How to Attach Skis to Roof Rack: Tips and Tricks

Whether you’re gearing up for a weekend trip to your favorite slopes or embarking on a season-long adventure, safely securing your skis to your vehicle is essential. Learning how to attach skis to a roof rack is a must for ensuring your gear stays safe, secure, and ready for action.

At Boston Ski + Tennis, we know the ins and outs of ski equipment and travel, so we’ve compiled this guide to make transporting your skis easy and worry-free. We explain how to attach skis to the roof rack and more.

Preparing Your Vehicle’s Roof Rack System

Before diving into how to attach skis to your roof rack, you’ll want to make sure your roof rack system is installed correctly. If you’re unsure, consult your vehicle’s manual (which you should be able to find online via the manufacturer) or check with Rack Attack Boston in Framingham.

Roof racks come in a variety of brands and styles and can accommodate different loads. Before attaching your skis, make sure they fit your rack properly—some racks or cargo boxes have size limits that might not accommodate longer skis or wider equipment.

Double-check the dimensions of your gear and your rack to avoid any surprises before heading out.

Double-Check the Weight Limits

One thing to note when learning how to put skis on a roof rack is that your vehicle’s roof has a weight limit, which includes the rack system, skis, and any other equipment. Be sure to double-check your car’s manual to avoid overloading.

Roof-Mounted, Tow Hitch, or Cargo Box?

When transporting skis, you generally have two options: a ski rack carrier or a cargo box. Both are great, but they offer different benefits depending on your needs.

Roof-Mounted

Ski rack carriers come in two main styles: roof-mounted and tow-hitch-mounted. Both are designed to securely hold your skis or snowboards using adjustable clamps or arms.

Tow Hitch

Roof-mounted carriers keep your skis up and out of the way, while tow hitch-mounted options provide easier access without the need to climb or stretch.

Each style comes with its own benefits and risks. While both are simple and efficient, tow hitch carriers may leave your gear even more exposed to salt, sand, and road debris.

Plus, there’s a higher chance of your skis getting bumped into when parked. No matter which option you choose, be sure to securely fasten your skis to prevent shifting during transit and double-check that the clamps or locks are tight before hitting the road.

Cargo Box

A cargo box offers superior protection for your skis, sealing them inside a waterproof, wind-resistant case. This makes it an excellent choice for long-distance trips or for carrying additional gear like boots and helmets alongside your skis.

However, cargo boxes do come with some trade-offs. They can be heavy, require more space to store when not in use, and tend to be more expensive than ski rack carriers.

When choosing a cargo box, it’s crucial to ensure it’s the right size for your skis. Models are often labeled as standard, XL, or XXL to accommodate different ski lengths.

Be sure to check the box’s maximum ski size before buying or renting—this will save you the headache of realizing your skis don’t fit after the fact.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Attach Skis to Roof Rack

Now that you’ve chosen the right method for your needs, let’s get into the specifics of how to attach skis to your roof rack.

Gather Your Gear

Before getting started, make sure you have your skis, roof rack system, and any necessary components like clamps or locks. If you’re using a ski rack, ensure it’s properly installed on your car.

For guidance, refer to your roof rack’s manual or consult the experts at Rack Attack—they’re a trusted resource and can help with installation or compatibility questions.

Prepare the Roof Rack

If you’re using a ski rack carrier, open the clamps or arms to create enough space to insert your skis. The idea is to have enough room for your skis without having them jostling around.

A pro tip is to load your skis with the tips facing the rear of the car. This reduces wind resistance and prevents the skis from catching too much wind during the drive.

Place Your Skis

Gently place your skis into the rack, positioning them at least an inch apart to prevent them from scratching each other. For added security, make sure the bindings rest snugly within the clamps or arms. This will help keep the skis stable during transit.

If you’re using a cargo box, lay your skis inside, ensuring they are flat and not stacked unevenly. Some cargo boxes come with internal straps to secure your gear and provide extra stability.

For the best results, distribute the weight evenly: position about half of the weight between the crossbars under the box, with a quarter of the weight toward the front and a quarter toward the back. This balance helps prevent shifting during transit and reduces strain on your roof rack.

Secure the Skis

Once your skis are in place, close the clamps or arms of the ski rack. Be sure they’re locked in tight. Give them a light tug to confirm everything is secure—there should be no wiggle room.

Depending on the size of your skis, some require more effort than others. If using a cargo box, make sure all internal straps are fastened, and then shut and lock the box.

Double-Check Everything

Before you hit the road, double-check that your skis are securely attached and that all clamps or locks are engaged. It’s worth taking a few extra moments to ensure nothing is loose—you don’t want your gear flying off mid-drive.

Pro Tips for Hassle-Free Travel

Even if you’ve attached your skis correctly, there are a few additional steps you can take to make your travel experience smoother and safer.

Use a Wheel Step for Easy Access

If your vehicle is tall, reaching the roof to load and unload your skis can be a challenge. A wheel step or hitch step can give you the extra height you need to make loading easier. This step fits onto your car’s tire and allows you to reach the roof without having to climb or strain.

Wipe Down Your Skis

After a day on the slopes, road debris and salt can build up on your skis. Before you pack them away, take a minute to wipe them down. This small step can help protect your gear from corrosion and wear.

Store Your Keys Securely

If your ski rack or cargo box comes with a lock, be sure to store the key in a secure place. Some skiers attach their lock key to their car keychain to avoid misplacing it. Nothing puts a damper on a ski trip like realizing you’ve locked your gear up and can’t find the key!

Visit Boston Ski + Tennis Today

Get ready for your best ski season yet! Whether you’re leasing gear, buying equipment, or looking for expert bootfitting, Boston Ski + Tennis is here to help you check everything off your season’s gear checklist.

From the perfect skis to the right accessories, our knowledgeable team is ready to make sure you’re fully prepared for a fantastic winter on the slopes. Visit us today, and let’s get your season started right.