Recommended Carrier for LL Bean Manatee Kayak Compatible w/ Factory Crossbars on 2015 Subaru Outback

Updated 06/29/2015 | Published 06/26/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Stacker Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Post Style - Folding - Clamp On

(66)

$182.95

Hood Loops for Thule Bow/Stern Tie-Downs - Qty 2

(31)

$34.95

Question:

I have three questions: Does the rack fit on the 2015 Outback cross rails? Can this rack be used to carry a 12 foot long kayak such as the LL Bean Manatee? Is there a requirement to tie down the bow and stren ends of the kayak to the front and back of the vehicle? Thanks

asked by: Paul O

Expert Reply:

According to Thule, the # TH830 will fit the factory crossbars on your 2015 Subaru Outback. However, the # TH830 Stacker kayak carrier isn't compatible with kayaks larger than 10 feet in length.

Thule offers another carrier, the Thule Hull-A-Port # TH834. The kayak will sit still in the cradle allowing you to tie the kayak down without a second pair of hands, while the XT is kind of tricky for one person to use.

I've linked you to product description videos for the products I've recommended.

I would urge you to use the bow/stern tie downs. Long kayaks like yours are susceptible to being buffeted by cross winds or turbulence from oncoming traffic. The tighter you can attach the kayak to the vehicle, the better. Thule offers the # TH529 Hood Loops which attach under the hood, offering an easy attachment point for the tie-downs that won't scratch the vehicle.

expert reply by: Mike L