How to Position a Ski on a Car Ski Rack

Before heading out of town to hit the slopes, you first have to pack the car. While roof racks make it simple to carry between four and six pairs of skis, loading the rack is always a challenge. You have to get up on the doorstep of the car and slide the skis into position before locking the rack into position. However, with a little practice, you'll be able to load the car rack quickly and efficiently.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Open the top bars of the ski rack. They should, if properly installed, stay up because of the spring inside the rack. Most racks are installed so the rack opens on the passenger side of the car.

Step 2

Slide one set of skis to the middle of the rack so the bindings are between the front and back bar. The tails of the skis should be facing forward and the tips facing back.

Step 3

Take the next pair of skis and position it next to the first set, again with tails facing forwards.

Step 4

Walk around the car to the driver's side. Reach over and pull the first set of skis close to the hinge of the rack. If you have long enough arms, you can also push them that way from the passenger side; standing on the front passenger seat can make this easier, though you are likely to track snow and mud onto the seat doing this.

Step 5

Push the second set of skis towards the first set, leaving about an inch between the two pairs.

Step 6

Load the last two pairs of skis, again with tips facing back and tails facing forward.

Step 7

Close the top bar and lock it.

Tips & Warnings

If you are only loading one or two pair of skis, load them in the middle part of the ski rack so they are well balanced.

Do not load skis with the tips facing forward. The rise of the tips will catch more wind. It will decrease gas mileage and may also damage the skis.

Article Written By Candace Horgan

Candace Horgan has worked as a freelance journalist for more than 12 years. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including the "Denver Post" and "Mix." Horgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and history.

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