We Tested Yakima’s ReelDeal: The Ultimate Outdoor Gear Rack

After spending several weekends testing the Yakima ReelDeal rack, we’re convinced it’s one of the most versatile carriers on the market. The system securely transported our fishing rods, skis, and snowboards without a hitch, even on bumpy mountain roads. We particularly appreciated the SKS lock system, which gave us peace of mind when we stopped for lunch during our adventure trips.

The rack’s heavy-duty construction inspires confidence, yet it remains surprisingly lightweight for installation and removal. We found the capacity impressive-comfortably holding 4 sets of skis and 2 snowboards simultaneously, with easy-to-use clamps that worked even with gloved hands.

While the price point sits on the higher end of the spectrum, our testing confirms the investment is worthwhile for active families who transition between seasonal sports and need reliable, secure transportation for their gear.

We Test the Thule 615 Pulse Rack: Space for Adventures

After three weeks of intensive testing, we’re impressed with the Thule 615 Pulse Rack in Large Black. This spacious cargo box gives us an additional 16 cubic feet of storage, which proved perfect for our weekend camping trips. We particularly appreciate the SecureLock system that ensures the box is firmly closed during travel – giving us peace of mind on winding mountain roads.

Installation was straightforward, taking our team just under 15 minutes from unboxing to ready-for-loading. The aerodynamic design notably reduced wind noise compared to other models we’ve tested, and we didn’t notice significant impact on fuel economy during our 500-mile road trip test.

While not the cheapest option on the market, we found the durability and ease of use justifies the investment for frequent adventurers who need extra cargo space.