What is the Best Way to Carry 2 Kayaks on a 2015 Subaru Forester With No Side Rails?

Updated 03/03/2020 | Published 08/07/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima JayLow Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(158)

$248.95

etrailer Kayak Tie-Down Kit

(63)

$40.66

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

(66)

$229.95

Thule Water Slide Non-Skid Loading Mat

(21)

$99.95

Yakima Bow/Stern Tie-Down Ropes w/ Ratchets and Strap Loops - 1/4" x 12' - 150 lbs - Qty 2

(38)

$48.95

Question:

Where to start? Need to carry 2 kayaks. Thanks.

asked by: Parsage

Expert Reply:

Your first step will be to pick a roof rack set that fits your vehicle. I've included a link below that takes you directly to the list of roof racks that are compatible with your vehicle, but I also have recommendations based on your intended goal.

First, the rack kit I recommend is the Thule AeroBlade Edge Aero Bar, consisting of:
- Thule AeroBlade Edge Roof Rack, part # TH7602-TH7602
- Thule Fit Kit for Podium Style Foot Pack, part # THKIT3079

This will provide both stylish and aerodynamic racks for the top of your vehicle, and can be installed easily at home with included tools. Additionally, they accept both clamp-in and traditional mounts for a multitude of accessories.

With the Thule bars I recommend the Yakima JayLow, part # Y04073, because it can carry one or two kayaks and can be folded down flat when not in use. For the second set of tie-downs use part # Y04031.

If you aren't interested in going the J-Style Mounting route, the Thule Stacker, part # TH830, allows for two kayaks to be tied down to the same post on their side, and can, with multiple units, ride up to 4 kayaks all together.

For the Stacker, I recommend the etrailer Kayak tie-down kit # e36ZR, to make tying down your bow and stern a breeze, and also the Non-Slip Water Slide Loading Assist, part # TH854 to make loading even easier.

As always, do not exceed your manufacturer's weight limit of 165lbs on the roof, including your cargo and rack system.

expert reply by: Jacob W

Blake H.

3/2/2020

I also have a 2015 with two new kayaks coming soon. My Forester already has a roof rack with crossbars. Would you still suggest the Hull-A-Port XT for that as well?

Chris R.

3/3/2020

The Thule Hull-A-Port Carrier # TH848 is still a great option that lets you transport 1 or both kayaks on the roof. I do really like its ability to convert into a post-style for two kayaks. With that being said, if you will always have both kayaks with you, I honestly think a better solution is with two separate J-style carriers like # e98878 (which includes tie-downs). This lets you put one set on each side of the roof for easier loading. With a post-style carrier you'd need to lift that first kayak all the way over the upright post and further towards the middle of the roof, which can be.......not fun. A separate J-style carrier for each kayak just makes for a better trip, especially when your arms are numb after getting back from the water.

Helpful Links

Watersport-Carriers/etrailer/e98878.html