Today’s smaller cars, carpooling, and family-packed vehicles leave little space for inside storage of snowboards, skis, boots, and gear. There’s only one place to expand to – outside the vehicle. There are now a plethora of ski and snowboard racks on the market today. Some are simple one piece designs were others are part of a ski rack system that can be utilized for a variety of sports. What ski rack to utilize and where it’s located depends on one’s personal preference and vehicle characteristics.
There are a variety of ski rack options whether you drive a small compact, an SUV, or a minivan. Some ski & snowboard racks can quickly be mounted to the car while others may involve a trip to a rack installation shop. With a little knowledge and some market research, you can find the best option for your lifestyle.
Temporary rain gutter mounted roof racks
Rain gutter mounted ski and snowboard roof racks are quickly fading from today’s market. Most modern cars are not designed with rain gutters. If you have a car that has gutters, you will find these ski racks to be very convenient. They install in seconds, however they can also be stolen in seconds. If you will be storing your ski or snowboard gear inside, this could still be an ideal ski and snowboard rack. One of the more popular models that can still be found on eBay or Craigslist is the Bic Sport Rack.
Magnetic mounted roof racks
Magnetic mounted ski and snowboard roof racks are the answer to mounting a snowboard rack to a car without any complicated hardware or scratching the car’s paint job. They are easy to install, no gutters or rails required! It does require a metal roof that the magnet can attach to. Some current magnetic ski and snowboard car racks are the Inno MV276 Magnetic Carrier Ski and Snowboard Car Rack and the Momo MODEL – SR3000.
Mounts to OEM factory vehicle rack
Many vehicles today come with pre-installed roof rack rails. Many of these can be easily adapted to carry skis and snowboards. Most ski and snowboard rack manufacturers make components that will allow you to attach ski and snowboard racks without any modifications. While it was hard to reach roof racks on older models, newer models have racks that slide to the side for easier loading.
When purchasing, check that there is plenty of clearance for your snowboard bindings so they don’t hit the vehicle roof. You may need to purchase angled mounted snowboard attachments to get the needed clearance.
Current manufacturers include:
*Powder Top 4 Ski/ Snowboard Rack
*Thule
*Yakima
*Barrecrafters Factory Rack Snowboard Carrier US-243
*SportRack – Abr53Dl – Ski & Snowboard Roof Mount Delux Carrier
Rear hitch racks
Rear hitch racks are a convenient method to access and carry skis and snowboards. These generally require a Class II or Class III hitch. If you already have a hitch, this is an easy option. One disadvantage is that your skis and snowboards will stick out from the back of your vehicle. Your gear could be damaged in a rear-end collision. Gear tends to get dirty from road spray in the back too. One big plus, skis and snowboards are easier to reach.
-Back Rack Hitch Mounted SUV Racks
Mounts to outside spare tire
Some manufacturers make ski and snowboard racks that attach to outside mounted spare tires. If you own a Jeep, or SUV, this could be an option for you. One model is the Inno INA940 Grab Max Ski and Snowboard Car Rack
No matter what vehicle you drive, there’s a ski and snowboard rack for you. Many will contain options that will allow you to transport bicycles, kayaks, sailboards, and camping gear in the summer. Don’t let a lack of inside space make you leave gear at home. Find a ski and snowboard rack that let’s you bring all your toys.
