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Driving with a roof rack shouldn’t mean listening to a constant whistle. The Malone AirFlow2 crossbars have an aerodynamic shape that helps control airflow over and under the bar to reduce wind noise and vibration, even at highway speeds. The aluminum build keeps them lightweight and rustproof, while rubber strips in the T-slots help cut down drag and keep things quiet.
If you’re loading up kayaks, cargo boxes, or camping gear, these 58" crossbars give you space to work with. The full-length design extends past the towers for more mounting room and accommodates both T-slot and clamp-on accessories. With a rack weight capacity of 165 lbs (always follow your vehicle’s roof load limits), you can securely haul everything from rooftop boxes to multiple kayak carriers.
Getting the rack on and off is simple thanks to the rubber-coated steel clamps that wrap around your raised side rails. The coated clamps grip securely without damaging your rails, and the included tool makes tightening straightforward. Once it’s mounted, the towers and bars stay together as one unit so you can remove, store, and reinstall them easily.
The nylon towers are built to handle the elements without fading or wearing down, and each one has a locking cover to secure the rack to your side rails. The covers protect the hardware inside from rain and debris while also deterring theft. This gives you peace of mind whether you’re parked at a trailhead or an overnight stop on a trip.
You don’t have to limit your setup—these crossbars have built-in top channels that fit standard T-bolt hardware for channel-mounted accessories. Just remove or trim the rubber strip around your gear’s mounting hardware, then reinsert it to keep things sealed and quiet. The flexible channel system works well with kayak racks, cargo baskets, awnings, or rooftop tents so you can adapt for whatever adventure comes next.
Customer Satisfaction Score:
88% were satisfied with this product
12% of customers were not satisfied
Ratings & Reviews
Good knock off of the Thule Evoloution Wingbar; I purchased it because it was about half the price of the Thule when you factor in the price of locks, mounts and bars. The Malone Airflow2 bars are installed on a 2016 Toyota Sienna, with a Thule Motion XT XL mounted on the crossbars. Happy that there is no whistling or other significant noise from the bars. They seem really sturdy. The lockable mounting clamps are just okay in quality. While I like that the locks come with the Malone clamps (Thule charges extra), and that the Malone clamps can fit a variety of rails, the rubber covers that are on the underside to protect your rails kept coming off during install as the clamps were tightened down. Had to carefully splay them out, and then tighten clamps slowly and double check frequently that the rubber was staying in place. The installation was not as easy as it should have been - - mainly because the 58" crossbars have about 6" of overhang past the edge of the mounting clamps, so you cannot use the hex wrench tool to continuously tighten the mounts. You have to pull out the wrench and reinsert it for a three quarter turn. The main problem with install was putting in the vinyl/rubber strips under the crossbars, which are solely for noise reduction. I could not accomplish this in the 35-40 degree weather, as the vinyl/rubber became too stiff. Heated them up with a hairdryer to make them more malleable, but after getting about 6 inches of the strips inserted, they would stiffen up again. Accordingly, I had to remove the crossbars and end caps, remove one side of the clamps and loosen the other clamp, and then remove the crossbars. Then I could slide the vinyl strips into the middle, and then had to reinsert the mounting clamps, and then remount to the van's rails. So, the installation took twice as long as it should have. Thule recommends a 53" bar for the Sienna, and since Malone only had the 50" or 58" bars, we went with the larger bars, so we could shift the cargo box to one side for easier access. Wish they made a 55" bar or would authorize cutting down the size of your bars without potentially voiding the warranty. But all in all, these are a really good bargain.
I received these racks a day early. They were super easy to install and they look great on my 2012 Ford Explorer.
I was hesitant to buy these racks because they were so much cheaper than the name brands, but I am completely happy with them. The fit and finish are fantastic, I highly recommend them.
Just returned from a 600 mile trip with my new Malones.
Big fan.
It took me about 30 minutes to install just perfectly.
Very simple installation, everything is preassembled for the most part, I just had to mess with the rubber protectors, which was easy.
They are much more secure and stable than the stock cross bars on my 2012 Explorer, and they look great.
At freeway speeds, I had just the whisper of a whistle as I was going into the wind, without the supplied lower rubber gasket installed. I figured I'd see how much it whistled without it, and it was very little. Around town, they are silent. So I'll probably not install that gasket.
What makes me happiest, is that they are much less expensive than the other brands, but have the same features (locking, fully adjustable, simple installation)
It feels like I got a screaming deal, which I like.
This was the perfect size for my 2019 Nissan Pathfinder. It works well with the Thule Air Screen (44") and the Thule Pulse M Cargo Box. I drove on the freeway with no issues and with the help of the air screen; NO WIND NOISE!
The only thing if you get these bars is realize you will need some zip-ties for the air screen to be secure. The aero clips work for the Malone Aero Crossbars but just the hook point for the TOP Thule air screen clip does not hook to the bar. Only the bottom will fit perfectly. However, I drove on the freeway (65-75mph) for 15 miles with no issues. Just a heads up...
The rails look great, very easy to install (although I wish the hex key tool had a ball tip, I used my own wrench). I read other reviews about wind noise, I have none with or without the stripping underneath.
My only recommendation to others is to measure your width, the Rav4 is a little more narrow than my other vehicles. I went with the 58" so it would extend out past the vehicle. I'm often by myself loading the top, so it gives more rail to work with, making it less awkward trying to avoid contact to the vehicle.
Jeffrey M.
6/23/2020
After a year, this product still gets a 5 star. Easy install and good price. I did notice some wind noise with the sun roof open, otherwise quiet.
The Malone AirFlow 2 Roof Rack is the most ridiculous bargain I've come across in a long while. I'd been preparing myself to spend $4-$500 on a Thule. A product I was familiar with and had used in the past with great success with Volkswagen's. After some simple research, Malone kept coming up as a affordable, comparable alternative . These days when you see something that is literally less than half of what your planning to spend, your first thought is "too good to be true" or "you get what you pay for". After calling and consulting with Stacey at etrailer.com I purchased the system and COULD NOT be HAPPIER !! It took me less than 20 minutes to have it completely installed on my 2013 Tucson. The construction of the racks and hardware is top quality. My main use of the system will be hauling kayaks and canoes which this will far exceed. Other than the fact that I saved about $300, etrailer prides itself on customer service and that I can, and will attest to their claim. I called and had a bunch of questions before ordering, Stacey was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, patient, and most of all courteous !! There is no doubt that etrailer.com has become my new source for any towing or recreational needs for my vehicle.
Roof rack works great. Easy to install and much cheaper than similar Thule bars.
Anthony
8/27/2025
After a year of ownership, the roof rack is still working great.
The Malone was a good value at about half the cost of Thule Bars. It was a little harder to work with to install than the Thule I have. The rubber fillers for the under track was not as nice as the Thule and the end caps had to be worked to get into bars
One year after for my Malone roof racks, still loving them. I have used them mostly with some Rhino Rack ski/snowboard racks all winter in the harsh Canadian cold. One I realized that I could use my cordless drill with a long allen wrench tip to speed up the process of installing and uninstalling these racks, they from a 5 star rating to, well couldn’t go any higher than it already was, but if I could, I would. [Just don’t overtighten.]. I have installed some gorilla tape over the black plastic end caps so they don’t fall out. Because I install and uninstall them often (about 12 times total in the year I’ve had them, they were a bit loose, but to be expected. With a little tape, they’re not going anywhere.
I bought this roof rack for my 2017 Honda Ridgeline with factory installed side rails, and am very pleased. The product has excellent features for the price. Features I wanted: aerodynamic profile for a quieter ride; locking towers for security; and built-in tightening tools for ease of installation. The fit and finish are excellent. Installation is very easy and can be done in a few minutes. I use mine for transporting a canoe and kayak.
If my rating was based only on the ordering process, USPS would get negative 5 stars and etrailer maybe 1 star. The order was fulfilled the same day and tracking info forwarded to me. USPS: "Label created, awaiting order". One week later: "Label created, awaiting order". I contacted Jamea at etrailer, who stated that they would only request a trace w. USPS after 10 biz days (two weeks). USPS after two weeks: "Label created, awaiting order" . . . etrailer finally puts a trace on it w. USPS. The package was sitting in Puerto Rico(!!!!!). Two weeks later, I received the order in NY. So, one month from Arkansas to NY. The order was left at my door in the pouring rain, box open (my wife was home at the time). See photo.
Fortunately, all hardware was still in the box and the crossbars unharmed.
The crossbars are fine and the quality is decent; however, a few minor issues w. installation: 1) Malone provides an optional rubber insert for the exposed slot underneath the crossbars after installation, purportedly to lower wind noise. Instructions say to cut the rubber insert to size, then "press insert into exposed slot". Simply pressing it in, after installation, proved impossible - you must cut it to length, then slide it in from one of the bar ends. Not difficult, but this involves removing the installed bar, removing one of the clamp assemblies, sliding in the rubber insert, sliding the clamp back into the bar, and then re-installing the bar to the vehicle. This wouldn't have been a big deal if I hadn't loosened/unscrewed the adjuster too far . . . which resulted in having to perform "surgery" (taking apart the clamp assembly) to get the bolt to mate with the end nut. Of course, the entire assembly sprung apart when I did that (DON'T do that!). Two hours (!) later, both bars were reinstalled and all was well 2) the rubber "boots" around the clamps are a bit fidgety and you have to be careful to get them seated correctly, but once seated, they are fine 3) having the allen key incorporated in the clamp locking mechanism is a great idea, but with the longer 58" bars, tightening/loosening the clamp is a pain since the bar interferes with fully turning the allen key. Not a big deal, just aggravating. I ended up using a longer allen key I just happened to have in my toolbox.
So: item is of decent quality for the price and works just fine. Although etrailer was quick to respond re: shipping issues, they could have requested a trace from USPS earlier. I had given myself a two-week window from submitting the order to leaving on my planned trip. One month later, after the package wandered around who knows where in the USPS system (well, I know it visited Puerto Rico), I was already back from my trip before the package arrived, soaking wet and open, at my house. Lesson learned - have it shipped with another carrier, even if it means paying an extra fee!
These work really well. After shopping around a bit, these were the best value (price) without being of poor quality. They're really well built, strong, and fit my 2019 GMC Acadia SLT(2) nicely. I opted for the 58" version with the idea that I could haul (2) 15' Kayaks. The boats go on very nicely and the extra width helps me keep them off the vehicle. I also purchased a decent T-Slot ski carrier that had great reviews and hauled 6 pairs to VT last winter from MD. The extra length may not appeal to some. If so, get the smaller version. I believe in Function. So the 58's are right by me. Reviews I read on these complained about the end caps getting lost, coming off, etc. I could see that happening. When I installed them, I ran two passes of electrical tape on the end caps to secure them. I replace it every time I open the end caps - switching from ski to kayak season. These bars have remained tight to the vehicle after 1 year. They show little signs of wear too. I'm a "spirited" driver. They've hung on very well. There is some road noise from them. But I also enjoy music - so that doesn't bother me in the least. Take your time installing and gently tighten as you go. I think that is a big part of the installation. Overall - excellent product, priced incredibly well against the big names, accepts T-Slot accessories, and more. I'm happy. Good luck!
I've had these on my car for a year now. They are decent for the money and I think they look pretty good too. One very weak point is the plastic end caps. They snap on and are flimsy. I lost one in short order and broke another one sliding a sheet of plywood over it. It would not be hard for them to design a better cap that is fastened better to the rails. I 3D printed new ones that work great and installed with a screw.
Eric
9/6/2024
I use the racks often and they have held up very well. My 3D printed caps also have held up. I hope the company improves those.
I have had these for about a year now and they work great. I have a set of Malone fold away kayak racks that I use on them. I am quite happy with both Malone products.
Jake
5/10/2024
I am two years out with Malone roof racks and they are holding up nicely. I did have to replace one of the end caps as it came off at some point. But the part was inexpensive and easy to find.
Easy to install on my 2014 Nissan Pathfinder and making adjustments just as easy and as usual etrailer is the best. shipping was quick the only thing that took awhile was me installing it.
I highly recommend
Picture isn’t the best but oh well
Marion
3/28/2020
No problems doing it’s job still very happy with the roof rack
Love this set of cross bars-use them for kayaks and to hold my rooftop tent without any worries.also put my Thule xl car top carrier on with out any
Jonathan
12/28/2023
Still holding up with no issues.been on thru out the hot summer and multiple trips thru the car wash.would highly recommend
Great fit so far, ez to install and look great on the roof of my 04’ Jeep Liberty. I have 2 pair of Thule Kayak racks looking forward to see how they work on the Alleg bars!
Thomas
7/18/2019
Excellent
Thomas
7/18/2019
Excellent, except I lost an end-cap in a car wash I think?
The 58" Malone MPG216 bars replaced a set of 58" Malone Steel bars. The new bars feel sturdier and a definitely quieter. The fit and finish is great, except for one bar end that doesn't fit as tightly as it should. I put my Yakima Skybox 21 on top of them and they did the job. My only complaint is that they already have a slight bend after being loaded with just 140 lbs. I expected a bend to occur later in the year since the top box stays on for 6 months out of the year, but not after just one road trip. But, there was no movement from the bars or the box at all during the 1600 mile trip. So far, so good.
Heather A.
2/25/2019
The Yakima skybox is about 70 lbs on its own. The weight capacity of the roof rack is 165 lbs. If you are putting 140 lbs worth of cargo in the box, plus the weight of the box itself on the bars that is 210 lbs. The bars will bend if they have 210 lbs of weight on them. Please make sure you are taking into account the weight of the box on the bars as well.
Beware anyone with a Gen 5 Outback. Doesn’t fit on Subaru Outback 2016. Was assured it was a fit for my vehicle on the website and I even emailed eTrailer to make sure. Got a response from an associate “yes, these will fit.” Now I have to pay $34 shipping to return.
The tower clamps fit around factory crossbars when they are swung closed but due to the factory raised plastic rails the Malone crossbars can only fit towards the middle of the roof and would only be spaced 15in apart. Useless.
Seems like a good product, but etrailer should not list these bars as a fit for this vehicle.
Jenny N.
5/12/2023
The Subaru Outbacks will limit the cross bar to less than 24 inches. This will limit what can be carried as any crossbar spread under 24 inches should not be used to carry kayaks, ladders or other long items.
-2015 Nissan Pathfinder.
-Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack - Aero Crossbars - Raised, Factory Side Rails - Aluminum - 58" Long.
This is my first ever roof rack so I am by far no expert. I researched many roof racks and I just couldn't see spending 500, 600, or over $700 on an accessory. The installation is not nearly as easy as some would think, in my opinion. However, I am anal and meticulous about every detail. I put the roof rack rail on and got everything into place with measurements (width between them, how much they stick out, etc). Then I mark the underneath of the racks for the rubber to go so I could cut it precisely (you slide in the rubber...although I think some cramped the rails down and then stuffed the rubber in).
Pros:
-Look at my vehicle...I think they look amazing...especially for the price.
-Everything is very firm and doesn't move after proper installation.
-Matches chrome on car and current cross bars
Cons:
-End caps are cheaply made, but I didn't have any problem getting them to snap in. Get a higher grade plastic or something
-Directions that were provided were sparse and you kind of have to figure it out on your own, which wasn't too difficult.
-THE NOISE is my biggest complaint. It's not terrible but enough to annoy me. These are advertised as "Airflow2" so come on. And I'm no aerodynamics professor but shouldn't the more narrow end be pointed toward the wind, not the fat end? Maybe a moonroof visor would help the noise...I don't know.
3.5 - 4 out of 5 because of the noise and because of the cutting and cheap end caps. But for the money, I think they're worth it. Good luck to your purchase and installation...it's not too bad. :)
Mike L.
5/19/2018
Unfortunately, any time a piece of equipment is installed on a vehicle roof, there is going to be wind noise, its unavoidable. Airfoil-shaped crossbars like those on the Malone rack you purchased are actually much more quiet than the older square or round-profiled crossbars. The crossbars are indeed meant to be installed so that the thicker end is pointed forward to the wind, just like an aircraft wing. To keep the wind noise to a minimum, its important that the entire length of the slots in the underside of the crossbar are filled with the provided rubber strips .
Installed on a 2018 Mercedes GLE 350. Way cheaper than the $600 Mercedes version. Easy to install and holds a yakama XL cargo box. I also like that I can swap this over to our other suv if we need to. A flexible tape measure (sewing or garment type) and painters tape made the installation easy.
GREAT rack. I've used the crap out of it and it has performed like a champ. And for the price? Fahgeddaboutit! My only issue is that it does whistle fairly loudly at speed, but I'm sure I could fix that if I simply moved the front rack slightly, I just haven't bothered. Instead I just turn up the stereo...
Victoria H.
2/26/2025
It seems like you don't let anything stop the good times from rolling, David! Most roof rack systems will have a noticeable sound because you are changing the aerodynamics of your ride by adding the crossbars. The bulkier the system installed the more noise it will create. So something like square bars and bulky towers will make the most noise. These Malone Aero crossbars may become less noisy by adjusting the placement according to the instructions. But it seems your solution works just fine, and lets you have a reason to jam out more too!
David
2/26/2026
Still loving it!
Had those crossbars about a year ago, and have used several times for family trips. We have a big Yakima box that we stuff with suitcases and bags. No issues with the crossbars. I did take it through an automatic car wash and lost one of the black plastic end pieces but was able to find a replacement easily.
Great product. I have no mechanical ability and I was able to install it without damaging my car or the rack. I added a Thule Hullivator to the bars, which required slipping 2 nuts in the channel on top of the rubber thing. A quick shot of silicone spray made it much easier.
Gwendolyn Y.
5/12/2026
Looks great! Have you had a chance to take it out with your kayak yet?
Gwendolyn Y.
5/13/2026
Worked as designed. Some measurement needed to cut and install seal between attachment brackets, and little trial and error to center/balance the bar across both points (just as one would with a cargo box).
Victoria H.
2/27/2025
This roof rack looks great on your explorer, Steven!
Steven
3/1/2026
Same thoughts now as the first review.
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Anne
2/21/2021
Still like the racks, but the flip down piece on the plastic end caps came off on 3 of the ends and I had to buy the complete end cap assembly just to get the flip down covers.