When choosing a roof rack, you will need to determine which ones will fit your vehicle. The manufacturer of the rack will usually be able to tell you which model will fit your particular vehicle, so before committing to any purchase, be sure to find out which model is right for your vehicle. Once you have determined this, be sure to figure out how you are most likely to use the rack, and how often. It helps to think about what types of items will be held by the rack; this will help determine how strong the 4x4 roof racks need to be.
Examine carefully the different methods by which 4x4 roof racks are attached to vehicles. Take note of the best way to attach the racks to your particular vehicle and determine whether you can do this installation yourself or if you will need a professional to do the job. If you are not equipped to do the job yourself, consider purchasing 4x4 roof racks from a store that can do the installation at a low price or for free. Many stores are willing to do this if you purchase the rack directly from them, but they will charge more if you purchase the rack elsewhere.
The 4x4 roof racks you are considering should feature elevated rails to ensure items stowed on the rack will not slide off during transport. The height of the rails can vary by manufacturer, and you will need to consider how much height this will add to the vehicle, as it will affect the clearance you will have under low overpasses. Make sure the rails are high enough to suit your needs, but not so high that the height of the vehicle will become unmanageable.
Look for 4x4 roof racks made from durable and generally lightweight metals. You will not want to buy a rack that is too heavy, as adding a significant amount of weight to the roof of the vehicle may affect its handling, but you will not want to choose a metal that is too lightweight or light-duty because it may be more susceptible to damage. Make sure the metal is coated or otherwise treated to be resistant to water damage as well as direct exposure to sunlight. If the metal is not protected, the rack can rust or corrode quickly, leading to damage to the rack as well as potential damage to the roof of the vehicle.