I've been looking at prorack, rhino, rola and generic, etc.

Some of the crossbars are mounted with plastic hardware onto the cars. Feels like they'd snap if given a good shove.

Which brands use metal parts to secure the crossbars onto the roof?

Prorack = bad. Major failures on highway
From my question here and a lot of research a couple of years ago I came back to Thule and Rhino.

If availabe Thule .

I've had set of Rhino racks for years, multiple trips between Brisbane and Melbourne, sup, plus one or two short boards, and sails and masts in a big bag, never a problem. Whatever you do, don't get Pro rack.

Thule every time. Solid system made for pretty much any vehicle. Life time warranty you'll never need as they never die

Thule. (I'm too poor to buy cheap... and then need to replace it later. )

I've had Rhino heavy duty for years. Not the most aero, but cannot fault. Lots of adaptability with attachments.

Clarence

Square cross bar or Aero profile? I've read some of the aero bars are noisy anyway.

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Mark _australia said..
Prorack = bad. Major failures on highway
From my question here and a lot of research a couple of years ago I came back to Thule and Rhino.

So true, had a SUP still tied to the roof racks come off my car on the freeway and clipped a truck,stay away from Prorack.
Thule and Rhino are the pick.

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solar3 said..
Square cross bar or Aero profile? I've read some of the aero bars are noisy anyway.

Square if you have lots of gear.

I haven't used roof racks to transport my gear since I first started sailing in around 1982 but I reckon if they were my only option to get my gear to the beach I'd be seriously looking at going to kiting for the convenience.