Compared set
20 of 26 models checked match every need here: “Open it from either side”.
20 matching models from 26 checkedBest for this need
Best roof box with dual-side opening
Our pick
Thule Force 3 XL
Thule Force 3 XL is the balanced dual-side choice for 18 cubic feet and 200 cm skis.
Why it fits this need
- The box holds 18 cubic feet.
- It accepts gear up to 200 centimeters long.
- Main trade-off
- The selected version is black matte, so choose Motion if a glossy shell is your preference.
- Choose Yakima SkyBox NX XL instead when
- the deciding need is open it from either side
More reasons behind this pick
- The documented crossbar spread runs from 21.875 to 36.625 inches.
- The box uses dualside access.
Thule Force 3 XL is the balanced dual-side choice for 18 cubic feet and 200 cm skis.
What the facts say
What the comparison shows
Useful conclusions from the current roof cargo boxes comparison, followed by the checked facts used to reach them.
Why it helps
Thule Force 3 XL's published cargo volume is 13% above the 16 cu ft median at 18 cu ft.
- Thule Force 3 XL
- 18 cu ft
- Category median
- 16 cu ft
- Comparable models
- 20 of 26
See the checked facts and calculation notes
Match countThe count uses the current product-to-need assignments for “Open it from either side”. A need with no documented match does not count.
Calculation noteThis compares published exterior-category volume. Shape, mounting hardware and long gear can reduce practical packing space. The median covers 20 of 26 models with comparable published figures.
| Product | Needs matched | Checked facts | Source records |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thule Force 3 XL |
|
| |
| Yakima SkyBox NX XL |
|
| |
| Rhino-Rack MasterFit 530L |
|
|
What matters in practice
How to choose for this need
Thule Force 3 XL is the balanced dual-side choice for 18 cubic feet and 200 cm skis.
What decides this choice
The box holds 18 cubic feet. The matte shell and utilitarian finish are less polished than Motion 3.
Why Thule Force 3 XL leads
The box holds 18 cubic feet. It accepts gear up to 200 centimeters long.
When an alternative fits better
Choose Yakima SkyBox NX XL when the deciding need is open it from either side. Choose Rhino-Rack MasterFit 530L when the deciding need is open it from either side.
What this comparison cannot tell you
- This screen cannot certify vehicle compatibility.
- Published volume does not guarantee a particular suitcase layout.
- Roof limits vary by vehicle configuration.
3 options
Our pick and alternatives
Thule, Force 3 XL
Thule Force 3 XL
The box holds 18 cubic feet. It accepts gear up to 200 centimeters long.
Winner whencarry skis without folding the seats and pack for a family of four
Decisive facts
- The box holds 18 cubic feet.
- It accepts gear up to 200 centimeters long.
Trade-off
The selected version is black matte, so choose Motion if a glossy shell is your preference.
Yakima, SkyBox NX 18 XL
Yakima SkyBox NX XL
The box holds 18 cubic feet. It accepts gear up to 195 centimeters long.
Choose instead whenthe deciding need is open it from either side
Decisive facts
- The box holds 18 cubic feet.
- It accepts gear up to 195 centimeters long.
Trade-off
Its 195 cm ski limit is just short of 200 cm Nordic skis.
Rhino-Rack, RMFT530A
Rhino-Rack MasterFit 530L
The box holds 18.7 cubic feet. It accepts gear up to 210.8 centimeters long.
Choose instead whenthe deciding need is open it from either side
Decisive facts
- The box holds 18.7 cubic feet.
- It accepts gear up to 210.8 centimeters long.
Trade-off
The 85-inch shell needs careful hatch and roof-length checks.
Ready to choose?
Check the price. Read the owner reviews.
Our pick for this need
Thule Force 3 XL
The box holds 18 cubic feet.
See price & reviews on AmazonChoose instead when
Yakima SkyBox NX XL
the deciding need is open it from either side
See price & reviews on Amazon