Easy to Load Kayak Carrier Recommendation for 2019 Subaru Forester with Raised Side Rails

Question:

Hi Jameson! You're incredibly helpful, thank you so much. So, I want to make sure I understand. It looks like the Yakima carrier is only for a single kayak. If I want lift assist, I would need to buy two, one for each side. There aren't any kayak carriers with lift assist for two, right?. If that's the case, and cost prohibited me from going that route, what would the best option be for two kayaks on a Subaru Forester 2019 with only factory side rails: Crossbars? Kayak racks?

asked by: Stephanie H

Expert Reply:

The best option to make loading kayaks on the roof of your 2019 Subaru Forester is going to be with an assisted kayak carrier like the Thule Hullavator part # TH898 which you'd load at waist height and then push the rack and kayak up onto the roof with the strut assisted carrier's lift mechanisms. So to fit that on your vehicle you'd need a roof rack with wider crossbars like the Malone # MPG216 which has bars that are 58 inches long. This would give you ability to install two of the Hullavators for both of your kayaks.

I attached a review video for the Hullavator on a similar 2019 Forester for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C

click to enlarge

Stephanie H.

9/1/2020

Looking to transport 2-3 kayaks with my 2019 Subaru Forester sport. It has side rails, no crossrails. Im looking at the Thule stacker, but Im short and worry about being able to lift the yak to position. Can u recommend crossrails for the Thule, and any other recommendations?

Stephanie H.

1/1/0001

Jameson C.

9/1/2020

The assisted kayak carriers are a bit pricey for sure but we do have the Yakima ShowDown part # Y04081 which is very similar that is significantly better on price.

Jameson C.

9/15/2020

You are correct that the assisted kayak carriers are all individual kayak carriers and you'd need two for each boat. For a double kayak carrier that would work great the Thule Compass part # TH890000 with the Malone roof rack would be a really great option and the best compromise between price and ease of use.