Which roof rack works best for the Buick Encore GX?

Question

Im stuck between the Thule WingBar and those Snailfly racks from Amazon for my 2022 Encore GX. My logic was Thule is safer but they're way over my $300 budget for a trip next month.

Snailfly is cheap but do they even fit the flush rails right or just whistle on the highway?

KiteKinesis · Accepted Answer

Quick reply while I have a sec. I've been down that rabbit hole and eventually found a sweet spot between the luxury Thule price and the sketchy Amazon junk. Honestly, I'm super satisfied with my Malone AirFlow2 Aluminum Aero Cross Rail System 50 Inch. It feels way more premium than the price tag suggests and handles my cargo box no problem. Heres why it works so well:Zero whistling even at 70mphThe integrated locks actually feel secureFits the GX flush rails like a glove without any weird gaps I think I paid around $220 for the set, which leaves you some cash for other gear. If you want a custom fit, check out the BrightLines Roof Rack Crossbars for Buick Encore GX. They're specifically molded for our rails. Definitely skip the Snailfly stuff tho... my buddy bought them and they looked like they were gonna fly off after one car wash lol.

nqnrhvthrl · Answer

Honestly, i went through this same struggle last year and it was a total letdown. I bought those generic ones thinking i was being smart, but the fitment on the Encore flush rails was basically garbage. The clamps didnt sit deep enough into the grooves, so there was this tiny gap that caught the air at exactly 55mph. Sounded like a flute playing a dying note right over my head for three hours straight. Unfortunately, the Thule setup usually ends up costing like six hundred bucks once you buy the bars, the feet, and the specific fit kit. Way over budget. I ended up returning the Snailfly junk after one trip because the paint started chipping after a single rainstorm. If you want something that actually stays quiet without breaking the bank, look for a used set of Malone AirFlow2 Universal Cross Rail System 50 Inch or even check local listings for Yakima JetStream Crossbars 50 Inch Black. Here is why those cheap Amazon ones fail:

The rubber padding is usually too thin and can scratch your factory rails.

The locking mechanisms are basically plastic toys that freeze up.

They create way too much drag, which kills the already mediocre gas mileage on the GX. I eventually found a deal on Turtle Air 1 Roof Rack Silver for Flush Rails and it was a way better compromise. It sits lower and doesnt whistle, plus it usually stays under that $250 mark if you shop around. Skip the cheap stuff, your ears will thank me.