Thule box vs. rack what do you suggest?

Baskin.

Active member
Got an 05' Explorer debating wether or not I want a Thule box or rack...

How do they compare price wise? Durability? convenience? Protection? Storage?

What do you guys prefer? Any suggestions of other ski racks/boxes that are't made by Thule
 
I've always preferred boxes to racks. They provide more protection and can be used for things other than skis or snowboards. You probably don't need to worry about the extra storage potential since you have an explorer though.

I think racks are fine for sort trips to the mountain, but if you are going to be driving any kind of distance I would recommend the box for increased protection for your gear.
 
racks are easier if you primarily are taking short day trips to your hill. i have fit 5 pairs of skis on my yakimas.

The box gives you extra storage space on long trips and protects the skis better. but you do get a lot of drag and lose some gas mileage.

 
With the rack, if your skis aren't in a bag clamped down then dirt gets into your bindings and bugs get splatted onto the tips of your skis, gets pretty messy
 
my family owns ski racks and a box and never use the box for skis. is more work opening it and you have to unlock it every time (mine anyway). the racks are really easy and fast. i figured, the ski are going to out in the rain and snow anyway it doesnt matter when they are on the car. we have the fatcat 6 and it is great.
 
box is obviously better than racks, really it's just whatever you have money for. racks are relatively inexpensive
 
Have rack and rocket box. Prefer the box cause you can just leave your gear in it and not worry about it. As said use for any type of storage if you need it. I like it for throwin empties in so the inside of your car doesn't smell like stale beer.
 
i got bars for cheap, then just used my parents box. its great cause you can pack it full of all your shit and not just skis. I think im gonna get my own box this winter off craigslist or something.
 
to each their own but personally im getting road salt in my bindings and in the bases of my skis. box all the way
 
I have racks - quick, easy, dont dent gas mileage too much - but winter road grime is nasty. My edges are rusty as hell and I dont imagine the internals of my bindings look too pretty any more.
 
me neither. plus the mag chloride residue does not actually seep into the pores of your bases, as long as you wipe them and the edges off when you get home right away all is good.
 
Ight dudes thanks for the advice, I'll def go with the box! What model do you suggest I want more of a long and sleek box nothing to thick
 
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