Mockins vs Yakima Roof Cargo Boxes: Which Brand Fits You?
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Comparing mockins vs yakima roof cargo box options helps you choose the right storage. Both brands expand your vehicle’s carrying capacity, but they use different designs. The Mockins is a soft-shell bag that fits almost any roof, while the Yakima is a hard-shell box mounted on crossbars. One offers flexible volume, and the other provides secure, aerodynamic storage. You need to decide which format matches your vehicle and gear.
Key differences
| Aspect | Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag | Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG |
|---|---|---|
| Shell Type | Soft-shell | Hard-shell |
| Capacity | 40 cu ft | 18 cu ft |
| Opening | Top access | Dual-sided |
| Water Resistance | Waterproof | Not listed |
| Weight | 15.7 pounds | 46 pounds |
| Mounting | Fits with or without crossbars | Requires roof rack |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag if
- You need maximum storage space for bulky items like sleeping bags
- Your vehicle lacks crossbars or you want a versatile fit
- You prefer a lightweight carrier that is easy to store when empty
Choose Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG if
- You want secure, dual-sided access to your gear from either side
- You prioritize aerodynamic design and a sleek, hard-shell look
- You need integrated locking security for your cargo
Verdict: The Mockins bag is the practical choice if you need high volume and flexible mounting on any vehicle. The Yakima box is better if you value secure, aerodynamic storage with easy side access. Choose the soft-shell for capacity and the hard-shell for convenience and security.
Mockins vs Yakima Roof Box Specs
Shell Type
The Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag uses a flexible vinyl construction. This soft design allows it to conform to various roof shapes and fit vehicles with or without crossbars. You can attach it using straps through the car body or via hooks. In contrast, the Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG is a rigid hard-shell carrier. It requires a roof rack system for mounting. The hard shell provides a fixed, aerodynamic profile that does not change shape under load. The soft shell offers adaptability, while the hard shell offers structural rigidity and a permanent aesthetic on your vehicle roof.
Capacity
Storage volume is a primary factor for many travelers. The Mockins roof bag provides 40 cubic feet of space. Its dimensions are 72 by 48 by 20 inches, allowing you to haul large, bulky items like sleeping bags or suitcases. The Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG offers 18 cubic feet of internal storage. Its dimensions are 75.5 by 35 by 16 inches. The Mockins nearly doubles the storage capacity of the Yakima. If you need to move a significant amount of gear, the Mockins provides more volume. The Yakima is better suited for lighter loads or shorter trips where less space is sufficient.
Weight
The weight of the cargo carrier affects your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and roof load limit. The Mockins soft-shell bag weighs 15.7 pounds. This lighter weight is easier to handle during installation and removal. The Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG weighs 46 pounds. The hard-shell construction adds significant mass. You must account for this extra weight when calculating your vehicle’s total roof load capacity. The Mockins is substantially lighter, which may be preferable if your vehicle has a lower weight limit or if you frequently remove the carrier. The Yakima’s heavier build contributes to its durability and stability.
Opening
Access to your gear changes how you use the carrier. The Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG features a dual-sided opening design. You can load and unload items from either side of your vehicle, which is convenient in tight parking spaces or when parked next to obstacles. The Mockins soft-shell bag does not have a specified opening mechanism in the data, but it typically uses a main zipper along the top. You must access the gear from the top of the vehicle. The Yakima offers superior convenience for access, allowing you to reach your items without climbing onto the roof or maneuvering around the vehicle sides.
Water Resistance
Protecting your gear from rain is essential. The Mockins roof bag is described as waterproof. It is crafted from abrasion-resistant vinyl with waterproof zippers under a protective flap and reinforced seams. This design aims to keep contents dry in all weather conditions. The Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG is a hard-shell box. While hard shells generally offer good protection, the data does not explicitly state a waterproof rating or seal type. The Mockins emphasizes its waterproof construction for soft-shell carriers. If keeping gear dry is your top priority and you rely on the specified waterproof claims, the Mockins provides a clear advantage in stated water resistance.
Which Roof Carrier Fits Your Needs
You need maximum storage for large loads
The Mockins offers 40 cubic feet of capacity, which is significantly larger than the Yakima. Its 72-inch length and 48-inch width provide ample space for bulky items like suitcases and sleeping bags. The soft-shell vinyl design conforms to your roof, allowing you to haul more volume than a rigid box ever could.
You want easy access from both sides
The Yakima SkyBox NX features a dual-sided opening design. This lets you load and unload gear from either side of your vehicle without walking around the entire car. The 18 cubic feet of space is sufficient for up to four campers or skis up to 175cm, making it ideal for quick access during trips.
You have no roof rack or crossbars
The Mockins soft-shell bag is designed to fit vehicles with or without crossbars. You can secure it using door hooks and trunk hooks, or ratchet straps through the car. This flexibility means you do not need existing roof racks or side rails to use this carrier, unlike the Yakima which requires a standard roof mount system.
The products compared
Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag
Best for: Vehicles without roof 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
The Mockins 40 CuFt soft-shell roof bag offers 72 x 48 x 20 inches of storage. It fits vehicles with or without crossbars, using hooks and straps. The waterproof vinyl shell protects gear. This flexible carrier suits travelers needing extra space without installing permanent racks. It includes a protective mat and carry bag for storage.
Pros
- 40 cubic feet of capacity
- Fits vehicles without crossbars
- Waterproof vinyl construction
- Includes protective roof mat
Cons
- Soft-shell design offers less aerodynamic efficiency
- Heavier at 15.7 pounds
- Requires manual strap tensioning
Good fit if
- You lack roof racks or crossbars
- You need temporary extra storage
- You transport bulky soft gear
Skip if
- You need aerodynamic efficiency
- You prefer hard-shell security
- You want permanent installation
Verdict: Mockins 40 CuFt Soft-Shell Roof Bag provides ample space for vehicles without racks. It fits buyers who need flexible, temporary storage for soft luggage.
Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG
Best for: dual-sided access and ski transport
- Capacity
- 16 cu ft
- Opening
- Dual-sided
- Security
- SKS lock
- Vehicle Compatibility
- StreamLine crossbars
- Dimensions
- 75.5 x 35 x 16 in
- Recommended Use
- Skis and snowboards up to 175 cm
View on Amazon: Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG Affiliate link
The Yakima SkyBox NX 16 offers 18 cubic feet of secure storage with a dual-sided opening design. This feature allows you to load gear from either side of your vehicle. The box measures 75.5 by 35 by 16 inches and weighs 46 pounds. It includes an SKS lock for security. This model suits those needing easy access to snowboards or skis up to 175cm.
Pros
- Dual-sided opening for easy loading from either side
- 18 cubic feet of unobstructed storage space
- SKS lock secures gear and the box to the vehicle
- Fits snowboards and skis up to 175cm
Cons
- Heavier at 46 pounds than the soft-shell alternative
- Smaller 18 cu ft capacity compared to the 40 cu ft competitor
- Requires roof rack crossbars for installation
Good fit if
- You need quick access to gear from the curb side
- You transport skis or snowboards up to 175cm
- You prefer a hard-shell design for durability
Skip if
- You require more than 18 cubic feet of space
- You want a lightweight option under 30 pounds
- You need a soft-shell bag for flexible storage
Verdict: Yakima SkyBox NX 16 Roof Box provides secure, dual-sided access for skiers and snowboarders. It fits buyers who prioritize easy loading and durable hard-shell protection over maximum capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag | Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 40 cu ft | 16 cu ft |
| Shell Type | Soft shell (vinyl) | not stated |
| Opening | not stated | Dual-sided |
| Water Resistance | Waterproof | not stated |
| Security | Combo lock | SKS lock |
| Installation | Buckle/ratchet straps, door hooks | not stated |
| Vehicle Compatibility | With or without roof rack | StreamLine crossbars |
| Dimensions | 72 x 48 x 20 in | 75.5 x 35 x 16 in |
| Recommended Use | Suitcases, sleeping bags | Skis and snowboards up to 175 cm |
| Vehicle Type | Car, SUV, Truck, Van | Car, SUV |
| Mount Type | Roof Mount | Roof Mount |
| Lockable | not stated | Lockable |
| Weight | 15.7 pounds | 46 pounds |
| Size | 40 Cubic Feet | NX 16 |
| Color | Black/Orange | Black |
| Model | MA-RB-40BLK-89-V2 | 8007369 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Mockins roof bag require roof racks?
No, it does not. The Mockins 40 cu ft XXL Soft-Shell Roof Bag is designed for vehicles without roof racks. Its flexible vinyl construction allows it to conform to various roof shapes. You can attach it using straps that secure directly to the vehicle. This makes it ideal for temporary storage needs on cars lacking crossbars.
How much storage space does the Yakima SkyBox NX 16 offer?
It offers 16 cubic feet of capacity. The Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG is a hard-shell box focused on secure transport rather than maximum volume. Its dimensions are 75.5 inches in length and 35 inches in width. This size suits buyers who prioritize dual-sided access and durable protection for skis or snowboards over sheer capacity.
Which option is lighter to carry?
The Mockins bag is significantly lighter. It weighs 15.7 pounds, making it easy to handle and store when not in use. In contrast, the Yakima SkyBox NX 16 weighs 46 pounds due to its rigid hard-shell construction. You will find the soft-shell bag much more manageable if you frequently remove and reinstall the carrier.
Can I access the Yakima box from both sides?
Yes, it features dual-sided access. The Yakima SkyBox NX 16 allows you to open the lid from either side of the vehicle. This design is particularly useful for skiers and snowboarders who need to load gear quickly without walking around the car. It provides convenient entry points regardless of your parking position.
Is the Mockins bag suitable for long-term outdoor storage?
It is designed for temporary or flexible use. The soft-shell vinyl construction conforms to roof shapes but may not offer the same rigid protection as a hard shell. The Mockins is best for buyers needing ample space for soft luggage. It fits vehicles without racks and provides a practical solution for occasional large loads.
What is the maximum width of the Yakima box?
The maximum width is 35 inches. The Yakima SkyBox NX 16 LG has a width of 35 inches, a height of 16 inches, and a length of 75.5 inches. These dimensions ensure it fits most standard roof racks while providing secure, lockable storage. The compact width helps maintain aerodynamic efficiency compared to wider, bulkier carriers.
Does the Yakima box come with a lock?
Yes, it is lockable. The Yakima SkyBox NX 16 is designed to be secured against theft. Its hard-shell construction and integrated locking mechanism protect your gear while you are away. This feature is essential for buyers who prioritize security and durable hard-shell protection over the flexible, unsecured nature of soft-shell bags.