Best Ski Bags
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Protection
In truth, one of the primary functions of the best ski bag is to protect your skis. Sure, they can offer a convenient way to transport your equipment from one ski resort to the next, but when you come right down to it, these ski bags are designed to make sure that your skiing investment remains in good shape. So looking at how well the bag goes about protecting your skis is important.
For the most part, the ski bags presented here meet or exceed the minimum in regards to durability, protection from the elements, and the ability to fit most skis as well as their equipment. They are created out of high quality and tough materials, and can easily house your gear and keep it from moving around unnecessarily.
Style
There is a wide variety of ski bags available for you to buy. Finding the best one for your needs isn’t always as clear cut as you would imagine. Often one of the first steps in finding the best ski bag for you is determining what type of bag you truly need. Often ski bags are divided based on their capacity, whether or not they have wheels, and what type of casing they have – either soft or hard. All three of these characteristics, capacity, wheels, and outer shell construction can often dictate what the bag is best used for. For example, a ski bag that has a hard exterior and is wheeled would be a great choice for a heavier set of skis that are being transported through an airport. A soft sided ski bag, however, with a simple shoulder strap, would be more suited to a walk through a ski lodge.
Capacity
As you might expect, all these ski bags have the ability to house at least one pair of skis without too much trouble. However, there are some available that can also fit more than one pair, or even trade the skis out to fit snowboards as well. In addition, most skiers find that being able to carry their poles and some other smaller equipment or supplies in their ski bags is a great help as well. That’s just a few of the reasons why we took a closer look at the capacity of the ski bags we considered.
Durability
Of course, in addition to the protection offered by the ski bag and the ability to hold your skis, the ski bag you choose to buy should be tough. Generally speaking, skiers can put their skis and other equipment through a lot of abuse, even when they’re not on the slopes. So, having a place to conveniently store your skis that can withstand the drops, snow and water damage, and the occasional rip or tear into the outer shell of the ski bag may be very important indeed.
Top Ten Ski Bags
1. Sportube Traveler
If you want a simple ski bag that will allow you to easily transport your skis from one point to the other without much fuss, the Traveler Single Ski Bag with its straightforward design may be exactly what you need.
Read moreProtection
This ski bag features a strong water resistant polyurethane coating, as well as double needle stitching for added strength against rips and tears. The interior portion is somewhat well padded, and there are straps to secure your skis, but a bit more ridged separation between items would have been a nice touch.
Type of Ski Bag
This is a soft sided bag that is designed to be airport check incompliant and can easily withstand the rigors of airplane travel without the added weight of a hard shell exterior.
Capacity
This ski bag is designed to hold a single set of skis and poles measuring up to 190 centimeters in length. It’s overall capacity is approximately 88 liters or 5370 cubic inches, and weighs approximately 4.3 pounds overall. It can easily fit your skis, poles, and other clothing items that you may need including jacket, gloves and hats.
Durability
Overall the durability of the bag is quite good for average use overall, and we found no serious complaints about tears, water damage or damage to the equipment within.
Ease of Use
This bag is easy to sling over your shoulder or carry by the handle. The weight is fairly average at a little over four pounds, so it does have a bit of heft to it. One drawback that we saw was that it did not have wheels, which would have been an asset considering its overall size.
Summary
If you want a fairly simple ski bag that can take you from point A to point B with relative ease, this bag from Sportube is certainly worth a second look. It has a great overall capacity, is easy to carry, and offers more than enough protection for most situations.
2. Transpack Hard Case
The Transpack brand makes yet another appearance on our list in the fourth position with this ultra-sturdy and reliable ski bag or case that is ideal for transporting multiple skis plus equipment through airports, and other forms of mass transportation.
Read moreProtection
This is one of the nicest options when it comes to protection when it comes to ski bags overall, especially if you desire a hard outer shell. The ski bag or case consists of a ridged, but still, relatively lightweight outer shell that is molded to offer a compact and secure fit for both snowboards and skis up to 203 centimeters in length.
Type of Ski Bag
This is a hard shell, wheeled travel ski bag that is designed to be used on airplanes and other places of mass transportation where security and overall protection are paramount considerations. It may be a bit bulky overall for use in the ski resort, but in traveling to and from your skiing destination, this is a great choice.
Capacity
This ski bag has the capacity to fit one snowboard plus equipment or two sets of skis with a maximum length of 203 centimeters. Depending on the size and shape of your boots, bindings and other equipment, it is somewhat possible to fit these things into the hard case as well, but it may take a bit of creative arranging of the equipment and supplies to get a secure fit.
Durability
In a general sense, this ski bag is one of the most durable that we’ve seen in a long time. The sturdy outer shell offers great overall protection from drops, bumps and other impacts, and the latches appear to be well made. The only complaint that we saw in the durability department was that the roller wheels didn’t hold up as long as expected given the overall great experience with the durability.
Ease of Use
It should be noted that this ski bag, or case is very heavy. Without any gear, it weighs just less than 17 pounds. So when fully loaded, this ski bag has the potential to weigh quite a bit. This makes moving it, especially in the beginning somewhat difficult overall. Also, the relatively small wheels makes for less than ideal maneuverability overall.
Summary
If you know you’re going to be taking your skis into an environment that they are likely to be damaged, protection and durability are the key. Luckily the Transpack Hard Case fits the bill for transporting multiple skis through a lot of different terrains.
3. Sportube Series 2 Double
The fifth position in our top ten list of the best ski bags is taken by yet another hard shell case example. The Sportube Series 2 Double Ski Hard Case is designed to offer great overall protection for two different sets of skis and their equipment at a very reasonable cost overall.
Read moreProtection
As you might expect, the highlight of this particular case is the amount of protection it offers to the skis and poles contained within it. This bag is designed to specifically fit two pairs of alpine skis and their poles in a relatively compact and TSA compliant package. It also features the ability to easily lock the ski case against theft.
Type of Ski Bag
This is a hard shell ski bag that measures approximately 6’9” in length, and features a single molded carrying handle. It doesn’t have much in the way of interior padding, so users should be aware that packing the ski bag well is essential for proper protection overall.
Capacity
This container has the ability to easily fit two sets of alpine skis and accessories or up to three pairs of Nordic style skis and poles as needed. The case itself weights just about 12 pounds, so it does have a bit of heft to it, but overall it’s not too bad. It should be noted that this particular ski bag or case in not in any way designed for skis that are wider than normal. The dimensions of the case simply don’t allow for it.
Durability
The outer hard shell is created through molded plastic material and is fairly durable overall, and we saw no significant complaints. The minimal padding in the ends to protect the ski tips did wear down relatively fast in our opinion, but overall we couldn’t complain that much.
Ease of Use
If the truth is told, the one area that this ski bag faltered quite a bit was in the ease of use category. Packing two pairs of skis and equipment in this extremely compact case was much like a study in beginning origami. It was beautiful to behold the finished product, but a definite struggle to get to that point even with directions. In addition, the wheels found on the ski bag were a bit less than effective, especially when it came to going around turns or weaving through people at the airport.
Summary
If you’re looking for an extremely compact hard case ski bag that is well suited for fitting thinner style skis and equipment, this is one you need to consider. However, if you use a snow board or slightly wider skis, there are probably better options available.
4. High Sierra Adjustable Wheeled Bag
And finally, if you’re looking for a good quality ski bag that offers not only great protection but good versatility as well, it’s hard to ignore what the High Sierra Wheeled Ski/Snowboard Bag has to offer.
Read moreProtection
This bag offers great overall protection through the use of a combination of semi-ridged framework, durable synthetic material, dedicated internal chambers, and copious amounts of padding.
Type of Ski Bag
This is a semi ridged soft sided ski bag that features a padded handle and relatively sturdy wheels.
Capacity
This ski bag can only be described as a storage tank for ski equipment. Not only can you fit either two pairs of skis or one pair of ski and a snowboard, but there is also plenty of room for nearly all the associated equipment, including bindings, shoes and boots that you may need. It can fit skis between 160 and 215 centimeters in length.
Durability
Overall we found no significant complaints about durability in regards to this particular ski bag. Indeed, even common problem areas like zippers or the often way too small wheels didn’t register as problems with this particular example. All in all, this is a well-made and very durable bag.
Ease of Use
Perhaps the one area that this ski bag truly falters, and unfortunately falters greatly, is in the overall ease of use. Fully packed this ski bag can weigh in excess of fifty pounds, and based on its very bulky size, it can be difficult to transport and navigate through tight quarters. While it’s a fantastic choice for airplane travel when checked, for many practical situations, outside of the airplane terminal it is simply too large to be useful.
Summary
While the larger size and heavier weight when full makes this choice less than ideal in the resort of on the slopes, this ski bag from High Sierra is a fantastic way to transport all your equipment in one place.
5. High Sierra Box Set
If you’re looking for a ski bag that is relatively inexpensive but still provides adequate protection for your skis or that of your child, this entry from High Sierra is certainly worth a closer look. While it may not have too many bells and whistles, it can certainly get the job done.
Read moreProtection
The ski bag in this collection features relatively durable water-resistant nylon and polyester material that is also somewhat tear-resistant. While we definitely would not suggest using this bag to protect your skis in a checked luggage setting, it can offer relatively good protection while traveling by car or on foot. Also, there is no significant padding to speak of inside the bag, so that is also a factor to consider.
Type of Ski Bag
This is a soft sided ski bag that is designed to simply fit skis within a relatively large compartment. It can be carried via its included handle.
Capacity
This bag can fit one pair of skis and the associated poles and some equipment with a length of up to 200 centimeters in length according to the dimensions. However, most people found that they could only fit skis up to 195 cm in length and still have reasonable access to them.
Durability
Overall the durability of this bag is adequate if not great. It wouldn’t win any awards for toughness or durability as a whole, but it can easily withstand the rigors of a normal ski vacation.
Ease of Use
Generally speaking, this is a very easy bag to use. Simply unzip the central zipper, place your bundled skis and equipment in the central area of the bag and close it back up. The handle is long enough to provide an easy grip, and the bag itself can be folded down to accommodate smaller skis. There is also the ability to attach a shoulder strap for easier carrying, but the shoulder strap is not included.
Summary
The High Sierra Ski Bag and Boot Bag Box Set offer a relatively inexpensive way to transport your skis and equipment over relatively short distances. While the lack of padding in the ski bag may make it less than ideal for longer ventures, for the quick walk from your car or the quick drive up to the lodge it’s more than enough
6. KULKEA Kantaja
The Kulkea Kantaja ski bag is not only a reliable and durable ski bag, but it also has room to not only store your skis but your poles and apparel as well. It is also a stylish ski bag that looks great and will be able to store everything you need it to. Definitely a ski bag to check out!
Read moreType of Ski Bag
This ski bag is water resistant to make sure everything inside stays dry. It also is quite roomy and allows for you to store not only your skis and poles but also your apparel or other gear as well.
Capacity
This Ski bag's main advantage over all the rest is its capacity capability. This roomy bag will not only store your skis and poles but also your apparel or any other gear you want to store as well. If you have a lot of gear, this is a bag for you.
Durability
Overall this bag is durable enough for personal use while at the ski resort. We wouldn’t, however, suggest that it be used as your go to bag for airport or train transportation.
Ease of Use
Most people found this bag to have a fairly simple design and to be very easy to use. The skis were easily accessible as were the poles, and the strap could either be used as a longer handle, or to be slung over the shoulder like a sling bag. Most skiers loved the room that this bag provides as it limits the bags that they have to bring and combines it into one compact bag.
Summary
This ski bag offers a quick and efficient way to transport a single pair of skis, poles, and apperal in the ski resort area as well as to and from your vehicle. While it’s most likely not durable enough to trust out of your sight, for everyday use it is more than enough.
7. Athalon Single Padded
The eighth spot on our list is taken up by the Athalon Single Padded Ski Bag. While it may not feature many of the bells and whistles that many have come to expect with more expensive bags, this example still provides great overall protection for your skis at a very reasonable price.
Read moreProtection
This ski bag features a tough outer shell that is made from high density and water resistant polyester fabric, and additional waterproof backing material. It also features a padded interior designed to hold a single pair of skis and poles
Type of Ski Bag
This is a soft sided ski bag that is suitable for use in and around ski resorts or for transportation via car or train.
Capacity
This ski bag can adequately fit skis up to 155 centimeters in length as well as the associated poles. There is little room for other equipment, so the purchase of an additional bag for your boots, gloves, and other equipment may be necessary.
Durability
The fabric of this bag is sturdy enough for normal use and transportation, although there were mixed reviews on how well it stood up during airplane travel. A few instances of the bag tearing or zippers malfunctioning were reported, especially when the skis were close to the maximum size.
Ease of Use
Overall this bag has a fairly straightforward design. The lack of a shoulder strap or the ability to attach one readily did prove to be a bit of a hassle for most people, but if you don’t mind using the padded handle to carry it, this ski bag is relatively easy to use.
Summary
This Single Padded Ski Bag from Athalon offers adequate protection for a single pair of skis in a relatively simple design. While we certainly would have liked to see a bit more durability overall, for the price it’s not a bad option.
8. Transpack Rolling Convertible
If you’re looking for a ski bag that is truly versatile, easy to use, and protects your skis quite well for a very reasonable price, the first one you should look at is the Transpack Ski Rolling Double Convertible Ski Bag.
Read moreProtection
This ski bag is designed to protect your skis and equipment by providing 600D polyester fabric outside that is both water and tear resistant, and the inside is fully padded and complete with straps to keep your gear securely in place during transportation. This bag, although soft-sided is designed with transportation through the airport and other less than ideal areas in mind.
Type of Ski Bag
This ski bag is a soft sided convertible ski bag that can easily adjust to fit different size skis, and allow for easy transport overall. It is soft sided, but has a semi-ridged inner frame and padding system to allow for the most support and overall security that you can buy.
Capacity
This ski bag has the capability and room to easily fit two pairs of skis and their associated poles. In addition, the convertible nature of the bag allows for it to house skis between 165 and 185 centimeters in length, so this bag can easily accommodate most skis that the average skier may use.
Durability
Overall most skiers found this bag to be more than sturdy enough for their needs. The zippers were found to be well stitched, and the outer shell, although not hard did provide excellent protection against the weather, and the tear resistant material truly came into play a number of times.
Ease of Use
At roughly ten pounds in weight, most people found this bag to be relatively easy to carry or to move around even with their gear in place. The adjustable sizing ability and the interior padding did prove to be a bit problematic at times, especially when rapid adjustment was needed, but overall the convertibility was seen as more of an asset than a hindrance.
Summary
This ski bag from Transpack offers a versatile and easy way to transport two pairs of skis and associated equipment through a wide range of environments. While its adjustable nature can be a bit problematic to use at times, overall the versatility and its level of protection far outweigh its minor flaws.
9. Dakine Padded Single Luggage
When it comes to ski bags and ski accessories, the Dakine brand is well known for their attention to detail and versatility. This Padded Single Ski Bag from Dakine is really no exception and offers a simple way to make sure your favorite pair of skis remains protected.
Read moreProtection
This relatively lightweight bag features a 600D polyester fabric for the outer shell as well as full padding in the interior for great overall protection from the elements and damage due to drops and impact.
Type of Ski Bag
This is a soft sided ski bag that is designed to hold one pair of skis and their poles. It doesn’t have any wheels or ridged framework.
Capacity
This ski bag can easily fit a single pair of skis and the poles for a length up to approximately 175 centimeters in length. It doesn’t have much room left over for other equipment, and the purchase of a separate equipment bag may be needed to complete the package.
Durability
While it doesn’t have the hard shell that is ideal for use on airplanes, the material used to make this particular ski bag, as well as the overall craftsmanship, make it a viable option for airplane travel. Simply put, the design is relatively straightforward and uncomplicated, and the materials are relatively high in quality. The only exception we found was that the zippers didn’t quite measure up to the high standards we expected from Dakine.
Ease of Use
This bag is fairly easy to use, and lightweight, which makes it a great option for those who want to keep things moving along from one ski destination to the next.
Summary
If you’re looking for a simple and straightforward way to transport your skis while protecting them easily, this example from Dakine is definitely worth consideration. While the zippers and the lack of a ridged framework were a bit disappointing, overall the lightweight construction and sturdiness were hard to match.
10. Thule Skiclick 7294 Cross Country
If you enjoy cross country skiing, it can be difficult to find a ski bag that truly fits your specialized skis, and is easy enough to use and transport. Luckily the Thule SkiClick 7294 Cross Country Ski Bag does just that.
Read moreProtection
Instead of relying on heavy material or a ridged case to protect your cross country skis and poles, this bag features a relatively lightweight construction where the focus is on protecting your bindings and other fragile portions of the skis from the elements and impact. While we certainly wouldn’t suggest using this ski bag for airplane travel, it’s a perfect choice on the backcountry trails.
Type of Ski Bag
This is a lightweight fabric ski bag with no ridged interior structure save for integrated clips for securing the ski poles on the outside of the bag.
Capacity
This bag can easily fit your cross country skis, their bindings, and poles as needed for a trek into the wilderness. While we couldn’t recommend it for normal downhill skis, for the cross country variety they are a great fit.
Durability
Despite the lightweight material used, we really didn’t see too many complaints on the durability of this particular ski bag. About the only thing that was prone to excessive breakage on occasion were the integrated clips for the ski poles.
Ease of Use
The very simple design and straight forward nature of this particular ski bag make it a joy to use overall. Simply slide your skis into the bag, clip on your poles, and adjust the shoulder strap for a more comfortable carry.
Summary
If you need a bag to carry your cross country skis and poles, and you don’t want a complicated design, this example from Thule is certainly a viable option. While it isn’t suitable for all skis, for those who enjoy this more specialized sport, it’s a great choice.