Abstract: An equipment rack for use with a vehicle is described having a sliding member translatably attached to a lower cross member of the rack. The sliding member translates outwardly from the rack to a loading and unloading position. In the loading and unloading position, sports equipment may be placed on or removed from the sliding member. When the sports equipment has been loaded the sliding member may be translated back toward the rack into a stowed position. In the stowed position an upper cross member may be clamped to the lower cross member to secure the sports equipment on the rack.

Abstract: An equipment rack for use with a vehicle is described having an expandable hinge and latch with a collapsed and an expanded configuration for stowing skis, snowboards, and other equipment. Various configurations of support members are described for securing equipment in the rack, including interlocking protrusions. Various embodiments of the equipment rack are provided with a sliding lower rack and releasable mount assemblies.