Which Manufacturer?

Even though there are loads of brands in the market, there are definitely two that are the industry leaders. Thule and Yakima are both global premium brands. These companies are synonymous with quality and innovation in the space. Then there is Rhino-Rack. These guys make amazing products and has a massive line of accessories. Maybe the dark horse, but definitely one to look out for.

Thule

Established: 1942
Founders: Thulin family (Erik Thulin) in Hillerstorp, Sweden
First product: Pike fishing trap
HQ: Malmö, Sweden

The Thule company was founded when Erik Thulin created a pike fish trap and put the Thule name on and sold it throughout Scandinavia. From there he added more practical things to the company’s product portfolio growing the company steadily year after year. It was only in 1962 however the Thule created it’s first product to carry sports gear when it introduced the Thule ski rack in 1962. Thule continued to specialize in vehicle accessories that enabled people transport their sports and outdoor safely and conveniently. Some other innovative products that followed were the Thule Roof Basket in 1964, the Thule ski box (TB-11) in 1977 and the first towbar-mounted bike carrier in 2001.

Yakima

Established: 1973
Founders: Otto & Jeanne Lagervall in Yakima, Washington
First product: Gold Rush Bar (Kayak roof rack)

The Yakima story began in 1979 when Steve Cole and Don Banducci bought the Yakima Industries machine shop in Yakima, Washington. and moved it to Arcata, California. As Paddling enthusiasts and entrepreneurs they began their mission to put gear on cars and friends in cars. In 1980 the 1A Raingutter tower is introduced and becomes an industry standard for base rack systems. It is still sold today. In 1984 Yakima is named as the official rack company for the Los Angeles Olympic games. Yakima continues to produce innovative products like the Q-Tower system(1994), Steelhead fork bike mount (1995) and Skybox cargo box (2006). Continuing it’s expansion Yakima buys Hubco, Australasia's leading manufacturer of rooftop car racks and makers of Whispbar and Prorack. 

Rhino-Rack

Established: 1992
Founders:
First product: Pike fishing trap
HQ: Rydalmere, NSW, Australia

Rhino-Rack has been creating world-class roof racks since 1992. They specialise in Roof Racks, Kayak Carriers, Ski & Snowboard Carriers, Luggage Trays and Roof Boxes. Known for producing some of the toughest and most durable 4WD equipment their products not only look good they perform and have been tried and tested in the harshest of conditions. Rhino-Rack has an extensive range of accessories that makes it an attractive option if you are not already invested in a base roof rack system.