If you’re in a hurry and want the main points of this article, here they are:
In wrapping this up, I believe the Thule Frontier Roof Box is quite a catch for those with a passion for outdoor activities or those who travel in larger groups. Its ample storage, universal mounting design, quick and easy installation, and convenient access are strong points in its favor. I appreciate how it caters to the need for extra space when venturing out for trips, enabling you to carry everything from skis to paddles.
However, it might not be the best fit for everyone. If your trips are often solo or in smaller groups, or if you prefer dual-side access, this might not be your first choice. Also, those who have smaller cars or have certain aesthetic preferences might want to consider this before making a decision. Lastly, while it offers premium features, these come at a price, which might be a factor for those on a stricter budget.
In a nutshell, the Thule Frontier appears to be a great pick for some but not for all. As always, it’s essential to match a product to your specific needs, and I hope this review helps you do just that.
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Thule Frontier ES 11 Roof Box Review: Who is it for?
From what I understand and want to share, the Thule Frontier ES 11 Roof Box is a superb accessory for those frequent adventurers who love the hustle and bustle of outdoor activities. Its large capacity is something that has caught my eye the most. It’s impressive how this roof box can easily swallow skis, poles, and paddles, and I think this feature makes it ideal for those planning ski or river excursions. Isn’t it wonderful to have all that trunk space freed up for other essential stuff? I feel this aspect alone makes it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
The box’s passenger-side opening provides easy access for loading and unloading, which is a feature not to be overlooked. I imagine that this could be a lifesaver after a long day out in the wilderness when all you want to do is pack up quickly and get home. The fact that it can carry five to six pairs of skis just demonstrates how spacious it is. This convinces me that it’s suited for larger families or groups of friends who often travel together for ski outings.
Now, if you’re worried about whether this roof box will fit your vehicle, you’ll be pleased to know that its universal mounting design has been created to attach to all types of aftermarket and factory-installed roof racks. This versatility is certainly a plus, and I believe it makes the Thule Frontier an excellent choice for a wide range of users.
However, what fascinates me the most is the time-saving EasySnap™ hardware, which quickly mounts the box without needing to adjust load bars. This feature seems to be a real time-saver and could be a great help for people who value trouble-free installation. Even more, its rugged construction with impact-resistant ABS plastic suggests that it is built to withstand outdoor elements and the rigours of travel.
Another plus for me is the Thule’s central locking, One Key System™, included in this design. The concept of easy opening strikes me as remarkably convenient. I imagine this means you won’t have to fumble for lost keys or struggle with a stubborn lock when you need to access your gear.
Finally, the Thule Frontier ES 11 Roof Box is made in the USA, which could appeal to individuals who prefer products manufactured domestically. Its weight of 33 pounds seems reasonable, considering its large 311.5-liter gear capacity, and I reckon this indicates a good balance of durability and ease of handling.
In conclusion, I reckon the Thule Frontier Roof Box would be a fabulous choice for those with a zest for outdoor pursuits, frequent family or group travellers, and individuals who value easy installation and access. However, of course, everyone’s needs are unique and what works best for one person might not be the same for another. So, I’d encourage anyone interested in this roof box to consider their specific requirements when making a decision.
Thule Frontier ES 11 Roof Box Review: Who isn’t it for?
In any conversation about the Thule Frontier Roof Box, it’s just as important to discuss who it isn’t for. Just as the box’s features make it great for the adventurous ones, there are certain user profiles that may not find it as suitable.
If you’re someone who doesn’t venture into the great outdoors frequently, or if your usual trips don’t require carrying an ample amount of gear, then you might want to think twice. The Thule Frontier’s large capacity is one of its main selling points, and I feel it would be a bit of a waste if you’re not going to make good use of it. Moreover, at 33 pounds, it might be a bit too heavy if you only aim to store a couple of items.
The box’s ability to carry five to six pairs of skis could also be an overkill for solo adventurers or couples who don’t need that extra space. I mean, if it’s just you and maybe one other person, you might find the space unnecessary, especially considering that you have to deal with its weight.
Also, if you’re someone who prefers a roof box that opens from both sides for more flexible access, the passenger-side-only opening of the Thule Frontier may not be up to your liking. Sure, it still offers easy access, but I can see how this limitation might be a turn-off for some folks who prefer more flexibility.
It’s also worth noting that while the Thule Frontier’s universal mounting design is pretty handy, it might not be the best choice if you own a particularly small car or one without roof racks. Yes, it attaches to all types of aftermarket and factory-installed roof racks, but if you don’t have one, or your vehicle’s roof is too small, you’ll need to consider that.
Furthermore, the Thule Frontier Roof Box is made from ABS plastic. This suggests durability, but if you’re particular about the aesthetics and prefer a sleeker, more modern finish, or maybe a metallic build, this might not appeal to you as much.
Finally, while the 311.5-liter gear capacity and the convenient One Key System™ are definite pluses, they may not justify the price if you’re on a tight budget and looking for the most affordable option. As I see it, the Thule Frontier Roof Box comes with a lot of premium features, and these come with a cost. If you’re budget-conscious and don’t need these features, you might want to look at other options.
In summary, while the Thule Frontier seems like a worthy purchase, it might not be for those who don’t need a large gear capacity, prefer dual-side access, have a small car or no roof racks, prefer a different aesthetic, or are on a tight budget. Like I said before, it all comes down to your personal needs and preferences. So, make sure to weigh those against what the Thule Frontier Roof Box offers before making a decision.
Thule Frontier ES 11 Roof Box Review: Conclusion
In wrapping this up, I believe the Thule Frontier Roof Box is quite a catch for those with a passion for outdoor activities or those who travel in larger groups. Its ample storage, universal mounting design, quick and easy installation, and convenient access are strong points in its favor. I appreciate how it caters to the need for extra space when venturing out for trips, enabling you to carry everything from skis to paddles.
However, it might not be the best fit for everyone. If your trips are often solo or in smaller groups, or if you prefer dual-side access, this might not be your first choice. Also, those who have smaller cars or have certain aesthetic preferences might want to consider this before making a decision. Lastly, while it offers premium features, these come at a price, which might be a factor for those on a stricter budget.
In a nutshell, the Thule Frontier appears to be a great pick for some but not for all. As always, it’s essential to match a product to your specific needs, and I hope this review helps you do just that.