Yakima SkinnyWarrior with Tarps and Cargo Net
Quick Verdict
Road trips and car camping where you need extra, long/narrow roof cargo without taking up bar space (fishing rods, skis, lumber); pairs well with rooftop boxes or tents.
Hauling very bulky/wide loads, ultralight backpacking, vehicles with very short or non-adjustable crossbars, or situations needing a sealed/covered box for wet weather.
Key Specifications
About This Gear
The Yakima SkinnyWarrior is a sleek and functional cargo basket that expands your vehicle's storage capacity. It easily accommodates camping gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, or firewood, and the included tarps and cargo net provide additional protection and secure storage. Keep in mind that installation requires a compatible roof rack system.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
5 positive findingsSturdy, weather-resistant heavy-duty steel construction that users report holds up well over time.
Most reviewersIncludes an aerodynamic wind fairing to reduce drag and wind noise.
Most reviewersLong, narrow profile frees up adjacent roof real estate so you can run a roof box, bikes, or rooftop tent alongside it.
Most reviewersTool-free-ish installation with universal T-bolt style mounts that many users describe as easy to fit to common bars.
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
5 considerationsMounting hardware and connectors are largely plastic and some users report them feeling flimsy or insecure (security concern / theft potential).
Most reviewersFit/adjustability limitations: bolts attach at fixed grid points so it won't fit all crossbar spacings without repositioning mounts.
Some reviewersPrice is relatively high for a steel basket (MSRP around $529) which some users call pricey for the feature set.
Most reviewersNot suitable for very bulky or wide cargo due to its narrow 23" width.
Most reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- car camping and road trips with long gear
- moderate temperatures and varied climates when maintained
- preserving roof real estate next to boxes or tents
Limitations
- No built-in cover — gear will get wet in rain/snow unless covered
- Requires compatible bar spacing (mount clamps attach at fixed grid points)
- Plastic clamps/locks can become brittle in extreme cold
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users generally praise the SkinnyWarrior for its durable steel build, easy installation, and utility hauling long, awkward gear; complaints focus on plastic mounting hardware, fit limitations with some crossbars, and price.
What Users Love
- easy setup
- durable steel construction
- aerodynamic fairing
- preserves adjacent roof real estate
Common Concerns
- plastic clamps can feel flimsy
- doesn't fit all bar spacings
- relatively expensive for a steel basket
- Most users report no rust or failures after winter use, though trapped moisture inside tubular frame joints could corrode over very long term; some tape/seal joints as a precaution.
true to size
Limited Lifetime Warranty; generally positive reports on dealer/retailer support and part replacement, no widespread warranty issues reported
Expert Reviews
Works great — sturdy construction and good capacity for long gear.Read full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- rinse after salty-road use
- inspect and dry joints/seams after wet weather
- apply sealant tape to mid-length seam if worried about trapped moisture
- avoid extreme overtightening of plastic mounting parts
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- plastic clamp or buffer breakage if overtightened
- moisture trapped in internal frame seams can lead to internal corrosion over long term
Alternatives to Consider
Compare with similar products that might better fit your needs
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear