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
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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.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Yakima JayLow Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On
- Watersport Carriers
- Fishing Kayak
- Kayak
- Roof Mount Carrier
- J-Style
- Post-Style
- Folding
- Aero Bars
- Factory Bars
- Round Bars
- Square Bars
- Side Loading
- Clamp-On
- No Load Assist
- Yakima
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on Watersport Carriers
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?