Roof Rack and Assisted Kayak Carrier Recommendation for 2026 Subaru Outback Wagon

Updated 03/23/2026 | Published 02/13/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Roof Rack and Lift Assist w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Universal Mount

(117)

$899.95

Yakima TimberLine Roof Rack for Raised Rails - JetStream Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - Qty 2

(11)

$544.90

Question:

I am looking for roof rack lift-assist options for my two kayaks. CAR: 2026 Subaru Outback dynamic roof weight of 220 pounds KAYAKS: two Dagger Katana 10.4 kayaks, each weighing 55 pounds each LIFT ASSIST: I am interested in knowing if the following products will work with my car: • Thule Hullvantor Pro • Yakima Showdown QUESTIONS: If these will work, is there one that you recommend as best for the car? I lean towards the Thule, primarily as my wife and I are in our early 70’s. After watching your videos on your website, I don’t think the Yakima would be a problem, but the Thule does seem easier if it would work. Finally, what parts would be needed for the two systems? Thanks! - John

asked by: John D

Expert Reply:

Hey John, we'd be glad to help you pick out the best lift assisted kayak carrier for your 2026 Subaru Outback Wagon! I think the Thule Hullavator part # TH898 would be your best option as it is a little easier to use and load so that's what I would go with.

Then for a roof rack you'd need something that has crossbars that extend out past the feet of the rack like the Yakima part # Y39YD that is a confirmed fit for your vehicle. How often are you guys out kayaking?

expert reply by: Jameson C

John D.

2/26/2026

Jameson, thanks for your reply. The eTrailer website says the weight capacity for the Yakima TimberLine Roof Rack for Raised Rails (Y39YD) with JetStream Crossbars is 165 pounds. While the dynamic roof weight of a 2026 Subaru Outback is rated at 220 pounds, I believe the recommended configuration with two sets of Hullavators and my two kayaks exceeds that limit for the CROSSBARS (not the car). KAYAKS: two Dagger Katana 10.4 kayaks, each weighing 55 pounds, for a total of 110 pounds LIFT ASSIST: Thule Hullavator Pro, weighing 39.7 pounds per set for two kayaks, for a total of 79.4 pounds TOTAL WEIGHT: 189.4 pounds (not including the Yakima Timberline Roof Rack roof rack weight) This would be 24.4 pounds over the Yakima Timberline Roof Rack's weight limit of 165 pounds. My calculation assumes the 39.7-pound weight limit product listing for the Hullavator Pro applies to a set (two for one kayak), not per unit. Is that correct? Is my thinking correct that the crossbars are over the support weight limit by 24.4 pounds? If so, do you have an alternative rack you recommend? Any Thule racks? I only ask as I already have Thule key locks from older, shorter racks I could use.

Jameson C.

2/26/2026

@JohnD We have the Yakima HD roof rack part # Y68BB that is a confirmed fit and has a much higher capacity at 500 lb. Thule doesn't have a higher capacity option for your vehicle at this time.

John D.

2/27/2026

@JamesonC That sounds great! I am curious, though, if Thule eventually confirms a fit for the 2026 Subaru Outback, would the Thule WingBar Evo bars work with my proposed use? Those bars are rated for 220 pounds, which would be closer to my needs, while the Yakima HD is a bit of an overkill at 500 pounds and potentially noisier, but greater than the Yakima Timberline (165 pounds), which would not be enough for my needs (approx. 200-210 pounds total depending on bar weight). Any rough idea of when Thule might confirm fit on a 2026 Subaru Outback? If they do, would the Wingbar Evo bars work with two sets of Hullavators on a 2026 Subaru Outback? Or is there something in general about the WingBar Evo that precludes use? I’m trying to decide whether to pull the trigger now or wait a little longer if Thule is likely to confirm fit soon. I really appreciate your help!

Jameson C.

3/2/2026

@JohnD If a Wingbar Evo does come out for your vehicle (it basically is guaranteed that it will) the capacity will still be an issue as the complete roof rack kits would still be limited to 165 lb because of the capacity of the feet of the rack.