Yakimas SkyBox 16 offers an impressive balance of capacity, ease of installation, and on-road performance. ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: Up to 185cmWhat we like: A luxury cargo box both inside and out.What we dont: The Thule Motion XT is better in high winds. 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. The INNO might be the lowest-profile rooftop box on the market, but a few models are close on its heels. 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. 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. And in addition to the Medium here, the Pulse is also available in a Large variation (16 cu. I'm a bit stuck between these boxes, as both seem pretty solid. On the other hand, the Forces combined set-up puts more strain on the lockit should come as no surprise that there have been issues over the years with broken keys. Its nice to have an alternative to the name brands above, but the Goplus unfortunately doesnt stand out much anymore unless you can find it on sale.See the Goplus Rooftop Carrier. The exterior doesnt have the high-end sheen of a premium model like Yakimas own GrandTour 16, but the dimpled pattern and shape (with a lowered front end) make it a strong performer. Because rooftop cargo boxes are so popular for toting snow gear, most manufacturers specify the length of ski (and sometimes number of pairs) that each model is able to fit. Rooftop Cargo Box Volume FREE delivery. 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.) The pricing information on this page is updated hourly but we are not responsible for inaccuracies. Compared with a standard box, 24-inch-wide models like the Yakima SkyBox 12 Carbonite and Thule Force XT Sport shave off a foot or more in width, leaving a good portion of your rack available (an average crossbar measures about 50 in. And a final note: if youre considering the length spec, keep in mind that it measures the box at its longest point, and its a good idea to take a look at the shape of the box too, as tapered ends and contoured bases can result in a lot of lost space. The Yakima Roof Carrier is a great and smart way to add storage to your vehicle. 95 INNO BRM2020ST Roof Box (2) $649. Shuttle gear across snow-covered passes with the quiet and durable INNO Wedge 624 roof box atop your ride. In the end, each type of rooftop storage has its strengths and weaknesses, and taking a close look at your cargo and travel plans will help you decide on the best solution.Back to Our Top Rooftop Cargo Box Picks Back to Our Rooftop Cargo Box Comparison Table. Then you can slide the clamps (theyre highly adjustable) over the bars and secure them by flipping all four over. Like their competitor, Thule, they also have a lifetime warranty. thule ski box. In terms of weight, the SkyBox 16 clocks in at 47 pounds. Second, its a good idea to be strategic about what you put in your cargo box. Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite ($719) Dimensions: 81 x 36 x 15 in. 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. However, there are a few points of vulnerability inherent in the design. In terms of specs, you get 3.5 fewer inches of height but almost another foot lengthwise at 7 feet 8 inches. It's worth noting for those with larger vehicles and a need to haul even more gear, Yakima offers the SkyBox in larger 18- and 21-cubic-foot capacities (Switchbacks founder picked up a SkyBox 21 for a big family move). The Carbonite is the latest evolution of the Skybox. If you're searching for that elusive one-ski quiver, this is the category to find it. Locking lid opens from either side of your vehicle. Weve had the 16-cubic-foot model on the top of our vehicle for a few years now and have found it to be endlessly useful. 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. And with a longer profile than most, it also fits skis up to 215 centimeters in length, which is great news for winter enthusiasts. The Thule Pulse Alpine (also 11 cu. Thule Force Vs Yakima Skybox: Rooftop Car Boxes Review October 7, 2020 October 6, 2020 by Breana Sky-liners.com is supported by our readers, we may receive an affiliate commission when you purchase something through the links on our page (at no extra cost to you). For me, the SkyBoxs shape wins out, but both are well-made and nicely executed designs from top roof box brands. ft.) and a long and lean Alpine model, both of which make great haulers for budget-oriented skiers. But regardless of the cargo box, its a good idea to assume that its not fully waterproof. I picked mine up from an REI store, removed it from the box, and had it on my vehicle within a couple minutes. But the good news is that there are a variety of options for those who need to keep a low profile. 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. No idea about the Thule. All told, I have no concerns from a longevity standpoint, and the SkyBox does come with a lifetime warranty (wear and tear not included). 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. The Vista XL used to be our top budget pick, but with a recent price jump (up from $400), its now tougher to justify over cheaper designs like the Sidekick and Jegs above. Dimensions: 62.5 x 30 x 15 in.Capacity: 14 cu. 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. The Goplus used to be one of our favorite budget models, but with a recent jump to $540, its lost some of its appeal and fallen lower in our rankings as a result. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. Weve had a chance to test both the four- and six-person versions (note: The photos A key piece of any gear closet is a go-to daypack. What we like: Extremely versatile design, quality build, and competitive price. thule pulse medium. First off, the box is made of 80% recycled ABS plastic which protects both the environment and the gear. It cuts through the wind with sleek aerodynamics, stealth like designs that produces better MPG. This versatility is helpful whether youre parked on a busy street or need to find something tucked away in the far corner of a cavernous box. It's the individual dimensions that can make a difference, and in the case of the CBX 16 I tested, those dimensions differ considerably from others in the industry, including those made by. Yakima SkyBox 16 16 Cu. For most users, we recommend a box in the 16- to 18-cubic-foot range, which should accommodate overnight camping gear for three to four people. Securely attaching to the receiver hitch of your vehicle, they offer unmatched versatility and ease of use. The GrandTour would have to be shipped to my local REI, while the Skybox is already in stock there. Many users cite durability concerns with the flimsy build, and the nose design doesnt resist weather as well as higher-end models. . One thing to keep in mind with the SkyBox 16 is its aerodynamic shape does limit what you can haul to items that are fairly low-profile. Its great for camping gear, but its only 15 inches tall at its peak (and those are the exterior dimensions) and lower towards the front. Further, while the Motion XT has one of our favorite mounting systems, the Yakimas requires more finagling to get into place, which is a downside if you anticipate removing and reinstalling your box with some regularity. A common fear in strapping a large box to the roof of your vehicle is the impact on road noise, as well as a big hit to gas mileage. That said, the Horizons svelte 21-inch width could make it the more attractive option for some. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Conclusion As with most things, it is wise to dig into all the information you need before jumping on buying the gear you need. Thules Force XT L is the SkyBoxs closest competitor: It matches it in carrying capacity at 16 cubic feet, sports key features including dual access and an aerodynamic shape, and is quick and easy to install and remove. ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: 6-8 pairs up to 185cmWhat we like: Contoured base helps keep a low profile without giving up too much depth.What we dont: Expensive and limited in terms of capacity. But it does fall a bit short in the details: The Forces aesthetic is no match for the Motions glossy finish, the LockKnob mechanism isnt as durable or easy to use as the more premium SlideLock, and you dont get a nice grip handle to help with opening and closing. ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: N/AWhat we like: A noticeably lightweight box with reasonable price and quality. 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. Yakima Stories. I havent had any fit issues on my Volkswagen Alltrack, but to ensure it will fit, youll want to measure from your front cross bar to the closest contact point of the open hatch(Yakima has a useful guide for nailing this down). Low-profile cargo boxes are generally 13 inches or less in height (Thules Alpine sizes fit into this category), with particularly streamlined models like the INNO Wedge 660 adding just 9.6 inches of bulk above your vehicles crossbars. And the latch hasnt been a source of weakness either. The Yakima Carbonite 16 Cargo Box is not an exception. It also has SKS lock cores included. Given the large amount of plastic required to make a roof box, it's nice to see and a feature you won't currently find on their primary competitor (Thule). ft.Access: RearSkis: N/AWhat we like: Inexpensive and spacious.What we dont: Opens only at the rear. We love rooftop boxes for their ease of use (just throw in your gear and close the lid), weather resistance, and security, but there are a number of other solutions, including rooftop baskets and bags and hitch-mounted options. The GrandTour is also convenient and hassle-free when it comes to loading your gear. Generally speaking, weve come to expect Thule products to be slightly better-quality than Yakimas, but the Pulse is a clear exception. The INNO Wedge 660 is one of the top designs in this category, featuring a contoured shape that offers 11 inches of depth while rising only 9.6 inches above your racks crossbars. The Thule Sidekick, for example, takes most users over an hour to put together, including attaching foam weather stripping and installing the lock assembly (wrench required). A lot of vehicles come with factory-installed racks, and after-market designs can also be easily matched to your make and model. First off, an empty box is much more likely to be pushed around by the wind, which will result in a noisier ride. Further, the 14-cubic-foot capacity is on the small side for larger families or gear-heavy endeavors, and the max length of 170 centimeters will be limiting for many skiers. Scan this QR code to download the app now. 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. ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: 5-7 pairs up to 175cmWhat we like: Durable and functional for significantly less than the Motion XT.What we dont: Cheaper look and the LockKnob latch system isnt our favorite. Yakima GrandTour 16 Cargo Box Product # 8007394 By Yakima Yakima GrandTour Cargo Box $878.95 $879.00 Price Match New In-Box In-Store Only (Call to Confirm) Size 16 18 Lo Expert Fit Price Match Product Details Specifications Installation & Documents Q & A (4) Product Description: thule force xl. . The Goplus here gets most of the formula right, with a dual-sided opening, tool-free mounts that install on most bar styles, and a nice sleek profile thatunlike many entry-level modelsis available in both matte and gloss finishes. 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