Best Ski Rack for Car in 2025

Küat Switch 6

The Küat Switch 6 stands out as our top pick for 2025, offering an innovative folding design that dramatically reduces wind noise and improves aerodynamics when not in use. This rack delivers exceptional value with premium materials and user-friendly features at a more accessible price point than competitors.

What truly sets the Switch 6 apart is its unique ability to rotate 90 degrees and lie flat against your crossbars when empty, significantly reducing drag and wind noise during daily driving. When ski season arrives, simply flip it up, load your gear, and secure it with the large, glove-friendly handles and smooth-operating locks.

Users consistently praise the Switch 6’s innovative folding design, with many noting significant reductions in wind noise compared to fixed racks. The installation process receives high marks for simplicity, though some users mention the rack can be challenging to close when loaded to full capacity. The extra height clearance is particularly appreciated by snowboarders who need space for bulky bindings.

Compared to runner-up models like the Yakima FatCat EVO 6 ($379) and Thule SnowPack Extender ($450), the Küat Switch 6 delivers comparable or better performance at a more accessible $249 price point. While the Yakima offers a more aerodynamic profile when in use and the Thule includes an extender bar for easier loading, neither can match the Switch’s innovative folding design that essentially disappears when not carrying gear.

1. Rhino-Rack Ski and Snowboard Carrier #576

The Rhino-Rack Carrier #576 delivers reliable performance at a budget-friendly price point, making it our top value pick for 2025. This versatile rack accommodates up to six pairs of skis or four snowboards with universal mounts that work with most crossbar styles.

While it lacks some premium features of higher-end models, the Rhino-Rack provides all the essentials for safe ski transport, including an integrated locking system and the option to purchase a riser separately for additional clearance with bulky bindings.

Users appreciate the Rhino-Rack’s value proposition, with many noting it performs reliably despite costing significantly less than premium alternatives. The rack receives positive feedback for its sturdy construction, though some users mention the locking mechanism can be difficult to engage when fully loaded. Several reviewers highlight the rack’s compatibility with various vehicle types as a major advantage.

2. Yakima FatCat EVO 6

The Yakima FatCat EVO 6 combines sleek aerodynamics with versatile mounting options, making it ideal for those with wider skis or who prioritize reduced road noise. Its aerodynamic shape minimizes wind resistance, while the universal mounting system works with most crossbar styles.

A standout feature is the rack’s additional mounting point closer to the middle, perfect for narrower roofs or when you want to position the rack for easier access. The integrated SKS (Same Key System) lock secures both your gear and the rack to your crossbars.

Users consistently praise the FatCat’s aerodynamic design, with many reporting noticeably less wind noise compared to other racks. The adjustable mounting positions receive positive feedback for their versatility across different vehicle types. Some users note that the rack can be difficult to close when loaded to full capacity, and a few mention issues with the locking mechanism in extremely cold conditions.

3. Thule SnowPack Extender

The Thule SnowPack Extender stands out with its innovative slider that pulls the entire rack toward you for effortless loading and unloading. This premium feature is particularly valuable for SUV and truck owners who would otherwise need to stretch across their vehicle to access roof-mounted gear.

Security is a strong point with the SnowPack Extender, featuring two separate locks for each rack—one securing the rack to your crossbars and another locking your gear in place. The tool-free installation and multiple mounting options add to its appeal for those willing to invest in convenience.

Users consistently highlight the extender feature as a game-changer, particularly for taller vehicles where reaching the center of the roof would otherwise be challenging. The secure locking system receives praise for its theft deterrence, though many users express frustration with the wordless instruction manual and the quality of the keys. Despite these drawbacks, the convenience of the sliding mechanism makes this a top choice for those prioritizing ease of use.

4. Küat Grip 4

The Küat Grip 4 represents the pinnacle of ski rack engineering, featuring high-end materials and innovative design elements that justify its premium price point. The standout feature is the unique GripLock rubber with individual teeth that conform precisely to your gear’s shape, providing unmatched security regardless of ski or snowboard dimensions.

Like the SnowPack Extender, the Grip 4 includes a slider bar that brings loading and unloading to the vehicle’s edge, but it adds larger, more durable metal handles that resist icing and operate smoothly even with heavy gloves in extreme conditions.

Users consistently praise the Grip 4’s build quality, with many noting it feels substantially more durable than plastic-heavy competitors. The GripLock rubber receives particular acclaim for its ability to securely hold skis and snowboards of varying thicknesses without adjustment. While the premium price point is mentioned in many reviews, users generally feel the quality justifies the investment, especially for those who frequently transport expensive gear in harsh conditions.

5. Yakima FreshTrack 4

The Yakima FreshTrack 4 offers a straightforward, reliable solution at a more accessible price point than the FatCat EVO. This rack focuses on essential functionality with tool-free installation, Yakima’s SKS locks, and large, glove-friendly clamps that operate smoothly even in cold conditions.

A key feature is the included SkiLift attachments, which create additional clearance between the rack and rooftop—ideal for accommodating bulky snowboard bindings or stacking boards base-to-base for maximum capacity.

Users appreciate the FreshTrack’s straightforward design and ease of installation, with many noting it provides excellent value for occasional ski trips. The rack receives positive feedback for its durability in various weather conditions, though some users mention wind noise at highway speeds due to its less aerodynamic profile. Several reviewers highlight the included SkiLift as a valuable feature that eliminates the need for additional purchases when carrying snowboards.

6. Thule Pulse Alpine Cargo Box

For those seeking complete protection from the elements, the Thule Pulse Alpine offers an enclosed solution that shields your gear from road grime, salt, and weather. This cargo box is specifically designed with skis in mind, featuring an elongated shape that accommodates skis and poles while maintaining a relatively slim profile.

Beyond ski transportation, the Pulse Alpine provides versatility for year-round use, carrying camping gear, luggage, or other equipment when ski season ends. The included tie-down straps secure your gear inside the box, preventing movement during transit.

Users consistently praise the Pulse Alpine for keeping gear clean and protected during long trips, with many highlighting its aerodynamic design that produces minimal road noise. The box receives positive feedback for its durability and weather resistance, though some users mention issues with the locking mechanism being difficult to engage properly. Several reviewers appreciate the versatility of using the box for various gear throughout the year, maximizing the value of their investment.

7. Thule SnowPack M

The Thule SnowPack M offers a more economical alternative to the Extender model while maintaining Thule’s reputation for quality and security. This rack features a smaller footprint than the “L” version and forgoes the slider mechanism for a more straightforward design that still delivers reliable performance.

Versatility is a key strength, with multiple mounting options including T-slot compatibility and universal clamps that work with most crossbar styles. The rack’s three hinge points secure skis and snowboards of various sizes, while the glove-friendly clamp closes with a reassuring click.

Users appreciate the SnowPack M’s secure design and multiple mounting options, with many noting it works well with factory crossbars. The rack receives positive feedback for its low profile and minimal wind noise, though some users express frustration with Thule’s wordless instruction manual and the quality of the keys. Several reviewers mention adding the optional risers to accommodate snowboard bindings, which they found essential for proper clearance.

8. Inno Gravity INA952

The Inno Gravity INA952 offers a compact solution for individuals, couples, or those with limited roof space. Measuring just over 14 inches in usable space, this half-length rack accommodates up to three fat skis or two snowboards while leaving room for other rooftop accessories like kayak mounts or compact rooftop tents.

Despite its smaller size, the Gravity includes security features like locks that secure both your gear and the rack to your crossbars. The price point is particularly attractive for solo skiers or couples who don’t need the capacity of larger racks.

Users appreciate the Gravity’s compact footprint, with many noting it’s perfect for occasional skiers or those who need to share roof space with other accessories. The rack receives positive feedback for its price-to-performance ratio, though some users report issues with the locks sticking after extended use. Several reviewers mention the importance of having sufficient crossbar height when carrying snowboards, as the bindings require adequate clearance between the rack and roof.

9. Yakima HitchSki

The Yakima HitchSki offers an alternative approach to ski transportation, mounting to your vehicle’s hitch rather than the roof. This solution is ideal for those who can’t or prefer not to lift their gear overhead, as well as for vehicles with tall roofs like SUVs and vans.

As an add-on to Yakima’s hitch-mounted bike racks, the HitchSki provides versatility for year-round use. The design keeps your gear at an accessible height for easy loading and unloading, though it does expose skis to more road grime than roof-mounted alternatives.

Users appreciate the HitchSki’s accessible mounting height, with many noting it’s much easier to load and unload compared to roof racks. The rack receives positive feedback for its sturdy construction and security features, though some users mention their gear gets dirty from road spray, particularly in wet or slushy conditions. Several reviewers highlight the convenience of keeping their roof free for other cargo while still securely transporting their ski equipment.

10. SeaSucker Classic

The SeaSucker Classic offers a unique solution for vehicles without crossbars or for those who only occasionally transport ski equipment. Using pressurized vacuum mounts instead of traditional mounting hardware, this rack can be installed on virtually any vehicle’s roof in minutes without permanent modifications.

The system’s 6-inch vacuum mounts create a surprisingly secure connection that has proven reliable over years of use. While the rack itself is more basic than premium alternatives, the flexibility of mounting to any vehicle makes it a compelling option for occasional users or those with luxury vehicles they prefer not to modify.

Users consistently praise the SeaSucker’s innovative mounting system, with many expressing initial skepticism followed by surprise at how secure the vacuum mounts prove to be. The rack receives positive feedback for its versatility across different vehicle types, though some users mention concerns about the plastic construction and basic padding. Several reviewers highlight the convenience of being able to quickly install and remove the rack without tools, making it ideal for occasional use.