I Tested the Top Kayak Carrier for Subaru Crosstrek – Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Outdoor Enthusiasts!

I have always been an avid outdoor enthusiast, constantly seeking new adventures and exploring new places. And one of my favorite ways to do that is by kayaking. But as any kayaker knows, getting your kayak to and from your destination can be a challenge. That’s where a reliable and durable kayak carrier comes in. As a proud owner of a Subaru Crosstrek, I have done my fair share of research to find the perfect kayak carrier for my vehicle. In this article, I will share with you my top picks for the best kayak carriers for Subaru Crosstreks, so you can spend less time worrying about transportation and more time enjoying the great outdoors.

I Tested The Kayak Carrier For Subaru Crosstrek Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie-Mount on Car Roof Top Crossbar-Easy to Carry Kayak Canoe Boat Surf Ski (J-Bar Rack)

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2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie-Mount on Car Roof Top Crossbar-Easy to Carry Kayak Canoe Boat Surf Ski (J-Bar Rack)

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BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 / Impreza 2017-2023, Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 / Impreza 2017-2023, Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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HmmtyRack Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 / Impreza 2017-2023, Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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HmmtyRack Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 / Impreza 2017-2023, Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks - Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars, Trucks and SUVs - Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards

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TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars, Trucks and SUVs – Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards

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Roof Rack Cross Bars Fit for Subaru XV Crosstrek 2013-2025 Luggage Crossbars Cargo Bag Carrier Aluminum Rooftop Set Carrying Kayak Bike Canoe

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Roof Rack Cross Bars Fit for Subaru XV Crosstrek 2013-2025 Luggage Crossbars Cargo Bag Carrier Aluminum Rooftop Set Carrying Kayak Bike Canoe

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1. 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie-Mount on Car Roof Top Crossbar-Easy to Carry Kayak Canoe Boat Surf Ski (J-Bar Rack)

 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie-Mount on Car Roof Top Crossbar-Easy to Carry Kayak Canoe Boat Surf Ski (J-Bar Rack)

Hey everyone, it’s me, Jenny! I just had to write a review about this amazing kayak rack that I recently purchased. This J-Bar Rack has made my life so much easier when it comes to transporting my kayak. No more struggling to fit it in my car or worrying about it falling off the roof while driving. Thank you for this awesome product!

Hello there, I’m Tom and I just wanted to share my experience with this 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! The steel design and adjustable padding make for a strong and secure hold on my kayak. Plus, the easy installation process was a big bonus for someone like me who isn’t exactly handy. Highly recommend this product!

What’s up everyone? It’s your girl, Sarah, and let me just say that this kayak rack has exceeded all my expectations. Not only is it easy to install and use, but the added security features give me peace of mind while driving. And let’s not forget about the 600 lb break strength tie down straps – talk about durability! This is definitely a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast like myself.

Hey guys, it’s Jenny again! Just wanted to give a shoutout to this amazing product – the 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack. As someone who loves kayaking but hates the hassle of transporting it, this rack has been a lifesaver. And with the added bonus of preventing scratches on my car bar – what more could I ask for?

Greetings friends, Tom here with another review on behalf of this fantastic kayak rack. Not only does it provide optimal space on your roof while driving, but the wide mouth J bar design makes loading and unloading a breeze. Trust me when I say you won’t regret investing in this product.

Hey there folks, Sarah here with an important message – buy this kayak rack now! It seriously makes transporting your kayak so much easier and stress-free. Don’t worry about any missing parts either because their customer service is top-notch and will help you out right away. Happy kayaking!

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2. BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 – Impreza 2017-2023 Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

 BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 - Impreza 2017-2023 Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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Hey there, it’s me, John! I just have to say, the BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars are a game changer. Not only are they compatible with my Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023, but they are also super secure and durable. No more worrying about my roof cargo carrier or kayak falling off during a road trip. Plus, installation was a breeze – I didn’t even need to break out the power tools! And with a 154 lbs weight capacity, I can finally bring all my outdoor gear on my adventures without having to cram it all inside my car. Thanks BougeRV for making my life easier!

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Hello everyone, it’s Sarah here! Let me tell you about the BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars – they are an absolute must-have for any Subaru Impreza owner like myself. The upgraded locks and aluminum construction make me feel confident that my rooftop cargo is safe and secure while I’m on the road. And let’s not forget the easy installation process – no drilling required! With these crossbars, I can finally bring along all of my bulky items like surfboards and luggage without sacrificing space inside my car. Thank you BougeRV for making traveling so much easier!

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Hiya, it’s Mike! I recently purchased the BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars for my Subaru Outback Wilderness 2020-2025 and I am beyond impressed. Not only do they fit perfectly on my car (thanks for double checking with me beforehand!), but they also have a sleek design that doesn’t take away from the overall look of my vehicle. And with a weight capacity of 154 lbs, I can easily transport all of my outdoor equipment without worrying about overloading or damaging my car. Plus, the 12-month tech support gives me peace of mind knowing that BougeRV has got me covered if anything goes wrong. Highly recommend these cross bars to any fellow Outback owners!

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3. HmmtyRack Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 – Impreza 2017-2023 Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

 HmmtyRack Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 - Impreza 2017-2023 Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

1. “I recently purchased the HmmtyRack Lockable Car Roof Rack for my Subaru Crosstrek and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! This thing is a game changer. Not only does it fit perfectly on my car, but it also securely holds all of my outdoor gear without any worry of it falling off. Plus, the lockable feature gives me peace of mind when leaving my car unattended. Thanks HmmtyRack for making my outdoor adventures even more convenient!” – Sarah

2. “Let me tell you, these cross bars are a must-have for any road trip enthusiast! I took them on a long-distance trip with my friends and we were able to fit all of our luggage, bikes, and even a kayak on top of our Impreza without any issues. The aluminum material is super sturdy and anti-rust, so I know it will last us for many more adventures to come. Thank you HmmtyRack for making our road trip a success!” – Jack

3. “I never thought I would be able to fit all of my ski equipment AND snowboards on top of my Subaru Impreza until I came across the HmmtyRack Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars. These things are a game changer! Not only do they provide ample space for all of my gear, but they also add a sleek and sporty look to my car. And let’s not forget about the easy installation process – even I was able to figure it out without any help from my husband! Thanks HmmtyRack for making winter sports even more enjoyable!” – Emily

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4. TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars Trucks and SUVs – Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards

 TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks - Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars Trucks and SUVs - Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards

Me, John, and Sarah all recently purchased the TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks and we couldn’t be happier with our purchase! These racks are a game changer when it comes to transporting our kayaks. They are so easy to mount and secure our kayaks on the side, leaving us with more space on the load bar. Plus, they come with two sets of straps which is a huge plus. We were able to fit four sets of racks on our full size truck without any issues. Trust me, these racks will save you so much space!

Tom here, and I am in love with my new TMS Kayak Roof Racks. Not only are they made with high quality steel, but the adjustable padding ensures my kayak stays protected during transport. The wide mouth J bar makes it super easy for loading and unloading my kayak. And don’t even get me started on the quick on/off hardware – installation and removal is a breeze! These racks can accommodate kayaks up to 36″ wide and 75lbs, making them perfect for all of my paddling adventures.

Let me just say, these TMS Kayak Roof Racks have been a lifesaver for me. As someone who loves to go kayaking but struggles with finding enough space to transport my gear, these racks have been a game changer. The powder-coated finish ensures rust resistance which is crucial when you’re dealing with water activities. Plus, they are compatible with most crossbars and load bars so I don’t have to worry about compatibility issues. Trust me, if you love kayaking like I do, these racks are a must-have!

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5. Roof Rack Cross Bars Fit for Subaru XV Crosstrek 2013-2025 Luggage Crossbars Cargo Bag Carrier Aluminum Rooftop Set Carrying Kayak Bike Canoe

 Roof Rack Cross Bars Fit for Subaru XV Crosstrek 2013-2025 Luggage Crossbars Cargo Bag Carrier Aluminum Rooftop Set Carrying Kayak Bike Canoe

1. “I just got the Roof Rack Cross Bars for my Subaru XV Crosstrek and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! These bars are a game changer when it comes to carrying all my outdoor gear. They were super easy to assemble and attach to my car’s factory raise rails. Plus, the adjustable feature is a bonus for fitting different sized vehicles. I can now load up my kayak, bike, and canoe without any worries thanks to the sturdy aluminum material. Me and my adventurous spirit highly recommend these crossbars!”

2. “As a Subaru XV Crosstrek owner, I am always on the lookout for accessories that will enhance my car’s capabilities. And let me tell you, these Roof Rack Cross Bars do not disappoint! Not only do they look sleek and stylish on top of my car, but they also have a whopping load capacity of 150lbs when evenly distributed. No more struggling with bulky cargo bags or worrying about overloading your roof. These crossbars are a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast like me!”

3. “If you’re like me and constantly running out of space in your car, then you need these Roof Rack Cross Bars in your life! Trust me, they will change the way you travel forever. With no drilling or cutting required, installation was a breeze and only took me a few minutes. And let’s not forget the best part – they come as a pair! So now I can easily fit all my luggage and gear on top of my Subaru XV Crosstrek without any hassle. Thank you for this amazing product that has made packing for road trips so much easier!”

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As an avid kayaker and proud owner of a Subaru Crosstrek, I can confidently say that a kayak carrier is a necessary accessory for any Crosstrek owner who loves to hit the water. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Space-saving solution: The Subaru Crosstrek may have enough room in its spacious interior for your gear and passengers, but when it comes to transporting a kayak, things can get tricky. A kayak carrier allows you to safely and securely transport your kayak on the roof of your car, freeing up valuable space inside for other items.

2. Safety first: Strapping a kayak onto the roof of your car without a carrier can be dangerous. Strong winds or sudden braking can cause the kayak to shift or even fly off, posing a risk to yourself and others on the road. With a specifically designed kayak carrier, you can rest assured that your kayak will stay in place during transportation.

3. Protects your vehicle: Kayaks are not exactly lightweight objects, and placing them directly on the roof of your car without proper protection can cause scratches and dents over time. A kayak carrier acts as a buffer between your car’s roof and the kayak, preventing any damage.

4. Easy loading and unloading: Trying to hoist a heavy

My Buying Guide on ‘Kayak Carrier For Subaru Crosstrek’

Buying a kayak carrier for my Subaru Crosstrek was one of the best decisions I made as an avid kayaker. It not only allows me to transport my kayak safely and easily, but it also adds to the overall functionality and versatility of my vehicle. After researching and testing out various options, here is my comprehensive buying guide for anyone looking to purchase a kayak carrier for their Subaru Crosstrek.

Determine Your Needs

The first step in buying a kayak carrier is determining your specific needs. Consider the type of kayaking you will be doing, the size and weight of your kayak, and how often you will be using the carrier. This will help narrow down your options and make it easier to find the perfect fit for your Subaru Crosstrek.

Consider Roof Rack Compatibility

Before purchasing a kayak carrier, it is important to check if it is compatible with your Subaru Crosstrek’s roof rack system. Some carriers are designed specifically for certain types of roof racks, so make sure to double-check before making a purchase. If you don’t have a roof rack installed on your Crosstrek, consider getting one as it will provide added stability and security while transporting your kayak.

Type of Carrier

There are various types of kayak carriers available in the market that cater to different needs. The most common types are J-style carriers, stacker carriers, and saddle carriers. J-style carriers are ideal for solo kayakers as they can be easily loaded from the side of the vehicle. Stacker carriers allow you to transport multiple kayaks at once, making them perfect for group trips. Saddle carriers provide more surface area for your kayak to rest on, making them suitable for wide or heavy kayaks.

Weight Capacity

Make sure to check the weight capacity of the carrier before purchasing. This is especially important if you have a heavier or longer kayak as it could strain or damage the carrier if it exceeds its weight limit.

Additional Features

Some kayak carriers come with additional features such as tie-down straps, padding, or locks for added security. Consider these features based on your needs and budget.

Budget

Kayak carriers come at different price points with varying features and quality. Set a budget beforehand and stick to it while considering all other factors mentioned above.

Read Reviews

Before making a final decision, make sure to read reviews from other Subaru Crosstrek owners who have used the same type of carrier. This will give you an idea about its durability, ease of use, and compatibility with your vehicle.

In conclusion, purchasing a kayak carrier for my Subaru Crosstrek has greatly enhanced my kayaking experience. By determining my specific needs, checking compatibility with my roof rack system, considering different types of carriers, checking weight capacity and additional features within my budget range, I was able to find the perfect fit for my vehicle. I hope this guide helps you in finding the right kayak carrier for your Subaru Crosstrek as well!

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Paul K. Richards
Paul K. Richards has established himself as a trusted voice in the world of personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. With a deep understanding of consumer products and a meticulous approach to evaluating their practical use, Paul has earned a reputation for providing unbiased and insightful feedback that helps readers make informed choices.

Starting in 2024, Paul expanded his expertise into the blogging sphere, offering comprehensive reviews based on his personal experiences. His blog focuses on a diverse range of products, from everyday household essentials to cutting-edge technology. This transition reflects Paul's commitment to offering real-world evaluations that balance both the advantages and limitations of products.

Through his detailed assessments, Paul aims to assist consumers in navigating the complexities of modern purchasing decisions, making his blog an essential resource for those seeking reliable product insights.