Thule WingBar Evo Load Bars
- Best for:
- Car camping, family road trips and multi-sport hauling where you need quiet, high-capacity roof storage
- Skip it if you want:
- Vehicles without compatible roof fixtures (flush or tapered rails) or buyers on a tight budget who need roof racks only occasionally
Main tradeoff: Fit and compatibility issues on some vehicles (tapered or non-raised rails require careful checking or different model)
Why we pack it
Sally and Justin Steele, from our own trips
Ours mostly carry a Thule rooftop box for the overflow that will not fit inside the car. They have also carried bikes on Thule carriers, a Starlink dish for internet on remote drives, and a cargo cage we load up and lash down with a net and stratchet straps.
The bars are the boring part of the system and the part everything else bolts onto, which is the whole argument for buying good ones.
Before you buy
Why it works
- Quiet, aerodynamic ride with minimal wind noise and reduced fuel impactPublished reviews
- High build quality and strength from extruded aluminum with BoxBeam interioreTrailer
- Easy installation and user-friendly features (SmartSlides, SwingBlade endcaps, T-slot access)REI
- Good load capacity suitable for cargo boxes, multiple bikes or kayaksREI
Tradeoffs
- Fit and compatibility issues on some vehicles (tapered or non-raised rails require careful checking or different model)REI
- Some remaining wind noise/whistling at certain speeds if diffuser strip not seated correctlyPistonHeads
- Premium price relative to basic roof bars; need to buy correct foot packs separatelyManufacturer
- Minor setup quirks and occasional confusing printed instructions; rubber diffuser strip can crease under heavy useAmazon.ie
Details
About the Thule WingBar Evo Load Bars
The Thule WingBar Evo Load Bars are a solid choice for adding extra cargo capacity to your vehicle. They are easy to install and offer a quiet and stable platform for carrying gear. However, they may not be compatible with all roof rack systems, so double-check before purchasing.
Specifications
- Weight
- 5.5 lb
- Packed size
- 130 x 10 x 20 cm (box, pair of bars)
- Capacity
- 220 lbs (100 kg typical U.S. listing; check vehicle roof limit)
- Materials
- Extruded aluminum bars with hollow BoxBeam interior; plastic/polycarbonate endcaps and replaceable rubber WindDiffuser strip
- Colors
- silver, black
- Changes from the last model
- Evo is the updated design replacing the older WingBar/Rapid systems; sold as TH7113xx where xx indicates length
Questions (1)
- Is it worth the price over cheaper alternatives?
- For frequent or heavy gear haulers, the Evo's quieter ride, stronger rust-resistant construction and broad accessory compatibility justify the premium; budget buyers who only need occasional use may prefer lower-cost alternatives.
Fit and sizing
Fits as expected when the correct length and Evo foot pack are chosen; double-check Thule fit guide for tapered or flush rails
Care and warranty
Care
- Clean with mild soap and water to remove salt and grit
- Check clamp tightness after first drive and periodically on long trips
- Ensure WindDiffuser strip is fully seated; replace strip if damaged
What tends to wear out
- Rubber WindDiffuser can crease, deform or peel under heavy use
- Compatibility/fit issues on tapered or flush rails if incorrect foot pack chosen
- Whistling or wind noise if rubber insert is missing or misaligned
Durability
- Aluminum construction resists rust; long-term failures rare
- Some reports of WindDiffuser/rubber strip creasing or deforming under heavy use
Warranty
Multi-year warranty (commonly 3–5 years) noted; no specific customer service or claim anecdotes found in sources
Sources
“Cutting-edge WindDiffuser technology, trail-edge design, SmartSlides and BoxBeam strength make it the market's "ultimate choice"”
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Last updated June 24, 2026
