2 Kayak Carrier for the Factory Roof Rack on a 2009 Subaru Forester

Question:

I own 2 kayaks . I am looking for carriers to fit stock 2009 subaru forrester roof racks. Kayaks are 28.5 in wide x 10 ft long 47# and 29 in wide x 9.5 ft long 36#. I will be useing this car on mountain roads so rigidity is the biggest factor. 2 singles are ok if they would fit. Please give options with pros and cons.

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

For 2 kayaks I recommend going with the Thule Stacker, # TH830. This carrier will fit the factory crossbars on your 2009 Subaru Forester and can hold your 2 kayaks.

Essentially, what this carrier does, is provide vertical uprights that you can tie off 2 kayaks to. The Thule Stacker provides 2 attachment points to the crossbars per upright so it would be more secure.

I recommend adding a couple of the Malone Hood Loops,MPG308, to provide easy to access tie down points to secure the bows and sterns of the kayaks. I have included some video links of this carrier for you.

Be sure to check the capacity of the roof rack and roof (this information may be on the rack itself or in the owners manual) to make sure it can handle the weight of the kayaks.

expert reply by: Michael H