Roof racks, roof boxes for skis and snowboards - prices and comparison
Carrying sports equipment in the car is inconvenient and dangerous. So even if you ski from time to time, get a professional roof rack.
Although the choice of roof racks available on the Polish market is increasing, Polish drivers are still reluctant to invest in this type of equipment. Often skis or boards are transported inside the car. Some lose them in the trunk and on the unfolded back of the rear seat. Others in a special sleeve.
The sleeve is usually an oblong bag folded between the center tunnel and the trunk compartment. In the case of vehicles prepared at the factory for the transport of equipment, it is not necessary to unfold the sofa. It is threaded through a hole in the center of the back, usually hidden under the armrest. A convenient solution, but not without flaws. The largest one occupies one place at the back next to the equipment.
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The back can be even tighter if you use a universal sleeve that requires the back to be folded down. If the sofa is not divided, then only two people can operate the machine. Prices for used original bushings for cars range from PLN 100-300. A new one, for example, for a Volkswagen Passat, costs about PLN 600-700. According to experts, transporting skis inside is not the best solution. In addition to reducing driving comfort, it is worth remembering about safety. Unfortunately, in the event of an accident, the skis lying in the car hit the passengers with great force, causing them injury. The risk is similar to that of a passenger traveling without a seat belt. In some countries, equipment in the vehicle may also result in a fine.
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Let's start with the base
So, according to equipment vendors, even if you rarely ski, you should invest in equipment that will allow you to carry skis or a board on your roof. There are two options here: a closed box or a handle in the form of a paw holding skis. In both cases, they must be equipped with a so-called base, i.e. cross beams attached to the roof or railing (exception, magnetic holders, see below).
They are screwed to the roof through special holes prepared by the car manufacturer. If they are not available, we usually use claws to grab doorways. At the moment, there are bases on the market for almost any, even the most complex car. However, for atypical models, they are usually produced only by the most famous brands, which increases the cost.
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You have to pay around PLN 300 for a mid-range base made by a popular manufacturer on the market. This money will be enough for aluminum crossbars. A structure made of steel elements can even cost half as much. With an additional PLN 150-200, we can secure the base from theft using key locks. The prices for railings attached to railings are very similar. Your best bet is not to skimp and opt for a sturdy aluminum alloy bar and elliptical design. Thanks to this, they can easily lift up to 70 kg of cargo.
Up to six pairs of skis
Having a base, you can think about what to attach to it. A cheaper solution is a paw in which we transport unprotected skis. The models on the market allow you to transport from one to six pairs of skis or two snowboards in this way. As with the base, the price also depends on the manufacturer and material. Cheaper steel handles can be bought for around PLN 120-150. More expensive, made of aluminum, it costs at least 300 PLN. In the case of additional items, such as locks to prevent the theft of skis, the price increases to about PLN 400-500.
Extra bed for the whole year
Crates, also called chests, are definitely more expensive, but are also the most recommended solution. First of all, because of its versatility. In winter, they allow you to carry skis, poles, boots and other ski equipment. In the summer, you can take a lot of holiday luggage with you. In order for the box to fulfill its purpose, its size should be chosen wisely.
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For a snowboard, you need to choose a long model, at least 190 cm. It is similar to transporting four pairs of skis and sticks, but in this case the capacity cannot be less than 320 liters. In a box with a capacity of 450-500 liters, we put five pairs of skis and boots. Prices for large branded boxes start from PLN 800. For models equipped with additional handles and opening from two sides, you need to prepare more than PLN 2000. At the moment, most of the trunks are already equipped with a central lock. Cheaper crates usually have a lower weight capacity, limited to 50kg. More expensive ones can be loaded up to 75 kg.
The simplest solution
The aforementioned magnetic holder can also be mounted on the roof, eliminating the need for a base. It is attached in a few seconds and involves only the contact of the magnetic surface with the body. The most popular size can carry three pairs of skis or two boards. The price is about 250-350 zł. The disadvantage of this solution is the speed limit that occurs due to the slightly weaker adhesion of the skis to the car.
We take the skis back
Finally, a few more tips for placing equipment in holders. The most important thing is to fix the skis against the direction of travel. As a result, air resistance is lower while driving, resulting in lower fuel consumption and reduced noise. It is best if the skis do not protrude beyond the outlines of the car, because in some EU countries this can also be a reason for a mandate. When unfolding the equipment in the box, it is good to cover it with a blanket or other soft material. Thanks to this, on bumps and ruts, boots and skis will not make noise while driving. Remember that a box or a classic trunk means more air resistance, i.e. greater fuel consumption. Therefore, it is best to leave them in the garage or basement between trips.
