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If you need more cargo space or want to carry bikes, skis, or a cargo box on a Kia Soul, the right roof rack makes a big difference. Choosing the correct rack affects how much you can carry, how easily you load gear, and how the vehicle handles on the road. This guide covers seven shortlisted roof racks that suit the Kia Soul, focusing on load capacity, fit, and installation practicality. Read on to see which rack features and mounting styles match the way you travel.
Looking for other parts? See all Kia Soul parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | ARKSEN 64" Roof Rack Cargo Basket with Wind Fairing |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | MeeFar XBEEK 20 cu ft Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Bag |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | WEIZE Heavy Duty 64 x 39 Roof Cargo Rack with Waterproof Bag and Straps |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | HOPE YOU READY Aluminum Roof Rack Cross Bars for Kia Soul (2014–2019) |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Asinking 21 cu ft Waterproof Soft Roof Cargo Carrier Bag |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | MAXXHAUL 50506 Heavy-Duty Universal Steel Roof Rack |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | MeeFar Roof Cargo Basket with Waterproof Bag and Accessories |  |
1. ARKSEN 64" Roof Rack Cargo Basket with Wind Fairing
| Load Capacity | 150 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | U-Bolt |
| Crossbar Compatibility | Fits crossbars up to 1.38" thick |
| Construction | Powder-coated steel |
This ARKSEN 64" roof rack cargo basket turns your Kia Soul into a practical hauler for bulky gear like luggage, camping supplies, and sports equipment by attaching to the vehicle's existing roof crossbars. It is built from powder-coated high-strength steel with reinforced bottom bars and high side rails to keep items stable, and the integrated wind fairing reduces some wind buffeting and noise when loaded. Installation uses included U-bolts and hardware and is a two-person job for positioning and tightening; buyers should measure crossbar thickness and spacing first because the U-bolts fit bars up to 1.38" thick. The carrier supports up to 150 pounds of cargo but remember to follow the Kia Soul roof load limit. Practical benefits include large open-volume capacity for irregular items and durable corrosion-resistant coating for outdoor use. Limitations are the added wind and road noise at highway speeds and the need for careful assembly and corrosion prevention over time if you plan frequent exposure to salt or heavy weather.
Best for: A reliability-focused buyer who prioritizes practical, long-lasting upgrades for weekend trips and occasional moves, looking to expand cargo capacity without replacing factory crossbars.
Less Ideal for: People who need a quiet, permanent roof solution for daily high-speed driving or those who prefer a fully enclosed rooftop cargo box for weather protection.
- Large open cargo area suitable for bulky or irregular loads
- Powder-coated steel and reinforced bars for durable, stable carrying
- Integrated wind fairing to reduce some wind resistance and protect gear
- Compatible with standard crossbars up to 1.38 inches thick for easy mounting
- Produces noticeable wind and road noise at higher speeds
- Assembly requires two people and some mechanical familiarity to position brackets securely
Verdict A sturdy, high-capacity basket that reliably expands a Kia Soul's cargo space but brings added wind noise and requires careful installation.
2. MeeFar XBEEK 20 cu ft Waterproof Rooftop Cargo Bag
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Roof Mount |
| Item Volume | 20 Cubic Feet |
| Shell Type | Soft |
The MeeFar XBEEK 20 cubic foot rooftop cargo bag is a soft-shell carrier designed to add temporary storage to a vehicle roof for road trips, camping, or weekend errands. It mounts with supplied straps, U-style door hooks, and an anti-slip mat so you can fit it to a Kia Soul with or without factory roof rails. The PVC tarpaulin construction and reinforced stitching aim to keep contents dry and resist tearing while the zipper flap and included luggage lock add basic security. In practice the bag is simple to install and foldable for compact storage when not in use, and reviewers report it easily accommodates multiple suitcases and camping gear. Expect some effort when tightening straps and positioning hooks on compact vehicles, and the soft shell can bulge when fully packed which may affect aerodynamics and wind noise. The bag is a cost-effective, convenient way to free up interior space, but it requires careful installation and regular strap checks on long highway drives.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who prioritize expanding cargo capacity quickly for weekend trips or family outings without committing to permanent roof hardware.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a permanent, low-drag cargo solution or who regularly carry very heavy loads should consider a rigid roof box or a hitch-mounted carrier instead.
- Waterproof 700D PVC tarpaulin construction for weather protection
- Includes anti-slip mat, reinforced straps, door hooks and a storage sack for straightforward installation and storage
- Foldable soft-shell design saves garage space when not in use
- Large 20 cubic foot capacity fits multiple suitcases and camping gear
- Soft-shell design can bulge when fully loaded, increasing wind noise and drag
- Strap routing and tightening take extra time and may be fiddly on compact cars
- Included luggage lock provides only minimal theft deterrence
Verdict A budget-friendly, waterproof soft rooftop bag that adds lots of temporary cargo space to a Kia Soul but needs careful installation and strap checks for highway use.
3. WEIZE Heavy Duty 64 x 39 Roof Cargo Rack with Waterproof Bag and Straps
| Load Capacity | 200 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | U-Bolt |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
This WEIZE roof cargo rack is a heavy-duty steel basket designed to expand cargo capacity for a Kia Soul by carrying luggage, coolers, or soft gear on crossbars. It mounts to factory-quality crossbars using four U-bolts and the welded frame arrives in sections you assemble on the roof. The kit includes a waterproof cargo bag, a cargo net, and ratchet straps so you can secure mixed loads without buying extras. The steel wind fairing reduces wind buffeting and the powder coat helps resist corrosion in everyday use. On the downside the basket is large and shallow, so it works best with soft bags or low-profile suitcases rather than tall hard cases, and assembly requires careful alignment of crossbars and fasteners. Also double-check exhaust placement on your Soul and keep heavy or heat-sensitive items away from the flow of exhaust gases. For owners who want a rugged, high-capacity roof solution this rack provides practical extras and strong construction, but it demands correct installation and mindful packing to avoid clearance or heat issues.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who prioritize adding significant external cargo capacity for road trips and weekend gear while keeping a rugged, factory-quality appearance on a Kia Soul.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need a low-profile carrier for very tall hard-shell luggage or who prefer a folding rack for permanent on-vehicle storage should look at other options.
- Large 200 lb rated load capacity for long trips or extra cargo
- Includes waterproof bag, cargo net, and ratchet straps for immediate use
- Powder-coated steel frame and wind fairing reduce corrosion and wind drag
- Universal U-bolt mounting fits common crossbars used on the Kia Soul
- Shallow basket profile limits use with tall hard cases or bulky items
- Requires careful assembly and alignment of crossbars during installation
Verdict If you want a high-capacity, rugged roof basket for your Kia Soul that comes ready with a waterproof bag and straps, the WEIZE 64×39 is a strong choice provided you pack low-profile items and install it carefully.
4. HOPE YOU READY Aluminum Roof Rack Cross Bars for Kia Soul (2014–2019)
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | KIA Soul 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 165 Pounds |
| Mounting Type | U-Bolt |
| Material Type | Aluminum |
| Is Foldable | No |
These cross bars are a budget-focused, vehicle-specific roof rack solution for Kia Soul models that lack side rails. They mount using U-bolt style fittings and include anti-theft locking hardware, turning the car roof into usable cargo space for roof boxes, bags, bikes mounted on racks, and other travel gear. Constructed from aluminum alloy, the bars are relatively light while advertising a 165 pound load capacity, and customers report the fit is generally secure when installed carefully. Installation requires no drilling but can be fiddly at the bolt holes on some cars and benefits from patience and following the manual—several users recommend leaving fasteners slightly loose until all pillars are aligned. Build quality appears mixed across reviews: many buyers praise the value and fit, while a few report failures after repeated use, so tightening, periodic checks, and cautious loads are prudent. The package includes necessary hardware and a two year guarantee from the maker.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a dedicated roof-carry solution for a Kia Soul without side rails and prioritize low cost and basic functionality for occasional travel loads.
Less Ideal for: Buyers planning frequent heavy loads, commercial use, or high-mileage touring should consider higher-end, tested systems with stronger durability records.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Kia Soul 2014–2019 makes alignment and mounting straightforward for that model
- Aluminum construction keeps weight low while providing advertised 165 lb load capacity
- Includes anti-theft lock key and all mounting hardware for a complete install
- No drilling required for installation
- Some users reported difficult bolt alignment during installation which can be time consuming
- A small number of reviews describe structural failure after limited use, suggesting inconsistent long-term durability
Verdict A low-cost, vehicle-specific roof bar set that adds practical cargo capacity to Kia Soul models but requires careful installation and cautious loading for reliable long-term use.
5. Asinking 21 cu ft Waterproof Soft Roof Cargo Carrier Bag
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Roof Mount |
| Item Volume | 21 Cubic Feet |
| Exterior | Heavy duty waterproof 840D PVC tear-resistant fabric |
| Shell Type | Soft |
This soft rooftop cargo carrier adds 21 cubic feet of covered storage to a Kia Soul for weekend trips or extra luggage without permanent roof hardware. It installs using the included anti-slip mat, multiple adjustable straps and padded door hooks so you can secure it to a Soul with or without factory rails. The bag uses heavy-duty 840D PVC fabric, triple-reinforced welded seams, a covered zipper flap and extra straps to reduce wind lift and keep contents dry in rain or snow. Practical benefits include large, compressible capacity when you need it, a storage bag for off-season stowage and extra straps and a luggage lock for security. Limitations are the learning curve to route and tighten straps correctly on a tall hatchback like the Soul, potential wind noise and a reliance on plastic buckles and zipper pulls that some users report can fail under heavy long-term use. This is a useful, low-commitment way to expand cargo on a Kia Soul but expect to inspect and retension straps before long trips and avoid sharp or heavy edges inside the bag.
Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers who want a low-commitment way to increase cargo for occasional trips on a Kia Soul and prioritize reliable weather protection over a permanent rack.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a permanent, high-capacity roof solution or who regularly carry very heavy or sharp-edged loads should consider a hard cargo box or professional roof-rack system instead.
- Large 21 cu ft capacity expands cargo for weekend trips and gear.
- 840D abrasion-resistant PVC with triple-welded seams aims to keep contents dry in heavy rain.
- Includes anti-slip mat, padded door hooks and extra straps for a more secure mount on vehicles without rails.
- Comes with storage bag and extra straps so it packs small when not in use.
- Straps, plastic buckles and zipper pulls have reported failures after heavy or repeated long-distance use.
- Can produce wind noise and requires careful strap routing on a hatchback to avoid door seal interference.
- Not intended as a permanent roof solution so long-term exposure may accelerate wear.
Verdict A practical, weatherproof temporary cargo solution for a Kia Soul that delivers big capacity for occasional trips but requires careful installation and periodic checks to avoid strap or zipper failures.
6. MAXXHAUL 50506 Heavy-Duty Universal Steel Roof Rack
| Load Capacity | 150 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Easy Snap |
| Material | Powder-Coated Steel |
The MAXXHAUL 50506 is a heavy-duty steel cargo basket that turns the Kia Soul's roof into a spacious platform for luggage, camping gear, or bulky loads. It mounts to factory or aftermarket crossbars and uses a modular four-section design so you can assemble or break it down for storage. The powder-coated steel construction and tall side rails help protect cargo and resist everyday weather, while the 150 pound load rating covers most road-trip loads. Buyers should expect a straightforward install but may need to align holes or replace lower-quality supplied fasteners for a smoother fit. The open mesh and side rails keep items secure but increase wind noise at highway speeds compared with low-profile cargo boxes. Because the rack clamps to crossbars, aerodynamic drag and road noise are practical trade-offs for the added carrying capacity. For owners seeking an affordable, rugged way to carry oversized items on a Kia Soul, this basket delivers useful capacity and easy removal when not in use.
Best for: Practical optimizers who want the most cargo capacity for their budget on a Kia Soul and are willing to do basic prep or hardware upgrades to extend long-term durability.
Less Ideal for: Travelers who prioritize low cabin noise or maximum fuel economy, or those who want a completely bolt-on factory-style roof solution without any adjustment work.
- 150 lb rated capacity provides meaningful cargo space for trips and gear
- Powder-coated steel construction offers durable, weather-resistant performance
- Modular four-piece design disassembles for compact storage and transport
- Fits most factory and aftermarket crossbars for simple mounting on the Kia Soul
- Paint and supplied fasteners can be lower quality so additional rustproofing or hardware upgrades may be needed
- Open mesh design generates noticeable wind noise at higher speeds compared with enclosed boxes
Verdict A budget-friendly, heavy-duty cargo basket that gives a Kia Soul extra payload space but may need minor prep or upgraded hardware to avoid surface rust and reduce noise.
7. MeeFar Roof Cargo Basket with Waterproof Bag and Accessories
| Load Capacity | 200 Pounds |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | U-Bolt |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
| Brand | MeeFar |
This MeeFar roof cargo basket is a full kit intended to expand a Kia Soul's hauling ability for trips and weekend gear. The tubular steel frame with black epoxy coating creates a rigid platform that mounts to crossbars using the included U-bolts, while the wind shield helps reduce drag and shields cargo. The bundle adds practical storage with a 15 cubic foot waterproof rooftop bag, a cargo net with hooks, and ratchet straps for securing loads. Assembly is straightforward and most users will mount it to factory or aftermarket crossbars; some force is needed for the hardware and you may want a hand when positioning the basket. The basket is rated to 200 pounds, so it covers bulky items like luggage, coolers, or camping gear but not extremely heavy cargo. Buyers should expect to check fitment with the Kia Soul's crossbar spacing and possibly trim or replace the oversized U-bolts if they do not match the vehicle's rails. The finish resists rust in normal use but exposed screw holes can need touch-up over time.
Best for: Balanced buyers who want a complete, practical rooftop storage solution for a Kia Soul and prioritize flexible cargo space for road trips, errands, and outdoor gear.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a low-profile, permanently mounted roof system or who routinely carry very heavy or unusually shaped loads should consider a purpose-built platform or hitch-mounted option instead.
- Strong tubular steel frame with epoxy coating provides a stable, rigid platform for rooftop loads
- Includes a 15 cu ft waterproof bag, cargo net, and ratchet straps so you get a ready-to-use cargo solution
- Wind shield improves aerodynamics and helps protect items from wind while driving
- Rated for 200 lb capacity which accommodates substantial luggage and camping gear
- Uses universal U-bolts that can be oversized for some crossbar designs and may require replacement or modification
- Waterproof bag and included straps have mixed durability reports in extreme weather or with sharp-edged loads
- Assembly hardware may need touch-up paint to prevent corrosion around drilled or stressed areas
Verdict A well-priced, full accessory bundle that gives the Kia Soul noticeable extra cargo capacity but requires checking U-bolt fit and mindful packing for long trips.
Choosing the Right Kia Soul Roof Rack: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment And Mounting Style
Fitment determines whether a rack attaches securely to the Kia Soul roof and affects both safety and convenience. Different mounting styles such as clamp-on, track-mounted, or fixed-point attach to the vehicle in different ways, and each requires checking the Soul's roof attachment points and edge clearances. A correct fit reduces wind noise and prevents loosening over time.
Improper fitment can lead to excessive movement, stress on the roof structure, and premature wear of both the rack and the vehicle's roof. Verify the mounting method aligns with the Kia Soul's factory fittings or raised rails if present, and ensure the mounting hardware distributes load across approved anchor points for stability.
Load Capacity And Weight Limits
Load capacity is critical for safety and vehicle handling. Manufacturers specify a maximum static and dynamic load for roof racks; these numbers indicate how much weight the rack can support and how it will behave while driving. Consider both the rack's rating and the Kia Soul's roof load limit to avoid exceeding safe thresholds.
Overloading a roof increases the vehicle's center of gravity, can reduce braking performance, and may impair steering response. Think about the types of items you will carry—bikes, cargo boxes, or kayaks—and choose a rack rated for those loads with a margin for safety and accessories.
Cross-Bar Profile And Aerodynamics
Cross-bar shape affects wind noise, fuel efficiency, and accessory compatibility. Aerodynamic or aero-style bars tend to produce less wind noise and drag compared with square or round bars. However, some accessories clamp more securely to square-section bars, so versatility matters depending on what you plan to mount.
Evaluate how important low noise and fuel economy are for your driving patterns versus the need to attach specific accessories. Also check whether the cross bars include rubber strips or channels for T-track accessory mounting, which simplifies installing bike mounts or cargo trays.
Accessory Compatibility And Expandability
A good roof rack system should accept common accessories such as bike mounts, cargo boxes, ski carriers, and load locks. Compatibility depends on cross-bar dimensions, T-track presence, and available adapters. Confirm that the rack supports the accessories you intend to use now and may need later.
Expandability matters if your needs change seasonally. Look for systems with standardized attachment points or widely supported cross-bar profiles to avoid having to replace the entire rack when adding a new accessory.
Durability And Corrosion Resistance
Roof racks are exposed to weather, road salt, and UV, so material quality and finishes affect longevity. Aluminum frames with anodized or powder-coated finishes and stainless steel hardware resist corrosion better than untreated metals. Inspect seals and contact pads that touch the roof to ensure they protect the vehicle paint from abrasion.
Durable construction also reduces maintenance needs and the chance of parts loosening over time. Consider whether replacement parts are available and how well the rack is supported by its manufacturer in terms of warranty and service documentation.
Ease Of Installation And Daily Use
Installation complexity influences whether you can fit the rack yourself and how often you will remove it. Systems designed for tool-free or minimal-tool installation save time and reduce the chance of incorrect torque. Clear instructions and labeled hardware make setup easier and safer.
Also consider how simple it is to load and unload gear while the rack is mounted. Features such as adjustable bar positions, locking clamps, and quick-release accessories improve day-to-day convenience and security when parking or storing the vehicle with gear attached.
FAQ
Can I install a roof rack on my Kia Soul by myself?
Often you can install a roof rack on a Kia Soul without professional help, especially if the system is designed for minimal tools. Plan for two people when handling long cross bars for safety and alignment. Follow the manufacturer torque specs and installation steps to ensure a secure fit.
How do I know what weight my Kia Soul roof can carry?
Check the vehicle owner's manual for the roof load limit and compare it with the roof rack's rated capacity. Use the lower of the two numbers as your working limit and account for the weight of any accessory or cargo box when planning loads. Remember dynamic loads while driving can stress the system more than static weight.
Are aerodynamic cross bars worth it compared with square bars?
Aerodynamic bars typically reduce wind noise and can be slightly more fuel efficient on long trips, while square bars may offer simpler mounting for some accessories. Your choice should balance noise and efficiency against the accessories you plan to use and how important quiet operation is for you.
Will a universal roof rack fit my Kia Soul?
Some universal roof racks can fit a Kia Soul if they offer the correct mounting hardware and adjustable clamps for the vehicle's roof geometry. Confirm fitment information from the rack maker and ensure the clamp or foot design does not interfere with roof contours or factory attachment points.
How do I care for a roof rack to extend its life?
Regularly inspect attachment points, bolts, and rubber pads for wear, and retorque fasteners to the specified settings after the first few hundred miles. Clean off road salt and debris, lubricate moving hardware if recommended, and store removable bars indoors when not in use to reduce UV and moisture exposure.
How We Chose the Best Kia Soul Roof Rack
We started by identifying roof racks that are compatible with the Kia Soul's roof profile and mounting points. Primary evaluation criteria included maximum load capacity for safe hauling, mounting style and hardware compatibility with the Kia Soul roof, ease of installation for a single installer, and cross-bar profile for aerodynamic efficiency and accessory attachment. Secondary criteria covered the availability of accessory fittings for bike carriers and cargo boxes, corrosion-resistant materials for long-term durability, and user-facing features such as tool requirements and adjustability. We excluded products that lacked clear load ratings, required vehicle modification, or had inconsistent fitment guidance for the Kia Soul. The final list emphasizes racks that balance secure fitment, real-world carrying capacity, and straightforward installation without modifying the vehicle.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Prioritize fit and load capacity when choosing a roof rack for a Kia Soul, and make sure the mounting style matches the vehicle's roof attachment points. Consider cross-bar profile, accessory compatibility, and ease of installation to ensure the rack suits how you travel. Balancing durability and convenience will help you select a system that is safe for repeated use while providing the flexibility to carry bikes, cargo boxes, or seasonal gear without unnecessary complications.
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