You're excited to take your family of four for their first-ever skiing trip. You've got reservations at an elite-level ski resort, and you couldn't be more excited. All that's left to do is load up the car, and you're ready to go!
That's when you realize that your suitcases take up all your trunk space. Even though you have one of the most spacious SUVs on the market, it still isn't enough.
To avoid this disaster scenario, you need a Thule ski and snowboard racks carrier.
If you didn't know, Thule makes some of the highest quality roof and hitch racks on the market.
So if you want to add some extra storage capacity to your vehicle, you're in the right place. We're breaking down the six best Thule ski and snowboard racks carrier options for you.
#6: Thule SnowPack (Sizes: L and M)
First, we'll take a look at the Thule SnowPack on Amazon. It comes in two sizes for your convenience: large and medium. That way, you can pick a size based on your unique needs. If you have a larger family/group of friends, you'll need to opt for the larger model.
It's a sleek, aerodynamic ski rack that mounts to the roof of your vehicle. Thanks to its clever design, it won't make any road noise and won't affect your fuel economy.
It's affordably priced at $299.95. That's very reasonable for a roof-mounted ski rack.
The technicians at Thule spared no expense when adding features to this fantastic ski rack carrier.
The large model can carry six pairs of skis or four snowboards. That's perfect for larger families and groups of friends. If you have a boatload of winter gear to transport, then you'll need to go with the SnowPack L model.
If you're only taking your wife and a close friend, then the medium size will more than suffice.
It's still capable of transporting four pairs of skis or two snowboards.
There are also two colors available. You can choose from a classy aluminum or a stealthy black. Each has its perks depending on your needs. If you have a black vehicle, the stealthy black will look great.
This rack will easily fit any Thule rack system. It doesn't matter if you have round bars or T-track bars; you can attach this rack carrier.
Do you prefer to use thicker skis for more control and balance? Then you'll love the Thule SnowPack. It can safely carry thicker snowboards and skis without damaging them.
Its core features include:
- Added roof clearance for skis that have taller bindings
- Extension feet that raise the carrier
- A universal fit for the mounting system, including T-track and Speed-Link mounts
- Straightforward to open and close due to the oversized push button
- Ultra-soft rubber arms that won't damage your roof or your winter gear
- Integrated vertical spring system to carry thicker boards
- The affordable price of $299.95
- Aerodynamic design that won't affect fuel economy or cause road noise
#5: Thule Force XT (Sport, L, XL, XXL)
The following ski and snowboard racks carrier we'll look at is the Thule Force XT on Amazon. It comes in four different sizes. These include the Sport model, L, XL, and XXL.
As you can see, there are a wide variety of size options for your convenience. For this reason, the Thule Force XT is a very versatile ski rack for your vehicle.
Instead of a roof-mount specifically for skis and snowboards, this is a complete cargo box.
That means you can transport a lot more than just winter gear.
If you need extra room for suitcases or emergency kits, this cargo box is perfect. The Sport model is the smallest, with only 11 cubic feet of storage space. That's still enough to carry several pairs of skis and snowboards. The large model boasts 16 cubic feet of storage space. That's more than enough to carry six suitcases, several pairs of skis, snowboards, and more.
The XL carries 18 cubic feet of space, and the XXL has a whopping 22 cubic feet.
So if you're transporting skis for an entire team, the XL and XXL options will more than accommodate you.
You'll love the dual-sided opening. That means you can load and unload it from either side. That's especially handy when you're approaching the vehicle with a heavy load and don't want to switch sides.
The PowerClick quick-mount system is a lifesaver for installation times. There's even an integrated torque indicator. It will click whenever it's appropriately mounted. As soon as you hear that click, you're ready to hit the road!
Its core features include:
- Multiple sizes for your convenience
- PowerClick quick-mount system for an effortless installation
- Dual-sided opening and closing
- Full trunk access due to the forward position on your car's roof
- Plenty of storage space to carry your winter gear
- The ability to store more than skis and snowboards
#4: Thule Motion XT (Alpine, L, XL, XXL)
The Thule Motion XT on Amazon is another model with several size options available. There's an Alpine version, as well as an L, XL, and XXL.
Like the Force XT, it's also a spacious cargo box that rests on the roof. You can store all sorts of things inside of it, including suitcases, snowboards, and more.
A roof-mounted cargo box will provide more versatility than a simple mount.
If you have a lot of gear and luggage that you need to transport, a cargo box can give you more value.
Thule technicians took a lot of time and effort to optimize this cargo box for a perfect fit. This box provides ample space efficiency and aerodynamics. That way, it won't make any road noise or affect your wind resistance.
The SlideLock system has separate locking and opening functions. It will automatically lock the lid in place for your convenience. Not only that, but it will indicate when the box is closed correctly. That way, you'll never have to worry about leaving your box open and not secured.
Skis and snowboards are expensive outdoor toys. That's why security is a must for any cargo rack or box.
Thule knocks it out of the park in this regard. The SlideLock system will keep your precious cargo safe and secure at all times. The placement on the roof also adds extra security, as it deters anyone from tampering with it. As you can imagine, someone trying to jump on a roof to tamper with a box is very suspicious.
Picture this; it's drizzling outside, and your vehicle is covered in freezing rain.
As a result, your cargo box is slippery and wet.
Yet, you won't have any issues opening and closing your Thule Motion XT. That's because it has grip-friendly outer handles and lid-lifters. You'll always be able to get a good grip on the handles of your box so you can open and close it in any condition.
Core features of this model include:
- Four different sizes: Alpine, L, XL, XXL (11 cubic feet, 16 cubic feet, 18 cubic feet, 22 cubic feet)
- Full trunk access due to the forward position on the roof
- SlideLock system for added security and protection
- Grip-friendly outer handles for easy opening and closing in any weather condition
- Optimized for aerodynamics, space efficiency, and vehicle fit
- PowerClick quick-mount system that clicks when properly in place
#3: Thule Pulse (Alpine, M, L)
Next on our list of Thule ski and snowboard racks carriers is the Thule Pulse on Amazon. It's another roof-mounted cargo box that comes in three sizes. There's an extra-compact Alpine model, as well as a medium and an extensive offering. The Thule Pulse is an excellent budget-friendly option that offers a lot of value.
If you don't want your cargo box to affect your performance, you'll love the Alpine model.
Why? Because it's so sleek and compact.
It has a nearly flat profile, which means that it won't affect your wind resistance. Not only that, but it makes next to no noise at all.
The only sacrifice comes through its available storage space. The Alpine model has 11 cubic feet of storage space. That's perfect if you're heading out for an intimate skiing trip with your spouse. Yet, if you need to carry skis and snowboards for more than two people, you'll need the larger sizes.
The good news is that the medium and large sizes also feature an optimized design. While they aren't as compact and quiet as the Alpine model, they're still fantastic.
The medium-sized option has 14 cubic feet of space. That's enough for three pairs of skis or two snowboards. Since it's a cargo box, you can also transport suitcases and other items. To learn more about the 13 best ski cargo boxes on the market, check out this list.
The CentralLocking system provides optimal safety for your precious gear. It comes with a Thule Comfort Key with a grip-friendly handle. It will only be removed if all locking points are securely closed.
Core features of this model include:
- FastGrp quick-mount system that assembles in seconds
- Rigid and durable design that will protect your gear at all times
- Passenger-side opening for easy loading and unloading
- CentralLocking system for added security
#2: Thule SnowPack Extender
Okay, so now we're back to a roof-mount style model. The ThuleSnowPack Extender on Amazon is a slide-out rack for snowboards and skis. It can impressively carry six pairs of skis and four snowboards.
Why should you choose a rack over a cargo box? It all comes down to your preferences.
A ski mount is your best option if you want to enjoy a smooth and quiet ride with no interference.
If you have more to transport than skis and snowboards, then you'll need a cargo box. You won't have to worry if your skis have taller bindings, either. The added roof clearance and raised design will more than accommodate them.
It also universally fits any Thule rack system. You can hook up and start using this rack in no time at all. It can fit both T-track and Speed-link mounting options too.
For security, you'll enjoy the Thule One-Key system. You can lock the skis to the rack and then the rack to the car. That way, there's no chance of anyone tampering or stealing your skis/snowboards.
If you find yourself out in the cold trying to open your ski mount, you'll love this model. It has an oversized push button, so it's easy to open with gloves or mittens. The folks at Thule thought of everything before designing their racks.
Core features of this model include:
- Added roof clearance for skis with tall bindings
- Thule One-Key system
- Easy to open and close with oversized push button
- Extendable for easy loading and unloading
- Ultra-soft rubber arms that will protect your skis, snowboards, and vehicle
- Designed to carry all types of skis and snowboards
- Universal fit for all Thule mounting systems
- Affordably priced at $349.95
#1: Thule Tram
Finally, we have the Thule Tram on Amazon. That will complete our list of Thule ski and snowboard racks carrier options. This final carrier offers a unique choice; it's a hitch-mounted system.
What does that mean? It means that the Thule Tram attaches to the back-end of your vehicle.
If you don't have hitching capabilities, you won't be able to use the Thule Tram.
While that's a considerable drawback, it's still a fantastic system. If you don't want your cargo messing with your performance, then a hitch-mount is ideal. That way, your gear stays behind your vehicle, so it won't make noise or affect your wind resistance.
You can carry up to 6 pairs of skis and four snowboards. That's an impressive amount of carrying capacity for a hitch system.
You'll need the Thule hanging hitch bike rack to use this model. Luckily, it's readily available and is inexpensive.
Bestselling Thule Ski and Snowboard Racks on Amazon
Conclusion
Thule offers a wide variety of ski and snowboard racks to suit your specific needs, no matter the size or shape.
If you’re looking for something that will store just one to four board then consider the Pulse Rooftop Cargo Box Medium which has an extended length but also only four sections.
For those who need more storage space in their racks without sacrificing ease of use, take a look at The SnowPack Extender Ski/Snowboard Rack with its six-section design and integrated lock system to keep everything secure during transport.
No matter what type of rack you choose, rest assured it will be backed by Thule’s Lifetime Warranty so if anything goes wrong during installation can help out!
We hope you found this article helpful and, if so, please share it with your other ski or snowboard enthusiasts. If you have any questions about which skis or boards are the best for you based on what we've discussed in our blog post today, don't hesitate to contact us we're happy to help.
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API