Ski Racks: Choosing the Best Option for Your Gear
Ski racks are essential for safely transporting your skis and snowboards to and from the mountains. Whether you're heading out for a weekend trip or a full ski season, having a secure and convenient rack system ensures that your gear arrives intact and ready to ride.
With various mounting styles available, from roof-mounted carriers to hitch racks and tailgate pads, choosing the right one depends on your vehicle type, number of skis, and personal preferences.
Types of Ski Racks
Roof-Mounted Ski Racks
Traditional Roof Rack: Attaches to your vehicle’s existing crossbars and secures skis between rubberized clamps in either a horizontal or vertical design.
Pros: Can carry multiple pairs of skis; keeps gear secure; many models include locking mechanisms.
Cons: Requires a roof rack; can be challenging to load/unload on taller vehicles.
Best for: Cars, SUVs, and trucks with crossbars.
Popular Models:
Thule SnowPack – Sleek, secure, and easy to use.
Yakima FatCat – Aerodynamic with a tool-free installation.
Rhino-Rack Ski Carrier – Budget-friendly and durable.
Roof-Mounted Ski Boxes
Ski Box (Cargo Box): Fully enclosed hard-shell box that mounts to roof crossbars, protecting skis from the elements.
Pros: Waterproof, can hold skis, poles, and extra gear; offers theft protection.
Cons: Bulkier and heavier than traditional roof racks; may impact fuel efficiency.
Best for: Long road trips or those carrying extra gear (helmets, boots, etc.).
Popular Models:
Thule Force XT – Spacious, easy to install, and fits skis up to 195cm.
Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite – Durable, secure, and weatherproof.
SportRack Vista XL – Budget-friendly with ample storage capacity.
Hitch-Mounted Ski Racks
Attaches to a Trailer Hitch: Holds skis vertically or horizontally on the back of the vehicle.
Pros: Easier loading/unloading than roof racks; some models tilt away for trunk access.
Cons: It may require a hitch adapter; it can obstruct rear visibility.
Best for: SUVs and trucks with a trailer hitch; skiers who prefer easy access.
Popular Models:
Yakima HitchSki – Converts a bike rack into a ski carrier.
Thule Tram Hitch Ski Carrier – Versatile and secure, ideal for families.
Thule Tram Hitch Ski Carrier
Trunk-Mounted Ski Racks
Straps onto the trunk: Secures skis horizontally with adjustable straps.
Pros: More affordable than roof or hitch racks; doesn’t require crossbars or a hitch.
Cons: Can scratch the trunk; limited capacity; may block rearview.
Best for: Occasional skiers or those without roof racks or hitches.
Popular Models:
SeaSucker Pallavicini – Suction-mounted for easy installation.
Thule SkiClick – Minimalist strap-style rack for short trips.
Magnetic Ski Racks
Uses strong magnets to attach directly to the metal roof of your car.
Pros: Quick installation; no roof rack needed; compact and easy to store.
Cons: Limited weight capacity; less secure than roof or hitch racks.
Best for: Rental cars or temporary use.
Popular Models:
TreeFrog Pro 2 – Compact and portable, ideal for travel.
Tailgate Ski Racks (For Trucks & SUVs)
Attaches to the tailgate: Skis are secured vertically with padded straps.
Pros: Quick and easy to load/unload; soft padding prevents damage.
Cons: Limited to trucks and SUVs; can be harder to secure skis.
Best for: Pickup trucks and SUVs with tailgates.
Popular Models:
Thule GateMate Pro – Padded tailgate cover for added protection.
Dakine Pickup Pad – Durable and great for multi-sport use.
Ski Rack Adapters & Clamp-On Carriers
Adapts to existing racks: Converts a bike rack or roof bars into a ski carrier.
Pros: Saves money if you already own a rack system.
Cons: Limited space compared to dedicated ski racks.
Popular Models:
Yakima FreshTrack 6 – Universal fit for most crossbars and bike racks.
Inno Gravity Snow Rack – Tool-free installation and sleek design.
Interior Ski Racks (Inside Vehicle)
Designed for station wagons, SUVs, and vans: Skis are stored inside the car and attached to the roof or side walls.
Pros: Ultimate protection from theft & weather.
Cons: Takes up passenger and cargo space.
Best for: Those who prioritize security and protection over convenience.
Popular Models:
Thule Ski Holder for Vans & SUVs – Adjustable for various vehicle sizes.
Ski Racks for Snowmobiles
Specialized racks designed to attach to snowmobiles for carrying skis.
Pros: Secure and allows for backcountry adventures.
Cons: Not for vehicle transport—only for snowmobiles.
Popular Models:
Skinz Protective Gear Snowmobile Ski Rack – Durable and lightweight.
When Choosing the Right Ski Rack, Consider the Following:
Vehicle Compatibility: Roof racks require crossbars, while hitch racks need a receiver hitch.
Number of Skis/Snowboards: Ensure the rack can accommodate your entire group’s gear.
Ease of Use: Hitch and magnetic racks are easier to load than roof-mounted options.
Security: Locking features prevent theft when parked.
Weather Protection: Cargo boxes shield gear from rain, snow, and road salt.
Budget: Premium brands like Thule and Yakima offer high-end durability, while brands like SportRack provide budget-friendly options.
Best Ski Rack Brands & Models
Premium Options:
Thule SnowPack – Secure, aerodynamic, and easy to install.
Yakima FatCat EVO 6 – Sleek low-profile design with extra-wide clamps.
Kuat Grip Ski Rack – High-end, durable, and great for snowboards, too.
Mid-Range Picks:
Rhino-Rack Ski Carrier – Affordable and fits most crossbars.
RockyMounts LiftOp – Stylish and functional.
Budget-Friendly Options:
SportRack Groomer Deluxe – Simple, effective, and affordable.
Inno Gravity – Universal fit, easy setup.
The right ski rack depends on your vehicle type, gear needs, and travel habits. Whether you prefer the security of a roof box, the convenience of a hitch rack, or the versatility of a tailgate pad, there’s a perfect solution for you.
Kuat
