1997 Ford Ranger Snowboard & Ski Racks

Snowboard & Ski Racks

If you're an avid skier or snowboarding enthusiast, you understand the hassle of transporting your gear to and from the slopes. Fortunately, it doesn't need to be a challenge. At RealTruck, we carry various ski and snowboard racks for trucks and cars, providing a designated mount to safely and securely transport your skis and snowboards.

While several skiers and snowboarders opt to load their equipment directly in a pickup bed or SUV cargo area, these locations subject your expensive equipment to scuffs, nicks, and abrasions from sliding around loosely. Not only does this method pose a risk to your skis and snowboards, but it also significantly diminishes your ride's cargo space. Instead of haphazardly loading your equipment and gear into your truck's bed or rear seat, consider a premium snowboard and ski rack from RealTruck.

Ski and Snowboard Rack Location Types

Several ski and snowboard rack configurations are available, depending on your application, preferred mounting location, and the number of skis and snowboards you plan to carry. 

Rack systems mount in various locations around your vehicle, including the roof, the hitch, or even adjustable systems fitted with high-strength suction cups.

Ski and Snowboard Hitch Mounts

Typically, you'll want a rack that's easily accessible for your application. For instance, pickups and SUVs benefit from hitch-mounted systems, like the Thule Tram Ski and Snowboard Carrier, which keeps your gear low to the ground and easily accessible. 

RealTruck Expert Pick: Thule Tram Ski and Snowboard Carrier

Why we love it: 

• Compatible with most Thule bike carriers—models 9031, 9030, 9029, 9028, 9027, 9026, 9025, 956, 958, 957, or 963XTR

• Easy operation, even while wearing gloves

• Holds up to six pairs of skis or four snowboards with a 2-in. hitch or four pairs of skis or two snowboards with a 1-¼-in. hitch

• Two one-key locks are included to lock your skis and snowboards in place

• Backed by Thule's Limited Lifetime Warranty

Snow Sport Roof Racks

On the other hand, passenger car owners often gravitate toward roof-mounted systems, as their lower roofs make accessing your equipment from roof racks quick and easy.

RealTruck Expert Pick: Thule SnowPack Ski and Snowboard Carrier

Why we love it:  

• Offered in silver or black painted finishes

• Small rack holds four pairs of skis or two snowboards—large carrier holds six pairs of skis or three snowboards.

• Ultra-soft rubber arms secure gear without scratching or marring

• Durable aluminum construction

• Loading width of 19.6 or 29.5 in.

• Backed by a limited lifetime warranty

Suction Cup or Alternative Mounts & Racks

Suction cups and alternative systems, like the SeaSucker Classic Ski Rack, offer easy installation and removal without any lasting footprints of lengthy removal processes.

RealTruck Expert Pick: SeaSucker Classic Ski Rack

Why we love it: 

• Durable polyethylene construction

• Can carry skis, snowboards, or fishing rods

• Can be installed/removed in seconds

• Universal fit

• Attaches to any flat, non-porous surface

• Made in the USA

• Limited lifetime warranty

Ski and Snowboard Rack Design Variations

Aside from your rack's mounting location, there are several mount designs to choose from. While each is effective, you may prefer a click-in design, like the Thule SkiClick Cross Country Ski Carrier, or the secure, clamshell design of the Kuat Switch Clamshell Rooftop Ski Rack.

FAQs About Our Snowboard Racks & Mounts

Q: Are roof racks or tow hitch snowboard/ski racks best?

A: This is all personal preference. Which rack is preferred depends on the vehicle in question. We typically prefer roof rack systems for sedans and coupes, offering easy gear access without requiring a hitch system. However, if you're piloting a truck or SUV with a hitch already installed, hitch racks provide the best accessibility. 

Q: How many snowboards can fit on a typical hitch vs roof rack?

A: This depends entirely on the system and hitch receiver size. However, most racks carry between one and four boards. 

Q: Can you strap skis and snowboards into racks while covered in storage bags?

A: In most cases, this isn't advised as the equipment is more prone to slipping, sliding, and loosening. Exposing your gear to elements causes less wear and tear than a fall and slide across the freeway.