How many fit
20 of the 26 models checked meet every need here: “Load from both sides”.
20 models fit, out of 26 checkedPicked for one job
The best roof box with dual-side opening
Top pick
Thule Force 3 XL
Among dual-side boxes, Thule Force 3 XL is the balanced pick for 18 cubic feet and 200 cm skis.
Why it suits this job
- Capacity is 18 cubic feet.
- Gear up to 200 centimeters long fits.
- The catch
- This version comes in black matte. If you want a glossy shell, go with Motion instead.
- Go with Yakima SkyBox NX XL if
- what decides it for you is opening it from either side
More reasons we picked it
- Documented crossbar spread is 21.875 to 36.625 inches.
- Dualside access is how it opens.
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For 18 cubic feet and 200 cm skis with opening on both sides, Thule Force 3 XL is the balanced choice.
By the numbers
What the data shows
What we found across the roof cargo boxes we compare, plus the checked facts behind each finding.
Why it helps
Thule Force 3 XL lists 18 cu ft for listed cargo volume, 13% above the 16 cu ft median.
- Thule Force 3 XL
- 18 cu ft
- Typical (median)
- 16 cu ft
- Models with this figure
- 20 of 26
Show the facts and the math
How we countedThe count uses each product's current fit ratings for “Load from both sides”. A need with no documented match is not counted.
How we calculatedFigures are the published exterior-category volume. Shape, mounting hardware and long gear can leave less room to pack. The median draws on the 20 of 26 models that publish comparable figures.
| Product | Needs it meets | Facts we checked | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thule Force 3 XL |
|
| |
| Yakima SkyBox NX XL |
|
| |
| Rhino-Rack MasterFit 530L |
|
|
Decision guide
How to choose for this job
Among dual-side boxes, Thule Force 3 XL is the balanced pick for 18 cubic feet and 200 cm skis.
What settles the choice
It holds 18 cubic feet. Next to Motion 3, the matte shell and utilitarian finish look less polished.
What puts Thule Force 3 XL ahead
You get 18 cubic feet, and gear up to 200 centimeters long fits inside.
When another box is the better fit
Yakima SkyBox NX XL is the one to choose if opening it from either side is the deciding need. Rhino-Rack MasterFit 530L is likewise the choice when opening it from either side decides it.
What this page can’t tell you
- Vehicle compatibility cannot be certified by this screen.
- A published volume figure cannot promise that a given suitcase layout will fit.
- Roof limits depend on the vehicle configuration.
3 options
The top pick and the alternatives
Thule, Force 3 XL
Thule Force 3 XL
This box has 18 cubic feet of space and takes gear up to 200 centimeters long.
Top pick ifbring skis without folding down the seats, and pack for a family of four
Key facts
- Capacity is 18 cubic feet.
- Gear up to 200 centimeters long fits.
The catch
This version comes in black matte. If you want a glossy shell, go with Motion instead.
Yakima, SkyBox NX 18 XL
Yakima SkyBox NX XL
You can fit gear up to 195 centimeters long in its 18 cubic feet.
Pick this instead ifwhat decides it for you is opening it from either side
Key facts
- Capacity is 18 cubic feet.
- It accepts gear up to 195 centimeters long.
The catch
200 cm Nordic skis are a little longer than its 195 cm ski limit.
Rhino-Rack, RMFT530A
Rhino-Rack MasterFit 530L
You get 18.7 cubic feet, with space for gear up to 210.8 centimeters long.
Pick this instead ifyour deciding need is opening it from either side
Key facts
- Capacity is 18.7 cubic feet.
- Gear up to 210.8 centimeters long fits.
The catch
With an 85-inch shell, hatch and roof length both need careful checking.
Ready to buy
See today’s price and what owners say
Top pick for this job
Thule Force 3 XL
Capacity is 18 cubic feet.
See price & reviews on AmazonPick this instead if
Yakima SkyBox NX XL
what decides it for you is opening it from either side
See price & reviews on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying Amazon purchases. How we make money