Mockins vs Thule: Roof Cargo Boxes Compared by Specs
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This mockins vs thule roof cargo box comparison looks at two very different storage solutions. Both items expand your vehicle's carrying space for trips or daily use. The main difference lies in their construction and capacity. One is a large soft-shell bag that fits most cars without racks. The other is a hard plastic box designed for secure, aerodynamic transport. You need to decide which style fits your vehicle and gear needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag | Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box |
|---|---|---|
| Shell Type | Soft-shell vinyl | ASA-ABS plastic |
| Capacity | 40 cu ft | 16 cu ft |
| Opening | Top access only | Dual-side opening |
| Load Capacity | Not listed | 75 kg |
| Water Resistance | Waterproof with sealed zippers | Weather-resistant plastic |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag if
- You need maximum storage volume for bulky items like sleeping bags.
- Your vehicle lacks roof rails or crossbars for mounting.
- You prefer a flexible bag that adapts to irregular roof shapes.
Choose Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box if
- You want easy access to gear from both sides of the car.
- You prioritize a rigid, aerodynamic shape for highway driving.
- You need a defined load limit for heavy luggage and sports gear.
Verdict: Choose the Mockins bag if you require extra space and do not have roof racks. The Thule box is better for secure, aerodynamic transport with easy side access. Your decision depends on whether you prioritize volume or convenience.
Mockins vs Thule Roof Box Specs
Shell type and build
The Mockins 40 cu ft XXL uses a soft-shell design made from abrasion-resistant vinyl. It relies on reinforced seams and waterproof zippers under a protective flap to keep gear dry. This flexible material allows it to fit vehicles with or without crossbars, side rails, or roof racks. In contrast, the Thule Pulse 2 L features a hard shell constructed from ASA-ABS plastic. This rigid material resists sun damage, scratches, and weather more robustly than vinyl. The hard shell offers a streamlined shape suited for modern vehicles, while the soft shell adapts to various roof configurations without strict rack requirements.
Capacity and dimensions
Capacity is the most significant difference between these two carriers. The Mockins soft-shell bag provides 40 cubic feet of storage space, measuring 72 inches long, 48 inches wide, and 20 inches high. This massive volume is ideal for bulk items like suitcases and sleeping bags. The Thule Pulse 2 L offers 16 cubic feet (450 liters) of space. Its dimensions are 81 inches long, 17 inches wide, and 37 inches high. While the Thule box is longer and taller, its narrower width results in significantly less total volume than the Mockins bag. You get more than double the space with the Mockins option.
Opening and access
Accessing your gear differs greatly depending on which carrier you choose. The Thule Pulse 2 L features a dual-side opening mechanism. This allows you to load and unload items from either side of the vehicle, which is convenient when parked in tight spaces or next to other cars. The Mockins soft-shell bag does not list a specific opening mechanism in its specifications, but it functions as a single large compartment. You must access the interior from the top, which may require reaching over the bag or unstrapping it partially. For frequent side access, the Thule design is more practical.
Load capacity and weight
Load handling varies between the flexible bag and the rigid box. The Thule Pulse 2 L has a specified load capacity of 75 kg. This limit ensures you do not exceed safe driving weights for the hard shell structure. The Mockins 40 cu ft bag weighs 15.7 pounds itself. Its specifications do not list a maximum load capacity, though the soft-shell vinyl construction suggests it relies on your vehicle's roof rack limits and strap tension for support. The Thule provides a clear weight limit for safety, while the Mockins relies on its extensive strapping kit to secure loads up to its volume limit.
Installation and compatibility
Installation methods highlight the versatility of the Mockins bag versus the simplicity of the Thule box. The Mockins carrier includes a comprehensive kit with buckle straps, ratchet straps, door hooks, and trunk hooks. It can be secured in four ways, including using door and trunk hooks, which allows installation on vehicles without roof racks. The Thule Pulse 2 L uses a tool-free system with a torque indicator that clicks when safely attached. This requires roof crossbars or side rails for mounting. The Mockins is more compatible with vehicles lacking existing roof infrastructure, while the Thule offers a quicker, secure mount if you already have bars.
Which roof carrier fits your needs
You need massive, flexible storage volume
The Mockins offers 40 cubic feet of space, nearly three times the volume of the Thule. Its soft-shell design expands to 72 by 48 by 20 inches. This allows you to haul bulky items like sleeping bags or suitcases that would not fit in a rigid box. It adapts to your load shape easily.
You want durable, secure hard-shell storage
The Thule Pulse 2 L uses tough ASA-ABS plastic to resist sun, scratches, and weather. It provides a rigid 16 cubic feet of space. The dual-side opening lets you access gear from either side of the vehicle. The tool-free installation with a torque indicator ensures the box is securely attached for safe travel.
You have a vehicle without roof racks
The Mockins soft-shell bag fits vehicles with or without crossbars. It includes door hooks and trunk hooks for secure attachment directly to the car frame. You can buckle straps to side rails or use the hooks. This flexibility makes it a practical choice if your vehicle lacks a dedicated roof rack system.
You prioritize load capacity and stability
The Thule supports a load capacity of 75 kg. Its streamlined shape suits modern vehicles and allows full trunk access. The hard shell keeps gear stable and protected. The forward position minimizes contact risk. This setup is ideal for carrying heavy luggage or sports gear securely during commutes or weekend trips.
The products compared
Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag
Best for: flexible storage without permanent racks
- Capacity
- 40 cu ft
- Shell Type
- Soft shell (vinyl)
- Water Resistance
- Waterproof
- Security
- Combo lock
- Installation
- Buckle/ratchet straps, door hooks
- Vehicle Compatibility
- With or without roof rack
View on Amazon: Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag Affiliate link
This Mockins roof bag offers 40 cubic feet of storage in a soft-shell design. It measures 72 by 48 by 20 inches and weighs 15.7 pounds. The waterproof vinyl construction includes reinforced seams and waterproof zippers. You can mount it using ratchet straps, buckle straps, or door hooks. This option suits you if you need flexible capacity without installing permanent roof racks.
Pros
- 40 cubic feet of cargo space
- Works with or without crossbars
- Waterproof vinyl with reinforced seams
- Includes roof protection mat and carry bag
Cons
- Soft-shell design offers less aerodynamic efficiency
- Heavier at 15.7 pounds than hard cases
- No integrated locking mechanism for the bag itself
Good fit if
- You need extra storage for large items like sleeping bags
- You do not have permanent roof racks installed
- You want a solution that folds flat for storage
Skip if
- You prioritize fuel efficiency from aerodynamic shapes
- You need rigid protection for fragile gear
- You prefer a permanent low-profile installation
Verdict: Mockins 40 CuFt Soft-Shell Roof Bag provides flexible capacity for travelers without roof racks. It fits you if you prioritize raw volume and easy setup over aerodynamic efficiency.
Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box
Best for: Dual-side access and secure tool-free installation
- Capacity
- 16 cu ft (450 L)
- Shell Type
- ASA-ABS plastic
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Load Capacity
- 75 kg
- Water Resistance
- Weather-resistant
- Installation
- Tool-free
View on Amazon: Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box Affiliate link
The Thule Pulse 2 is a large, hard-shell roof box with 16 cubic feet of capacity. It features dual-side opening for easy access from either side of your vehicle. The ASA-ABS plastic shell resists weather and scratches. It installs tool-free with a torque indicator to confirm secure attachment. This box suits commuters and weekend travelers carrying luggage, skis, or snowboards.
Pros
- Dual-side opening for access from both vehicle sides
- 16 cubic feet (450 liters) of cargo space
- ASA-ABS plastic shell resists sun and scratches
- Tool-free installation with torque indicator click confirmation
- 75 kg load capacity for heavy gear
Cons
- 81-inch length may not fit all vehicle roof rails
- 17-inch width is narrower than some competitors
- No mention of integrated lock or key system in specs
Good fit if
- You need quick access to gear from the passenger side
- You carry bulky items like skis or snowboards
- You want a durable plastic shell that resists weather
Skip if
- Your vehicle has short roof rails under 75 inches
- You prefer a soft-shell bag for flexible packing
- You need more than 16 cubic feet of space
Verdict: Thule Pulse 2 Large Roof Box offers reliable dual-side access and durable construction for drivers who prioritize secure, tool-free installation and easy access to gear from either side of the vehicle.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag | Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 40 cu ft | 16 cu ft (450 L) |
| Shell Type | Soft shell (vinyl) | ASA-ABS plastic |
| Opening | not stated | Dual-side |
| Load Capacity | not stated | 75 kg |
| Water Resistance | Waterproof | Weather-resistant |
| Security | Combo lock | not stated |
| Installation | Buckle/ratchet straps, door hooks | Tool-free |
| Vehicle Compatibility | With or without roof rack | Wide variety of modern vehicles |
| Dimensions | 72 x 48 x 20 in | 81 x 17 x 37 in |
| Recommended Use | Suitcases, sleeping bags | Skis, snowboards, luggage, gear |
| Vehicle Type | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | not stated |
| Size | 40 Cubic Feet | Large |
| Mount Type | Roof Mount | Roof Mount |
| Use | not stated | Ski/Snowboard |
| Weight | 15.7 pounds | 51 pounds |
| Color | Black/Orange | Black |
| Model | MA-RB-40BLK-89-V2 | 610750 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Mockins bag require roof racks?
No, the Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag is designed for flexible storage without permanent racks. It fits vehicles directly, making it ideal if you do not have existing roof rails. This allows you to use the carrier even if your car lacks standard mounting hardware.
How wide is the Thule Pulse 2 box?
The Thule Pulse 2 L 16 cu ft Dual-Side Box has a width of 17 inches. Its overall dimensions are 81 inches in length and 37 inches in height. This compact width helps it fit on smaller roof spaces while still providing 16 cubic feet of storage capacity.
What is the weight difference between these two carriers?
The Mockins soft-shell bag weighs 15.7 pounds. The Thule hard-shell box does not list a specific weight in its specifications. However, the Mockins unit is notably lighter due to its soft-shell vinyl construction, whereas the Thule relies on durable hard materials for its structure.
Can I access gear from both sides on the Thule?
Yes, the Thule Pulse 2 features dual-side opening capabilities. This design allows you to access your gear from either side of the vehicle. It is particularly useful for drivers who park in tight spaces or need to load items quickly without walking around the entire car.
Is the Mockins carrier aerodynamic?
The Mockins 40 cu ft bag is not designed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. It measures 72 inches long, 48 inches wide, and 20 inches high. This large, soft-shell shape prioritizes raw volume over wind resistance, which may impact fuel economy more than a streamlined hard-shell box would.
What color options are available for these models?
The Mockins 40 cu ft bag comes in a Black/Orange color scheme. The Thule Pulse 2 L is available in Black. These color choices allow you to select a carrier that matches your vehicle's aesthetic while maintaining visibility for safety purposes during travel.