Many
ski carrier roof racks are designed with aerodynamic features to reduce wind noise and improve fuel efficiency. These features are intended to make the roof rack more streamlined and reduce the drag created when driving at higher speeds. Here are some common aerodynamic features you might find in ski carrier roof racks:
Low-Profile Design: Many modern ski carriers have a low-profile design that minimizes their height above the roof of the vehicle. This reduces the disruption of airflow and helps to decrease wind resistance.
Tapered Shape: Some ski carriers have a tapered or wedge-shaped design, which means they are wider at the front and narrower at the rear. This design helps to guide air smoothly over the carrier and reduces turbulence.
Wind Deflectors: Some roof racks come with integrated wind deflectors or fairings. These are additional panels or features that are strategically placed to redirect air over and around the carrier. Wind deflectors can significantly reduce wind noise and improve aerodynamics.
Secure Mounting: Properly securing the ski carrier to the roof rack is essential for reducing wind noise. Loose or improperly installed carriers can create more turbulence and noise. Look for carriers that have secure and adjustable mounting systems.
Testing and Engineering: Some manufacturers invest in wind tunnel testing and engineering to optimize the aerodynamics of their roof racks. This ensures that the design is as efficient as possible in reducing drag and noise.
Materials and Construction: Lightweight and aerodynamic materials are often used in the construction of ski carriers. This helps reduce the overall weight on the roof and minimizes the impact on fuel efficiency.
It's important to note that while these aerodynamic features can help, there will always be some impact on fuel efficiency when you carry cargo on the roof of your vehicle. This is because roof-mounted cargo disrupts the airflow over the vehicle, increasing drag, which in turn affects fuel economy. To mitigate this, it's a good practice to only use a roof rack or ski carrier when necessary and to remove it when not in use.
Additionally, driving at high speeds with a roof rack can have a more significant impact on fuel efficiency and noise. If fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise are high priorities, consider driving at moderate speeds when using a roof-mounted ski carrier or cargo box.