If you want a high-capacity, aerodynamic roof storage solution that expands to fit your gear and folds flat for off-season convenience, choose REES CARRY POWER REESE Carry Power; if you need precise in-channel rain protection for your Toyota Tacoma that lets you crack the windows open during a storm without letting water inside, choose Auto Ventshade AVS In-Channel Rain.
• REES CARRY POWER REESE Carry Power: Its biggest strength is its massive, expandable storage volume (up to 15 cubic feet) combined with an aerodynamic shape that reduces wind noise, but it requires a roof rack system to function. This pick is for RV owners or families who need to haul bulky luggage, camping gear, or sports equipment on top of their vehicle.
• Auto Ventshade AVS In-Channel Rain: Its biggest strength is the seamless, no-drill installation that creates a perfect fit for 2016–2023 Toyota Tacomas while allowing fresh air circulation, but it offers zero additional cargo space. This pick is for drivers who want to ventilate their cabin during light rain or keep road debris out without compromising their vehicle's aesthetic.
The REES CARRY POWER REESE Carry Power is designed as a direct-fit OE-grade replacement for those who treat their vehicle as a mobile storage unit. With dimensions of 37 inches long by 32 inches wide, this carrier provides a substantial footprint that can be expanded from 19 inches high to 21 inches high when needed. That extra two inches might not seem like much on paper, but in the real world, it makes the difference between squeezing a few bags into the trunk and finally getting all your camping gear onto the roof. The design prioritizes utility first, offering 8 straps for secure attachment to any standard roof rack, ensuring that your load stays put even on rougher backroads.
What stands out most about this carrier is its dual nature as both a functional tool and a sleek accessory. The aerodynamic design isn't just marketing fluff; it is engineered to cut through the air more efficiently than older, boxier models, which means less wind buffeting and lower fuel drag during highway driving. However, the trade-off is the sheer size and weight of the unit itself. If you do not have a permanent roof rack, you will need to install crossbars before you can even think about using this product. It is not a "throw-it-on-any-car" solution; it demands a dedicated mounting system.
This product is ideal for RV owners and outdoor enthusiasts who spend weekends hauling kayaks, tents, or oversized suitcases. It is also perfect for anyone who needs a temporary surge in cargo capacity without modifying their vehicle permanently. However, if you live in an area where you rarely travel with more than what fits in the trunk, or if you park in tight garages where a 37-inch protrusion is impossible, you should skip this entirely. The folding mechanism is a major plus, allowing the carrier to lie flat for easy storage in a closet or garage when not in use, but until then, it occupies a significant amount of vertical space on your roof.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-11-05 · 7 min read · Independent comparison
The Auto Ventshade AVS In-Channel Rain guards are built specifically for the 2016–2023 Toyota Tacoma Double/Extended Cab owner who wants to maximize comfort without sacrificing style. Unlike universal deflectors that require clamping or messy adjustments, these visors feature a contour-hugging, low-profile design that integrates directly into the window channel. This engineered-to-fit approach ensures a seamless look that looks like it came straight from the factory. The material is impact-modified acrylic, which offers a scratch-free finish that withstands car washes and resists fading or discoloration from prolonged sun exposure. For a driver who values a clean, professional appearance, this level of customization is hard to beat.
The primary function here is ventilation and weather protection. These deflector sets allow you to crack your windows open slightly to circulate fresh air, sweeping away stale odors from pets, athletic gear, or food, all while keeping rain and road debris out. You can drive with the windows slightly ajar in a steady downpour without worrying about soaking your interior. The installation process is equally straightforward, requiring no drilling or special hardware. It mounts in minutes using included 3M automotive-grade adhesive tape, meaning you can have full coverage on your side windows in under an hour. However, the trade-off is specificity. These are strictly for the Double and Extended Cab models of the Tacoma; they will not fit the Access Cab version, so verifying your exact cab size is critical before purchase.
This product is best suited for daily commuters, parents, and pet owners who frequently drive with dogs or kids and need to manage airflow and temperature without rolling the windows all the way up. It is also excellent for those who hate the sound of wind whistling through slightly open windows, as the in-channel design minimizes turbulence. Conversely, if you drive a different make or model, or if you own a single-cab truck, these are useless to you. Furthermore, if your goal is to add cargo capacity or change the visual height of your truck, these small plastic strips will not achieve that. They are purely functional accessories for climate control and weather management.
• Best for expanding cargo capacity → REES CARRY POWER REESE Carry Power, offering up to 15 cubic feet of expandable storage.
• Best for vehicle-specific fitment → Auto Ventshade AVS In-Channel Rain, engineered exclusively for 2016–2023 Tacoma Double/Extended Cabs.
• Best for ventilation during rain → Auto Ventshade AVS In-Channel Rain, allowing fresh air flow while blocking water entry.
• Best for aerodynamic efficiency → REES CARRY POWER REESE Carry Power, designed to reduce wind resistance and noise.
• Best for easy, non-invasive installation → Auto Ventshade AVS In-Channel Rain, utilizing adhesive tape with zero drilling required.
• Best for seasonal storage → REES CARRY POWER REESE Carry Power, which folds completely flat for compact off-season storage.
• Best for protecting against road debris → Auto Ventshade AVS In-Channel Rain, creating a physical barrier for side windows.
• Best for heavy-duty hauling → REES CARRY POWER REESE Carry Power, supported by 8 secure attachment straps and a robust frame.
I would buy the REES CARRY POWER REESE Carry Power if my priority was moving large amounts of gear, especially since I am an RV owner who frequently needs that extra vertical space for extended trips. The ability to expand the height and fold it flat makes it the superior choice for anyone whose lifestyle involves periodic, high-volume transport. However, if I were looking for a permanent upgrade to my daily driver's comfort, I would choose the Auto Ventshade AVS In-Channel Rain for its flawless integration and practical ventilation benefits. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you need to carry stuff or simply improve the experience of being inside the vehicle.
Yes, the REES CARRY POWER REESE Carry Power requires a roof rack system with crossbars to attach the 8 included straps securely. The Auto Ventshade AVS In-Channel Rain does not require a rack; it mounts directly to the window channels.
While the product is durable, it is designed to fold flat for easy storage. Leaving it on the roof permanently may expose it to unnecessary wear, though the aerodynamic design helps mitigate wind issues. Most users remove it during winter or when not in use.
No, the impact-modified acrylic construction is specifically engineered to resist fading and discoloration from sun exposure, ensuring a long-lasting finish.
No, they are strictly for the 2016–2023 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab and Extended Cab. They will not fit the Access Cab only models, so checking your specific cab configuration is necessary.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites.
When you buy through links on this page, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon or its affiliates. This site is an independent third-party review and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Amazon or the product brands mentioned.