Thule Portage or Yakima Keel Over Kayak Rack Recommendation

Updated 03/17/2025 | Published 02/10/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima KeelOver Canoe Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Gunwale Brackets - Clamp On

(40)

$198.95

Thule Portage Canoe Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - Gunwale Brackets - Side Loading

(41)

$219.95

Question:

Im looking to buy a complete rack system for my subaru forester to carry our canoe. Im in between the Yakima Keelover and the Thule Portage system at the moment. Do you have any preference between the two? The straps that tie to the front and back of the car on the Thule look to come with a pulley system rather than the regular straps of the Yakima but Im not sure if that makes much difference. Thank you.

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

Between the Thule Portage # TH819 and the Yakima KeelOver part # Y04069 I would go with the Portage. It is going to be easier to use and secure since it has the ratcheting tie-downs that you referenced as the pulleys. That will make securing the bow/stern tie downs much easier.

Aside from that the two carriers are pretty similar, but the edge goes to the Thule because of the ratchets.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Pit

3/17/2025

Go with the Yakima Keelover. The tie-downs are just as good and secure as the Thule. Your canoe will not move laterally with both. More importantly the Yaks Keelover are $40 less than the Thule. You will not regret purchasing the Yakima Keelover. Looks like the response guy makes more money if you purchase the Thule Portage at $199, compared to the Yakima keel over at: & $158.99.

Jameson C.

3/17/2025

@Pit I appreciate your input here. This answer was written over ten years ago and these carries have both had a few iterations since and the price has changed quite a bit. I didn't pick the Thule based on making myself more money though.