Safety First: Behind the Scenes at Thule's Hillerstorp Test Center

"From its humble beginnings, the Swedish company Thule has grown into a massive global brand and is recognized as a leader in gear and accessories that support active lifestyles. Founded in 1942 with a fishing trap as its first product, Thule expanded into other markets with ski, surf, and bike racks to help people transport their toys more easily. Over the years, the brand's product lineup has grown to include strollers, luggage, rooftop tents, and much more,"

"My experience with Thule began as a youngster in the early 1990s. I spent a significant part of my childhood in the town of Seymour, CT, which is, coincidentally, also where Thule's U.S. Headquarters are located. It was one of the biggest buildings in the town's industrial park, and, despite being relatively new to cycling at that time, I recognized the name from the roof bike rack on my dad's car."

"I didn't know it at the time, but decades later, I'd ultimately end up working in outdoor media, testing, reviewing, and writing about Thule's bike racks and other cycling-related products. Then, a few months ago, everything came full circle when I was invited to attend the "Thule Experience." This trip included a sneak peek of Thule's Spring 2026 products as well as a tour of the massive facility and Test Center in Hillerstorp, Sweden. Twelve-year-old me would have been really jealous."

Thule began in 1942 in Sweden with a fishing trap and expanded into ski, surf, and bike racks to help people transport equipment. The product line grew to include strollers, luggage, rooftop tents, and other outdoor accessories, establishing Thule as a global outdoor brand. Thule maintains multiple production facilities worldwide, with many bike racks made at the Seymour, CT, U.S. headquarters. Hillerstorp remains the brand’s primary design and test center and is central to product development. An individual who grew up near the Seymour HQ later worked in outdoor media and tested Thule cycling products. A visit to the Thule Experience included a Spring 2026 product preview and a Hillerstorp tour.

Read at Bikerumor