best roof rails?

What are the best roof rails?
I hear OEM is $200-300, and this eBay listing looks like a $100 knockoff version

https://www.ebay.com/itm/For-05-20-...bar-Side-Rails/193044482874?fits=Model:Tacoma

I'm pretty happy with my eBay Truxedo knockoff tonneau cover from China, so I bet the quality on these is good.

Question is; are they the best? Is it worth pulling the trigger on?
The OEM design seems like it would have less wind noise due to stowable cross bars when not in use.
And potentially more aerodynamic.

However, it seems to offer less capability than other types of roof rack, etc.
because for one, you can't stand on it

 

I am looking for roof rails also to attach a roof rack to so I'm going to fallow your thread. Nice truck and background.

 

OEM Racks do have less wind noise because they fold back into the rails. Cost is affordable and the ability to clean your roof when washing your truck is easier. I have the Martin Rack which is pretty much the knock off of the Prinsu Rack. Has way more options to bolt different types of attachments to the rack for mounting gear, boxes, etc. Its get pricey if you are going with Prinsu, but I think its the better looking rack IMO. If you go this route, make sure you get the wind deflector and the rubber auto seal that mounts under the deflector. Made a huge difference for under ten bucks.

 

OP - I purchased an OEM knockoff from Amazon and, for the most part, am very happy with the product. I consider myself one of those "educated shoppers" who spends a fair amount of time searching the internet and researching all my alternatives prior to making a large purchase. At the time I was looking, OEM rack was ~$280... a little steep for me considering there were several "overseas providers" with a ~$100 product.

I purchased mine for $106 in Oct 2019, fully understanding the inherent risks. True to the online reviews, the fit wasn't 100% PERFECTLY MATCHED in that the attachment holes were misaligned to the ditch rails by about 1/16"... meaning, I just needed to thread all the screws on first, then apply a bit of force while working the whole assembly into place. Don't get me wrong, it's definitely designed for a 2nd gen Tacoma; the holes were just a little off compared to the perfectly aligned OEM rack, but I was willing to compromise. The cross bars stow along the body and results in excellent aerodymanics especially at highway speed. I threw a

$160 ARKSEN 64 x 39 x 6" Universal 250LB Heavy Duty Roof Rack Cargo with Extension Car Top Luggage Holder Carrier Basket for SUV, Truck, & Car Steel Construction

64" rack on top of cross bars and am really happy with the results.

As with most products and mods for your Taco, everyone is going to have a different opinion based on 1). how they want their truck to look, 2). what their requirements are and 3). what they're willing to spend. Answer those three questions for yourself and move out; if you're on the more "frugal/financially conscience" end of the spectrum, as am I, don't buy a Prinsu just so you can post a sick photo to TW.