
( Brand: Thule ), ( Type: Cross Bar ), ( Oe/oem Part Number: 2010-13 ), ( Color: Black ), ( Attachment Type: Clamp ), ( Features: Removable ), ( Vintage Part: Yes ), ( Universal Fitment: No ), ( Country Of Origin: Sweden )
The **Thule 313022010135 Ski Roof Rack Stew-Foot** is a premium, high-performance accessory designed to elevate your winter sports adventures by securely transporting skis, snowboards, or other bulky gear with unmatched stability and ease. Engineered with Thule s signature precision and durability, this roof-mounted solution is tailored for vehicles equipped with a compatible roof rack system, ensuring a seamless integration that maximizes both functionality and safety. The **stew-foot** a robust, clamp-style base features a **quick-release mechanism**, allowing for effortless attachment and detachment of skis or snowboards without the need for tools. Constructed from **high-strength aluminum**, the stew-foot is built to withstand the rigors of frequent use, from icy mountain roads to heavy snowfall, while its **anti-corrosion coating** ensures longevity even in harsh winter conditions. The **adjustable binding system** accommodals skis with bindings ranging from **12.5 to 15.5 inches**, providing a snug, secure fit that prevents shifting during transit, thus reducing the risk of damage to your equipment or your vehicle. Whether you're heading to a powder-staked resort or a backcountry expedition, this rack s **low-profile design** minimizes wind resistance and aerodynamic drag, enhancing fuel efficiency and driving comfort. Additionally, the **ergonomic grip handles** and **smooth glide mechanism** make loading and unloading your gear a breeze, even when laden with heavy snow or wet conditions. Built to complement Thule s **universal roof rack systems**, this stew-foot is a versatile upgrade for adventurers who demand reliability, convenience, and peace of mind on the road. Perfect for skiers, snowboarders, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, it transforms your vehicle into a mobile gear hub, ensuring your winter equipment arrives at your destination in pristine condition, ready for the slopes.
**Pros and Cons of buying a Thule 313022010135 Ski Roof Rack Stew-Foot**
The Thule 313022010135 is a popular ski roof rack system designed to securely transport skis and snowboards on the roof of a vehicle. Below is a detailed breakdown of its advantages and disadvantages.
### **Pros**
1. **Durability and Weather Resistance**
The Thule 313022010135 is built with high-quality materials, including UV-resistant plastic and corrosion-resistant metal components. This ensures long-term performance even in harsh weather conditions, such as snow, rain, and extreme temperatures. The system is also designed to withstand UV exposure without degrading quickly.
2. **Secure and Stable Mounting**
The rack features a sturdy base plate that attaches directly to the vehicle s roof rails, providing a stable foundation. The Stew-Foot design distributes weight evenly, reducing the risk of shifting or imbalance while driving. The included straps and ratchet buckles ensure a tight, secure fit for skis or snowboards, minimizing movement during transit.
3. **Easy Installation and Adjustability**
Thule systems are known for their straightforward installation process. The 313022010135 comes with clear instructions and requires basic tools. The rack is adjustable, allowing it to accommodate different ski lengths and vehicle roof rail configurations. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of vehicles and users.
4. **Compatibility with Thule s Ecosystem**
If you already own other Thule accessories (such as crossbars, bike racks, or cargo boxes), this ski rack integrates seamlessly with Thule s modular system. This compatibility allows for easy expansion of your roof rack setup without the need for additional hardware.
5. **Lightweight Design**
Compared to some alternative roof racks, the Thule 313022010135 is relatively lightweight. This reduces the overall weight added to your vehicle, which can improve fuel efficiency and handling. The rack itself is designed to minimize wind resistance, further enhancing driving stability.
6. **Protection for Your Vehicle**
The rack s base plate and mounting system are designed to protect your vehicle s roof rails from scratches or damage. The Stew-Foot design also helps prevent the rack from shifting or scraping against the roof during transit.
7. **Warranty and Customer Support**
Thule offers a solid warranty (typically 5 years for roof racks) and reliable customer service. This provides peace of mind in case of defects or issues with the product. Thule s reputation for quality also means you re likely to find replacement parts or support if needed.
8. **Aesthetic Appeal**
Thule s roof racks are sleek and modern, blending well with most vehicles. The black or matte finish options available for this model ensure it looks clean and professional without being overly bulky.
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### **Cons**
1. **Limited Vehicle Compatibility**
While the Thule 313022010135 is versatile, it may not fit all vehicles perfectly. Some users with unconventional roof rail configurations or narrow roof spaces might find it challenging to install or may need additional adapters. Always check Thule s compatibility list before purchasing to ensure your vehicle is supported.
2. **Potential for Wind Noise**
Like most roof racks, this model can generate wind noise at high speeds, especially if the skis or snowboards are not perfectly aligned or secured. While Thule designs its racks to minimize this, it s still a consideration for long highway trips.
3. **Cost**
The Thule 313022010135 is a premium product, and its price reflects that. Compared to generic or budget-friendly roof racks, it is more expensive. However, the investment is justified by its durability and performance, but it may not be ideal for occasional skiers on a tight budget.
4. **Installation Requires Attention to Detail**
While the installation is straightforward, it does require careful alignment and secure fastening. Improper installation can lead to shifting or damage to the vehicle s roof. Users who are not comfortable with basic tool use or following instructions may struggle.
5. **Weight Distribution Considerations**
While the Stew-Foot design helps with stability, loading the rack improperly (e.g., placing heavier items on one side) can still affect your vehicle s handling. It s important to distribute weight evenly and ensure the rack is balanced to avoid swaying or instability.
6. **Potential for Scratches or Damage to Skis**
If skis or snowboards are not properly padded or secured, they may rub against the rack or each other during transit, leading to scratches or minor damage. Thule provides padding, but users must ensure it is used correctly.
7. **Not Suitable for Very Heavy Loads**
While the Thule 313022010135 is designed for skis and snowboards, it is not intended for extremely heavy loads (e.g., multiple large cargo boxes or heavy equipment). Exceeding the weight limits can compromise the rack s integrity or damage your vehicle.
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### **Conclusion**
The Thule 313022010135 ski roof rack is a high-quality, reliable, and secure option for transporting skis or snowboards on your vehicle. Its durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with Thule s ecosystem make it a strong choice for frequent skiers or snowboarders who prioritize performance and longevity. The premium price is justified by its build quality and features, but it may not be the best fit for occasional users or those on a tight budget.
For most drivers with compatible vehicles, this rack offers a balance of security, convenience, and peace of mind. If you already own Thule accessories or value long-term reliability, it is an excellent investment. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly alternative or have specific vehicle constraints, you may want to explore other options after verifying compatibility.
### **Recommendation**
If you frequently travel with skis or snowboards and want a durable, secure, and easy-to-use roof rack system, the **Thule 313022010135 is highly recommended**. Ensure your vehicle is compatible with Thule s system, and follow the installation instructions carefully to maximize safety and performance. For occasional users or those seeking a lower-cost solution, consider comparing it with other brands or models, but be prepared for potential trade-offs in quality and support.
The Vintage Thule ski roof rack with a sturdy foot is classic cross bar designed for attaching skis or other gear to your vehicle's. Note that this vintage Thule ski roof rack is not universally fitting, one set for vehicles with rain gutters. With a vintage part designation, this product is perfect for adding touch of nostalgia to your car while also providing functionality transporting gear such as skis. Made by trusted brand Thule, this black clamp-style attachment is removable, making it convenient for use when needed.