10 Best Ski and Snowboard Racks in 2025

When winter’s snow-covered playground beckons, avid skiers and snowboarders know that getting to the slopes is half the adventure. To make sure your gear arrives safely, finding the perfect ski and snowboard rack is essential.

Whether you’re cruising up to the mountain with friends or embarking on a solo alpine quest, the right rack can streamline your journey, keeping your equipment secure and easily accessible.

In this review, we’ll explore the top ski and snowboard racks on the market, helping you choose the ideal option to fit your needs. From roof racks to hitch-mounted systems, we’ve got you covered. Let’s Dive In!

Ski and Snowboard Rack Buyer’s Guide

I am an outdoor writer for snow sports and mountain biking and have been a lifelong skier. Through testing many ski and snowboard racks, I have found that ease of use, protection of equipment, and added features are top considerations when choosing a ski rack.

Throughout this review, I have taken into account the price to value, security of equipment, security of locking system, ease of setup, ease of use, noise, and aerodynamics, and overall quality of the ski and snowboard racks I recommended

Ski and Snowboard Rack Mount Type and Compatability

When it comes to ski and snowboard racks, the mount type is crucial to consider. The two most common types are roof-mounted and hitch-mounted. A third carrying option is a cargo box, although these are usually twice the price of typical ski racks.

Roof-Mounted Ski and Snowboard Racks

Roof-mounted racks are popular for their versatility and ability to accommodate various car models. They keep your equipment elevated, leaving room for other gear and more passengers inside the vehicle.

The biggest downside with roof-mounted racks is that the vehicle will likely need crossbars to mount the rack to unless it uses a unique mounting system such as suction, like the Seasucker Classic. Another downside would be lower fuel economy and possibly some extra noise depending on the aerodynamics.

Hitch-Mounted Ski and Snowboard Racks

Hitch-mounted racks are an excellent choice for easy access and can typically handle multiple pairs of skis and snowboards. A hitch-mounted rack often works well for those who have large families or those who just don’t want to deal with reaching on top of the car. Compatibility with your vehicle is a key factor since hitch-mounted racks do require (you guessed it), a hitch!

The biggest downsides to hitch-mounted racks are that your gear isn’t protected from road/salt spray and is at greater risk of damage in case of an accident. Hitch-mounted racks are also often heavier than roof-mounted ski and board racks too.

Though most hitch-mounted racks will move to allow for easy access to the trunk, the extra effort to move the rack might be too much for some folks.

Cargo Box Ski and Snowboard Racks

Cargo boxes are favored most by those who want to fit lots of equipment on the roof (multiple pairs of skis and boards, plus wet helmets, gloves, pants, and more). They are also favored by those who are most concerned with keeping their equipment safe and guarded from the elements. For long trips and overnight storage, they can be worth the price.

The downsides are the high cost, long installation time, and lack of aerodynamics. Cargo boxes are often fairly loud and are guaranteed to bring down your gas mileage.

Ski and Snowboard Rack Ease of Use

Ski and snowboard rack ease of use is worth keeping in mind when selecting the right rack to fit your needs. The convenience of loading and unloading your gear can significantly impact the enjoyment of your skiing or snowboarding trip.

Roof-mounted racks, for instance, often require a bit of lifting to secure your equipment, but many come with user-friendly features like oversized buttons or intuitive locking mechanisms to simplify the process.

Hitch-mounted racks, on the other hand, are praised for their swing-away designs, making it effortless to access your gear without straining or struggling.

Considering your physical capabilities and how frequently you’ll be using the rack. Some may prefer the simplicity of hitch-mounted racks that offer quick and easy gear retrieval, while others might opt for the versatility of roof-mounted racks, which can be customized to suit different types of equipment.

Prioritizing ease of use ensures that your ski and snowboard rack seamlessly integrates into your skiing or snowboarding routine, providing a hassle-free experience when you’re on the slopes or en route to the mountains.

Ski and Snowboard Rack Installation

Installing ski and snowboard racks can vary depending on the type of rack — hitch-mounted, roof-mounted, or cargo box.

For hitch-mounted ski and snowboard racks, the installation process typically involves securing the rack onto the vehicle’s hitch receiver. This includes inserting the rack’s shank into the hitch and using a hitch pin to secure it in place.

Many hitch-mounted racks also have an integrated locking system to provide security for your gear. Once the rack is attached, you can often tilt it away from the vehicle, allowing easy access to the trunk or rear hatch. Hitch-mounted racks are generally known for their straightforward installation process and accessibility.

Roof-mounted ski and snowboard racks typically require attaching the rack to existing crossbars on the roof of the vehicle. The installation may involve tightening bolts, clamps, or other fastening mechanisms to secure the rack in place. Some roof racks have universal mounts, while others may be designed for specific crossbar systems.

It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a secure and stable installation. Roof-mounted racks are popular for their versatility, as they can accommodate various gear types, including skis, snowboards, bikes, or cargo boxes.

Cargo boxes, designed to carry skis, snowboards, or other gear on the roof, generally require attaching them to crossbars as well. Due to the size and weight, cargo boxes are often the hardest to install. Installation involves securing the cargo box to the roof rack system, often utilizing clamps or mounting brackets. Cargo boxes typically open from one side, allowing convenient access to the stored items.

Like other roof-mounted options, it’s crucial to ensure proper weight distribution and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation. Cargo boxes are known for providing additional enclosed storage space, protecting gear from the elements during transit.

Ski and Snowboard Rack Capacity

Make sure you consider how many skis and snowboards a rack can carry when making your decision.

Roof-mounted racks often come in various sizes, allowing you to select a smaller, sleeker design for fewer pairs of skis or a larger, more spacious option for families or groups.

Hitch-mounted racks, known for their higher load capacities, are an excellent choice if you have multiple boards to transport, as they can typically handle several pairs of skis or snowboards.

Selecting a rack with the right capacity ensures that you can hit the slopes with all your gear in tow.

Ski and Snowboard Rack Security

Protecting your valuable equipment from theft or unauthorized access is an important consideration, especially when needing to leave anything unattended during a ski trip.

Many ski and snowboard racks come equipped with integrated locking mechanisms that secure your gear to the rack itself. Roof-mounted racks may offer individual locks for each ski or snowboard slot, while hitch-mounted racks often feature a comprehensive locking system for the entire rack. When considering a rack, check the type of locks it provides and ensure they are robust and durable.

Additionally, some racks are compatible with padlocks or security cables, allowing you to add an extra layer of protection. When shopping for a ski and snowboard rack, assess your specific security needs and the places you plan to visit. Look for racks that offer effective locking solutions to safeguard your gear and provide peace of mind while enjoying the slopes or making stops along the way.

A secure rack ensures that your equipment remains in your possession, even during extended trips, enhancing your overall winter sports experience.

Ski and Snowboard Rack Weatherproofness and Durability

Ski and snowboard racks are exposed to environmental elements – rain, snow, and UV radiation. A durable and weather-resistant rack is essential to protect your gear and ensure it remains in top condition.

Look for racks constructed from materials that resist rust and corrosion, such as aluminum or stainless steel. Additionally, many racks have weatherproof features like rubberized padding or UV-resistant coatings to shield your skis and snowboards from moisture and sun damage.

Durability is equally important, as your rack needs to withstand the rigors of the road and provide long-lasting performance. Choose a rack that is built to last, even in challenging conditions. Racks with sturdy construction and high-quality components ensure that your equipment remains secure during transit and can endure the wear and tear of frequent use.

Prioritizing both weatherproofness and durability will help safeguard your gear and prolong the life of your ski and snowboard rack.