Ski Racks
Racks are essential for safely transporting your skis to and from the slopes. Most have locking mechanisms to keep your equipment safe. Here are some racks designed to accommodate different vehicles and preferences:
Roof Mounted Ski Rack or Box:
Rack: able to carry multiple pairs of skis, it attaches to the crossbars on the roof of your car. Skis are secured between rubberized clamps, in either a horizontal or vertical design.
Box: A box-shaped carrier that mounts on the roof. It provides protection from the elements and can hold multiple pairs of skis and poles, making it a good option for longer trips.
J-style: similar to roof-mounted racks but with a J-shaped design, which makes it easier to load and unload skis or snowboards.
Hitch Mounted: using the trailer hitch at the rear of your vehicle, multiple pairs of skis can be secured vertically or horizontally. The rack can often be swung away for easy access to the trunk.
Trunk Mounted: straps onto the trunk of your car. Skis are placed into holders, and the rack is secured with straps. More affordable, but not suitable for carrying many pairs of skis.
Magnetic: attaching to the metal roof of your car using strong magnets, it provides a temporary and removable solution.
Tailgate: attaches to the tailgate of trucks or SUVs, and skis are secured vertically against the tailgate.
Ski Rack Adapters: if you already have a base roof rack system or bike rack, there are adapters that can be added to accommodate skis.
Clamp-On: can be attached to the existing crossbars of your roof rack, and skis are clamped in place.
Ski Rack for Inside Vehicles: designed for transporting skis inside the vehicle, it attaches to the roof or the inside of the car and holds skis securely.
Ski Rack for Snowmobiles: specifically designed for snowmobiles, it allows you to carry skis securely while riding.
When choosing a ski rack, consider the type of vehicle you have, the number of skis you need to transport, and whether you prefer a roof, hitch, or trunk-mounted solution. Additionally, some racks are designed to accommodate snowboards as well, offering versatility for winter sports enthusiasts. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for installation and usage to ensure the safety of your equipment and others on the road.
Popular Ski Racks:
Brands and models commonly recognized for their reliability and positive reviews:
Thule: a well-known brand, their SnowPack ski racks are popular. They come in various models, including ones that attach to roof racks or fit onto the roof of the car.
Yakima: The FatCat series is a popular choice, with both roof-mounted and hitch-mounted ski racks. They’re known for their sleek design and ease of use.
Inno: known for their innovative and functional designs, the Gravity Snow Rack is a roof-mounted option that’s compatible with various roof rack systems.
Rhino-Rack: offers durable ski carriers that can be mounted to the roof of your car. They’re designed to securely hold your skis and provide easy access.
RockyMounts: LiftOp is a roof-mounted ski rack that stands out for its sleek appearance and functionality. It accommodates different types of skis and snowboards.
SportRack: providing budget-friendly options without compromising quality. The Groomer Deluxe is a roof-mounted ski rack that offers a simple and effective solution.
Kuat: known for high-quality bike racks, their Grip Ski & Snowboard Rack reflects the same durability and design. It can be mounted on roof racks.
BMW Ski and Snowboard Holders: if you own a BMW, the manufacturer offers specific ski and snowboard holders designed to integrate seamlessly with BMW roof rack systems.
Remember that the best ski rack for your car depends on the type of roof (naked roof, raised rails, flush rails, etc.), the number of skis you want to transport, and your budget. Check the compatibility of the ski rack with your vehicle before making a purchase, and be sure that it meets your specific needs.
