Skiing is a thrilling sport that requires proper equipment and gear to enjoy it safely and comfortably. One of the essential pieces of equipment for any skier is a ski roof rack. Ski roof racks are designed to transport skis and snowboards safely and securely on top of a vehicle. They come in different shapes and sizes to accommodate various types of skis and snowboards.
When looking for the best ski roof rack, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the type of skis or snowboards you have, which will determine the rack size and shape you need. You’ll also want to consider the weight capacity of the rack, as well as how easy it is to install and remove from your vehicle.
We spent hours researching and testing various ski roof racks to identify the ones that offer the best combination of safety, durability, and ease of use. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best ski roof racks on the market. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, our recommendations will help you transport your skis and snowboards safely and securely to your next winter adventure.
Best Ski Roof Racks
If you’re an avid skier, you know that getting to the mountain is half the battle. A reliable ski roof rack can make all the difference when it comes to transporting your gear safely and efficiently. Our team has researched and tested the top ski roof racks on the market to bring you a comprehensive list of the best options available. Whether you’re looking for a rack that can accommodate multiple skis or one that’s easy to install, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
YAKIMA, PowderHound 6 Ski & Snowboard Mount (US $248)
If you’re looking for a reliable ski roof rack that can carry up to 6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards, the YAKIMA PowderHound 6 Ski & Snowboard Mount is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The YAKIMA PowderHound 6 Ski & Snowboard Mount features an elegant mount system that is wide enough to carry up to 6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards.
- The easy to press one-button access feature allows you to grab your gear with gloves on or easily load everything back up when you’re ready to head back to the lodge.
- The integrated SKS (Same Key System) locks included for added security and stress-free pit stops and apres activities.
Cons
- The wind pressure on the snowboard rack causes it to vibrate the rails on the car when driving without any snowboards or skis loaded.
- There is no way you could easily remove the rack without tools.
- The clasps that attach the ski rack to the crossbars on some cars may require some adjustments to properly attach.
We recently purchased this ski roof rack and have been using it for our winter trips. The YAKIMA PowderHound 6 Ski & Snowboard Mount is easy to install and only requires the hex wrench provided with the mount. The OverHang clamp attachment point makes it easier to reach your skis or boards and the large access button makes it easy to open with gloves or mittens on.
The YAKIMA PowderHound 6 Ski & Snowboard Mount is made of alloy steel and is designed to fit most roof racks. The mount is also designed to ride quietly, which is a plus when you’re driving on the highway. Overall, we highly recommend the YAKIMA PowderHound 6 Ski & Snowboard Mount for anyone in need of a reliable and secure ski roof rack.
YAKIMA, FatCat EVO Premium Ski & Snowboard Mount (US $378)
We highly recommend the YAKIMA, FatCat EVO Premium Ski & Snowboard Mount for anyone looking for a reliable and secure way to transport their skis or snowboards on their vehicle.
Pros
- The mount is wide enough to carry 4 pairs of powder skis or 2 snowboards, making it perfect for a family or group of friends heading to the slopes.
- The aerodynamic design of the mount ensures a quiet ride, and the SkiLift attachment provides clearance for tall bindings.
- The tool-free clamp design makes installation and removal a breeze, and the mount works with round, square, factory, and most aerodynamic roof racks.
Cons
- The mount may not be compatible with some T-slot crossbars, so be sure to check your vehicle’s roof rack before purchasing.
- The mirror finish may show scratches and wear over time.
- The mount is relatively heavy at 12.75 pounds, which may affect gas mileage and handling.
We were impressed with the ease of installation and the sturdy construction of the YAKIMA, FatCat EVO Premium Ski & Snowboard Mount. The OverHang clamp attachment point made it easy to reach our skis and boards, and the large access button was easy to open even with gloves on. The integrated SKS locks provided added security, and the mount’s sleek design looked great on our roof.
Overall, we believe the YAKIMA, FatCat EVO Premium Ski & Snowboard Mount is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable and secure way to transport their skis or snowboards.
YAKIMA – Fits Most Roof Racks 6 Ski Pairs/2 Snowboards (US $298)
If you’re looking for a reliable ski roof rack, you should consider the YAKIMA FreshTrack Ski & Snowboard Mount. We have used this product for several ski trips, and it has not disappointed us.
Pros
- The YAKIMA FreshTrack Ski & Snowboard Mount can easily carry up to 4 pairs of skis or 2 snowboards, making it perfect for a small group or family.
- The universal mounting system works with round, square, factory, and most aerodynamic roof racks, making it versatile and easy to install.
- The integrated SKS locks provide added security, giving you peace of mind when you’re away from your car.
Cons
- The YAKIMA FreshTrack Ski & Snowboard Mount is not foldable, which may limit the storage space in your garage.
- Some users reported that the SkiLift attachment does not provide enough clearance for tall bindings, which can be a problem for some skiers.
- The YAKIMA FreshTrack Ski & Snowboard Mount is relatively expensive compared to other ski roof racks on the market.
Overall, we highly recommend the YAKIMA FreshTrack Ski & Snowboard Mount for anyone looking for a reliable and secure ski roof rack. It is easy to install, versatile, and provides added security with its integrated locks. However, consider other options if you have tall bindings.
Thule Universal Snowsport Carrier (US $89)
If you’re looking for a reliable and secure way to transport your skis or snowboards to the mountain, the Thule Universal Snowsport Carrier is a great option.
Pros
- The ultra-soft rubber arms hold skis and boards securely without scratching the surfaces.
- The oversized and ergonomically-designed push button release makes it easy to open and close the carrier while wearing gloves.
- The 23 inch wide loading platform fits up to 6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards, providing ample capacity for a family or group of friends.
Cons
- The mounts are made of plastic and may not be as durable as metal mounts.
- The carrier may not fit all types of crossbars, so make sure to check compatibility before purchasing.
- The carrier may be a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
We recently used the Thule Universal Snowsport Carrier on a ski trip and were impressed with how easy it was to use. The carrier securely held our skis and snowboards in place during the drive, and we didn’t experience any movement or shifting. The soft rubber arms also prevented any scratches or damage to our equipment.
Installation was straightforward, but we did have some trouble with the plastic mounts. While they seem durable enough, we would have preferred metal mounts for added peace of mind. Additionally, we had to double-check compatibility with our roof rack before purchasing, as the carrier may not fit all types of crossbars.
Overall, we would recommend the Thule Universal Snowsport Carrier for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use carrier for their skis or snowboards. While it may be a bit pricey, the peace of mind and security it provides is well worth the investment.
AA Products Ski Roof Rack (US $99)
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use ski roof rack, the AA Products Ski Roof Rack is a great option.
Pros
- Holds up to 6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards, and is also ideal for carrying fishing rods, paddles, ski poles, and water skis
- Ultra-soft rubber arms hold skis and snowboards securely without scratching the surfaces
- Universal mounting system fits most vehicles equipped with roof rails and cross bars
Cons
- The lock can be a bit finicky and requires the key to open and close
- The brackets that clamp on the cross bar may need to be deformed to fit on some oval bars
- The nut and bolt installation can be a bit tricky
We recently used the AA Products Ski Roof Rack on a ski trip and found it to be a great addition to our gear. It easily held our skis and snowboards, and we were able to fit other gear like ski poles and fishing rods as well. The ultra-soft rubber arms held everything securely without any scratches or damage.
Installation was relatively easy, although we did have some trouble with the brackets that clamp on the cross bar. We had to deform them a bit to fit our oval bars, but once we got them on, they held tight. The universal mounting system worked well with our roof rails and cross bars.
The only real downside to the AA Products Ski Roof Rack is the lock. It can be a bit finicky and requires the key to open and close. Additionally, the nut and bolt installation can be a bit tricky, but once you figure it out, it’s not a big deal.
Overall, we recommend the AA Products Ski Roof Rack to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use ski roof rack. It’s durable, holds a lot of gear, and is easy to install.
IKURAM R Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack (US $99)
We highly recommend the IKURAM R Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack for anyone looking to transport their kayaks or stand-up paddle boards safely and securely.
Pros
- Maximum protection for kayaks and stand-up paddle boards thanks to the oversized, thick and all-weather rubber saddles and padded upright.
- Universal and easy mounting design fits to square and the most oval shaped factory installed cross rails quickly and easily.
- Quick raise and fold design allows for easy storage and overhead clearance.
Cons
- Installation instructions can be difficult to follow.
- May not fit on curved crossbars.
- Straps that come with the product may not be reliable.
We recently used the IKURAM R Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack on a weekend trip to transport our kayaks and were extremely impressed with its performance. The oversized, thick and all-weather rubber saddles and padded upright provided maximum protection for our kayaks, preventing any rubbing or damage during transport. The universal and easy mounting design made installation a breeze, fitting to our square cross rails quickly and securely.
The quick raise and fold design allowed for easy storage and overhead clearance when not in use, and the J-bars can be easily locked at different angles to suit different shapes of kayaks. However, the installation instructions can be difficult to follow and may require some trial and error. Additionally, the product may not fit on curved crossbars, so be sure to check your vehicle’s specifications before purchasing.
Overall, we highly recommend the IKURAM R Kayak/Surf/Ski Roof Carrier Rack for anyone looking to transport their kayaks or stand-up paddle boards safely and securely. Just be sure to use reliable straps, as the ones that come with the product may not be sufficient.
ECCPP Universal Ski/Snowboard Roof Rack (US $83)
If you’re looking for a reliable ski roof rack, the ECCPP Universal Ski/Snowboard Roof Rack is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The clamps fit most roof rack crossbars, making it a universal option.
- Made of aluminum, it’s lightweight and durable.
- The heavy-duty clamping mechanism ensures that the crossbar is securely fastened to the existing side rails.
Cons
- The low profile design can be a bit difficult to install.
- It may not be compatible with all vehicles, so be sure to check your stock roof rack before ordering.
- The price point is a bit higher compared to other ski roof racks on the market.
Overall, we highly recommend the ECCPP Universal Ski/Snowboard Roof Rack. It’s a great option for those who want to travel with their skis or snowboards without fear of damage. The clamps are strong and rust-proof, ensuring that your equipment stays secure during transport.
The high-quality materials used to make this roof rack make it a durable option that can withstand harsh weather conditions. The low profile streamline design efficiently reduces wind resistance and noise, making for a more enjoyable ride.
While installation can be a bit tricky, the end result is definitely worth the effort. This roof rack is a great investment for those who love to hit the slopes and want to travel with their equipment safely.
In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a reliable ski roof rack, the ECCPP Universal Ski/Snowboard Roof Rack is a great option to consider.
Leader Accessories Car Ski Snowboard Roof Racks (US $119)
If you are looking for a ski roof rack that is durable and can hold multiple skis and snowboards, the Leader Accessories Car Ski Snowboard Roof Racks might be a good fit for you.
Pros
- The aluminum construction of the rack is durable and corrosion-resistant, making it a good option for long-term use.
- The ultra-soft rubber grip profile securely holds your skis and snowboards without scratching their surfaces, even in temperatures as low as 40 degrees below zero.
- The rack has an extended size and can fit up to 6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards, depending on their width. It can also be used to carry fishing rods, paddles, ski poles, and water skis.
Cons
- The rack’s universal mounting system is not compatible with round bars.
- The metal hook lock system and mounting brackets are more secure and durable than plastic parts, but they can be difficult to unlatch, especially when wearing gloves.
- The rack’s locks can be challenging to use in cold weather.
We recently used the Leader Accessories Car Ski Snowboard Roof Racks on a ski trip and found it to be a reliable and sturdy option for carrying our skis and snowboards. The aluminum construction of the rack made it durable and corrosion-resistant, and the ultra-soft rubber grip profile kept our equipment secure without scratching it.
One downside of the rack is that its universal mounting system is not compatible with round bars. Additionally, the metal hook lock system and mounting brackets can be difficult to unlatch, especially when wearing gloves. However, the locks included with the rack provide added security.
Overall, we would recommend the Leader Accessories Car Ski Snowboard Roof Racks to anyone looking for a durable and reliable option for carrying their skis and snowboards.
Buying Guide
When buying a ski roof rack, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Capacity
The first thing to consider is the capacity of the ski roof rack. You want to make sure that it can accommodate the number of skis or snowboards you plan to transport. Some racks can hold up to six pairs of skis, while others can carry up to four snowboards.
Compatibility
It’s also important to ensure that the ski roof rack is compatible with your vehicle. Check the manufacturer’s website to see if they offer a fit guide or compatibility chart. This will help you determine if the rack will fit your vehicle’s roof and if any additional hardware is required.
Security
Another important factor to consider is security. Look for a ski roof rack that comes with locks or the ability to add locks. This will help prevent theft and ensure that your skis or snowboards are secure during transport.
Ease of Use
You want a ski roof rack that is easy to use and install. Look for a rack that comes with clear instructions and is easy to assemble. Additionally, look for a rack that is easy to load and unload your skis or snowboards from.
Durability
Finally, you want a ski roof rack that is durable and built to last. Look for a rack that is made from high-quality materials and has a solid construction. This will ensure that your rack can withstand the elements and the wear and tear of regular use.
Overall, when choosing a ski roof rack, it’s important to consider the capacity, compatibility, security, ease of use, and durability of the product. By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure that you get the best ski roof rack for your needs.
