If you’re a Subaru Crosstrek owner and an adventure seeker who loves kayaking, you know how important it is to have a reliable Subaru Crosstrek kayak rack. Choosing the right kayak rack for Subaru Crosstrek is crucial since it ensures your kayak is securely fastened during transport and prevents any damage to your vehicle.
This article will explore the top seven kayak racks for the Subaru Crosstrek, providing details about their features, advantages, and disadvantages.
In summary, we believe that the Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier is the top choice for a Subaru Crosstrek Kayak Rack due to its comprehensive features. However, our article presents other notable options worth considering as well.
Which Kayak Racks for The Subaru Crosstrek are Currently Considered The Best Options to Buy?
The Subaru Crosstrek accessory brochure highlights numerous recommended Thule products. However, we have curated a list of seven top options for Subaru Crosstrek Kayak Racks to simplify your search. Take a look at the following selection:
Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier
The Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier is an innovative lift-assist kayak rack designed to make it easy for individuals to load and unload their kayaks on their own. Moreover, the Thule Hullavator Pro might be considered the best kayak roof rack for Subaru Crosstrek that you can find on the market today.
The gas-assist struts help lift and lower up to 40 lbs of the kayak’s weight, reducing the strain on the user’s back and arms. The double-extending arms allow for loading and unloading at waist height, which further adds to the convenience and ease of use. This kayak rack also features eight touchpoints of padded support to ensure maximum protection for the kayak.
Additionally, the corrosion-resistant kayak cradles can expand to fit wide kayaks. It’s also made of aluminum and double-coated steel construction, which makes it durable and built to last.
The Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier comes with bow and stern tie-downs for transporting one kayak and has a load capacity of 75 lbs. With dimensions of 36 x 6 x 16 inches, and it weighs 39.7 lbs.
Yakima JayLow Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack
The Yakima JayLow Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack is a versatile and sturdy way to transport kayaks on your vehicle’s roof.
This kayak rack can carry up to two kayaks with a maximum weight capacity of 110 lbs. The J-cradle position allows one kayak to be securely mounted, while the vertical, stacked position can accommodate two kayaks.
The Yakima JayLow Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack is designed to be compatible with a wide range of crossbars, such as Yakima SteamLine, round, square, factory, and aerodynamic crossbars. It can be used as long as the minimum spread between the crossbars is 24 inches.
The included Heavy-Duty Straps and Bow/Stern Tie-Downs provide added security, while the integrated cam lever makes it easy to adjust the upright position. The Yakima JayLow is also designed to fold flat when not in use for better clearance and reduced drag.
This kayak rack comes fully assembled and can be installed without tools in approximately 10 minutes. It is recommended to use the Yakima Fit My Car Tool to ensure compatibility with your vehicle. The SKS locks are sold separately for added security.
Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier
The Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier is a top-of-the-line kayak carrier designed for easy loading and transporting your kayak. This carrier features a built-in boarding ramp that makes it effortless to load your kayak onto your vehicle and fold-down technology that increases overhead clearance for your convenience.
This kayak rack is also compatible with the MPG351 Telos Load Assist for even easier loading. The oversized padding on the carrier protects your boat during transport, while the JAWZ mounting hardware fits round, square, and most factory oval cross rails, making it versatile and easy to install.
Additionally, the cam-style load straps with buckle protectors ensure your kayak stays secure during transport. The dimensions of this kayak rack are 17 inches in length, 6 inches in width, and 19.5 inches in height, with a load capacity of 75 lbs.
HandiRack Universal Inflatable Soft Roof Rack Bars
The HandiRack Universal Inflatable Soft Roof Rack Bars are a versatile and cost-effective solution for carrying all kinds of gear and luggage on your vehicle’s roof. Unlike traditional roof racks, this innovative system uses inflatable technology to create two air-filled cross bars that cushion and protect your load.
This kayak rack is Made from heavy-duty 400D Nylon material, these bars are strong and durable, with a load capacity of 175lbs. The HandiRack is easy to install with no tools required and is compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and 4x4s.
It can be used to carry kayaks, canoes, surfboards, snowboards, skis, and paddleboards, as well as ladders and bulky store purchases. The package includes two HandiRack twin tubes, two tiedown HandiStraps, two Bow and Stern lines, a High-volume HandiPump for inflating each bladder, and a detailed User Manual, all stored in a convenient drawstring travel bag.
However, it is unsuitable for vehicles with soft tops and curtain airbags and should not be left on the vehicle when not in use.
INNO Surf-Wind-Long Board Locking Roof Carrier
The INNO Surf-Wind-Long Board Locking Roof Carrier is a versatile and secure rack designed to transport kayaks, canoes, and various types of boards, including wind, paddle, sail, SUP, and long and short boards.
This kayak rack features rubber-coated straps and adjustable corner pads that protect the boat and boards from scratches and scuffs during transport.
The floating strap system makes loading and unloading boats and boards easy, while the universal mounting system fits square, round, Aero, and most factory bars. The ratcheting straps connect over the boat or board and tighten with integrated hand knobs to secure the gear in place.
The INNO also includes board pads (Ina771), and the ISF722 long bolt kit (sold separately) is required if the crossbar height is between 1.25″ and 2″.
Thule Hull-a-Port Pro Rooftop Kayak Carrier
The Thule Hull-a-Port Pro Rooftop Kayak Carrier is an ideal solution for those who need to transport kayaks on the roof of their vehicle. This J-style kayak carrier allows for more space on the load bar, accommodating kayaks up to 34 inches wide and 75 pounds.
The PFD lever (pull, fold, done) allows for rapid folding and improved overhead clearance, making it easy to stow away when not in use. This kayak rack also features a J-profile for easy loading and quick on and off hardware, making it simple to use.
Additionally, the carrier includes two ratcheting bows and stern tie-downs, and two straps with buckle protectors for added security during transport.
The Hull-a-Port Pro is compatible with Thule rack systems, round bars, and most factory racks, making it a versatile choice.
With dimensions of 20 x 10.5 x 5.5 inches and a weight capacity of 75 pounds, this kayak rack is lightweight at only 12.6 pounds, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a convenient and easy-to-use kayak carrier.
TMS J-Bar Rack HD Kayak Carrier
The TMS J-Bar Rack HD Kayak Carrier is a heavy-duty kayak-carrying system designed to securely transport kayaks, canoes, boats, surfboards, and skis on top of a car or SUV. Made of sturdy steel with adjustable padding, the carrier offers both carrying strength and protection for your kayak.
This kayak rack wide-mouth J-bar design makes loading and unloading easier, and quick on/off hardware ensures fast installation and removal. The carrier is optimally sized to leave roof space available and can accommodate kayaks up to 36 inches wide and 75 pounds.
Authentic TMS products contain vacuum-sealed installation hardware and are shipped in labeled boxes with an item description. With this carrier, you can safely transport your kayak wherever you want to go, knowing it’s securely mounted on your vehicle’s roof.
Conclusion: Which Kayak Rack Stands Out as The Top Choice For The Subaru Crosstrek?
In summary, selecting an appropriate kayak rack for the Subaru Crosstrek holds significance for individuals passionate about watersports.
Within this article, we have explored seven distinct Subaru Crosstrek kayak racks, each offering distinctive features and advantages to facilitate secure and efficient kayak transportation. With options catering to various preferences and budgets, Subaru Crosstrek owners can find a suitable kayak rack that suits their requirements.
Please note that there are a number of criteria to consider when buying the best kayak rack for Subaru Crosstrek. Moreover, we recommend double-checking the compatibility and fitment with your specific Subaru Crosstrek vehicle before purchasing.
We would also like to point out that most Kayak racks do need an existing roof rack or cross bars in order to be mounted safely and securely.
Based on our analysis, we recommend the Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier as the top choice for a Subaru Crosstrek kayak rack. It provides excellent value and modern features that are highly advantageous for any adventure.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly and versatile option for a Subaru Crosstrek kayak rack, we suggest considering the HandiRack Universal Inflatable Soft Roof Rack Bars. These bars can also be utilized for various other purposes.
Ultimately, we hope that you found our Best Subaru Crosstrek Kayak Rack article informative and enjoyable. If you did, we kindly request your assistance in sharing it, as your support motivates us to produce more relevant and helpful content.
