The new Front Runner Slimsport roof rack provides a practical, affordable option for city dwellers who need a reliable way to transport gear for weekend trips or short adventures. It balances functionality with a lower profile and cost, making it an attractive choice for those who don’t require the heavier-duty features of larger racks.
Many factory roof racks use lightweight crossbars that vary widely in strength and load capacity. Installing an aftermarket rack gives you extra cargo space and often increases the dynamic load you can carry safely. For those who transport kayaks, paddleboards, or weekend camping gear, an aftermarket option like the Slimsport can be a practical upgrade.
I’ve used a Front Runner Slimline II rack for nearly five years with excellent results. It has provided dependable rooftop storage on multiple Land Cruisers and has endured tough conditions around the world. That experience makes it clear Front Runner builds durable, well-designed racks.
However, the Slimline’s heavy-duty capabilities exceed what many urban users need. The Slimsport fills that gap: it accepts many of the same accessories as the Slimline but is lighter, lower in profile, and priced more accessibly for casual users who mainly haul boards, bikes, or soft gear on weekend trips.
Front Runner Slimsport Features
A key advantage of the Slimsport is its low-profile design. Sitting closer to the roofline makes it easier to clear parking garages and low clearances while also simplifying access to gear. For drivers with lifted trucks or smaller garages, the reduced height can be particularly helpful.
The Slimsport uses aluminum T-slotted crossbars that offer flexible mounting options for accessories. These T-slots allow you to configure attachments without drilling or welding, and straightforward tie-downs like eyebolts and Stratchits cover most securement needs. The modular nature of the system makes it easy to adapt the rack to different types of cargo.
Front Runner Slimsport Pricing
The Slimsport is positioned as a lower-cost alternative to Front Runner’s Slimline II. For example, a Slimsport kit for a 5th Gen 4Runner is priced at $919 versus $1,545 for the Slimline II—a significant savings while retaining essential functionality for many users. That price gap makes the Slimsport attractive to those who want Front Runner quality without the full cost of a heavy-duty rack.
Front Runner Slimsport Review
Our photographer, Steve Makowski, installed a Slimsport on his 2012 4Runner and found it met his needs well. He considered both the 3/4 Slimline and the Slimsport and ultimately chose the Slimsport to carry a 12-foot Starboard SUP and extra fuel for long trips. The Slimsport’s capacity and convenience made it a sensible fit for his weekend use and longer drives.
Steve added extra mounting points to his rack for greater security, which required drilling into the roof. While that’s a personal choice and involves a trade-off, he said the improved peace of mind was worth it. He also appreciated the Slimsport’s flat, low deck during installation—the rack served as a convenient work surface to hold his toolbox while he worked.
A wind deflector (referred to in the install manual as a Wind Fairing) made the setup virtually silent on the road. Steve reported little to no wind noise even at highway speeds and during strong gusts on mountain routes, which is a notable benefit for frequent highway travel.
Front Runner Slimsport Accessories
Front Runner offers a range of accessories that fit the Slimsport. The paddleboard/surfboard carrier surprised Steve with its stability and low profile; its design securely holds a SUP without adding excessive height. For longer boards, a cargo roller can ease loading and reduce initial bounce when placing a board on the roof, though he hadn’t found it strictly necessary.
Steve also installed the Wolf Pack storage system on his Slimsport. This lockable, weather-resistant box is large enough to store tie-downs, ropes, and personal flotation devices, freeing space inside the vehicle. He used adjustable cargo chocks and a lockable strap-down to ensure the box stays put on long trips, providing additional security and convenience for leaving gear on the rack at a destination.
While the Slimsport is compatible with many Front Runner accessories, it’s a good practice to confirm compatibility with the manufacturer before purchasing specific items to ensure fit and mounting options.
In summary, the Slimsport is a strong option for urban adventurers who want a capable, low-profile rack without the extra weight and cost of a heavy-duty system. Its modular T-slotted crossbars, range of compatible accessories, and quiet on-road performance make it a practical choice for transporting boards, bikes, and other weekend gear. For many users—city dwellers and even some overlanders—the Slimsport hits the sweet spot of value, functionality, and trusted Front Runner build quality.
