Ski / Snowboard Rack For A 2009 Subaru Forester

Question:

Hello, I have a somewhat bare roof 2009 Subaru Forester x model but I say somewhat because it has the black trim and I think 4 sections where I can install a rack or roof rails. Id like to be able to transport snowboard and skis. There is a possibility I might want to buy a cargo carrier in the future or maybe that is one way to transport them? I could get OEM rack rails to start but it seems I still have to buy cross bars along with ski rack? Or would it make sense to buy 3rd party rails with cross bars? There are so many choices. Lastly, I was considering ski rack for bare roofs but they seem very expensive and limited to for only one purpose. Thoughts? Thanks!

asked by: Shelley

Expert Reply:

The SportRack Horizon Rooftop Cargo Box # SR7011 is a solution that would provide room for 5-6 pairs of skis or 3 snowboards with bindings, but not 5-6 pairs of skis AND 3 snowboards with bindings. This box will accommodate skis up to 82-1/2 inches in length.

Since you don't have the factory raised rails, the roof rack kit you would use to mount the cargo carrier is somewhat limited and with cost being a factor, Rhino Rack square bar roof rack consisting of parts # RRVA126S-2, # RRRLKVA, # DK186 is a solid option.

expert reply by: Patrick R