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Image: MomJunction Design Team
Ski locks help keep your skis safe and secure when you are not around. If you are on vacation or planning one, choose from our list of the best ski locks. They prevent the skis from being stolen or misplaced during your outdoor adventures. Snowboards and skis are expensive sports equipment, and you don’t want them to be stolen. However, you may be vulnerable to robbery if you’re at a mountain base.
So, getting a ski lock can help you avoid such situations. The list includes some of the best-selling and tried-and-tested ski locks that are sturdy, easy to use, and made of high-quality materials for optimal protection. So, take a look at our list to learn more.
Top Picks
11 Best Ski Locks
1. Best Portable: Lewis N. Clark’s cable lock
Image: Lewis N. Clark Keep your belongings safe with Lewis’ ski lock made of sturdy blue metal. The lock measures 3 x 2 x 5in and has a rugged construction. Made of thermoplastic rubber, it lasts a long time. It also comes with a 30-inch flexible stainless steel cable to simplify use. You can easily attach it to your duffel bags, skis, haversacks, etc. You can add this beautiful accessory to your travel list. This product testing video by a reviewer will help you make an informed decision about your purchase.
Pros
- Non-slip rubber grip
- Portable and compact
- Tested and approved by TSA (Transportation Security Administration)
- Easy re-programmable lock
- Easy-to-remember three-dial code
- Made of high-end material
Cons
- Stainless steel cable might not retract when you lock it
"Thanks to its extendable cable, I can secure my ski possessions and backpack safely when I'm in public areas. Plus, it has a discreet and durable design that holds up well even after repeated use. Just be mindful while handling the combination to avoid accidental code changes."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 2,919 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
2. Best For Snowboards: M-Wave lock ‘N’ roll combination lock
M-Wave’s combo lock is the perfect ski lock. It measures 7.01 x 4.02 x 0.98in and is strong enough to ensure the safety of your property. The portable lock has a unique compact black body with dark and transparent housing to prevent scratches on your skis. You can use this to lock your bikes and snowboards using a combination locking mechanism. Check out this product testing video by a reviewer for more information.
Pros
- Has an easy-to-use four dial code
- Choose from 10,000 combinations
- Comes with easy-to-understand instructions
Cons
- Plastic housing may seem flimsy
"This lock is a solid choice for securing my skis and snowboards during outdoor field activities. Despite the plastic casting, it can give opportunist thieves a hard time defeating the mechanism. It's a reliable option, for sure."
Quick fact3. Best For Sports Bags: Master Lock cable lock
Master Lock ski lock comes in a painted plastic body and is easy to use. It has a three-dial combination, which means you don’t have to worry about losing the keys. The size of the lock is 6.56 x 3.75 x 1.05in. The lock has a three-foot-long retractable cable that is extra thick to provide security and is ideal for sports bags, backpacks, and golf bags. Watch this video to get a detailed review of this ski lock.
Pros
- Has a braided steel retractable cable
- Has a push-button mechanism for easy storage
- Has a protective vinyl coating that helps in preventing scratches
- Lightweight lock
Cons
- Cable might not retract well
Lewis N. Clark’s cable lock Best Portable | M-Wave lock 'N' roll combination lock Best For Snowboards | Master Lock cable lock Best For Sports Bags | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3 x 2 x 5 inches | - | 6.94 x 9.69 x 2 inches |
| Weight | 2.08 ounces | 100 Grams | 1.45 pounds |
| Shape | Rectangular | - | - |
| Color | Blue | Black | Black and Yellow |
| Material | Metal | Alloy Steel | Alloy Steel |
| Dimensions LxWxH | - | 7.01 x 4.02 x 0.98 inches | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,919 | 1,352 | 364 |
| Price | $12.21 | $11.99 | $24.25 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best For Extra Security: Bosvision 4-Digit Combination Lock
The Bovison’s ski and snowboard lock is made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and has a four-digit code. The retractable cable lock measures 3.74 x 3.03 x 1.1in, while the cable head is 6mm in diameter and weighs 87g. It features a small accessory hole that allows you to attach to key rings, tags, etc.
Pros
- Steelcable is vinyl coated to prevent scratches
- Allows you to choose from 10,000 combinations
- Has a push-button that leads to easy recoiling of the cable
- Has a thick body for extra security
- Supports safe locking with combination locking mechanism
Cons
- Retraction mechanism might not work well at times
"I like that this lock is lightweight and simple to use. It works well outdoors and is a good basic safeguard for my gear on busy ski racks. The material is also pretty decent. All in all, a worthwhile purchase."
5. Best With Push-Button Mechanism: Crysto Retractable Cable Password Lock
Crysto’s retractable cable lock is perfect for ensuring your items fit tightly. The three-foot cable of this ski lock has a vinyl coating to prevent scratching. It is easy to use and budget-friendly. The lightweight lock with a portable design makes it easy to carry in a pocket, and is suitable for skis, backpacks, strollers, and more. The diameter of the cable head is 5mm.
Pros
- Has a three-digit password code
- Push-button mechanism for easy recoil
- Vinyl coating to prevent resistance
- Retractable cable
- Made of high-end material
Cons
- The lock might jam up after extended use
- Combination mechanism might not function properly
"This cable lock has been handy for securing my stuff while on the go. It has a versatile length and is suitable for my bikes and backpacks. I like that it is easy to use, but remember to pick a non-obvious combo, as it only has a three-digit lock."
Point to consider6. Best Anti-Theft Security Mode:UiiziC Travel Padlock
Known for its quality craftsmanship, the ski travel padlocks by UiiziC has a unique design, and its body is made of metal, ensuring durability and security. The retractable cable is 1/5-inch thick and 4.9-feet long to provide a firm grip. It is simple to operate, easy to carry, and can easily lock your skis. The block body makes it look stylish and minimalistic. You can also use these ski locks for bike saddles, suitcases, bags, and more.
Pros
- Comes with an easy-to-understand user manual
- Choose from 10,000 combinations
- Has an anti-theft lock for skis
- Has a robust and heavy-duty cable
Cons
- Plastic dial may be fragile
"The portable cable lock is good for quick stops at stores and restaurants. The four-digit code is secure, though I feel the numbers could be clearer, and while the lock is not meant for heavy-duty use, it serves my purpose well."
7. Best With Vinyl Coating: Onguard terrier combination lock
Image: Onguard Onguard’s cable lock is made of sturdy and reliable alloy steel. The lock measures 5.2 x 6.6 x 1.9in. It has a four-digit code, and you can choose from 10,000 combinations, which makes this a reliable ski lock solution. The four-foot bike cable lock is long enough to protect your belongings. It is lightweight, flexible, and easy to use and store. The combination lock is heavy enough to provide maximum security in vulnerable areas.
Pros
- Resettable combination lock
- Has dials that are raised so that they are easy to use with gloves
- Cable has a vinyl coating to protect it from scratches and sharp edges
- Comes with easy-to-understand instructions
- Made of high-end material
Cons
- Wire is a tad thin
8. Best With Sleek Body: Jhua 3 digit number lock
Jhua lock for skis is made of high-quality ABS plastic with an ultra-secure three-digit combination. You can choose from 1,000 combinations. It has a 25-inch retractable cable and is entirely made of stainless steel to ensure excellent performance. The lock measures 7.48 x 1 x 4.21in and weighs 0.10lb. The sleek black body makes it a unique travel accessory.
Pros
- Has an adjustable vinyl-coated cable
- Equipped with a push-button
- Comes with easy-to-understand instructions
- Mini code lock is durable, guaranteeing extra security
Cons
- Retracting cable might fail to work at times
"This retractable cable lock has been great for added security, keeping my child's school scooter safe when he's in class. The retractable feature's a good addition, and it works as expected."
9. Best For Luggage: Northcore Viper-X Snowboard lock
Northcore’s Viper-X is one of the best ski locks with a compact and portable design. It has a three-digit combination code and has an automatic retractable steel cable. The cable length is approximately 90cm, and the ski key lock’s size is 50 x 70 x 21.5mm, making it ideal for snowboarders and skiers. You can use the compact cable lock for luggage, duffle bags, bikes, and more.
Pros
- Allows over 1,000 unique combinations
- Works seamlessly and fits perfectly
- Requires minimal effort while setting up the combination
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- The coating of the cable might not be durable
"This ski lock is a neat deterrent for minor mishaps and prevents accidental mix-ups. It is lightweight and pocket-friendly, and I like to use it on the slopes."
10. Best Weatherproof: The Chestnut Padlock
Image: The Chestnut This tried-and-tested and versatile padlock from The Chestnut can be put to use as a ski lock while also being an ideal choice for locking your luggage, work lockers, toolbox, gun case, and much more. It is a three-digit combo lock that is easy to use and allows for up to 1000 combinations of codes. Made from zinc alloy with a chrome-plated steel shackle, the lock is anti-corrosive and will last you several years. Additionally, it can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Pros
- Weatherproof
- Heavy-duty construction
- Polished finish
- Pocket-sized
Cons
- Not TSA-approved
"I found this option great for everyday security. It works well indoors and outdoors, although it may not be as durable in rough weather. Overall, it has been a simple and practical solution for securing my essentials."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 128 reviews on Amazon.
11. Best For Travel: Sportube Combination Cable Lock
Sportube ski lock has a three-digit combination, and you can choose from 1,000 unique lock combinations. Its lightweight, compact, and portable design makes it a must-have travel accessory. The small ski combo lock measures 6 x 5 x 4in and weighs 1.92oz.
Pros
- Cable lock is 25% thicker than the standard locks
- Tested and approved by TSA (Transportation Security Administration)
- Cable is 3.75in long and 1/8in in diameter
- Flexible yet tough
Cons
- Numbering mechanism is a bit small
"What makes this lock my trusted choice is its robust and TSA-compliant construction. This safety system gives me peace of mind, knowing my ski is secure in its place. It's worth recommending."
How To Choose The Right Ski Locks?
Before buying a ski lock to protect expensive equipment, make sure it clearly defines the functions mentioned below.
- Type of lock: There are various types of locks available on the market. Cable locks have a simple design. All you have to do is fasten the steel cable around the skis and lock it by fitting it inside the main body. Tether locks are rugged and have a heavy-duty performance. You have to wrap the tether around the equipment and lock it in the other thread of the tether. Rack locks provide high-level security. A pin is used to protect the equipment. Wireless locks use sensors and alarms to detect thieves and can be controlled via a smartphone.
- Security: Buy a lock that provides maximum protection. Choose a lock that not only deters thieves but also prevents wire cutters.
- Portability: You don’t want to ski with a heavy lock in your pocket. Therefore, buy a compact and robust lock. You can also choose wireless locks as they are more convenient to use.
- Mechanism: Each lock has a different locking mechanism: digital or key locking mechanism. You can select the digit lock or key lock based on your preference.
- Ease of use and capacity: You don’t want to fiddle with the lock when wearing gloves. Ensure that the lock is easy to use, has an easy-to-remember locking mechanism for skiing items, and has adequate capacity so that it is easy to fit into all types of equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can ski locks be carried on airplanes?
Yes, you can take ski locks on airplanes. However, you can carry an airline-approved lock to avoid any unnecessary hassles (1).
2. Does the cable of the ski lock extend when locked?
There can be room for movement when using a cable ski lock. You can get a cable lock based on the size and number of skis to lock the equipment securely.
3. Can ski locks be used on a school backpack?
You can use certain ski locks on school backpacks. However, backpack-appropriate locks might be more secure as ski locks are meant for sports equipment and may not fit thick and heavy school bags.
4. Can ski locks withstand rough handling by airline luggage handlers?
Ski locks are supposed to be heavy-duty and unbreakable to keep your equipment from getting stolen. Hence, the locks may sustain rough handling at the airport. However, you can follow airline rules and regulations to ensure the safety of your ski locks.
Why Trust MomJunction?
With thorough research of thousands of user reviews and feedback over multiple platforms, we have put together this buying guide and product list of the best ski locks so you can select the right one for your convenience. These locks are durable, long-lasting, and made from high-quality materials to prevent damage and for optimal protection. The list also includes a buying guide to provide you with more information.
The Bottom Line
When you plan to go skiing, you may be worried about how to safeguard your equipment. Fret not, as we bring you a list of the best skiing and snowboarding locks to secure your belongings and enjoy your skiing experience without stress. It features durable options such as the Onguard Terrier Combination Lock with resettable combinations and the compact Bosvision 4-Digit Combination Lock. And versatile models like the Master Lock Cable Lock, which is suitable for diverse environments, making them an appropriate choice for securing many things, including your duffle bags, luggage, bikes, etc. So go ahead and take a look at these top-quality ski locks and crucial points to consider when purchasing one.
Infographic: How To Protect Your Ski And Snowboard From Theft
Skis and snowboards are essential for winter sports enthusiasts, offering thrilling adventures on snowy slopes. However, it is crucial to properly secure them when not in use to prevent snowboard or ski theft and ensure uninterrupted adventure. Explore the infographic below to discover various ways to keep your ski and snowboard safe and secure.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- TSA Recognized Locks
https://www.tsa.gov/blog/2014/02/18/tsa-travel-tips-tuesday-tsa-recognized-locks
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