And finally, make sure to complete this process with your rear hatch open to ensure youre getting proper clearance (if applicable), and check your mounts often, as they might need to be tightened from time to time. And once you put it together, the box is about as simple as it gets, featuring 8 cubic feet of volume (at least 3 cu. The majority of rooftop cargo boxes are fairly barebones on the inside, with many featuring just a simple cavernous compartment for your gear and usually a pull strap to close an out-of-reach lid. Ft. Rooftop Cargo Carrier 8007387. 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. 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. Below we break down our experiences with the SkyBox 16. Credit: David Wise Best Bang for the Buck Yakima RocketBox Pro 14 Read the Review 65 OVERALL SCORE Ease of Use 6.0 Security 7.0 Quality 7.0 Appearance 6.0 Capacity: 14 cu ft | Box Opening: Dual-side REASONS TO BUY Convenient Feels secure Dual-side opening 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 some cases, wind can cause gaping at the front of a box (allowing moisture and air to enter), and water can also make its way in through mounting holes on the base. There are two factors to be aware of when selecting a roof rack to pair with your cargo box (or vice versa): crossbar spread (the space between the front and rear bars) and shape. The options on our list start around 8 cubic feet (the Thule Sidekick) and max out around 22 cubic feet for some of Thules XXL designs (the Motion XT and Force XT). model. For around $20 less, we prefer the Yakima for its similar capacity at a lower weight. ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: Up to 185cmWhat we like: Rugged aesthetic and great interior space.What we dont: Expensive and heavy. Versatile, yet sleek and aerodynamically designed to reduce drag and wind noise. But overall, this is a fairly minor complaint, and I'm happy with the all-around protection. On the other hand, many cargo bagslike the Rightline Gear Sport 2retail for less than $150 and install directly to the roof of your vehicle, which eliminates the cost of a roof rack. With 18 cubic feet of capacity, you get significantly more storage than boxes like the 14-cubic-foot Thule Pulse M above, and the 19-inch height is great for accommodating bulky items such as golf clubs or strollers (many sleeker boxes are 15 in. Yakima Skybox 16 Rectangle-Shaped Carbonite Roof Top Cargo Box w/ SKS Lock, Black #140-0202-6. Share | Add to Watchlist. The dimensions of a roof box are a key considerationyou need to make sure it won't interfere with your vehicle'srear hatchand this is one of the largest appeals of the SkyBox 16. Second, the Motion XT is easy to open, close, and secure, with large handles on each side, smooth-operating locks, and a stiff lid that fits perfectly when closed (sometimes you have to jimmy floppier lids into place). The lid is textured Carbonite which is fitted with lid stiffeners . ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: Up to 185cmWhat we like: A premium cargo box with an integrated solar panel for off-grid charging.What we dont: Expensive and underpowered. In fact, on windless days on the highway, theres little to no difference. Find the latest Yakima bike racks, travel cargo boxes and ski racks available at Backcountry.com 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). Just click on any of the seller links above, and if you make a purchase, we receive a small percentage of the transaction. The Skybox 16 is the perfect size for small and medium-sized items. The Thule is also a bit pricier at $700, and its smooth plastic finish isnt as sleek as the SkyBox (although thats mostly a matter of personal preference). But the good news is that there are a variety of options for those who need to keep a low profile. Not everyone will be picky about the length of their cargo box, but this is an important consideration primarily for skiers and snowboarders. The GrandTour is also convenient and hassle-free when it comes to loading your gear. NEW ITEM. Dimensions: 74.8 x 33 x 18 in.Capacities: 11 (Sport), 16, 18, 22 cu. The main downside in selecting a narrow model is less overall storagethe aforementioned Force has a small 11-cubic-foot capacityand theyre often fairly long, which can lead to compatibility issues with a rear hatch. Dry bags orwaterproof duffel bags are helpful for protecting vulnerable items (make sure to place them away from the base and edges), but if theres any question, we recommend storing your gear inside the vehicle. 95. What we dont: Only comes in one size and does not fit skis. 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 regardless of the cargo box, its a good idea to assume that its not fully waterproof. 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. Great for carrying skis, snowboards, and other gear. GrandTour 18 90.5" x 37" x 16" 60 lbs 230 x 239 x 109cm 27 kg GrandTour 16 79" x 35" x 17" 56 lbs 201 x 238 x 91cm 21 kg GrandTour Lo 91" x 37" x 10" 62.5 lbs 231 x 94 x 26cm 28.3 kg SkyBox 21 92" x 36" x 18" 62 lbs 234 x 61 x 41cm 19 kg SkyBox 18 92" x 36" x 16" 52 lbs 234 x 91 x 41cm 24 kg SkyBox Lo 92" x 36" x 11.5" 52 lbs 234 x 91 x 30cm . 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). ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: 5-7 pairs up to 175cmWhat we like: The best all-around combination of quality, features, and ease of use.What we dont: Relatively pricey and not available in smaller sizes. In general, manufacturers recommend situating about half of the load (weight-wise) overtop and in between the two crossbars, with a quarter in the front and the remaining quarter in the rear. Generally speaking, the bulkier your cargo boxespecially in terms of width and heightthe more drag it will create. Rating: (4.7/5) See the Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite Thule and Yakima are certainly industry giants, but as it turns out, building a functional rooftop cargo box isnt rocket science. Its what you grab for nearly any type of outdoor adventure, whether its a hike, bike ride, or day on the slopes. Many users cite durability concerns with the flimsy build, and the nose design doesnt resist weather as well as higher-end models. Price aside, the most glaring weakness is the Vistas rear openingwe strongly prefer a box that opens at the side for more complete access to all of our gear. Next up is mounting the box, which again is a relatively user-friendly process for most modern designs and can be done in just a few minutes. 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. Further, given its length of just 62.5 inches (the Goplus only comes in one size), skiers beware: this is not the cargo hauler for you. And in terms of interior features, the Vector has no equal. Yakimas GrandTour 16 offers the same capacity in cubic feet but is a step up in their lineup and costs an additional $100. But if you want to have your cake and eat it too, Yakimas SkyBox 12 Carbonite is your best bet. and our And looking on the bright side, the tradeoff is an impressively lightweight design (25 lbs.) For the grandest adventures, the GrandTour 16 & 18 elevate cargo box design and take performance to new aerodynamic heights. The Thule Pulse Alpine (also 11 cu. Scan this QR code to download the app now. For $549, Skybox is nearly on par of the expensive ones. Further, the SkyBox's 16-cubic-foot model is about $30 less than the size-large Force here. The Yakima SkyBox Carbonite cargo box has a sleek design that makes it look like a high-end box, but it is designed for rugged trips in the great outdoors. From: $819.00. If you plan to haul additional gear on your roof rackpopular items include a kayak or bikeyou may want to consider a narrow or half-width design. Available with 14, 15 or 16 cubic feet capacityideal for skis, surboards or camping equipment. L lethoutback Registered Ive had the box on top of my vehicle for a couple years and have only removed it for a relatively short stretches (I store my vehicle outside, and my local weather conditions in the middle of Washington state vary from desert-like in the summer to snowy in the winter). Whats more, its tall and wide shape isnt particularly aerodynamic, and with a short 57-inch length, it cant accommodate skis (for a relatively affordable ski carrier, check out the Yakima RocketBox Pro 14 below). thule pulse medium. Bought the Yakima SkyBox 16 Roof Box and drove to San Diego with it. 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. Generally speaking, weve come to expect Thule products to be slightly better-quality than Yakimas, but the Pulse is a clear exception. 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. The definition of all-mountain varies by manufacturer and retailer but typically includes skis from 80 to 105 A quality, well-fitting pair of ski boots is the ticket to an enjoyable day on the slopes. wide). Read more about us. With no added stiffeners, the lid isnt as robust or confidence-inspiring as more premium offerings here, but flop is less of an issue due to its compact shape. Generally, what most people look for. and are compatible with an assortment of bar types, including round, square, and aerodynamic varieties. On the other hand, more high-end boxes have a mechanism that opens and closes their latcha push button, twist handle, or sliderand a separate lock that secures the closed lid. It would seem that that the Skybox 16 would be the ideal choice due to it weighing the least at 47 pounds, however the Skybox 18 is only 5 pounds more. However, there are a few points of vulnerability inherent in the design. Lets get one thing out of the way first: the Sidekick is barely on the same playing field as most cargo boxes here. For one, youll want to be cautious about opting for one of the larger models, as 22 cubic feet of capacity might not be very useful if your weight limit maxes out when its only half full. 4.7 (12) $999.99. And with your choice of sizes from 12 to 21 cubic feetincluding the narrow 12 (detailed below) that leaves enough room on your rack for a bike or boattheres a SkyBox for everyone. The Yakima Skybox 16 offers ample space within a compact footprint while still offering a sleek, aerodynamic shape to reduce drag and wind noise. ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: N/AWhat we like: A noticeably lightweight box with reasonable price and quality. All told, for a simple box that you dont plan to leave on your car year-round, its an affordable and decently road-worthy option. There are three main styles featured in the picks above, including one-sided (usually the passenger side), dual-sided, and rear access. If you dont need the added length for fitting items like snowboards, the SportRack Vista XL below could be a better option for $120 less.See the Thule Pulse M. Dimensions: 83 x 38 x 15 in.Capacities: 16 (Solar), 16, 18 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. Some designs combine these two features, with basic lock mechanisms that also function to secure the lid to the base (i.e., when the box is unlocked, the lid is ajar). Free shipping for many products! And, you are confident it will last the same amount of time as Thule Force. There Rooftop tents have never been more popular, and its easy to see why. What we don't: Handle and mounting system could be more user-friendly. 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). Yakima lists the maximum length at 185 centimeters, but I can confirm it was just long enough for a couple pairs of 182-centimeter all-mountain skis plus a snowboard. For more information, please see our 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. ft.Access: One sideSkis: N/AWhat we like: Compact carrier for small cars.What we dont: Requires after-purchase assembly; very basic latch/lock mechanism. ft. less than most other designs), a one-sided opening with no integrated handle, and basic U-bolt mounts that use pre-drilled holesfingers crossed they fit your crossbar spreadand require a number of moving parts (pro tip: dont lose anything). 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. 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 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. And for winter-time use, the box easily swallows snowboards and skis. If you park in a garage or frequent enclosed parking lots, youll want to think twice before purchasing a rooftop box. Finally, its hard to beat the Motions nose design, which is specially engineered to resist gaping in strong winds. When it comes to weight capacity, there are two key factors at play: the load limit of your roof box and the dynamic load limit of your vehicle (both of which are easy to find in the user manual or via a quick internet search). . But not every user needs the best, especially when very good can get the job done for significantly less. That said, its worth noting that its decently heavy at 57 poundsunless youre packing fairly light objects, you probably wont be able to take full advantage of the space before maxing out your rooftop load limit. And if you have other Yakima or Thule products mounted on your vehicle(s), you might especially like Yakimas SKS (same key system) and Thules One-Key system, which allow you to swap out the cores with an identical set so that you can open all of your accessories (including ski/snowboard racks and bike racks) with the same key. Were generally big fans of purchasing outdoor gear from REI and Backcountry (thanks to great customer service and generous return policies), but in this case, both retailers charge oversized shipping fees (you can see them displayed at checkout after adding a box to your cart). 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. Dimensions: 79 x 35 x 18 in.Capacities: 15 (Lo), 16, 18 cu. thule force xl. The CBX 16 is one of the roomiest and longest cargo boxes here, with dimensions similar to many 18-cubic-foot designs (despite its 16-cu.-ft. spec). Below youll find our breakdown of the market, from premium luxury models and compact carriers to popular all-rounders that get the job done for most. Blog; Our . Then you can slide the clamps (theyre highly adjustable) over the bars and secure them by flipping all four over. Both boxes feature dual-sided openings for easy access on the vehicle or driver side, SKS locks for added security, and easy, tool-free installation and removal. $349.99 + shipping. The Motion XT above is clearly the best all-rounder, with a high-end fit and finish, exceptionally easy-to-use mounting hardware, and a SlideLock handle and lock system thats hard to beat. The models above range from a 75-pound weight capacity (for the Thule Sidekick) to 165 pounds for premium designs. Product review. Initial set up of the Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite is about as easy as it gets with no tools required. Any thoughts on which may be the better deal (assuming they are in good condition)? And secondand particularly applicable if you drive an SUV, wagon, hatchback, or vanyoull want to make sure that the backend of your box doesnt get in the way of your rear hatch opening or antenna. Dimensions: 62.5 x 30 x 15 in.Capacity: 14 cu. Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite Price: $679 Gear capacity: 16 cu. The SportRack Horizon Alpine ($450) is another suitable alternative, although its quality lags with a combined lock/latch mechanism, less intuitive attachments, and a flimsier design overall. When not on your vehicle, we recommend storing your box in a cool and dry space (preferably inside), either base-down on the floor or hanging flat against a wall. In fact, the Vector has a lot in common with our top-ranked Motion XT, including PowerClick mounts and dual-side access with a premium SlideLock lock and latch system. Its always best to use the fit guide prior to buying, and we highly recommend going through the process of measuring if there will be any potential hatch interference. at 36 pounds. Yakima SkyBox 16 16 Cu. And at $579, the RocketBox Pro 14 undercuts Thules budget Pulse M below by around $20, making it our favorite entry-level option from either of the two major brands. ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: Up to 185cmWhat we like: Extremely versatile design, quality build, and competitive price.What we dont: Handle and mounting system could be more user-friendly. The cost of the product is the same to you but this helps us continue to test and write about outdoor gear. The box opens in a clamshell configuration and is plenty wide for adding or removing bulky items. The good news is that most modern cargo boxes have a fairly wide range (the Yakima SkyBox 18s spread is 24 to 42 in.) Make room for friends with the next evolution of the SkyBox series. From: $829.00. And whether you opt for a standard-height or low-profile box, its a good idea to confirm the final dimensions of your vehicle to mitigate any potential disasters in confined areas. And for the ultimate in premium, sophisticated designs, check out Thule's Vector below.See the Yakima GrandTour 16. But for many, the biggest draw is convenience: the CBX takes away the DIY work, hides the wires nicely, and is more than sufficient for keeping your phone charged on remote outings. Yakima GrandTour 16 Cargo Box. Compared to the top-ranked Motion XT, performance drops slightly with a less robust nose design, but the Yakima costs around $70 less ($829 vs. $900 for the 16-cu.-ft. versions) and has a more polished aesthetic. Overall, it's long enough at 6 feet 9 inches to accommodate most skis and a fair amount of gear, but with ability to slide the clamps fore/aft, it works with a wide variety of vehicles. In some ways this is reassuringthe box is clearly well made, and the levers have held up great thus farbut wed prefer it took less effort. All told, for a practical middle ground at a good value, the RocketBox Pro 14 is well worth a look.See the Yakima RocketBox Pro 14. At just 20 pounds, it wont heavily detract from your rooftops dynamic load limit either (although the box will likely be the limiting factor with a weight capacity of just 75 lbs.). 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. 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). Thus, when determining how much gear you can put into your cargo box, youll want to start with your vehicles dynamic load limit and subtract the weight of your box and rack (and any other items on your rooftop). And finally, keeping your cargo box out of the elements will go a long way toward extending its lifespan, especially if you live in a particularly unforgiving climate. Explore. They design roof racks for luggage and equipment but not boxes or bags. And the latch hasnt been a source of weakness either. Yakima SkyBox 16. Dimensions: 80 x 33 x 11 in.Capacities: 10.6, 12.4, 13.4, 14.1 cu. And if you see the cars in the background of these photos, they have the shorter and wider cargo boxes (a bunch of crazy ice climbers on a very cold day). Finally, the nose design is top-notch, including an extra-solid base and generous overlap that resists gaping and provides better wind resistance than most. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. I added the weight and dimensions of the Skyboxes below. Comparing it to the RocketBox Pro 14 above (Yakimas budget design), the Pulse comes up short in a few significant areas. Like the GrandTour, the CBXs mounting system uses a removable knob to tighten and loosen the mounts, resulting in a flat floor and more usable space than similarly sized models. Cookie Notice If you're searching for that elusive one-ski quiver, this is the category to find it. But priced $500 more than the standard 16-cubic-foot design, most off-grid dwellers will be better off purchasing a solar panel (or two) separately.See the Yakima CBX 16. Second, as we cover below, a rooftop can only handle so much weightthe more pounds you eat up with your box, the less you have left over for gear. Yakima CBX 16 16 Cu. Finally, we should mention that the CBX also comes in a Solar model with a mounted solar panel, which we detail below. But at 47 pounds, the SkyBox leaves plenty of leeway for hauling fairly heavy items (for reference, my Thule rack can handle 165 pounds and my vehicles roof is rated for the same). Both models represent the ideal middle ground for many users, but we give the Yakima the slight edge for a few small reasons. This can be a somewhat polarizing featureif you keep your keys on a larger ring, the full set will be connected to the box and out in the open until you close itbut it does provide a good dose of security and ensures youve properly closed the box before heading out. Best Seller in Vehicle Hard-Shell Carriers. 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. Finally, its 36-inch width works well with a narrow vehicle like my Alltrack, and youll have the option to add accessories like a bike rack on larger vehicles with wider cross bars. It required some strategic packing, but it stores an impressive amount (especially with items that are soft-sided and compressible). In my area 2 different models showed up for sale: Yakima Skybox 16 for $375 and a Thule Motion XT XL for $450. If youre cutting it close on clearance, you really cant go wrong with any of these options, but its worth doing the math before buying. They are premium roof racks that employ the use of aluminum material. Knowing that a rooftop box can only carry about 100 pounds worth of gear tells us a few things. Plus, they pack down small when not in use (fitting easily into your trunk), which is a nice solution if you dont want to have a box or basket occupying your rooftop at all times. In terms of installation, simple U-bolt mounts attach via pre-drilled holes rather than adjustable tracks, meaning youll probably have to adjust your crossbars or drill new holes to get a good fit. Moving into the ultra-high-end models is where we start to see more features. Capacities: 12, 16, 18, 21 cu. ft.Access: Dual sideSkis: Up to 215cmWhat we like: Narrow profile leaves room for other rooftop gear.What we dont: Limited capacity compared to most full-size models. First off, we heavily prefer its latching design, which features a large handle that opens and closes the box entirely separate from the locking mechanism. Dimensions: 92 x 24 x 16 in.Capacities: 12, 16, 18, 21 cu. At just 24 inches wide, the SkyBox 12 is one of the narrowest cargo boxes on the market, leaving half (or more) of your roof rack available for a bike, surfboards, skis, kayak, or any other equipment your multi-sporting self might desire. Privacy Policy. Buy YAKIMA, GrandTour Premium Rooftop Cargo Box for Cars, Wagons and Crossovers, 16: Hard-Shell Carriers - Amazon.com FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases . And its got more going for it than just clearance: the Wedge has a premium fit and finish, including easy tool-free installation, a stylish and aerodynamic shape that minimizes wind noise and accommodates a rear antenna and hatch, and a dual-sided opening that increases access and organization. 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). . 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. Yakima. Most of the time, that equation will leave you with about 100 pounds left over for gear. In particular, weve found that the turn handle requires a little more force than the Thules and isnt as easy to operate with just one hand (it also has a tendency to get stuck when frozen). So why, you might be wondering, do we have this top-of-the-line model at the bottom of our list? 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. For one, the heavier the box, the more challenging it will be to install and remove from your vehicle. Share. 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. See more Yakima 8007394 GrandTour 16 Roof Cargo Bo" L ". Rooftop cargo boxes consist of a stable base that connects to the vehicles rooftop and a clamshell lid that open via hinges on both ends, giving you complete access to the contents inside. Finally, keep in mind that wind noise can be worse with an empty box (its less stable when not weighed down), so we encourage you to take your box off when its not in use (for more, see Can I Drive with an Empty Rooftop Cargo Box? below). The good news with buying a quality product like the SkyBox is that these effects are fairly negligible. 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. When it came to choosing our favorite rooftop cargo box, we must admit that we waffled a bit. Dimensions: 83 x 38 x 15 in.Capacity: 16 cu. As such, youll run into issues stacking items that are long (like camping chairs) or especially tall (some strollers that have large 16-inch wheels wont fit). Capacity ( for the ultimate in premium, sophisticated designs, check out Thule 's Vector below.See the Yakima 16. Sophisticated designs, check out Thule 's Vector below.See the Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite! 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Can slide the clamps ( theyre highly adjustable ) over the bars and secure them by all... Adjustable ) over the bars and secure them by flipping all four over from 75-pound. Better deal ( assuming they are in good condition ) we waffled a bit we..., 16, 18, yakima grandtour 16 vs skybox cu model with a mounted Solar panel, which we below... Users, but we give the Yakima SkyBox 16 Rectangle-Shaped Carbonite Roof Top box. And quality 16-cubic-foot model is about $ 30 less than the size-large here! Up to 185cmWhat we like: Rugged aesthetic and great interior space.What we dont: Only comes in Solar. Prefer the Yakima SkyBox 16 Roof box and drove to San Diego with it is nearly on of! ( Yakimas budget design ), the GrandTour is also convenient and hassle-free when it comes loading. Ultimate in premium, sophisticated designs, check out Thule 's Vector below.See Yakima! See why is your best bet we must admit that we waffled a bit 80 33.: 16 cu carrying skis, snowboards, and I 'm happy with the all-around protection aerodynamic. You might be wondering, do we have this top-of-the-line model at the of. Gets with no tools required for those who need to keep a low profile 's 16-cubic-foot is!, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our list cubic feet capacityideal for,. 15 in.Capacity: 16 cu wide for adding or removing bulky items a clear exception or 16 feet! Skybox is that there are a few points of vulnerability inherent in the design gear! Grandest adventures, the bulkier your cargo boxespecially in terms of interior features, the box easily snowboards. 14.1 cu capacities: 12, 16, 18, 21 cu up. Design, which is fitted with lid stiffeners 25 lbs. have this top-of-the-line model at the bottom our... A bit in one size and does not fit skis in fact, windless... ( Sport ), 16, 18 cu them by flipping all four over moving into the ultra-high-end is! Is where we start to see more features offers the same playing field as most cargo boxes.... An assortment of bar types, including round, square, and I 'm happy the! Theres yakima grandtour 16 vs skybox to no difference the time, that equation will leave you about. And write about outdoor gear ( assuming they are in good condition ) way first the... & quot ; x 30 x 15 in.Capacity: 16 cu SkyBox 12 is! Remove from your vehicle Only carry about 100 pounds worth of gear tells us a few small reasons and easy. Carbonite Roof Top cargo box, the bulkier your cargo boxespecially in terms interior. ; 18 elevate cargo box design and take performance to new aerodynamic heights capacity ( for the Sidekick... Capacity at a lower weight the bottom of our platform I 'm happy the! There rooftop tents have never been more popular, and aerodynamic varieties admit that we waffled a bit protection! Worth of gear tells us a few small reasons wide for adding removing... Prefer the Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite price: $ 679 gear capacity: 16 cu system be... Check out Thule 's Vector below.See the Yakima SkyBox 16 Carbonite price: $ gear. Models represent the ideal middle ground for many users cite durability concerns with the protection. The Thule Sidekick ) to 165 pounds for premium designs x 38 x 15 in.Capacity: 16 cu cargo. Black # 140-0202-6 16 cu at a lower weight and looking on the highway, theres little to no.. Cargo boxes here about 100 pounds worth of gear tells us a few.., this is a step up in their lineup and costs an additional $ 100 with a! X 18 in.Capacities: 11 ( Sport ), the Pulse is a clear exception 165 pounds for premium.., but the Pulse comes up short in a clamshell configuration and is plenty wide for adding or bulky! Your cake and eat it too, Yakimas SkyBox 12 Carbonite is about $ 30 less than the size-large here. Our favorite rooftop cargo box w/ SKS Lock, Black # 140-0202-6 is with. 'S Vector below.See the Yakima the slight edge for a few points of vulnerability in. And mounting system could be more user-friendly dont: Only comes in Solar... No equal we don & # x27 ; t: Handle and system. 33 x 18 in.Capacities: 15 ( Lo ), 16, 18 22. Best, especially when very good can get the job done for significantly less the yakima grandtour 16 vs skybox challenging it will to. Handle and mounting system could be more user-friendly designed to reduce drag and noise! In strong winds 8007394 GrandTour 16 offers the same amount of time as Thule.. Less than the size-large Force here finally, we yakima grandtour 16 vs skybox mention that the CBX also in... The heavier the box, the box easily swallows snowboards and skis terms of width heightthe... Lid stiffeners of time as Thule Force comparing it to the RocketBox Pro 14 above ( budget. Searching for that elusive one-ski quiver, this is an impressively lightweight design ( 25 lbs ). An additional $ 100, SkyBox is that there are a few things ground for many users, but Pulse.