Are Ski Racks Universal? Here is What you Need To Know

Winter is the most favorable time of year (for some). During this time, many love to embark on skiing or snowboarding holidays. The only problem with this is transportation, as the equipment needed is long and bulky. That's where ski racks come into play. But are all ski racks universal?

Ski racks mount onto your pre-existing roof crossbars, and mostly all new cargo carriers that follow this pattern include universal mounting hardware. However, you'll always want to double-check this because older ski racks might not have the adaptable capability.

For many reading this, you've probably sighed in relief. Whether you have a pair of crossbars or perhaps the ski rack itself, knowing they're mostly universal is excellent news. For more information about this and the available ski racks on the market, we suggest reading the below:

Will a ski rack fit my crossbars?

Undoubtedly, ski racks are the best mode of transport for winter sports equipment. Although this is also possible in other cargo carriers like boxes or hitch-mounted types, ski racks shine from the value of money and accessibility. But, the problem with these devices is that many misunderstand whether they can fix them onto their existing crossbars.

However, you'll be happy to know that mostly all ski racks are universal and are installable on various crossbars. The reason for this is their universal mounting hardware design. On the cargo carriers, they have lower and upper clamps/arms, which are attached by a hinge. These can then be attached to various surfaces (usually a round or square bar).

But, before placing any heavy investment into an expensive ski rack, double-check its compatibility. Some brands only allow their crossbars with the additional cargo options they create. However, it's not a significant amount, so you should be fine here.

What are the best ski racks available?

There are various options within the ski rack cargo world you can select between. Whichever you choose will probably be determined by compatibility, budget, and holding capacity. Because of this, we've mentioned multiple options below which might be suitable for your application.

Thule Snowpack

The first honorable mention on this list is Thule. In almost all top or best cargo carrier lists, Thule is mentioned. The reason for this is that they've been market leaders for decades. In addition, the company itself is globalized and sells in all continents ranging from the US to Asia.

Thule's most favorable ski rack is called the Snowpack on amazon. It's an excellent device for anyone looking to transport a high capacity of skis or snowboards while keeping their vehicle's general aesthetics.

• Ski Capacity - 6
• Snowboard Capacity - 4
• Weight – 9.2 lbs
• Locking System – One key for gear and rack

Yakima FatCat EVO Premium

The following recommendation is the Yakima FatCat EVO premium on amazon, which is from another well-established brand within the cargo-carrying market. Again, it withholds a sleek design, high ski or snowboard capacity, it's lightweight, and has a locking system built-in for both the rack & gear.

Please note the old Yakima FatCat EVO Premium isn't universal and requires its own-branded crossbars. However, the newer versions come with the option of both. But, before ordering, you might want to check with the seller whether the FatCat you're purchasing comes with their universal mounting system.

• Ski Capacity - 6
• Snowboard Capacity - 4
• Weight – 9.2 lbs
• Locking System - One key for gear and rack

Rhino-Rack 579

Moving further down the list brings us to another highly recommended option within the market, the Rhino-Rack 579 on amazon. If you're looking for an inexpensive yet highly valuable ski transportation method, then the Rhino-Rack might be the best possible option available.

Considering its size, it comes with all the essentials; it holds upwards of 6 skis or 4 snowboards, has a locking system, and doesn't visually look bad. Although it weighs slightly more than the above options, it's hardly noticeable and more than worth the thought.

• Ski Capacity - 6
• Snowboard Capacity - 4
• Weight – 12.75 lbs
• Locking System - One key for gear and rack

Yakima Big PowderHound

Another reasonably-priced ski rack you can select is the Yakima Big PowderHound on amazon. It comes with all the essentials, such as a high ski or snowboard capacity, a locking system, and a straightforward installation.

There isn't too much more you need when combining all of these. That's the reason why this affordable Yakima solution got a chance on the list. For those looking to transport winter sports equipment occasionally, it's the perfect solution.

• Ski Capacity - 6
• Snowboard Capacity - 4
• Weight – 8.8 lbs
• Locking System - One key for gear and rack

Thule Universal Flat Top

When we mentioned Thule being a market leader, we weren't lying. Another honorable mention is Thule's Universal Flat Top on amazon Ski Rack. It's an incredible option for those wanting to transport skis or snowboards while being a more affordable solution than the first one mentioned above. The only significant difference between the two is the aerodynamic design.

• Ski Capacity - 6
• Snowboard Capacity - 4
• Weight – 7.46 lbs
• Locking System - One key for gear only

INNO Gravity Universal

Not wanting a large ski capacity, or perhaps you use one side of your crossbars for something else? Then you might want to consider the INNO Gravity Universal Ski Rack on amazon. The option itself is tremendous and can easily accommodate small families or single travelers that don't require a significant amount of extra storage for winter sports.

• Ski Capacity - 3
• Snowboard Capacity - 2
• Weight – 7.96 lbs
• Locking System - One key for gear only

Overview

Conclusion