April 10, 2025
Rack Attack Team
Adventure-Ready Vehicle, Space-Challenged Reality?
Picture this: You’re planning that dream road trip, a weekend escape to the mountains for some spring skiing, or maybe loading up for a family camping adventure. The gear is piling up – skis, snowboards, tents, sleeping bags, luggage, maybe even the stroller. Suddenly, your vehicle feels less like a getaway machine and more like a complex puzzle. Where does it all go? For many adventurers and for large families, maximizing car roof storage is the key to unlocking comfortable and hassle-free travel.
This is where a high-quality rooftop cargo carrier becomes essential. And when it comes to reliable, secure, and stylish car top carriers, the Yakima SkyBox series consistently ranks as a top choice. Now, the lineup is even better with the refreshed Yakima SkyBox NX series, featuring exciting new launches and updated naming for familiar favorites. Let's explore this versatile range of cargo boxes available right here at Rack Attack, helping you find the perfect Yakima roof box for your needs.
Yakima's New Launch
Why the Yakima SkyBox NX is a Top Choice for Car Roof Storage
Yakima has built a reputation for robust and intelligently designed roof racks and carriers. The SkyBox NX line carries that torch forward, offering significant benefits for anyone needing extra roof rack storage:
- Optimized Aerodynamics: The sleek shape cuts through the wind, minimizing drag and noise for a quieter, more fuel-efficient journey compared to older, blockier car top carriers.
- Enhanced Security: Featuring Yakima’s reliable SKS (Same Key System) locks integrated into an updated, user-friendly handle/latch system, you can trust your gear is secure in your sky box.
- Unbeatable Access: Dual-sided opening is standard on most models (check specific model details), allowing easy access to your gear from either side of your vehicle – a true blessing in tight parking spaces or when parked on the street.
- Tool-Free Installation: Yakima’s mounting hardware is designed for simplicity. You can typically install or remove your Yakima SkyBox quickly and without needing extra tools, fitting a wide range of factory and aftermarket crossbars.
- Durable & Sustainable: Built tough to handle highways, bumpy backroads, and all kinds of weather. Plus, many SkyBox NX models boast construction using up to 80% recycled ABS plastic, making them a more sustainable choice for your car rack storage.
- Modern Aesthetics: With clean lines and often featuring a stylish black microtexture finish, these cargo boxes look great on almost any vehicle.
Yakima's Renamed Models
Meet the Yakima SkyBox NX Family: Sizes for Every Adventure
The updated SkyBox NX line offers distinct sizes, ensuring there's a perfect fit whether you're a solo skier or loading up the entire family. Here’s the breakdown of the models available at Rack Attack:
- New Launch! The Specialist: Yakima SkyBox NX Skinny
- Perfect For: The multi-sport enthusiast needing a roof cargo carrier specifically for long, thin gear while preserving space for other mounts. Ideal for multiple pairs of skis (up to 215 cm), snowboards, fishing rods, paddles, or even camera tripods.
- Key Specs: Offers around 13 cubic feet of storage in a long, narrow profile (approx. L 89.5" x W 23" x H 16"). Its slender design leaves ample room on your crossbars for bikes, kayaks, or other Yakima car racks.
- Highlight: As a new addition, the Skinny brings targeted storage for specific gear without dominating your roof space.
- The Versatile All-Rounder: Yakima SkyBox NX LG
- Perfect For: Balancing capacity and footprint, making it a fantastic cargo box for SUVs, wagons, and larger sedans. Great for weekend camping gear, luggage for 2-4 people, or a mix of shorter skis/boards and bags.
- Key Specs: Provides a generous 16 cubic feet of space (approx. L 80" x W 36" x H 16"). Can typically fit skis/boards up to 185 cm.
- Update Note: This is the current name for the model previously known as the Yakima SkyBox NX 16. It offers the same trusted volume with the latest NX features.
- The Family Favourite: Yakima SkyBox NX XL
- Perfect For: Those needing substantial rooftop cargo storage for family vacations, bulky camping equipment, golf bags, or longer trips requiring more luggage. An excellent fit for mid-to-large SUVs and vans.
- Key Specs: Steps up to 18 cubic feet of volume (approx. L 90" x W 36" x H 16"), easily handling skis/boards up to 215 cm alongside other gear.
- Update Note: This model takes the place of the well-regarded Yakima SkyBox NX 18, bringing updated features to this popular size category.
- New Launch! The Maximum Hauler: Yakima SkyBox NX XXL
- Perfect For: When maximum vehicle roof storage is non-negotiable. Ideal for large families, extended trips, moving bulky items, or carrying gear for multiple activities. Best suited for large SUVs, trucks with caps, and vans.
- Key Specs: Boasts a massive 22 cubic feet of capacity (approx. L 90" x W 40" x H 18"). If you need the ultimate roof top cargo carrier space, this is likely your answer, fitting skis/boards up to 215 cm with plenty of room to spare.
- Highlight: This new XXL model ensures that even the most gear-intensive travelers can find a Yakima cargo box large enough for their needs.
Maximize & Organize: SkyBox NX Cargo Liners
Make loading and unloading your Yakima SkyBox even more convenient with the purpose-built SkyBox NX Cargo Liners. These aren't just bags; they're custom-fit inserts that streamline your packing process.
- Perfect Fit: Available in sizes specifically designed for the Yakima SkyBox NX LG and Yakima SkyBox NX XL.
- Benefits: Keep your gear neatly organized within the cargo box, protect the interior, and allow you to pack indoors and simply drop the liners into place. Grab-and-go simplicity!
Yakima SkyBox NX Liner
Selecting Your Ideal SkyBox NX
Choosing the right car roof box involves matching the carrier to your lifestyle:
- Gear Type: Prioritize long/thin items (Skinny) vs. bulky gear (LG, XL, XXL)?
- Volume: How much top of car storage do you realistically need for typical trips?
- Vehicle Compatibility: Check the dimensions against your vehicle's roof size. Ensure hatch clearance. Use Rack Attack's fit guide or consult with their experts.
- Other Gear: Need space alongside the box for bikes or kayaks? The Skinny is designed for this.
Elevate Your Adventures with Yakima SkyBox NX from Rack Attack
A Yakima SkyBox NX is more than just a box for cargo; it's an investment in smoother travels, greater comfort, and bigger adventures. By freeing up interior space and securely carrying your essential gear, it allows you to focus on the road ahead and the destination. With the arrival of spring weather here in Vancouver, now is the perfect time to equip your vehicle for camping, biking, paddling, and road trips!
Ready to conquer clutter and expand your horizons? Explore the full Yakima SkyBox NX lineup, check vehicle compatibility, and get expert advice at Rack Attack.
Visit RackAttack.com or your local store today to find the perfect Yakima rooftop cargo solution for your next adventure!