I like the looks of this as an affordable option until I eventually go full-length with a Gobi, or similar. I agree, the OEM cross bars are pretty pathetic for anyone who wants to carry anything substantial on the roof, including lumber which has a tendency to work its way to the outside of the crossbars due to the radius of them. I think some rubber t-slot covers would help for anyone who is worried about wind noise across the slots.

10-Series T-Slot Cover - Black

My biggest concern right now is compatibility with a Yakima SkyBox. They use sort of a cam-action mounting hook that slides under the crossbars and clamps like a vise-grip.

Yakima Mounting Feet

Do you know how the clearance under the crossbars on this compare to OEM? Obviously it varies from center to outside since the crossbars do not follow the roof profile. It looks like the clearance at the sides is greater, but is very similar to OEM in the center. That might work if I center the SkyBox, but I often offset it to one side to be able to carry a bike or something off to one side. Could you provide any insight here? Perhaps I need a slightly taller overall version of your adapters?