Thule Force XT XL Review

The Thule Force XT XL is a solid all-around cargo carrier, offering comparable performance to some much pricier models. It is easy to install, has plenty of space for many pairs of skis, and its components are impressively durable. Some more expensive boxes feature better handles and more aerodynamic designs, but the Force has plenty to offer without any frills.

Performance Comparison

The Force XT is a simple all-around solid performer that is ready for any type of trip.

Photo: Steven Tata

Ease of Use

To rank and score the convenience and ease of use of this cargo carrier, we loaded and unloaded the Force XT XL dozens of times and drove with it for hundreds of miles in a variety of conditions. Installation was also accounted for in our tests, but not prioritized as highly since most users only install boxes once before leaving them on vehicles for long periods.

The PowerClick mounting system is very easy to use and makes installation a quick and simple process.

Photo: Steven Tata

Requiring virtually no setup, the Force comes ready to go out of the box. Mounting took less than five minutes and the clamps are convenient to adjust for a range of roof rack dimensions. Unlike other models that have bulky mounting fixtures, the Force's clamps are easily tightened by twisting a knob, which clicks when it is adequately tightened. The Force also has some integrated strap handles to make the box easier to close when mounted on a taller vehicle.

The Force XT XL is capable of carrying up to six pairs of skis and is easy to load with tons of gear.

Photo: Steven Tata

The main flaw that we found in the Force XT was its lack of a handle for opening and closing the box. This was not a huge pain but could be occasionally frustrating when the box was filled to the brim or being closed in bad weather.

Durability

The Thule Force XT proved itself to be one of the most durable cargo boxes that we tested, with an impressively weather-resistant design and solid construction. Through torrents of rain, none of our belongings in the box saw a drop of water. Short of being fully inundated or subjected to a hurricane we cannot see how it would be compromised by even driving rains or blizzards.

Even after a few hundred miles and being removed several times, the Force only had a few minor scrapes and seemed ready for many years of continuous use. Like most of its competitors, the Force's hinges, lid, and mounting system are all well-designed, ensuring that you'll be able to keep it on the road for a long time. Thule backs its products with a lifetime warranty, which provides some peace of mind if you're worried about your box wearing out.

After many miles, the Force XT hardly showed any signs of use.

Photo: Steven Tata

Security

Our security testing accounted for lock design and overall construction. Nothing gave us any major cause for concerns and we would feel fairly confident in the security of the Force. However, a dedicated thief would be able to get into any cargo box without too much of an issue. Generally, it is more secure to lock items in your vehicle rather than a cargo box, but as far as boxes go, the Force felt quite secure.

Like practically every model that we have tested to date, the Force must be locked before you can remove its keys, making it impossible to leave it unlocked so long as you remember to take your keys.

The lock of the Force XT is simple to operate, but not as nice as that of some higher-end models.

Photo: Steven Tata

Appearance

To evaluate appearance we accounted for the styling of each box's shape and how well their finishes held up to continuous use in harsh conditions. Our testers loved the Force XT's matte black finish and found its shape to be sleek without sacrificing storage capacity. The matte black did a good job of concealing scratches and dirt, which are inevitable after a few days of driving in varied weather.

We appreciated the matte black finish of the Thule Force XT, especially after the box had been on our vehicles for a while.

Photo: Steven Tata

The simple matte finish of the Force pairs well with most cars, though it by far isn't the sleekest cargo box we have seen

Taking in the views in Yosemite Valley, the Thule Force XT is ready for another road trip.

Photo: Steven Tata

Value

The cost of the Forceis fair, but there are definitely some more attractive budget options out there that offer comparable performance at a lower price.

Conclusion