Yakima has been building travel and cargo gear since 1979, and the SkyBox NX 18 carries that heritage into a genuinely well-reviewed rooftop cargo box, rated 4.4 stars from 56 reviews. If you're comparing this Yakima roof carrier against other hard shell options, here's a full breakdown of its capacity, security features, and real-world tradeoffs.
Quick specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Volume | 18 cubic feet |
| Size | NX 18 (also available in NX 16, NX 22) |
| Item weight (unit only) | 53 lbs |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 84" x 36" x 16.5" |
| Shell type | Hard |
| Material | Plastic |
| Opening style | Dual-sided opening |
| Closure type | Handle/latch with SKS lock |
| Mounting type | Roof mount, universal fit |
| Water resistance | Not water resistant |
| Brand | Yakima |
Storage capacity: room for up to 4 campers' gear
At 18 cubic feet, Yakima specifically markets this box as fitting gear for up to 4 campers, plus snowboards and skis up to 195cm long. That combination makes it a genuinely flexible pick for both road trip luggage and winter sports equipment, rather than being narrowly built for just one use case.
Dual-sided access for easier loading
Like several other boxes in this category, the SkyBox NX 18 opens from either side of the vehicle, making it easier to load and unload regardless of which side you're parked toward.
Security: full metal handle and SKS lock
Yakima built this box with a full metal opening handle that locks both the gear inside the box and the box itself to your vehicle — a detail worth noting since some competitors only lock one or the other. The SKS lock system adds an extra layer of security for anyone leaving gear unattended at a trailhead or rest stop.
Build quality: NX nano-texture finish
The SkyBox NX 18 features an unobstructed, flattened interior floor that maximizes usable space, paired with Yakima's NX nano-texture finish on both the lid and base for a clean, sleek look that also helps resist visible wear over time.
Important: not water resistant
Similar to some other hard shell boxes in this price range, Amazon's listing specifies the SkyBox NX 18 is not water resistant. If you're storing moisture-sensitive gear, this is worth factoring into your decision — for general luggage, camping gear, and winter sports equipment, it's less of a concern.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Backed by Yakima's long-standing reputation since 1979
- 18 cubic feet fits gear for up to 4 campers, plus skis/snowboards to 195cm
- Dual-sided opening for flexible loading
- Full metal handle secures both gear and box to vehicle
- SKS lock adds extra security for unattended parking
Cons
- Not water resistant — a consideration for moisture-sensitive gear
- At 53 lbs, heavier than some comparable mid-size hard shell boxes
- Available in limited size options (NX 16, 18, 22) compared to some competitors
Who is this Yakima roof carrier best for?
This is a strong pick for families or groups planning camping trips or winter sports outings who want a genuinely trusted brand name backing their cargo storage. The combination of ski/snowboard capacity and general luggage room makes it especially versatile across seasons. If weatherproofing against heavy rain is a top priority, it's worth comparing against a water-resistant alternative first.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Yakima SkyBox NX 18 compatible with my vehicle?
It's built with universal roof mounting, designed to fit a wide range of vehicles with standard roof rack crossbars — check your specific crossbar spacing before purchasing to confirm fit.
How easy is the installation?
It uses a handle/latch closure system with straightforward roof mounting hardware, though as with most 18+ cubic foot boxes, installation is generally easier with two people.
Does it stay secure while driving?
Yes — the full metal handle locks both the box's contents and the box itself to your vehicle, and the SKS lock system adds an additional layer of security during transit.
Why might this be a good choice over other hard shell boxes?
Its combination of ski/snowboard capacity (up to 195cm), dual-sided access, and Yakima's long-standing brand reputation since 1979 make it a versatile, trusted option for both road trips and winter sports gear.
Bottom line
The Yakima SkyBox NX 18 backs up its 18 cubic foot capacity with genuinely useful security features and decades of brand trust, making it a solid pick for families and winter sports enthusiasts alike — just keep the lack of water resistance in mind if you're packing moisture-sensitive gear.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.