There’s so much you can do with a kayak. Yet, being anywhere between 11 to 13 feet long, carrying them around can be a pain.
What do you do if you don’t have a big truck but have a small SUV like the Subaru Forester? Do you give up on your kayaking dreams and call it a day? No! You go out and buy the best kayak rack for Subaru Forester you can find!
We rounded up the five top picks on the market to give you some inspiration. We also gathered some useful tips to ensure you and your kayak stay safe during the loading process.
Let’s get started.
The 5 Best Kayak Racks for Subaru Forester
Look at our five top picks and see which one best fits your kayak carrying needs.
1. Thule Compass: Best Overall
The Thule Compass is versatile and heavy-duty, allowing for carrying multiple kayaks at once in various configurations.
For example, if you’re carrying one kayak, you can mount it in a J-style or saddle setup. On the other hand, if you’re transporting two kayaks, you’ll need to mount them stacked upright.
Another advantage is that it’s compatible with kayaks up to 36 inches wide with a maximum weight capacity of 130 pounds.
We like that they feature thick rubber saddles to prevent scratching your vehicle or the kayaks. They also work to limit the movement of your kayaks and keep them in place while you’re on the road.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Heavy-duty construction
- Multiple configurations to choose from
Cons
- The thick rubber pads can make loading the kayaks more challenging
2. Malone Foldaway-5: Best Budget
The Malone Foldaway-5 is highly functional for a budget-friendly price. It’s sturdy enough to carry up to two kayaks. In addition, you can position your kayaks in various positions and configurations according to your preference.
One feature that stood out was its wide base. It’s designed to distribute the weight of the racks and kayaks across the roof to lessen the load on your car.
Then, to support the kayaks, you’ll find four sets of thumb screws as well as cross plates. They provide a super-tight grip that helps keep the kayaks securely in place.
The best part was loading the kayaks. It was easy and didn’t take more than 10 minutes, which means more time to enjoy your adventure.
Pros
- Multiple points of contact with the crossbars for maximum security
- Quick and easy installation
- Wide weight distribution to reduce the load on the vehicle
Cons
- Lacks cushion pads to protect kayaks and keep them in place
3. Thule Stacker: Best Multi-Kayak
Are you looking for a kayak rack that’s multi-purpose, heavy-duty, and reasonably priced? Then, the Thule Stacker is for you.
It’s designed to carry up to four 75-pound kayaks with an exceptional strap-in system that keeps them all in place. Then, when you’re not using it, simply fold it to save space.
We especially like the non-scratch exterior coating on the steel frame. It’s super durable and highly weather-resistant.
Its oval shape helps distribute the weight. Plus, it keeps the kayaks firmly in place while limiting the overall movement of the entire rig.
Pros
- Ideal weight distribution on the frame
- Sturdy straps ensure kayaks stay in place
- Carries up to 4 kayaks but includes a strap for carrying only one
Cons
- Loading the kayaks is time-consuming and certainly not a 1-person job
4. Rhino-Rack: Best Quick-Release
Rhino racks are known for their heavy-duty, hard-wearing design. This model is no exception.
While most kayak racks carry a maximum of 75 pounds, this Rhino-Rack model can hold up to 132 pounds. Yet, you should also check the load capacity rating for the roof of your vehicle just to make sure it’s compatible with the rack.
It comes with two scratch-resistant padded straps, four tie-down straps, and two bow and stern straps for a quick-release locking system. All parts are designed to provide easy and quick installation and removal.
The best part is that it’s made of structural grade anodized aluminum. It’s resistant to corrosion and rust with a powder-coated finish for maximum strength. Plus, it ensures that all your gear stays in place, reducing the risk of accidents.
Pros
- Quick-release locking system for maximum stability
- Heavy-duty build
- Scratch-resistant padded straps
Cons
- Some users complained that the rack doesn’t tighten enough to prevent movement
5. YAKIMA JayLow Rack: Best Durable
The YAKIMA JayLow kayak carrier is sturdy, heavy-duty, and highly functional. It can carry two kayaks vertically stacked or one kayak in a j-cradle position.
We like that it comes with all the necessary hardware for a quick and easy installation. Some of these include straps and tie-downs at the bow and the stern to ensure your gear stays firmly in place.
You’ll also find an integrated cam lever for added convenience. This feature allows you to quickly raise the rack when mounting your kayaks or fold it down to reduce drag and enhance clearance when driving.
The best part is you don’t need tools to assemble any parts. Instead, it comes pre-assembled and ready to install in under 10 minutes.
Pros
- Versatile design
- It comes with all necessary hardware for a quick and easy installation
- Compatible with almost every kayak on the market
Cons
- Some users complained of a faulty locking mechanism
Tips for Safe Kayak Loading
Now that you know the five best kayak racks, here are a few tips that can come in handy when loading your kayak.
- Make sure the crossbars can handle the extra load of the rack and kayak.
- Invest in a high-quality kayak roller load assist to help you push the kayak onto the racks from the rear of the car.
- Install a car door step or portable tire wheel step to facilitate the loading process, especially if you’re doing it on your own.
- Get a cable with combination locks and run it through the kayak scupper holes and then through the crossbars to protect your gear against theft.
Final Thoughts
There are many good options regarding the best kayak rack for Subaru Forester. Yet, even the best sellers have their drawbacks.
So, it’s up to you to decide on what you’re looking for in a rack. Do you want something durable that can support up to four kayaks simultaneously? Then, the Thule Stacker should be your top pick.
How about cost? Do you want a rack that’s both heavy-duty and affordable? Then, you’ll love the Malone Foldaway-5.