Aerials
Side skirts are an essential component of a car's aerodynamic package, designed to enhance both its performance and aesthetic appeal. They are installed along the side of the vehicle, between the front and rear wheel wells, and serve a dual purpose: to reduce the amount of air flowing under the car and to add a sporty, aggressive look to the vehicle. This page will provide a comprehensive guide to side skirts, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your vehicle.
Side skirts play a crucial role in improving a car's aerodynamics. By reducing the amount of air flowing underneath the vehicle, they help to decrease lift and increase downforce, thereby enhancing stability and control at high speeds. They also protect the sides of the car from road debris and reduce the amount of dirt and dust that can get into the undercarriage.
When selecting a side skirt, there are several factors to consider:
Installing side skirts on your vehicle can provide several benefits:
While some side skirts require professional installation, others can be installed with a bit of DIY know-how. Here are some tips to help you with the installation process:
Whether you're looking to improve your car's performance or simply want to enhance its aesthetic appeal, side skirts are a great addition. With a variety of materials and designs to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect side skirt for your vehicle. Browse our selection of side skirts today and take the first step towards a more aerodynamic and stylish ride.
You’ll typically find side skirts made from ABS plastic, fiberglass, polyurethane (PU), or carbon fiber. Each has its pros and cons.
ABS Plastic is the most affordable and easiest to work with but isn't as strong or lightweight. Fiberglass offers a good balance of strength and cost, but can be brittle and prone to cracking. Polyurethane (PU) is flexible and impact-resistant – great for street use where you might encounter bumps and scrapes.
Carbon Fiber is the lightest and strongest material, offering superior performance gains. However, it’s also the most expensive and requires professional installation. For a daily driver, PU or fiberglass are solid choices. Track cars? Carbon fiber offers maximum benefit.
Generally, yes—but it depends on your local laws and how extreme the design is. Most side skirts available from reputable manufacturers are designed to meet road safety standards.
The biggest concern is ground clearance. Overly aggressive or low-hanging side skirts could interfere with legal vehicle height requirements. Also, some areas have restrictions on sharp edges or protrusions that might pose a hazard to pedestrians.
It’s always best to check your local regulations before installing any aftermarket parts, including side skirts. A professional installer will be familiar with these rules and can ensure compliance.
These terms are often used interchangeably, but there *is* a subtle difference. Rocker panels are typically structural components of your car's body – they’re built into the chassis. They provide support and protection.
Side skirts are usually aftermarket additions that attach *to* the rocker panel. Think of side skirts as an enhancement to the existing rocker panel, adding aerodynamic benefits and visual flair. Some designs may integrate with or replace a portion of the original rocker panel.
Essentially, all side skirts can be considered rockers, but not all rockers are side skirts – does that make sense?
Side skirts are aerodynamic panels installed along the lower sides of your vehicle, between the front and rear wheels. They’re not just for looks! Their primary job is to manage airflow around the car.
Think of it like this: air flowing under your car creates lift – the opposite of downforce. Side skirts reduce that underneath airflow, creating a more streamlined path. This increases downforce, improving grip and stability, especially at higher speeds. They also offer some protection against rock chips and road debris.
While often seen on performance cars, side skirts can benefit any vehicle by improving aerodynamics and giving it a sportier stance.
