Thule WingBar Evo Load Bars
Quick Verdict
Car camping, family road trips and multi-sport hauling where you need quiet, high-capacity roof storage
Vehicles without compatible roof fixtures (flush or tapered rails) or buyers on a tight budget who need roof racks only occasionally
Key Specifications
About This Gear
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.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
4 positive findingsQuiet, aerodynamic ride with minimal wind noise and reduced fuel impact
Everyone agreesHigh build quality and strength from extruded aluminum with BoxBeam interior
Most reviewersEasy installation and user-friendly features (SmartSlides, SwingBlade endcaps, T-slot access)
Most reviewersGood load capacity suitable for cargo boxes, multiple bikes or kayaks
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
4 considerationsFit and compatibility issues on some vehicles (tapered or non-raised rails require careful checking or different model)
Most reviewersSome remaining wind noise/whistling at certain speeds if diffuser strip not seated correctly
Some reviewersPremium price relative to basic roof bars; need to buy correct foot packs separately
Most reviewersMinor setup quirks and occasional confusing printed instructions; rubber diffuser strip can crease under heavy use
Few reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- highway cruising with cargo boxes
- coastal and salty environments (rust-resistant aluminum)
- multi-sport gear transitions using T-track accessories
Limitations
- Not suitable without compatible rails or the correct Evo foot pack
- Can whistle if diffuser strip is missing or misaligned
- Premium cost compared with basic alternatives
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users praise the WingBar Evo for quiet performance, robust build quality, and ease of use; the main drawbacks are fit compatibility on some cars and the premium price.
What Users Love
- quiet operation
- durable aluminum construction
- easy installation
Common Concerns
- fit/compatibility issues on some vehicle rails
- pricey compared with basic bars
- rubber diffuser can deform or cause noise if misaligned
- Aluminum construction resists rust; long-term failures rare
- Some reports of WindDiffuser/rubber strip creasing or deforming under heavy use
Fits as expected when the correct length and Evo foot pack are chosen; double-check Thule fit guide for tapered or flush rails
Multi-year warranty (commonly 3–5 years) noted; no specific customer service or claim anecdotes found in sources
Expert Reviews
Cutting-edge WindDiffuser technology, trail-edge design, SmartSlides and BoxBeam strength make it the market's "ultimate choice"Read full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- 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
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- 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
Alternatives to Consider
Compare with similar products that might better fit your needs
Yakima JetStream
- generally less expensive
- aluminum described as 'corrosion-proof' rather than fully rust-proof
- different accessory/footpack ecosystem (Yakima vs Thule)
When you want similar aero-style performance with slightly lower cost or need Yakima-specific mounts
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear