How to Carry 2 Kayaks on the Roof of a 1999 Subaru Forester

Updated 07/19/2018 | Published 07/18/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(162)

$248.95

Inno Square Crossbars - Steel - Black - 46" Long - Qty 2

(1189)

$136.17

Inno Feet for Square Crossbars - Track Systems, Flush Side Rails, and Fixed Mounting Points - Qty 4

(168)

$197.48

Custom Fit Kit for Inno XS300, XS350, XS400, XS450, INTR, and INXR Roof Rack Feet

(1)

$121.94

Malone SteelTop Roof Rack - Square Crossbars - Raised, Factory Side Rails - Steel - 50" Long

(533)

$152.95

Question:

We have a 1999 Subaru Forester. Can we carry two 12 foot kayaks on the roof, approximately 52 pounds each.

asked by: Robert G

Expert Reply:

It looks like the weight capacity of the factory roof rack or an aftermarket rack that attaches to the front to back side rails is 150 pounds. So as far as weight capacity goes you will be able to load two 52 pound kayaks on the roof.

IF you have the factory crossbars that run side to side you could use a J-style carrier like the Yakima JayLow # Y04073.

If your Forester only has side rails that run front to back you will need to first add crossbars before you can use # MPG201 for raised side rails (gap between roof and bottom of rails) or bars # INB117 with feet # INTR and fit kit # INTR102 for flush side rails.