So why, you might be wondering, do we have this top-of-the-line model at the bottom of our list? No idea about the Thule. profile but has a number of shortcomings compared to the SkyBox (outlined in the Force XT Ls write-up below) and costs $30 more to boot. The extra time required to install these more rudimentary mounts is less of an issue if you anticipate keeping your box installed on your rooftop. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. The GrandTour above is one of our favorite designs for luxury cars, but some might want a more rugged look to match their adventure rig. The plastic sides are plenty durable to handle the elements, and as I mentioned above, Ive had no issues with weather protection. For the grandest adventures, the GrandTour 16 & 18 elevate cargo box design and take performance to new aerodynamic heights. Whether you drive a small hatchback or a large SUV, adding a cargo box to your vehicles rooftop can go a long way toward improving organization, carrying capacity, and comfort. GrandTour Collection Sleek clean lines: complements modern high ends vehicles Smooth with high shine - no texture SkyBox Collection Aerodynamic shape with clean lines Micro golf ball texture RocketBox Collection Textured surface Matte finish EXPLORE YOUR SOLUTION CBX Solar CBX 16 CBX 18 GrandTour 16 GrandTour 18 GrandTour Lo SkyBox 12 SkyBox 16 For those, we advise stepping up to the 18 (peak height: 16 in.) GrandTour is a premium addition to our Cargo Box Collection defies convention. Whether youre traveling by air, driving up to a cabin for the weekend, or venturing across the world on an expedition, youll likely be using a duffel bag to get your gear from one place to the next. But its hard to beat Thules fantastic tool-free installation and reliable build quality, and the Force XT is undeniably a well-made box.See the Thule Force XT L. Dimensions: 74 x 33 x 16 in.Capacity: 14 cu. Beauty is certainly in the eye of the beholder, but were we to hand out an award for the best-looking cargo box, itd probably go to the GrandTour. Both have identical handles and integrated locks, which allow you to easily load or grab small items youve stowed in the interiors nooks and crannies. The CBX line includes three different boxes: both 16- and 18-cubic-foot versions and a second 16-cubic-foot model featuring an integrated solar panel for charging battery-operated devices when off-grid. SkyBox Pro 18 Titanium $460 (Playa Del Rey) Pic ocultar anncio rest. All told, matching your cargo box to a roof rack shouldnt cause much headache, but its never a bad idea to double check compatibility before hitting purchase. 4.7 out of 5 stars. ft.Access: One sideSkis: 3-5 up to 155cmWhat we like: Thules most affordable full-sized cargo box.What we dont: Only opens on one side and does not contour around an antenna. ft.Access: RearSkis: N/AWhat we like: Inexpensive and spacious.What we dont: Opens only at the rear. On the other hand, the Yakima GrandTour Lo ($929) is more of an investment but tacks on an additional 4 cubic feet of storage while adding less than a half-inch in height (10 in. For 2023, most of the top models are built by roof-rack giants Thule and Yakima, but brands like INNO and SportRack also have some solid contributions. You wont find a better option for small cars and, like the Yakima SkyBox 12 above, the Thule also fits the bill if youre sharing your roof rack with bikes, surfboards, a kayak, or skis. The biggest compromises are in compatibility and gear storage, as the longer length is more prone to hatch interference, and the shorter peak height is limiting for larger and taller items. But in most casesand this is important to rememberthe true limiting factor will be your vehicles dynamic load limit. You can wrap your front bar with a towel (and duct tape) or a bungee cord, swap in aerodynamic crossbars (Yakimas JetStream is a popular option), or add a fairing (like the Thule AirScreen XT). It features internal lid stiffeners for durability and SuperLatch security system to keep your gear safe and sound. favoritar anncio Fev 27 XL-RACK Top Rack cargo rack $ All-Van, sprinter, transit, excursion . But the RocketBox is nevertheless a step up from true budget designs like the Jegs Cargo Carrier above and SportRack Vista XL below, including more user-friendly mounts and higher-quality latch and lock features. Securely attaching to the receiver hitch of your vehicle, they offer unmatched versatility and ease of use. Weight is important to keep in mind as your rack systemwhether from the manufacturer or aftermarketas well as your specific vehicle will have weight limits. Dimensions: 54 x 25 x 15.5 in.Capacity: 8 cu. The Skybox 16 is the perfect size for small and medium-sized items. And the price is right too: some cargo boxes can cost as much as $2,000, but the Motion XT maintains a high-end feel and slides in at $900 for the L (16 cu. Yakima Stories. For the price, you get a higher-end painted shell, a flatter floor with tiedowns, and a taller peak height at 18 inches. The models above range from a 75-pound weight capacity (for the Thule Sidekick) to 165 pounds for premium designs. Its manageable size fits on most vehicles, and our model has accommodated bulky camping gear for a family of four, including a large tent, sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and a stove (plus a kids Strider bike). From: $829.00. And in terms of interior features, the Vector has no equal. ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: Up to 185cmWhat we like: Rugged aesthetic and great interior space.What we dont: Expensive and heavy. ft.Weight: 47 lbs.What we like: Extremely versatile design, quality build, and competitive price.What we dont: Stiff latch can be a challenge to open; cant accommodate tall items.See the Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite. But its hard to beat the value and range of sizes, and the SkyBox nevertheless is a reliable hauler that will get your gear from point A to point BRead in-depth reviewSee the Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite. restaurar anncio. The 18 cubic foot model can hold items up to 210 cm more than enough for the majority of alpine skis on the market. Value-conscious shoppers will appreciate the RocketBoxs tool-free installation, dual-sided opening, and separate latch and locking mechanism, which arent always included at this price point. In fact, much of this noise is generated by air moving in between the rack and the roof of your vehicle. And while the exact science on this is hard to figure (keep in mind that a number of factors come into play, including vehicle type, interior load, speed, and external wind conditions), more drag most often results in lower gas mileage and more wind noise. These boxes come in a range of sizes to accommodate your gear (including skis) and vary in terms of durability, ease of use, aesthetics, security, and more. You can spend up to $1,000 on a roof box, but the budget Jegs Rooftop Cargo Carrier is a popular option that will get the job done for less than a quarter of the price. Lets get one thing out of the way first: the Sidekick is barely on the same playing field as most cargo boxes here. Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite Cargo Box. Rooftop Cargo Box Volume and are compatible with an assortment of bar types, including round, square, and aerodynamic varieties. This also impacts what you can fit inside, but its far from a deal breaker, and overall weve been very pleased with how much gear the SkyBox can hold. There are a number of factors to consider here, including volume and length. Yakima released a solar-panel-clad version of their high-end CBX rooftop box a couple seasons ago to a good bit of fanfare. And the same can be said for your cars gas mileage: If there isnt much wind, the impact is very minimal. And the latch hasnt been a source of weakness either. But regardless of the cargo box, its a good idea to assume that its not fully waterproof. Comparing it to the RocketBox Pro 14 above (Yakimas budget design), the Pulse comes up short in a few significant areas. Just click on any of the seller links above, and if you make a purchase, we receive a small percentage of the transaction. And buyer beware: the latch mechanism is particularly flimsy, and, to make matters worse, youll have to undo two locks each time you open or close the box. It required some strategic packing, but it stores an impressive amount (especially with items that are soft-sided and compressible). In what region Colorado is one of the most iconic ski destinations in the Unites States. Ft. Carbonite Rooftop Cargo Carrier 8007335 at the best online prices at eBay! The design is pretty neat: you get Yakimas most premium cargo box for adventuring (the CBX) with a 36-watt (5V) solar panel mounted on top. Yakima SkyBox 16 16 Cu. The Thule Pulse Alpine (also 11 cu. The pricing information on this page is updated hourly but we are not responsible for inaccuracies. Share. $599.99 At just $300, this box costs $150 less than the next-cheapest model here (Thules Sidekick below) while offering options for dual-side or rear access (the Sidekick only opens from the passenger side) and more than twice the storage capacity. First off, Thules installation is best in class, and with PowerClick mounts that sound an audible click when in place, you can get a secure fitting on most roof racks in just minutesthis is a particularly nice feature if you routinely remove your box or swap it between cars. However, there are a few points of vulnerability inherent in the design. Like their competitor, Thule, they also have a lifetime warranty. For example, the Yakima SkyBox 12 Carbonite accommodates skis up to 215 centimeters in length, while the Thule Motion XT L fits 3 to 5 snowboards and 5 to 7 pairs of skis up to 175 centimeters. If youre concerned about aerodynamics or fitting into a garage, you could opt for an even lower-profile design like Yakimas SkyBox Lo (11.5 in. Next, youll want to identify the type and general size of gear you plan to haul around. Last but not least is the INNO Wedge 665, which falls at the higher end of the market with its premium look and sleek finish. If youre an avid skier or snowboarder, a functional rooftop rack can be well worth its weight in powder turns. thule ski box. Rooftop boxes are no small item, which can create some hurdles if you like to shop online. Conclusion As with most things, it is wise to dig into all the information you need before jumping on buying the gear you need. Explore. Further, the SkyBox's 16-cubic-foot model is about $30 less than the size-large Force here. Aerodynamic. And because most modern hitch boxes are designed to be easily removed, they double as a handy storage container once you establish camp (the Yakima EXO GearLocker excels in this department). There are a few other options available at similar price pointsincluding the Jegs above and SportRack belowbut where the Sidekick stands out is in its compact design. de . or less in height). This box requires no assembly. Cookie Notice The lips on the side of the box hang over the seam where it opens, so moisture rolls over the top. Its also worth considering if a hitch-mounted box or basket might be a better way to expand your vehicles carrying capacity. Once your gear is loaded, we recommend securing it with tie-down straps (if available), which is especially helpful if you have a half-full load. And looking on the bright side, the tradeoff is an impressively lightweight design (25 lbs.) If youre thinking about buying gear that weve reviewed on Switchback Travel, you can help support us in the process. If youre not immediately taken by the high-end Motion, you might end up facing a decision between the Force XT and the Yakima SkyBox above. Dimensions: 77 x 36 x 17 in.Capacities: 16, 18, 18 (Alpine), 22 cu. Then you can slide the clamps (theyre highly adjustable) over the bars and secure them by flipping all four over. At $1,499, youre spending an additional $500 for the charging capabilities compared to the standard CBX 16 ($999). Read 12 Reviews Same page link. In a surprising move, REI has replaced their popular Kingdom series with the Wonderland line for 2022. First off, an empty box is much more likely to be pushed around by the wind, which will result in a noisier ride. On the flip side, the interior understandably can get quite warm in direct heat. Further, like most of the budget options here, the SportRack does not accommodate skis, and the U-bolt mounting system isnt quite as sleek as more modern clamp styles. Finally, the Pulses rudimentary lock/latch mechanism is middling at best, and (similar to the Force above) it has a tendency to put undue strain on the key. All of the picks above come with at least one lock and key (boxes with dual-sided access feature a lock on both sides). If its gusty outside, there is an occasional whooshing sound as wind hits (particularly cross winds), but again, its faint enough that I frequently forget the box is up there. Knowing that a rooftop box can only carry about 100 pounds worth of gear tells us a few things. Most rooftop cargo boxes add about 15 to 18 inches to the height of your vehicle, but if you routinely navigate city parking garages or park your car in a garage or carport, you might want to consider a low-profile design. If you value function over form but want to stick with the Thule brand name, the Pulse is a great place to start. If I had a wider box, I couldn't keep the ski racks, and would have to put skis in the car (They wouldn't fit in a 58" box). Weight: 47 lbs. Compared to rooftop options, hitch storage is easier to access and doesnt require that you perch on your tire or door well to load and unload gear. These boxes come in a From car camping with your family to base camping at the foot of your next serious adventure, youll want to have the right gear for the occasion. Further, compared to the 16-cubic-foot Thule Motion XT, the CBX 16 will still cost you $99 more, which may or may not be worth it for the chiseled facade. ft. It might slide into last place on our list, but the SportRack Vista XL still has several things going for it. Finally, while manufacturers tend to bring attention to the higher weight capacities of some boxes, vehicle load limits are the true equalizers, meaning that theres not much advantage to opting for a 165-pound limit over a 110-pound limit (like the budget SportRack Vista XL). For around $20 less, we prefer the Yakima for its similar capacity at a lower weight. With your cargo in mind, youre ready to decide on the right size box for you. If youre searching for the best way to transport bikes, hitch-mounted bike racks are the way to go. Whats more, they usually have indicators that show when theyre ajar (the SlideLock on Thules Motion XT displays red), which provides an extra level of confidence that your lid is secure. Thankfully, its easy to find a good fit without having to try on multiple models: simply measure the distance between the front crossbar of your roof rack and your open hatch and compare it with the cargo boxs specs (both Thule and Yakima have published helpful fit guides). restaurar anncio. At this point I'm dead-set on either one of these (the locking system seems a bit more reliable than on the Thule boxes, it seems), so I'm not really considering other brands/models. The GrandTour is slightly taller, but has "cutaways" which allow it to sit lower, making them effectively the same height on a car. You have to completely extend the mounting hooks and they just barely reach. In addition, the four raised levers that secure the box to your vehicles crossbars do take up a little space along the interior and keep the floor from being completely flat. Securely attaching to the receiver hitch of your vehicle, they offer unmatched versatility and ease of use. If you want to maximize aerodynamics, we recommend opting for a model that looks more like a bullet than a box, including a tapered nose (this includes most offerings from Thule and Yakima) and a relatively low profile. Design hits the sweet spot for all-season use: It's a manageable size that fits most vehicles while retaining ample capacity for skis and bulky camping equipment. From: $819.00. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. . But details matter, and here the Yakima lags a bit behind. Read reviews for average rating value is 4.7 of 5. Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite Price: $679 Gear capacity: 16 cu. Weve had the 16-cubic-foot model on the top of our vehicle for a few years now and have found it to be Thules rooftop cargo box collection is undeniably extensive, from luxurious designs with felt-lined interiors and built-in lighting to soft-sided models for cheap and compact storage. If your ski gear is even a few years old, theres new technology out there that will help make good days on the snow even better. Yakima has been a leader in the cargo roof box game for some time, and their core and arguably most versatile product is the SkyBox Carbonite. One access-related nitpick we have is that we found the latches to be fairly stiff and require a sturdy push downward to open. If you go that route, you can even tack on a portable battery like the EcoFlow RIVER ($299) to store power and charge devices when the sun goes down or on cloudy days. 95-$768.95 $ 768. There are a wide range of cargo box designs and shapes on the market, but weve found the Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite hits the sweet spot in gear capacity for all-season use. On the other end of the price spectrum isThules $600 Pulse L. Compared to the SkyBox, you get the same amount of capacity at 16 cubic feet, a taller peak height at 16.5 inches, and a lower weight (by over 10 lbs.) This number specifies how much weight you can safely carry on your rooftop while driving (a parked vehicle can handle much more) and generally maxes out around 165 pounds for a wagon, sedan, or crossover SUV, and up to 330 pounds for a large van. But not every vehicle comes with a hitch or hitch capabilities, and rear storage can be inconvenient if you need a lot of access to your trunk. Of course, if youre planning to mount your cargo box on a larger vehicle with a higher load capacity, this becomes more of a distinguishing factor. It has style. Rigidity increases with the premium models (by way of added stiffeners), while budget designs like the Thule Sidekick and Jegs Rooftop Carrier have noticeably floppy lids and bases that youll want to be sure to carefully close and secure (they might not easily line up). Ft. Rooftop Cargo Carrier 8007387. The Yakima Carbonite 16 Cargo Box is not an exception. 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