If you have ever seen an automotive side skirt and wondered “What are they?” and “What do they do?” you're not alone. These extra few inches on a car may not seem to serve a purpose, but they can affect a car’s performance greatly. They also add visual appeal to the vehicle.
What are side skirts?
Side skirts are aerodynamic components installed along the lower sides of a vehicle, typically below the doors. They are designed to improve airflow, enhance visual appeal, and sometimes provide limited protection from road debris.
Purpose and Functionality
Aerodynamics
Side skirts reduce the amount of air that flows underneath the car, which can help:
- Decrease lift at high speeds
- Improve downforce
- Enhance overall vehicle stability and cornering performance
Performance Enhancement
When paired with other aerodynamic components like front splitters and rear diffusers, side skirts help direct airflow more efficiently around the car. On race cars and high-performance street cars, this can translate into better grip and reduced drag.
Aesthetic Upgrade
Many enthusiasts install side skirts for their aggressive, sportier look. They can visually lower the vehicle’s profile, making it appear closer to the ground and more performance-oriented.
Material Protection
Side skirts can shield the lower body panels from minor impacts, road grime, and salt—especially useful in areas with harsh driving conditions.
Types of Side Skirts
OEM Side Skirt
Offered by manufacturers, often found on sportier trims (like BMW M Sport, Honda Si, etc.).
Aftermarket Side Skirts
Come in various styles, materials, and finishes for customization. Can range from subtle lips to extreme flared designs.
Common Side Skirt Materials
Side skirts come in a variety of materials, each offering different benefits in terms of durability, weight, and cost. From budget-friendly ABS plastic to high-performance carbon fiber, choosing the right material depends on your priorities—whether it’s daily driving, show car aesthetics, or track performance.
- ABS Plastic: Lightweight, durable, and budget-friendly.
- Polyurethane (PU): Flexible and impact-resistant—great for daily drivers.
- Fiberglass: Lightweight and cheap, but more brittle.
- Carbon Fiber: Lightweight and premium-looking, often used on high-end builds or race cars.
- Flexible Foam Rubber: Highly flexible, offer protection from scraping due to the way the rubber bends under impact. Universal fit due to the way they can be molded to the shape of any vehicle.
Installation & Considerations
Installing side skirts can range from a simple bolt-on job to a custom body shop project. Fitment, ground clearance, and compatibility with other mods (like lowered suspensions) are key factors to consider before you buy or install.
- Bolt-on kits are popular and reversible.
- Molded or custom side skirts may require professional fitting or paint-matching.
- It’s crucial to ensure proper fitment and avoid rubbing, especially on lowered vehicles.
- Peel & Stick kits are extremely easy to install and require minimal tools. There are installed using a high quality automotive adhesive with a strong hold. No special skills or professional installation is required.
Side Skirts for Protection & Style
Only EZ Lip offers Side Skirts that can add both style and protect your vehicle from damage. EZ Lip offers a quick no-drill installation using top quality automotive adhesive. It's a cost-effective way to achieve the lowered look of traditional side skirts without the need of custom fitting or professional help.
Conclusion
Side skirts blend form and function. Whether you’re looking to improve your car’s aerodynamics, add protection, or just get that show-car stance, there’s a wide range of options to suit your build.
