Just how big is “overlanding” getting? Big enough that mainstream players like Yakima are getting in on it with their new LockNLoad roof tray system. The trays use a T-slot mounting system on all bars and the surrounding frame, letting you quickly and securely attach mounts and accessories for whatever it is you want to bring. We’re particularly fond of the shovel clamps, because let’s face it, shovels on tops of SUVs look killer.
The LockNLoad series comes in a massive array of shapes and sizes to fit just about any size vehicle, and they can mount to traditional roof racks, rain gutters, cross bars, etc. Retail ranges from $699 to $949, and accessories include side rails, a bracket for mounting lights, a high-lift jack holder, a spare tire holder and more…like actual bike trays and fork mounts, too. Max payload ranges from 165 to 440 pounds.
Fishing pole cargo boxes and holders for your roof
It really doesn’t matter what size vehicle you have, getting a proper fishing pole (or a bunch of them) inside a car is just plain hard to do well. Unless you like lures and stuff sticking up between the driver’s seats. Enter the TopWater, a hard case made of the same material as their SkyBox carbon containers. It’ll hold up to 8 rod-and-reels, or 20 bare rods, for $549…and it’ll keep them safe with the available SKS lock.
Shown far left (top) is the DoubleHaul ($699), which will hold fly rods inside individual tubes, including a couple with reels up to size 12. For quicker, easier transport, the ReelDeal (center) clamps up to 8 rods much like a snowboard mount. It retails for just $169. All three options mount to standard cross bars using Yakima’s easy-to-adjust mounts. And all three, plus the LockNLoad should start shipping in August.
A new Yakima SkyBox?
As for the roof-top cargo boxes, we’re not sure if this new design is the SkyBox or Showcase (or maybe something new), but it definitely gets a higher end look than the current models. From the glossy finish to the shaped front that should add a few precious inches of height at the nose, the best feature might be inside:
How about a nearly smooth floor? And one without big clamp dials? The sliding mount brackets use a removable knob to secure them, leaving the bottom almost flat, which should make it easier to load since there are no humps to work around.
