5 Best Kayak Racks For The Subaru Forester

Subaru Forester + Kayak = Match Made for the Outdoors

Let’s be honest — if you’re driving a Subaru Forester, you’ve already got one foot in the great outdoors. It’s not just a compact SUV — it’s a lifestyle enabler. The Forester was practically born for dirt roads, forest trails, and quiet rivers. With its spacious cabin, roof rail-ready setup, and legendary all-wheel drive, it’s the kind of ride that begs for a kayak strapped on top.

Still, even the most adventure-ready ride needs a little help when it comes to hauling a 12-foot kayak. Because let’s face it: trying to balance a long boat on your roof with foam blocks and old straps is not the vibe. And a bad rack setup? That’s a quick way to turn excitement into stress.

That’s where this guide comes in. We’re diving deep into the best kayak racks that actually work with the Subaru Forester — racks that are solid, secure, and don’t require a PhD to install. Whether you’re paddling solo, doubling up with a partner, or just want a no-fuss option that folds down when not in use, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s gear up and get you water-bound with the perfect rack for your Subaru.

1. Thule Hull-a-Port XT Kayak Rack

Why It Rocks:

Dual-position design (J-style or vertical stacker)
Easy fold-down mechanism for low clearance garages
Comes with all straps and tie-downs included
Tool-free installation
Compatible with most Forester crossbars (factory or aftermarket)

Best For:

Forester owners who want flexibility. Whether you’re carrying one kayak solo or doubling up with a buddy’s, this rack has your back.

Forester Fit:

Snaps easily onto factory or aftermarket crossbars. No drilling, no adapters, no drama.

What People Say:

“Took me 10 minutes to mount and load up my 11-foot kayak. Rock solid at 70 mph. Bonus: it folds down so I can still pull into the garage.”

Downsides:

Slightly more expensive than basic J-cradles
Folding mechanism can collect grime if not cleaned occasionally

Pro Tips:

Want to stack two kayaks? Set this up vertically and secure each one with separate bow/stern lines. You’ll be golden.

2. Yakima JayLow Folding Kayak Carrier

Why It Rocks:

Carries one kayak in J-cradle mode or two in stacker mode
Folds flat when not in use
Universal mounting hardware
Includes heavy-duty straps and tie-downs

Best For:

Minimalists and multipurpose drivers. This is for the weekend warrior who wants functionality without a bulky rack profile.

Forester Fit:

Fits most factory Subaru crossbars (2020 and up). Older models might need crossbar spacers — Yakima has those too.

What People Say:

“Been using this on my 2019 Forester for 3 years. Holds two kayaks for 500-mile trips. Not a single issue.”

Downsides:

Narrower cradles can be tricky for wider recreational kayaks
Needs a little finesse when loading heavier boats solo

Pro Tips:

Use Yakima’s SKS lock system to keep it secure on your Forester. Peace of mind never hurts.

3. Malone Downloader J-Style Universal Rack

Why It Rocks:

Budget-friendly and sturdy
Built-in boarding ramp makes loading easier
Fold-down design
Comes with tie-downs and straps

Best For:

New paddlers or budget-conscious Forester owners who want reliability without blowing the gear fund.

Forester Fit:

Works well with factory-installed bars or aftermarket systems like Malone’s own crossbars. Just make sure your bar spread supports your kayak length.

What People Say:

“This rack gets it done. Took my kayak from Vermont to Maine and back, no shifting, no rattling.”

Downsides:

Plastic hinges wear faster than all-metal models
Not as streamlined as more expensive options

Pro Tips:

Add Malone’s Telos XL load assist if lifting over your head isn’t your thing. It’ll save your back.

4. Rhino-Rack Nautic 570 Series Carrier

Why It Rocks:

Side-loading design = super easy to load solo
4 rubber pads cradle your kayak
Lockable with Rhino-Rack accessory locks
UV-stabilized materials resist sun and salt

Best For:

Solo adventurers and those who want simplicity. This is a smooth operator — no crazy mechanisms, just paddle-and-go reliability.

Forester Fit:

Pairs nicely with Rhino-Rack’s Vortex Aero crossbars or Subaru OEM crossbars.

What People Say:

“As a solo female paddler, this rack made me feel like a pro. Load, strap, and go — it’s that easy.”

Downsides:

Not great for stacking two kayaks
Loading from the side takes a bit more parking space

Pro Tips:

Combine with a step stool or rear tire step to make loading even easier if your Forester’s roof feels too tall.

5. INNO INA450 Locking Kayak Carrier

Why It Rocks:

Dual cradles for maximum security
Built-in locks for both kayaks and rack
Soft base pads and straps protect hull integrity
Fits most crossbars — even thick aero styles

Best For:

Security-conscious Subaru owners and long-distance travelers. If you want peace of mind on the freeway or overnight stops, this one’s for you.

Forester Fit:

Snaps on to most factory or aftermarket crossbars. Check INNO’s fit guide for older models.

What People Say:

“Locked up two kayaks in a hotel lot overnight. Didn’t worry once. That alone makes this rack worth it.”

Downsides:

Higher price point
Installation can take longer on some crossbars

Pro Tips:

Wipe it down with silicone spray occasionally to keep moving parts smooth and weather-resistant.

How to Choose the Right Kayak Rack for Your Subaru Forester (Buyer’s Guide)

Choosing a kayak rack for your Forester isn’t as simple as picking the one with the nicest reviews or the shiniest logo. You’ve got to factor in your lifestyle, your gear, your loading strength, and even your parking garage. The right rack isn’t just about functionality — it’s about making your life easier and your adventures more spontaneous.

Let’s break it down and help you pick the best match for your setup:

1. Type of Kayak

Your kayak’s size and shape play a huge role in determining the right rack. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Recreational Kayaks: These are usually 9 to 12 feet long and lighter in weight. J-cradles or stacker systems are perfect here — easy to mount and don’t need super advanced cradling.
Sea/Touring Kayaks: Longer (often 14–18 feet) and narrower. These boats benefit from full-length cradles or saddles that provide support and prevent hull warping on long trips.
Fishing Kayaks: These are the beasts of the kayak world — wide, often over 35 inches, and heavy. Look for racks with higher weight capacities, wider cradles, and ideally load-assist systems to save your back.

2. Solo vs. Tandem Loading

Think about how often you’ll have help.

Going Solo? Look for racks with integrated load-assist features — like gas struts, sliding cradles, or V-style guides. These let you hoist one end of the kayak while the rack does the rest. Side-loaders are especially helpful.
Got Help? If you usually paddle with a friend or family member, you’ve got more flexibility. You can get away with simpler J-style cradles or stackers that allow for two boats — just make sure your roof bars can handle the total weight.

3. Frequency of Use

How often do you hit the water?

Frequent paddler? You’ll want a rack that’s not just sturdy but also weather-resistant. Look for aluminum or stainless steel construction, rust-proof finishes, and secure locking mechanisms.
Occasional adventurer? You can save a little money with simpler setups. Foam block kits or budget-friendly cradles will hold up just fine with occasional weekend use — just be sure to double-check tie-downs for longer drives.

4. Foldable vs. Fixed

Space matters — especially when you’re pulling into low-clearance garages or carports.

Foldable Racks: These pivot down when not in use, giving you a sleeker roof profile and better gas mileage. Great for daily drivers or city parking.
Fixed Racks: Usually a bit cheaper and simpler, but always ‘on’. They stick up above your roof and might prevent you from parking in tight spots. If your kayak lives on your roof most of the season, this might not be a big deal.

5. Locking Features

If you’re planning road trips, overnight stays, or just parking in public places — this is big.

Integrated Rack Locks: These help deter theft of the rack itself.
Kayak Security Cables: Some racks come with built-in cable locks or allow you to run a lock through the kayak.

A locked kayak is one less thing to worry about when grabbing lunch post-paddle.

6. Roof Height Consideration

The Subaru Forester has decent ground clearance, but lifting a heavy kayak above shoulder height can still be tough.

Step stools or tire steps are a must-have for many paddlers — especially those on the shorter side or with heavier boats.
Load-assist mechanisms are worth the splurge if you’re doing this solo or frequently.

Extra Gear You’ll Want

Getting the right rack is step one, but having the right accessories can take your kayak-hauling game to pro level. These extras keep your kayak safe, your Forester scratch-free, and your whole trip a heck of a lot smoother.

Bow and Stern Tie-Downs: These aren’t just optional; they’re crucial for stabilizing your kayak during highway drives and windy conditions. Look for ones with ratchets or cam buckles for secure tensioning. Bonus: many racks already include these, but having a backup set never hurts.
Cam Straps: Softer and safer than ratchet straps, cam straps let you cinch down your kayak without crushing the hull. Look for UV-resistant materials and corrosion-proof buckles.
Roof Pads or Towels: If you’re ever hauling directly on your crossbars or using a foam block system, throw down roof pads or even towels to protect both your kayak and your Subaru’s paint job.
Storage Hooks or Ceiling Mounts: Unless you live on the water (jealous!), your kayak will need a home between trips. Wall-mounted racks or ceiling hoists free up floor space and help prevent warping from poor storage angles.
Tire-Mounted Step or Folding Step Stool: Game changer. Makes rooftop access way easier, especially for shorter paddlers or tall SUVs.
Load Assist Devices: If you’re flying solo, products like the Malone Telos XL, Yakima ShowDown, or Thule Hullavator can help you lift one end of the kayak and glide it into place. Yes, they cost extra — but your shoulders will thank you.
Dry Bags & Deck Storage: Not directly related to the rack, but if you’re loading gear on top, having waterproof storage or deck bags helps organize everything and protects it from road spray.
Reflective Tape or Flag: For longer boats that hang past the bumper, adding a flag or reflective tape keeps you legal and safe — especially if you’re traveling at night.

Outfitting your rack setup with a few of these add-ons can make a huge difference in safety, convenience, and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Ready to Roll?

With the right rack, your Subaru Forester transforms from a reliable daily driver into a full-blown weekend warrior. It stops being just a way to get to work and becomes a passport to rivers, lakes, and oceans waiting to be explored. That kayak sitting in your garage? It’s practically screaming to get wet — and now, there’s no excuse.

Whether you’re eyeing a budget-friendly Malone, a high-security INNO, or a premium Thule with all the bells and whistles, the right kayak rack makes all the difference. No more stressing about tie-downs, no more risky rides with boats flopping around like fish out of water. Just smooth, confident, adventure-ready hauling.

And hey — your Forester was made for this. All that storage space, AWD grip, and roof clearance? It’s a dream setup for paddlers who want to make the most of their weekends.

So go ahead. Pick your rack. Load up your yak. Find a stretch of water that soothes the soul, and chase that feeling. You’re not just taking a trip. You’re answering the call of adventure.

Let’s roll, paddle-first. 🛶