Ski/Gear Carrier for Subaru Forester?

Just bought a new Subaru Forester, my first AWD vehicle and first-ever new car. Looking forward to a bit less white-knuckle driving that I had with the Chrysler Town & Country van.

Can anyone provide advice on buying a ski carrier? I don't want a rack; I'm looking for something that closes up and blocks out the elements. Most importantly, my family will use this contraption for sleeping bags, duffels, etc., in the non-skiing months. Would like to carry 4 pairs of skis.

Any advice about makes, models, durability, stores, and so forth would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Woody

Woody, I have a Thule Atlantis cargo box (1200 I think) that was a gift. It attaches to a factory rack easily using a clamp system, opens on both sides, and is idiot proof. I have loaded it with gear for 5 alpine skiers and 2 boards. It handles my 190 XC skis fine, but not my old school 210s. I am very happy with it and would recomend it.

Thule and Yakima make good systems. You may even want to check Sears, their stuff looks surprisingly like low end Thule products. eBay would be a good source for used boxes. You will first have to go to Thule or Yakima home page and find models and fit kits that will work on your Forester before you bid on item.

I have an older Thule box, it only opens on one side. When I got my new TDI wagon I had to buy a fit kit to fit the OEM rack. I used crossbars previously purchased for my other cars. I have used this box and bars on many vehicles through the years.(Can anybody use a fit kit for a VW Eurovan or an '86 VW Jetta?)

My box keeps things inside fairly dry but I would still pack sleeping bags or clothing into plastic bags before transporting them in a box.

Innno Racks are pretty sweet and they are usually a little cheaper than the more popular Yakima and Thule.

And welcome to the Forester owner's club. You'll love that car!!!

Bit of a thread stealer here but I am so in love with my brand new Silverado 4 door crew cab with the Z71 4x4 off road package that absolutley shits & gets down the road & looks fabulous doing so (I'm getting 16.3 in the city & 21.3 MPG at 70 MPh)...I guess i'll just throw the skis & stuff back in the bed, no racks for me....Sorry..I'm just pickled pink & just wanted to brag a little...

So cool to check out dcski and see the ski carrier options - we also just bought a new Forester and are looking forward to many trips out to the valley next year.

LHC your Thule box leaks? I've had a Rocket Box for almost 10 years and its never leaked. I've driven thru hurricanes, noreasters, and of course lots of snow storms without a leak.

Had a roof coffin for years until I sold it last summer. I used it on my Tahoe, but could use it on any car with a rack. Problem with it on my Outbacks was the overhang and using the rear hatch. If I ever get another one, it'll be somewhat shorter and narrower. My old box could've probably slept two. I put 8 pairs of skis in it and still had room to spare. It never leaked either.

My box is on my Expedition, but I've used it on my wagon with no issues.

What just "8 pairs of skis", no snowboards, boots, poles, luggage,drinks, food, etc?

Poles count with skis.... no snowboards, I glide not slide. With all my high maintenance equipment in the box, I plenty of room for the necessities in the back

Thanks everybody for the advice. I'll check 'em out!

Woody

I don't think I've had problems leaking but I never really put it to the test. All I ever haul in the box is skis and snow covered skis.

Seems like they'd be a good place for small children. Especially the noisy ones...