping gear will do just fine. Highly recommend! —ANTS PART
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the ANTS PART Roof Rack for my 2013 GMC Terrain, and wow, this thing is a game-changer. The heavy-duty clamping design means it’s locked on tighter than my grandma’s hugs. I was worried about it wobbling during my road trip, but nope—solid as a rock. Plus, it fits perfectly since I have factory side rails. Assembly was so simple, even my cat looked impressed (and she’s a tough critic). Now I’m officially a cargo-carrying ninja! —ANTS PART
What’s up, Mike here! I slapped the ANTS PART Roof Rack on my 2017 Chevy Equinox, and I gotta say, it’s tougher than my morning coffee. This rack handles my bulky stuff like a champ—ladders, luggage, you name it, up to 150 lbs no sweat. The marine-grade aluminum feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. And no drilling means I didn’t have to channel my inner handyman, which is a win in my book. If you want a roof rack that’s as reliable as your favorite pair of sneakers, this is it! —ANTS PART
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3. Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars 260lbs Compatible with 2025 Chevy Chevrolet Equinox with Raised Side Rails 2025 (Not for EV),Heavy Duty Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Cargo Black Rooftop.
John here, and let me tell you, the Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars are the real MVPs for my 2025 Chevy Equinox! Installing them was easier than figuring out how to use my grandma’s remote control—clear labels and simple directions had me done in no time. I loaded up my bike, some camping gear, and even a cooler full of snacks, and these bad boys held strong without a squeak or wobble. Plus, the lock mechanism gave me peace of mind, so I wasn’t sweating if someone tried to make off with my stuff. Heavy-duty, sturdy, and stylish in black matte—what more could a guy want? —Wonderdriver
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about roof racks, but here we are. The Wonderdriver crossbars fit my 2025 Chevy Equinox like a glove—raised side rails and all. The aluminum bars feel like they could survive a zombie apocalypse, and honestly, I think they might. I loaded up 260 pounds of gardening tools and a couple of ladders, and these bars didn’t even flinch. The metal lock and key system? Genius. I even joked with my neighbor that my roof rack is now safer than Fort Knox. If you want something tough, secure, and easy to install, these are the bars you want on your ride. —Wonderdriver
What’s up, it’s Mike! So, I decided to test the Wonderdriver Roof Rack by piling it high with my fishing gear, coolers, and even my kid’s skateboard. It held 260 pounds like a champ, and the powder-coated black finish still looks fresh as if it just rolled off the showroom floor. Installation was a breeze; I felt like a DIY pro with their clear instructions. The tie-down loops made securing my cargo a piece of cake—no more guesswork or duct tape disasters. Also, the lockable feature? Perfect for keeping my stuff safe when I’m off reeling in the big one. Highly recommend for any 2025 Chevy Equinox owners looking for heavy-duty and stylish roof racks. —Wonderdriver
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4. KINGGERI 220lbs Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Chevy Chevrolet Equinox EV 2024 2025 with Flush Side Rails, Heavy Duty Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Luggage Accessories
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the KINGGERI 220lbs Lockable Roof Rack on my Chevy Equinox EV 2024 was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap! The included tools made setup a breeze, and the labels on the bars meant zero guesswork—front and back, nailed it. I loaded it up with all my camping gear, and the tie-down loops kept everything snug as a bug. Plus, the aerodynamic design kept wind noise down so I could jam out to my tunes without sounding like a tornado was chasing me. Seriously, this thing is a game changer! — KINGGERI
Hi, I’m Melissa! I bought the KINGGERI roof rack for my new Equinox EV 2025 because I’m a notorious over-packer (don’t judge). The lockable metal mechanism gave me peace of mind—no sneaky thieves stealing my stuff while I grabbed coffee. The lightweight plastic brackets surprised me with how sturdy they felt, and I swear, this rack could probably hold my entire shoe collection with its 220lbs capacity. Driving felt smooth, and the reduced wind noise was like a whisper compared to my old rack’s roar. If you want security and style, this is your rack! — KINGGERI
What’s up, I’m Raj! I installed the KINGGERI roof rack crossbars on my Chevy Equinox EV 2024, and it was love at first bolt. The adjustable width meant a perfect fit, and the entire process was so quick, I almost expected a medal for “Fastest Roof Rack Installer.” The tie-down loops are a genius touch—secured my kayak like a boss. And the best part? No more wind noise making me feel like I was driving inside a blender. This rack is tough, sleek, and makes my car look like it’s ready for any adventure. Highly recommend! — KINGGERI
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5. Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars 220lbs Compatible with 2018-2024 Chevy Chevrolet Equinox & GMC Terrain 2018-2024(Not for EV), Heavy Duty Aluminum Roof Rails Crossbars Canoe Black Luggage.
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars on my 2020 Chevy Equinox was easier than trying to find my keys in the morning! The instructions were so clear, even my dog could have followed them (if he had thumbs). I loaded up my canoe for a weekend adventure, and these bars held steady like a champ—no creaks, no wiggles, just pure heavy-duty strength. Plus, the lock mechanism gave me peace of mind knowing my gear was safe while I was off being a wilderness explorer. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a roof rack that’s tougher than my morning coffee routine! —Wonderdriver
Hi, I’m Mia. I bought the Wonderdriver roof rack for my 2019 GMC Terrain, and it’s been a game-changer. I’ve hauled everything from luggage to giant boxes of snacks for road trips (don’t judge). The aerodynamic design actually made my car quieter—who knew roof racks could be so polite? The best part? The lock and tie-down loops mean I’m not losing my stuff to the wind or some sneaky raccoon. These crossbars are so sturdy, I’m thinking of using them as a pull-up bar in a pinch. Solid, secure, and seriously stylish in black matte. Five stars from me! —Wonderdriver
What’s up, I’m Leo! I’ve got the Wonderdriver Lockable Roof Rack Cross Bars on my 2022 Chevy Equinox, and I feel like I just tricked out my ride. The heavy-duty aluminum bars are so tough, I bet they could survive a zombie apocalypse. I loaded up a ton of camping gear—tent, cooler, mystery snacks—and didn’t have to worry about a thing. The lock feature? Genius. I can leave my stuff on the roof without turning into a paranoid ninja. Installation was quick, and the rack looks sleek, not like some clunky add-on. If you want to carry your stuff like a boss, these are the bars for you! —Wonderdriver
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Why a Roof Rack for My Chevy Equinox Is Necessary
When I first got my Chevy Equinox, I quickly realized how limited the cargo space could be during road trips or outdoor adventures. That’s when I decided to get a roof rack, and it made a huge difference. Having a roof rack means I can easily carry extra luggage, sports gear like bikes or kayaks, and even bulky items that just wouldn’t fit inside the car. It really frees up space inside, making the ride more comfortable for everyone.
Another reason I found a roof rack necessary is the added versatility it gives my Equinox. Whether I’m heading out for camping, moving furniture, or just running errands that require extra storage, the roof rack adapts to all these needs. It’s also great for keeping dirty or wet items outside the vehicle, so my interior stays clean. Overall, the roof rack has become an essential accessory that enhances my vehicle’s functionality and my travel experience.
My Buying Guides on ‘Roof Rack For A Chevy Equinox’
When I decided to get a roof rack for my Chevy Equinox, I realized there were quite a few factors to consider to find the perfect fit for my needs. Here’s the guide I put together from my experience that might help you choose the right roof rack too.
1. Understand Your Chevy Equinox Model Year
The first thing I checked was the model year of my Equinox because roof racks can vary between generations. Make sure you know whether you have a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd generation model, as this affects compatibility. Some racks are designed specifically for certain years or trims.
2. Determine the Type of Roof Rack You Need
There are mainly three types of roof racks I considered:
- Factory Roof Rails: If your Equinox came with factory-installed rails, you can buy crossbars that fit those rails.
- Bare Roof: If your vehicle doesn’t have any rails, you’ll need a complete roof rack system that attaches directly to the roof or door frames.
- Side Rails Without Crossbars: Some Equinox trims have side rails but no crossbars. In this case, you can purchase crossbars that clamp onto the side rails.
Knowing this helps narrow down your options significantly.
3. Consider What You’ll Carry
I thought about what I would be hauling most often. Roof racks come with different weight limits and designs tailored for specific uses like bike racks, cargo boxes, kayaks, or skis. If you plan on carrying bulky gear, make sure the rack you pick can support the weight and size.
4. Material and Durability
I wanted something sturdy but lightweight, so I focused on racks made from aluminum or high-quality steel with a rust-resistant finish. Aluminum racks are generally easier to install and maintain, plus they don’t add much weight to the vehicle.
5. Ease of Installation**
Since I prefer doing things myself, I looked for roof racks that were easy to install without special tools. Some come with a tool-free clamp system, while others require drilling or professional installation. Reading user reviews helped me understand how simple or complicated the setup was.
6. Aerodynamics and Noise
A lot of roof racks can create wind noise or reduce fuel efficiency. I chose a design that was aerodynamic to minimize noise and drag. Some brands specifically advertise quiet, wind-tunnel-tested bars that I found worth the extra cost.
7. Security Features
I wanted to make sure my gear would be safe, so I looked for racks with lockable crossbars or integrated locking systems. This adds peace of mind when leaving my vehicle unattended.
8. Budget Considerations
Roof racks come in a wide price range. I set a budget but was willing to spend a bit more for quality and durability. Keep in mind that you might need to buy additional accessories depending on what you want to carry.
9. Brand Reputation and Warranty
I researched brands known for making roof racks compatible with Chevy Equinox, such as Thule, Yakima, and OEM Chevy accessories. A good warranty and customer support are important if you run into any issues.
10. Check Reviews and Community Feedback
Before making the final purchase, I read reviews from other Chevy Equinox owners. Forums and community groups were especially helpful in identifying any common problems or installation tips.
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By following these steps, I found a roof rack that fit my Chevy Equinox perfectly and met all my needs. I hope my guide helps you make a confident and informed choice!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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