From the dense forests of Småland, Sweden to roof racks spanning the globe, Thule has become synonymous with adventure-ready gear. Founded in 1942 by Erik Thulin—a passionate outdoorsman who understood the call of the wild—this Swedish company has spent over eight decades perfecting the art of carrying what matters most. Whether you’re seeking the perfect Thule Roof Rack, exploring Thule Stroller options, or discovering the legendary Thule Urban Glide series, understanding this brand means understanding adventure itself.
The Thule Story: From Pike Traps to Global Innovation
Erik Thulin’s journey began with a simple pike fishing trap designed for Scandinavian fishermen. This wasn’t just another product—it was a solution born from understanding outdoor needs. By the 1960s, the company began to concentrate its business on car-related products that would make it easier for people to bring different gear with them. The first ski rack was introduced in 1962.
The name “Thule” itself carries deep meaning. Thule (THEW-lee Greek: Θούλη Thoúlē, Latin: Thūlē) is the farthest north location mentioned in ancient Greek and Roman literature and cartography. This connection to the ultimate frontier perfectly captures the brand’s spirit of pushing boundaries and exploring beyond conventional limits. How To Pronounce Thule: Settling the Debate
Though it isn’t spelled phonetically in English, “Thule” isn’t difficult to pronounce. The correct way to say it is “too-lee,” Rack Outfitters reports. Think “tool” with a soft “ee” sound at the end. Many outdoor enthusiasts initially pronounce it as “thool,” but the Swedish pronunciation definitively settles this as “TOO-lee.”
Where Is Thule: Understanding the Global Presence
Thule was founded in 1942 in Hillerstorp, southern Sweden. Today, Thule Group is headquartered in Malmo, Sweden. Thule Group has 3,194 total employees. While maintaining its Nordic roots, Thule operates globally with about 1,000 employees based in the U.S. who are located in Connecticut, Florida, Colorado, and Illinois.
The company’s international reach extends far beyond its Swedish origins, with 4,700 points of sale in 136 countries worldwide. This global presence ensures Thule products meet diverse adventure needs across continents.
Is Thule A Good Brand: Quality That Defines Excellence
Thule’s reputation stems from uncompromising quality standards. At the Thule Test Center™ in Hillerstorp, Sweden, products go through extreme testing. That means exposure to desert heat and arctic cold, water resistance, drop tests, and wind tunnels to tensile, shock, and crash tests. The Thule Test Program™ includes over 25 Thule Test Standards that far exceed the current ISO standard.
The trailing twelve month revenue for Thule Group is $969M. This financial strength reflects consumer trust and market leadership across multiple product categories.
Thule Roof Racks: The Foundation of Adventure
Understanding Thule Roof Rack Systems
All roof rack systems are composed of two load bars, feet and fit kits to fit the roof racks on your specific vehicle. The Thule Roof Rack approach prioritizes vehicle-specific fitment, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
Popular options include:
- Thule Wingbar Evo: Aerodynamic aluminum construction for reduced wind noise
- Traditional crossbars: Heavy-duty steel for maximum load capacity
- Specialty systems: Custom solutions for unique vehicle configurations
How To Install Thule Roof Rack Systems
Start by identifying the correct roof rack kit included in the package. Each kit is specific to a certain vehicle make and model, so make sure you have the correct one. The installation process follows these essential steps:
Preparation Phase: Before installation, ensure that your vehicle’s roof is clean and free from any dirt or debris that may interfere with the installation process.
Mounting Process: Locate the roof rack mounting points on your vehicle. These are typically found on the roof or along the door frames. Attach the roof rack feet or towers to the mounting points. The specific method of attachment may vary depending on the kit and vehicle model.
Final Assembly: Once the feet or towers are securely attached, position the crossbars onto the feet or towers. Ensure that the crossbars are evenly spaced and aligned properly.
All Thule roof racks are designed to carry up to 75 kg. However, the maximum weight of the system is determined by the vehicle itself.
Thule Bike Racks: Cycling Without Compromise
The Thule Bike Rack collection accommodates every cycling enthusiast’s needs. From the popular Thule T2 Pro XTR to versatile Thule Bike Rack Hitch systems, these carriers prioritize bike security and ease of use.
Key features across the Thule Bike Rack lineup include:
- Tool-free installation and removal
- Frame-friendly clamps that protect bike finishes
- Integrated locking systems for theft prevention
- Compatibility with various bike styles and sizes
Hitch-mounted options like the Thule Bike Rack Hitch provide excellent stability for heavier loads, while roof-mounted systems maximize rear vehicle access.
Thule Strollers: Adventure-Ready Family Mobility
The Thule Urban Glide Legacy
The Thule Urban Glide series represents pinnacle stroller engineering. Available in multiple configurations:
- Thule Urban Glide 2: The proven performer with refined features
- Thule Urban Glide 3: Latest evolution with enhanced comfort
- Thule Urban Glide double options for growing families
Thule Jogging Stroller Excellence
Parents can jog with their children as early as 6 months of age, although you should always consult a pediatrician before jogging with children under 1 year old. The Thule Jogging Stroller collection includes models designed specifically for athletic parents.
Thule Urban Glide strollers feature:
- Three-wheel design for superior maneuverability
- Air-filled tires with rear suspension
- Swivel front wheel that locks for running
- Weather-resistant canopies with UV protection
Up To What Age Does A Thule Double Stroller Go?
Our running strollers have a weight capacity of 34 kg, making them more than capable of carrying your child for several years. Most Thule double strollers accommodate children up to approximately 6-7 years old, depending on the child’s weight and the specific model’s capacity.
The double stroller is designed to accommodate one newborn and one toddler, or two children from around 6 months of age and up. With proper accessories like bassinets, Thule strollers can be used from birth through early school years.
Thule Cargo Solutions: Maximizing Vehicle Capacity
Thule Cargo Box and Roof Box Systems
The Thule Cargo Box lineup includes the popular Thule Motion XT and Thule Motion XT XL models. These roof boxes combine aerodynamic design with maximum storage capacity.
Thule Roof Box features:
- Dual-side opening for convenient access
- Premium materials resistant to UV and weather damage
- Integrated mounting system for tool-free installation
- Various sizes accommodating different vehicle types
Specialty Carriers
Thule Kayak Rack systems secure watercraft with confidence. Professional-grade padding protects kayak hulls while adjustable components accommodate various kayak widths and lengths.
Thule Chariot: Multi-Sport Adventure Platform
The Thule Chariot series transforms from bike trailer to jogging stroller to cross-country ski pulk. This versatility makes it ideal for active families pursuing multiple outdoor activities.
Thule Chariot advantages:
- Weather-resistant cabin protection
- Superior suspension for smooth rides
- Quick conversion between activity modes
- Ample storage for extended adventures
Thule Backpacks: Carrying Excellence Beyond Vehicles
Thule Backpack collections serve photographers, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Models range from technical camera Thule Backpacks to everyday carry solutions.
The Thule Society backpack exemplifies urban functionality with laptop protection, organizational compartments, and sustainable materials.
Innovation Through Acquisition
Thule’s growth strategy includes strategic acquisitions that expand capability. The other brands that form the Thule Group brand portfolio are the US-founded cover and bag company Case Logic, SportRack Inc., the Canadian brand Chariot, the Dutch company Yepp and the Californian company Tepui.
Recent additions like Thule Tepui rooftop tents demonstrate the company’s commitment to emerging adventure markets.
Environmental Responsibility and Future Vision
Thule Group joined the internationally renowned ‘Science Based Targets Initiative’ in the company’s ambition to further reduce the company’s greenhouse gas emissions. This commitment aligns with outdoor enthusiasts’ values of preserving the environments they explore.
For us at Thule Group, everything we do is about developing and manufacturing products with a sustainability perspective, that make it easier for people across the globe to live an active life.
The Ultima Thule Connection
While Ultima Thule refers to NASA’s space exploration target, the connection to Thule’s brand philosophy runs deep. Both represent reaching the farthest frontiers—whether in space or on your next adventure. This shared spirit of exploration defines what makes Thule products exceptional.
Building Your Thule Adventure Setup
Modern adventure demands versatile solutions. Consider these popular combinations:
Family Adventure Package:
- Thule Urban Glide 3 double stroller
- Thule Motion XT cargo box
- Thule Wingbar Evo roof rack system
Cyclist’s Paradise:
- Thule T2 Pro XTR bike rack
- Thule bike trailer for gear
- Thule Society backpack for essentials
Water Sports Enthusiast:
- Thule kayak rack system
- Thule roof box for dry storage
- Thule Chariot for multi-sport flexibility
The Nordic Adventure Continues
From Erik Thulin’s first pike trap to today’s sophisticated adventure systems, Thule represents more than equipment—it embodies the Swedish approach to outdoor life. Quality construction, innovative design, and unwavering reliability define every product bearing the Thule name.
Whether you’re seeking your first Thule Roof Rack, upgrading to a Thule Urban Glide stroller, or exploring the complete ecosystem of Thule Backpacks and carriers, you’re investing in eight decades of adventure innovation. The journey from Småland’s forests to global adventure leadership proves that when passion meets precision, extraordinary things happen.
Adventure calls. Thule answers. The question is: where will your next journey take you?