Transporting your kayak safely and efficiently is a key part of any paddling adventure with your Subaru Outback. The right roof rack system not only protects your valuable gear but also ensures a secure and stress-free drive to your favorite launch spot. With a myriad of options available, from complete crossbar systems to dedicated J-bar carriers, selecting the ideal setup for your needs can be a challenge.
This roundup is designed to simplify your search by highlighting nine of the best kayak roof rack solutions compatible with your Subaru Outback. We have curated a selection that includes both trusted name brands and highly-rated universal options, focusing on features like durability, ease of use, and secure mounting to help you make an informed decision for your next outing.
Top Kayak Roof Racks for Your Subaru Outback
- PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack 2 Pairs J-Bar Carrier Holder
- FORWODE Premium Kayak Roof Rack, 2 Pair J-Bar Roof Rack
- 2 Pairs Kayak Roof Rack for Car Top Roof Mount Carrier
- TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers
- 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie
- Yakima Set of 2 Roof Rack Crossbars, Rooftop Car Bars
- Thule Wingbar Evo, 50″-Black
- Thule Compass Kayak and SUP roof rack – Carries 2 kayaks
- Malone Autorack VersaRail 58″ Aero Cross Bars
PIRIPARA Kayak Roof Rack 2 Pairs J-Bar Carrier Holder
This set from PIRIPARA offers a robust solution for carrying two kayaks on your Subaru Outback. Constructed from sturdy alloy steel, the racks feature a total load capacity of 150 lbs, providing strong support for your gear. The wide-mouth J-bar design is engineered for easier loading and unloading, making the process less strenuous.
Protection for your kayak is a priority with these racks. They come with adjustable padding that cushions your kayak or canoe during transport, helping to prevent scratches and damage. The entire unit is finished with a rust-resistant coating, which contributes to a longer product life even with frequent use in various weather conditions.
FORWODE Premium Kayak Roof Rack, 2 Pair J-Bar Roof Rack
The FORWODE rack system stands out with its upgraded, thickened carbon steel frame, capable of supporting up to 160 lbs. This design ensures the racks are both lightweight and exceptionally strong. A significant feature is the foldable design, which allows you to adjust the rack from 0 to 180 degrees to better accommodate different kayak shapes and profiles.
This kit is noted for its comprehensive set of accessories. It includes ratchet belts, S-hook ratchet pulleys, and anchor belts, providing multiple secure tie-down options. An added convenience is the specially designed paddle holder, freeing up interior space in your vehicle for other essentials.
2 Pairs Kayak Roof Rack for Car Top Roof Mount Carrier
This set provides a straightforward and cost-effective method for transporting two kayaks. The steel construction is paired with adjustable padding, which offers a good balance of carrying strength and protection for your kayak’s hull. The wide-mouth J-bar facilitates a simpler loading process.
Security is enhanced with the inclusion of high-quality, 10-foot-long tie-down straps that have a tested break strength of 600 lbs. The quick on/off hardware allows for fast installation and removal from your vehicle’s crossbars. It is important to note that these racks are designed to fit most factory or aftermarket square, oval, and flat crossbars, but they are not compatible with round bars.
TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers
TMS offers a proven, universal solution that has been a reliable choice for many kayak owners. These carriers are designed to mount to virtually all crossbars and load bars, securing the kayak on its side to minimize the space used on your roof. This design allows for the potential to mount up to four sets on a larger vehicle.
The racks feature a protective steel design with adjustable padding to safeguard your kayak during transit. The powder-coated finish provides rust resistance, contributing to the product’s longevity. With a capacity for kayaks up to 36 inches wide and 75 lbs per set, it is a solid and space-efficient option.
2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie
This heavy-duty rack set is built for security and ease of use. It includes a valuable upgrade with four ratchet tie-down straps, providing superior securing power for your kayaks. The steel J-bar frame is designed with protective padding and a wide mouth to simplify the loading process.
With a notable weight capacity of 100 lbs per kayak, this set can handle heavier models. The rust-resistant coating on all components helps ensure the racks remain in good condition over time. Like other universal models, it fits most square, oval, and flat crossbars, offering broad compatibility for your Subaru Outback’s roof system.
Yakima Set of 2 Roof Rack Crossbars
For Outback owners who need to build a roof system from the ground up, the Yakima JetStream crossbars are a premium starting point. These 50-inch bars are engineered with an aerodynamic, teardrop shape that is wind-tunnel tested to minimize noise and drag during highway driving.
The bars feature a robust internal support system called JetTruss, which provides exceptional strength without excessive weight. The T-slot design, complemented by SmartFill infill, allows for a streamlined and secure attachment of various accessories, including kayak carriers, making them a versatile foundation for all your gear-hauling needs.
Thule Wingbar Evo, 50″-Black
The Thule Wingbar Evo is another top-tier crossbar option known for its quality and performance. Made from super-lightweight aluminum, these bars are durable and resistant to corrosion. Their aerodynamic profile is designed to reduce wind noise and improve fuel efficiency on long drives.
A key feature is the integrated T-slot channel, which enables the quick and easy mounting of a wide range of Thule accessories and other branded carriers. This system provides a clean and secure attachment point, making it simple to configure your roof for kayaks, cargo boxes, or other sports equipment.
Thule Compass Kayak and SUP roof rack
The Thule Compass is a versatile and protective carrier designed for multiple water sports. It can transport two kayaks in a stacker mode or two stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) in a saddle mode, offering great flexibility. For a single kayak, it can be configured in a J-style or saddle position.
Protection is a hallmark of this product, featuring thick rubber saddles and a padded upright to cradle your gear and prevent damage during transport. With a generous weight limit of 130 lbs and the ability to fit kayaks up to 36 inches wide, it is a robust and adaptable choice for serious paddlers.
Malone Autorack VersaRail 58″ Aero Cross Bars
The Malone Autorack VersaRail crossbars provide a reliable and aerodynamic foundation for your kayak carrying system. These 58-inch aero bars are designed to reduce wind resistance and noise, contributing to a quieter and more efficient ride. They serve as the necessary base for attaching J-cradles, saddles, or other kayak carriers.
As a core component of a complete roof rack setup, these crossbars offer the flexibility to carry not just kayaks but a variety of other cargo. Their universal design aims for easy installation on vehicle-specific foot packs, making them a practical and versatile solution for expanding your Outback’s carrying capacity.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Kayak Roof Racks for Subaru Outback Models
So, you have a Subaru Outback and a kayak. The next step is figuring out how to get one on top of the other safely. I have been through this process myself, and I can tell you that not all roof racks are created equal. Your Outback likely has integrated side rails, which is a great start, but you will need crossbars and then a kayak carrier system to do the job right. Let us break down what you need to consider.
First, you need to understand the two main components: the crossbars and the kayak carrier. The crossbars mount perpendicular to your vehicle’s side rails, creating the foundational platform. The kayak carrier is the specific attachment that holds your boat securely to those crossbars. Some systems combine these into one, but most are separate. For your Outback, you will be looking at crossbars that are specifically designed to clamp onto the factory side rails. Pay close attention to the weight capacity of both the crossbars and the carrier. The combined weight of your kayak(s) and the carrier itself must not exceed the crossbars’ dynamic (while driving) weight limit. An average kayak weighs 50-80 pounds, so most Outback-rated systems can handle one or two boats with ease.
Next, think about the type of kayak carrier. J-style cradles are very popular because they hold the kayak on its side, making it easier to lift and load for one person. They also keep the kayak stable and secure. Hull-shaped stackers are another option, which are great if you plan to carry multiple kayaks. They hold the boat upright on its hull. Then there are roller systems and saddle-style carriers, which are fantastic for heavier kayaks as they help you slide the boat into place. I prefer J-cradles for my solo trips because of the easier loading, but if I am going with a friend, stackers are the way to go.
Finally, consider the material and ease of use. Crossbars are typically made from aluminum or steel, with aluminum being lighter and more resistant to rust. The carriers often feature padded cradles or straps to protect your kayak’s hull. Look for features like tool-free installation, locking mechanisms for security, and how easily the system can be removed when you do not need it. A good set of best 9 kayak roof racks for Subaru Outback models will make your adventures start smoothly, not with a frustrating 30-minute setup in the parking lot. Your choice ultimately comes down to your kayak type, how often you go out, your budget, and whether you usually load your gear by yourself or have a helping hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weight limit for kayaks on a Subaru Outback roof?
This is one of the most important questions. Your Subaru Outback’s factory side rails and a proper set of crossbars typically have a dynamic weight capacity (the weight you can carry while the vehicle is moving) of around 150 to 165 pounds. This weight includes the crossbars, the kayak carrier, and the kayak itself. So, if you have two 50-pound kayaks and a 30-pound carrier system, you are right at that 130-pound mark, which is generally safe. Always check your vehicle’s specific owner’s manual and the specifications of the crossbars you purchase to be certain. Exceeding this limit is unsafe and can damage your vehicle.
Can I transport two kayaks on my Outback?
Absolutely. Transporting two kayaks is very common. You will need crossbars that are long enough to accommodate the width of two kayaks side-by-side. Most crossbars designed for the Outback are sufficient. For the carriers, you can use two separate J-cradles or a hull-shaped stacker system that is designed to hold multiple kayaks. Just make sure you do not exceed the total dynamic weight limit we talked about earlier. Using bow and stern lines is also a very good idea for added stability when carrying multiple boats.
Do I need bow and stern straps in addition to the roof rack?
I highly recommend using them. While a high-quality roof rack system will securely hold your kayak to the crossbars, bow and stern straps (also called tie-downs) provide an extra layer of security. They prevent the front and back of the kayak from swaying or lifting due to wind gusts, especially at highway speeds. It is a simple step that significantly increases safety and gives you peace of mind on long drives. It is a best practice I always follow.
How do I load a kayak onto my Outback by myself?
Loading a kayak solo is totally doable with the right technique. If you have a J-cradle, it is often easier because you are lifting the kayak to its side rather than directly overhead. One method is to place a moving blanket on the rear bumper to protect it. Then, lift the stern of the kayak onto the blanket. You can then lift the bow and slide the kayak up onto the racks. Another great tool is a step stool placed next your car door. This gives you the extra height needed to lift one end of the kayak onto the crossbar, then you can go to the other end and lift it into place.
Are there any roof racks that do not require installed crossbars?
Yes, there are systems known as “soft racks” or temporary roof racks. These typically use padded bars that are strapped to your vehicle’s existing roof line or door frames. While they can be a cheaper, short-term solution, I find them to be less secure and more potential for causing damage to your car’s paint or door seals compared to a dedicated, vehicle-specific rack system like the best 9 kayak roof racks for Subaru Outback models. For frequent use, investing in a proper rack is the safer and more reliable choice.
What is the difference between a J-cradle and a saddle-style carrier?
The main difference is how the kayak sits. A J-cradle holds the kayak on its side, cradled in a “J” shape. This is great for stability and often makes for a lower lift when loading. A saddle-style carrier (or roller/saddle combo) supports the kayak sitting upright on its hull. Saddle systems are often better for wider or heavier kayaks, as you can rest the boat in the saddle and then secure it. J-cradles can be more space-efficient if you are carrying multiple boats, as they have a narrower footprint on the crossbar.