The Swedish brand Thule, which has been part of our range since the end of last year, is celebrating success. It has received the prestigious iF Design Award for 2017 for four products: the Yepp Nexxt Maxi child bike seat, the Motion XT roof box, the Chariot Sport sports stroller, and the Thule Subterra roller 36 suitcase.
We are naturally most interested in the latter. We have therefore decided to take a closer look at it and share our review with you. But first, a brief word about the iF Design Award.
iF Design Award
is a global product award presented since 1954 by the International Forum Design organization from Hanover. Every year, more than 5,500 entries from approximately 59 countries participate in the competition. The submitted products compete in seven disciplines (from products to services to architecture) and a total of 70 categories. Winning an iF Design Award is a great achievement and undoubtedly a prestigious matter.
Thule Subterra roller 36
Now for the Thule Subterra roller 36 itself. It is an elegant carry-on suitcase (with dimensions of 55 x 35 x 20 cm, it meets the requirements of most airlines), which is perfect for business trips to any country, environment, or climate. It is designed to represent its owner with fresh elegance, attention to detail, and, above all, unstoppable strength, with which it can overcome any obstacle.
In this regard, we particularly appreciate the robust ball-bearing wheels, which are incomparable to any other suitcase brand in our offer. Their construction feels very durable, and due to their size (8.5 cm in diameter and 3 cm in width), they can handle almost any terrain. Another advantage is the sturdy telescopic handle, which makes the suitcase very easy and smooth to control. Furthermore, the buttons are located on the sides, not in the middle, so there is no risk of accidental release.
The second advantage of the Subterra roller 36 is its durability and quality workmanship. The front side made of durable fabric lightens the suitcase and ensures flexibility, while the polycarbonate back provides support and protects the luggage when laid down. The fabric used (Nylon 800 D) resists moderate rain, including the fabric-protected zippers. The patented pulls are extended, making them easy to operate. The confidence in the quality and durability of the suitcase is also shown by the extended five-year warranty.
The interior space is divided into two compartments (like hardshell suitcases), each with its own divider. Undoubtedly the most ingenious element (which we have not seen in any other suitcase) is the compression mesh panel, which can easily compress the contents of one of the compartments to reduce the volume of stored items, keep clothes unwrinkled, and ensure everything stays in its place. You can set off even with a half-empty suitcase without fear that things inside will shift or rearrange themselves. The panel can be very easily and comfortably adjusted to any depth and removed entirely if needed.
The background material is contrasting, so everything inside can be found quickly and easily. The outer pocket on the top of the front part is spacious enough for anything you might need to have at hand while traveling (phone, power bank, ticket, snack, etc.) and also holds its shape. An interesting accessory is a separate strap that can be used to conveniently attach another smaller piece of luggage to the suitcase (e.g., a backpack or carry-on bag) that does not have a sleeve for sliding onto a telescopic handle.
Our Review
The Thule Subterra roller 36 is a very high-quality and tasteful suitcase that is not afraid of any obstacles, weather, or handling, especially thanks to the extraordinarily robust wheels, solid handle, and reliable material. The fact that Thule clearly trusts its product is also reflected in the extended five-year warranty. The above-standard equipment, dominated by the internal compression panel, impresses with its functionality. Unfortunately, greater durability and equipment take their toll in the form of lower volume (36 liters) compared to other carry-on suitcases (e.g., Travelite CrossLITE 2w S with a volume of 42 to 48 liters). For the same reason, the suitcase is also among the heavier ones in its category, as it weighs 3.18 kilograms.
Who would we recommend the Subterra roller 36 to?
To everyone who is looking for a representative carry-on suitcase that they can rely on anywhere and anytime, does not need to take a ton of things with them, but expects uncompromising functionality and quality.
