Yakima EXO TopShelf
Quick Verdict
multi-person car camping, overlanding, and hauling bulky or awkward gear where extra locked and modular outside storage is needed
compact hatchbacks, short solo weekend trips, or vehicles with low-clearance or weak (Class II) hitches
Key Specifications
About This Gear
The Yakima EXO TopShelf is an excellent addition to your camping gear for extra storage capacity. It securely holds up to 50 pounds of gear, such as coolers or camping equipment, on top of your EXO system. However, it may increase the overall height of your vehicle, limiting access to low clearance areas.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
5 positive findingsMassive expanded cargo capacity — effectively adds a second usable deck above the SwingBase for coolers, boxes, and bulky items
Most reviewersEasy engagement and modular attachment with tool-free EXO Cleat knobs and quick-release hardware
Most reviewers180° rotation for rearward access and base-camp mode
Most reviewersSolid, heavy-gauge steel construction with durable powdercoat — feels very sturdy under load
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
5 considerationsHigh unit weight (~33–37 lb) reduces remaining tongue-weight capacity for cargo
Most reviewersRaises rear profile and can interfere with spare tires, tailgates, or swing-away access unless a drop hitch is used
Most reviewersRelatively expensive (MSRP around $479; street prices often in the high $300s–$500s)
Most reviewersAdds complexity and extra parts to stow (jack-stand, pins, knobs), which may be overkill for infrequent use
Some reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Temperature Range
works across a wide temperature range; some users note stiff pivots in very cold conditions unless lubricated
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- mild rain
- moderate temperatures
- off-road stability with strapped loads
- coastal touring if washed and maintained
Limitations
- not ideal for very low-clearance vehicles or tight garages/drive-thrus
- adds tongue weight that may exceed vehicle/hitch limits if heavily loaded
- snow accumulation can add significant weight and should be cleared
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users and reviewers praise the TopShelf's capacity, build quality, and modular convenience, but many note downsides around its weight, price, and vehicle-fit quirks.
What Users Love
- easy setup
- durable construction
- large expanded capacity
- modular and secure (SKS locks)
Common Concerns
- heavy weight reduces usable tongue capacity
- rear clearance/interference with spare tires or tailgates
- pricey for an accessory
- some warranty/support complaints
- generally robust heavy-steel construction with few reports of structural failure
- occasional customer service or warranty complaint reported on third-party sites
fits 2" hitch receivers but requires a true Class III hitch rating; vehicle-specific clearance (spare tire/tailgate) can cause fit issues
limited lifetime warranty; mixed reports on responsiveness and claim experiences
Expert Reviews
average of ~3.5/5 from a small number of reviews suggests a mix of strong advocates and detractorsRead full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- check and tighten knobs and bolts before each trip
- use blue Loctite on high-vibration assembly bolts after initial install
- rinse off salt and dry after coastal/winter use; grease hitch pin and pivot occasionally
- stow jack-stand when driving
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- knobs and fasteners can loosen under vibration if not checked
- hitch pin and moving pivot points can wear without periodic greasing
- surface corrosion if exposed to salt and not rinsed/dried
Alternatives to Consider
Compare with similar products that might better fit your needs
EXO SwingBase (without TopShelf)
- lighter and lower-profile
- cheaper
- single deck (no upper-tier capacity)
when you want a simpler, lighter, lower-profile solution and don't need a second deck
Hitch-mounted cargo basket (basic steel basket)
- typically 50–70% cheaper
- one-level open platform
- may weigh less but lacks integrated locks and swing-away convenience
when budget and simplicity are priorities and you need bulk capacity without modular add-ons
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear