Choosing a Ski and Snowboard Rack

Winter sports fans getting ready to hit the slopes need a ski or snowboard rack for their vehicle. Ski and snowboard racks keep the inside of your car clean and dry, and free up space for friends and fellow mountain lovers.

The first step to determining the best ski and snowboard rack to fit your needs is to decide where you want to carry your gear. Ski racks are made to attach to either the roof of your vehicle, or onto a hitch on the rear of your vehicle.

For most roof mounted ski racks, you will need to have a roof base rack system in place to which you will attach the ski rack. Roof mounted ski racks attach to your roof by mounting to either crossbars or side rails. If you don’t have a factory-installed roof rack, you can purchase a base rack system for around $200. Alternatively, you can look for smooth-roof dedicated ski racks that mount magnetically to your roof or hook to your door jamb. Roof mounted ski racks typically allow you to carry up to six pairs of skis or four snowboards (or a combination of the two) without purchasing a base rack system. Most ski racks come with locks that secure your gear to the rack and the rack to your vehicle.

If you like the simplicity of a roof mounted ski rack, but you want a little more protection and versatility, you might consider a roof mounted cargo box. Roof boxes can carry up to 10 pairs of skis, and lock for security. Your gear is protected from the elements, and you can also use the box to store your boots, goggles and other equipment. Ski boxes are more versatile than roof racks because they can be used year-round any other time you want extra cargo space on the road. Roof mounted cargo boxes are available in a variety of sizes, so check your ski length and vehicle size to determine the perfect box for your car, SUV or truck.

Hitch ski and snowboard racks are affordable and easy to use, if you have an existing hitch mount bike rack. These ski and snowboard carriers attach to your existing hitch bike rack and can carry up to six pairs of skis or four snowboards. The hitch mount ski racks will tilt down or swing away if your bike rack is designed to do so, allowing you full access to the rear of your vehicle. This is a great option for skiers that also have a need to carry bikes.  

No matter what style of ski rack you choose, you’ll find that keeping your gear out of your car when you head to the slopes will make for a much more comfortable driving experience.