When searching for a new motorcycle top box, Givi and SHAD are two names that instantly stand out and understandably, you may be torn between the two.

While choosing between the two motorcycle luggage giants is a tough decision in itself, you may want to narrow down the options. Fear not though, we have evaluated three key top boxes from each brand to do that job for you and make the decision just that little bit easier.

Givi Maxia 5 vs SHAD SH58x Top Box

First up is the largest of the top boxes which come in the form of the Givi Maxia 5 and SHAD SH58x and could be considered the jewel in each of their crowns.

Firstly, when considering aesthetics, both the Maxia 5 and SH58x boast additional features and it simply comes down to which you prefer. Givi allow you to choose between a white or red reflector while SHAD’s case comes with a carbon cover included.

The Givi Maxia 5 and SHAD SH58x.

Where the true difference can be found however, is in waterproof protection. SHAD’s SH58x is 100% waterproof, ensuring your belongings remain dry regardless of the weather you encounter on your journeys. In contrast, Givi’s Maxia 5 can only offer what is described as “a degree of water resistance”, giving SHAD the edge in this department.

Normally a waterproof structure and an aesthetics upgrade would be enough of a selling point. However, the star of the show in this case is the expandable ability of SHAD’s SH58x, a feature that is ultimately incomparable. Although the two top boxes possess a 58 litre capacity, the innovative SH58x can expand down to as low as 46 litres to provide a reduced size and a clean look while the fixed height Maxia 5 maintains a large presence.

Givi V47 vs SHAD SH47 Top Box

When it comes to medium motorcycle top boxes, Givi’s V47 and SHAD’s SH47 run along the same lines in terms of similarities and differences and again, the evidence points towards SHAD gaining the upper hand.

Much like the larger-sized top boxes, the V47 and SH47 share aesthetic capabilities with the choice white or red reflectors available for both boxes this time whilst offering a 47 litre capacity to hold two full-face helmets.

SHAD can be awarded bonus points once more for their ability to keep contents dry and safe from the impact of the elements thanks to their double-profile rubber edge and again, Givi merely promise water resistance to a certain degree.

While the points mentioned above reiterate the offerings of the small boxes for the large part, SHAD’s SH47 top box boasts one other feature to set itself apart from the Givi counterpart. The SH47 employs an integrated, ergonomic carry handle which in short is simply much more comfortable and convenient for transportation than Givi’s use of a standard grab handle.

Givi B29 Tech vs SHAD SH29 Top Box

The smallest top boxes under the microscope are Givi’s B29 Tech and SHAD’s SH29 which deservedly receive a share of the praise.

The B29 Tech and SH29 are neck and neck when it comes to the storage capacities on offer with both providing 29 litres of internal volume and a maximum load of 3kg. Meanwhile, both Givi and SHAD add security for the contents of each box respectively with the fully-lockable ‘Monokey’ and ‘Smart Locking’ systems.

The similarly comparative Givi B29 and SHAD SH29 top boxes.

Similarly, there really is not much to separate the two top boxes when it comes to aesthetics and convenience. Both cases share a rather comparable curved structure and come with a base plate for a smooth, convenient mount to their fitting kits. The only real reason you could give the nod to SHAD is their optional range of coloured covers, which is a stretch admittedly.

Now, with all comparisons made and consideration given to the top boxes from each brand, what actually is the best choice?

Although both sets of products do have their advantages, it would be fair to say SHAD’s top boxes are the best option across the board. Taking into account the all important waterproof structure and additional features and namely the expandable SH58x, SHAD simply have more to offer.