Truck Headache Racks

Most truck headache racks are designed to keep shifting cargo from crashing through the cab rear window. We don’t know if the name is derived from how you would feel after being struck in the head or what you would experience after seeing the cost to repair the damage to the truck. But if something unexpectedly comes hurtling through your truck cab, we’re pretty sure you would suffer much more than a headache, so why take a chance. If you haul cargo with such potential, protect yourself and your truck with a headache rack.

While mesh headache racks are designed primarily to shield the cab, if you’re looking for more than just protection you’ll find headache racks in several other configurations on our digital shelves. Many of our racks have angled louvers which, in addition to providing cab protection, keep out the sun’s rays to keep the cab cooler. These louvers block the sun without obstructing your rearward vision, and this will not only thwart heat buildup in the cab but also prevent interior fading caused by UV rays.

In addition to protection for the rear of the cab, most headache racks have sturdy top bars that allow you to carry long cargo like ladders, pipe or lumber without damaging the roof of the cab, and some are available with rear racks to create a complete ladder rack system. A headache rack’s low profile enables you to park your truck in places that would be impossible with a regular ladder rack. Headache racks designed for cargo carrying have “goalpost” end tabs to keep cargo from sliding off and many have permanent or removable hooks for attaching tie-down straps. Some racks are available with light brackets for mounting off-road lights, or service vehicle utility lights, and brackets for holding equipment like landscaping tools.

Our headache racks come in rugged aluminum, polished stainless steel, and sturdy mild steel that’s powder coated in black, silver, or white. Each is custom designed for the application for perfect fit and appearance, and easy installation. Mounting hardware and detailed installation instructions are included. Some racks can be installed with simple hand tools, while others will require drilling. Most mount on the bed rails, but for select applications we offer headache racks that mount to the bed. And because we know that often a headache rack isn’t the only accessory you have or want on your truck, we carry racks that can be mounted along with tool boxes and tonneau covers.

Functionality aside, a headache rack can also be a stylish addition to your truck, and we offer more than a few models that are desirable for their looks alone, including round tube chrome racks that are the perfect accompaniment to other chrome tubular accessories like side steps, grille guards, and bull bars. You can also improve your truck’s illumination with a headache rack. Some come with red and clear lights that can be wired to work with your brake and reverse lights, or illuminate the bed. And although most mesh and louvered racks provide full cab coverage, some are available with center openings to accommodate access to the cab or bed through a sliding rear window.