4-6 Ski Rack for a 2011 Nissan XTerra With Factory Roof Rack

Question:

I want a ski rack that fits my crossbars, they are thicker that most other makes. No pictures show my roof top. I wish I could send you a picture of my rooftop so that you could reassure me that indeed it will be an easy fit before I order?

asked by: Matthew F

Expert Reply:

You have two solid options that we've had success with in the past on Nissan XTerras with the factory bars. Both options use a newer rubber coated steel cable mounting system that tends to work better with oddly shaped crossbars than the solid universal clamps. This is because the steel cable can adjust to more shapes than the hard plastic mounts that are normally used.

The first is the Thule SnowPack, part # TH7326 or its extendable version, part # TH7325. These are 4 board, 6 ski racks that will give you an easy way to store your skis on the roof. The carriers both include locking carriers with oversized buttons for easy opening.

The extending version of the SnowPack slides out off the side of the vehicle and lets you load the skis into the carrier easier than you would by lifting them onto the roof.

The Yakima FatCat EVO6, part # Y03096 is another option that has an overall slimmer profile. One of its best features is how adjustable it is to multiple sized bindings. It includes an integrated lift to help with oversized bindings found on some skis, and its hinge is double jointed, allowing for thicker boards and skis to be stored in the clamp with no modification. The rack can also be biased off to one side or the other to make loading the rack a little easier.

I've included a video review of the SnowPack so you can get an idea of its features and performance