Cost-Effective Roof Rack and Kayak Carrier for a 2015 Subaru Forester

Published 10/18/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack - Aero Crossbars - Raised Side Rails - Aluminum - 58" Long - Silver

(1701)

$233.95

etrailer Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(219)

$129.99

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

(10)

$111.84

Inno Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 51" Long - Qty 2

(332)

$258.72

Inno Through Feet for Aero Crossbars - Fixed Mounting Points - Qty 4

(211)

$219.94

Question:

I have a 2015 Subaru Forrester. It doesnt currently have any roof rack system. Im looking to get the most affordable option for transporting a kayak with my car. Any suggestions?

asked by: Brad N

Expert Reply:

There are a handful of choices out there for your 2015 Subaru Forester and I'd be happy to make some recommendations for you! I have 2 different roof rack recommendations and the difference is whether or not you have the raised rails on your roof from the factory:

With Raised Rails
Malone AriFlow2 - # MPG216

Without Raised Rails
51" Inno Aero Crossbars - # INXB130-2
Through Feet - # INXS350
Fit Kit - # INTR145

Than when it comes to a kayak carrier the most cost-effective solution is the Malone Kayak Carrier with Tie-Downs # MPG154 but this uses foam blocks which we really only recommend using if you don't plan on transporting your kayak far or long. If you plan on carrying the kayak on a long trip or frequently then I recommend using the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier # e98878 instead because it will be much more secure but is still at a great price-point when compared to other J-Style carriers.

Attached are some review videos for you to check out.