Best Subaru Forester Roof Rack Models

Subaru Forester Roof Rack Review

Subaru Forester is an amazing vehicle that is very popular in the off-road and overlanding community. It is not as large as some of the pick-up trucks or SUV’s out there but nevertheless can conquer almost any terrain there is. However as with any off-road vehicle out there, the Subaru Forester can also be equipped with a variety of overlanding accessories like the Subaru Forester roof rack to take full advantage of it. There are also cheap roof rack options available for the Subaru Forester that still offer good quality and value.

One of the most popular accessories for any off-road vehicle is a roof rack. A roof rack can be mounted on almost any vehicle and can be used for everyday tasks or in this case to carry that extra equipment that just cannot fit inside your vehicle. Roof racks often come as a complete set, including all necessary components for installation on the Subaru Forester. It can also be used to mount a roof top tent that will allow you to sleep comfortably and rest for the next day.

Quick Links

(Click each link to jump to section)

Subaru Forester Roof Racks	Why Get A Forester Roof Rack?
Subaru Forester Roof Rack Accessories	Subaru Forester Roof Rack FAQS

All Subaru Forester Roof Racks For Sale

Subaru Forester Roof Racks

Prinsu 2022 Subaru Forester Roof Rack

Prinsu is by far one of the most popular roof rack manufacturers out there. They make strong, lightweight, and reliable roof rack systems for a wide variety of vehicles out there. This one is designed to fit the Subaru Forester models. Now there are a couple of models of the Subaru Forester Prinsu rack that fit the different generations of it. They all have the same amazing features except they are different in size and weight. With that being said let’s have a look at this Prinsu rack and see what makes it so great.

For a Subaru Forester, in our humble opinion, this roof rack is the best. The Prinsu roof rack comes as a complete set, including all necessary components for installation. Installation doesn’t require drilling, and it is lightweight, inexpensive, robust, and low profile. This roof rack is a cheap option compared to other brands, yet still offers high quality. For the price you pay, the rack provides excellent durability and features. Its high-quality, long-lasting aluminum construction and black powder coating shield it from scratches and even erosion when driven in muddy terrain. This Prinsu roof rack only weighs 46 lbs.

It is a modular roof rack system, so you may choose how many crossbars you want on it as well. The more crossbars your rack has, the higher its weight load rating is. Installing and removing them is simple if you don’t require some of them. Except for one crossbar, all of the crossbars are made of black anodized metal.

Many users who have purchased this rack found the process straightforward. In addition to built-in drop-in points that make it simpler to connect your goods, they offer a variety of tie-down options that improve the stability and security of the aforementioned cargo or specific accessories. One of the lowest profile roof rack systems currently available, this Prinsu roof rack has a height of more than 2”.

It is not only low, but it also has an aluminum wind deflector that improves aerodynamics, lowers wind drag, and reduces the noise on the road. You can even mount a roof top tent on top of it thanks to its 500 lbs of weight capacity. The weight limit is more than adequate for moving items like kayaks, motorcycles, extra luggage, and different supplies.

Why do we like it?

One of the lightest roof rack systems out there
Aerodynamic and low-profile design
Does not require drilling to install
Strong and reliable construction

Drill or No Drill	Weight	Weight Capacity	Warranty
No Drill	46 lbs	500 lbs+	Limited Lifetime

2022 Subaru Forester Roof Rack

Front Runner Subaru Forester Wilderness Roof Rack

Next up is another very popular overlanding gear manufacturer, Front Runner. They have been making some of the sturdiest roof racks for a variety of vehicles out there. This one is designed to fit the Subaru Forester Wilderness models from 2022 up to the current one. It is another lightweight, no drill, platform roof rack that has a lot of great features to offer so let’s get to it.

This Subaru Forester roof rack is constructed of durable stainless steel, strong T6 aluminum, and a protective black epoxy powder coating. This roof rack is strong enough to support the weight of practically anything you put on it, including kayaks, motorcycles, bikes, additional luggage, gasoline tanks, or even a roof top tent, even though it weighs only 55 lbs.

Thanks to its 600 lb. static weight capacity, this roof rack can transport anything you can imagine, including a variety of gear, gear mounts, and other additional items. This rack's fantastic feature is that, when mounted, there is space underneath it to store additional items, such as a camping table or pretty much anything else of a similar size.

In order to increase aerodynamics and reduce the noise while driving, this Subaru Forester Wilderness roof rack may be fitted with a wind deflector, and an LED light bar which would aid in illuminating any roads at night. If you merely use the included hardware and adhere to the provided directions, installation is pretty easy. Feel free to check out this amazing roof rack system.

Why do we like it?

Very easy to assemble and install
Can be equipped with a variety of accessories
No drill roof rack system
Heavy-duty construction

Drill or No Drill	Weight	Weight Capacity	Warranty
No Drill	55 lbs	600 lbs+	Limited Lifetime

LEARN MORE

Front Runner Subaru Forester Slimline II Roof Rack

Front Runner Roof Rack For Subaru Forester

We already discussed one variant of the Front Runner roof rack, but we also have another one that is made to fit Subaru Forester models from 2013 and up to the present. It is a highly reliable, strong, and sturdy roof rack kit that is simple to install because it doesn't involve drilling or other car modifications. With that said let’s have a look and see what other amazing features it has to offer.

This roof rack has a black epoxy powder coat to strengthen the rack's resilience and keep it from eroding in muddy areas. It is comprised of high-quality, long-lasting T6 aluminum and stainless steel. It weights only 45 lbs, making it a relatively lightweight model. Another low profile roof rack, this one with the option of adding a wind deflector to improve aerodynamics and reduce road noise or even an LED light bar to illuminate the road at night.

Its sturdy construction can support 660 lbs of weight, more than enough to hold all of your overlanding gear and even let you to place a roof top tent on top of it. Additionally, you can attach an array of Front Runner accessories to this roof rack system, which will be useful on any off-road trip. Another great feature of this Subaru Forester roof rack is that there is enough room between the roof and it to store items of a similar size, such as a foldable camping table.

Once again. this Subaru Forester roof rack requires no drilling or any modification to be installed. However, you must have OEM roof rails in order to utilize it on your Subaru Forester. After that, it would just take you a few minutes to attach the rack to those rails. Feel free to chek out this incredible Forester roof rack system!

Why do we like it?

Modular roof rack kit
Very lightweight yet sturdy
Requires no drilling to be installed
High-quality construction

Drill or No Drill	Weight	Weight Capacity	Warranty
No Drill	45 lbs	660 lbs+	Limited Lifetime

LEARN MORE

Subaru Forester Roof Rack Thule

Thule Roof Rack Subaru Forester Cross Bars

Unlike the previously mentioned platform roof rack systems, this Subaru Forester roof rack is a cross bar roof rack. Nevertheless, it is still a very sturdy and aerodynamic piece of off-roading equipment that can withstand up to 220 lbs of weight capacity and does not require any drilling or modification in order to install it.

The loading space is larger on these Thule Winbar EVO cross bars, which are an improved version of the AeroBlade bars. Additionally, they are better and more aerodynamically designed and feature TrailEdge design which will lessen wind resistance and noise when driving even at high speeds.

They can hold a wide range of objects, including kayaks, skis, snowboards, cargo carriers, and roof boxes, and they won't obstruct your sunroof. They are quite sturdy and, when the weight is spread evenly, have a dynamic weight capability of 220 lbs.

These cross bars also feature SmartSlides slidable length scale doubles that provide quick and easy installation. To make sure they can endure pretty much everything you put them through, they have been put to the test in some of the most extreme environments. Even a 5-year warranty is included! Check them out, please!

Why do we like it?

Quick and easy no drill installation
Very lightweight and aerodynamic design
Sturdy and reliable construction

Drill or No Drill	Weight Capacity	Warranty
No Drill	220 lbs	Limited 5 Years

LEARN MORE

Subaru Forester Roof Rack Accessories

Subaru Forester Roof Rack Kayak

First on the list of our Subaru Forester roof rack accessories is the Front Runner kayak carrier. It is a neat little accessory that lets you carry your kayak or even canoe on top of your Front Runner roof rack! It is built to sustain any off-road terrain and keep your kayak intact.

It features rubber-lined "V" braces that you can adjust up to 20% for that perfect fit! It fits most of the kayaks and canoes and you can distance the brackets from each other depending on the size of your Front Runner roof rack. Additionally, it comes with straps that'll secure your kayak and prevent it from slipping off.

This kayak carrier is made of black powder coated 3CR12 stainless steel and comes with EPE foam pads as well as a UV-protected outer shell and polyester lining. It is pretty lightweight as it weighs only 6.2 kg or 13.7 lbs but is extremely strong as it can withstand an impressive 300 lbs of weight capacity!

LEARN MORE

Subaru Forester Cargo Carrier

Cargo carriers are another extremely important piece of gear for overlanding as well as for everyday life. They keep all of your smaller stuff safely secured inside the hard shell walls of the carrier. Whether you have that extra clothing to transport or something larger like skis, a roof rack cargo carrier is for you. You can even use it to hold groceries!

Let's examine the Thule Motion Roof Rack Cargo Carrier. Since quite some time, Thule has produced some of the best overlanding equipment, and this cargo carrier is no exception. They have a sophisticated, tough, hard-shell exterior that is waterproof and will shield anything you put inside from any outside elements, including rain and snow.

It is built with optimum space efficiency and aerodynamics so that you won't feel the wind drag or hear the noise when driving on the road, and it can hold up to 165 lbs. The PowerClick quick-mount technology, which "clicks" into place when mounted correctly, makes it exceedingly simple to install.

When you're not around the cargo carrier, you can lock it to protect any of your belongings from being stolen. Skis can even be transported inside of it if their maximum length is 215 cm. Please feel free to check it out since it is now the market's best and most well-liked roof cargo carrier.

LEARN MORE

Prinsu Quick Release Awning Mount Brackets

As you may infer from the name, this product is rather self-explanatory. These are the Prinsu awning mount brackets, and only Prinsu roof racks can accommodate them. They are lightweight, strong, and simple to install, and they come in pairs.

For added durability, they have been black powder coated and have a 1/8" thick steel construction. The size of the roof rack and the awning of your choice will determine where to install these quick-release awning mount brackets.

These Prinsu quick-release awning brackets are very easy to install and you don’t need a lot of time to do it. Apart from that another cool feature they offer is the integrated lock tab and rivets that are there for tamper-proofing. These brackets are very lightweight as they only weigh 4 lbs.

LEARN MORE

Front Runner Quick Release Tent Mount Kit

Like the previously mentioned product, this one as well is pretty self-explanatory. This is another amazing Front Runner product and these are the quick release roof top tent mounts. With these tent mounts you can forget about your struggles when trying to mount or dismount your RTT.

Thanks to these tent mounts you no longer have to worry about wrenching in tight spaces as they will allow you to quickly attach your roof top tent to your roof rack using the integrated tabs. These brackets can be installed with ease, and you only need a couple of minutes to do so.

They are made out of 3CR12 stainless steel and have also been black powder coated to increase durability and prevent them from eroding in muddy environments. They weigh only 14 lbs. Note that these brackets can only be mounted on Front Runner roof racks.

This is an amazing and affordable piece of overlanding gear that does not require any modifications or drilling in order to be installed so feel free to check them out.

LEARN MORE

Why Get A Forester Roof Rack?

As we already mentioned, having a roof rack is an essential part of every off-road vehicle out there. It lets you mount that extra gear that cannot fit in your car and allows you to have supplies for those longer overlanding trips. Sure you can mount a thing or two on your already existing roof rails but a roof rack gives you a strong and stable platform on which you can mount a wide variety of things such as suitcases, ladders, kayaks, bikes, skis, camping gear, recovery gear, a roof top tent, and pretty much anything you can think of.

Now, maybe you don’t use your vehicle for off-roading as much or at all and you’re wondering If it is worth it. Well that all depends on you and your daily needs. A roof rack is not only good for overlanding enthusiasts but also for those in need of transporting larger and longer items that simply cannot fit inside the car.

A roof rack can also be very useful for construction vehicles when transporting various construction supplies and can also be used for everyday tasks such as shopping. You can mount furniture on top of your roof rack or have a cargo carrier sitting on top of it that will carry all of your smaller and more delicate items.

Having a roof rack means that you can have more space inside your car for any people that you might have to drive as you don’t have to store anything inside it. There are so many things that you can use a roof rack for but we won’t get into that too much. We’ve created a list of what e think are some of the best roof rack systems for your Subaru Forester out there. We’ve also added a few roof rack accessories that might be useful. With that said let’s get on with our list.

Subaru Forester Roof Rack Components

When it comes to maximizing storage and utility, a Subaru Forester roof rack is one of the most useful upgrades you can add to your vehicle. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend camping trip, carrying sports gear, or simply need more cargo space, the right roof rack for Subaru Forester models ensures your items are transported safely and securely.

This guide breaks down the key components of a roof rack Subaru Forester setup, helping you understand what to look for and how to make the most of your system.

Cross Bars: The Foundation of Every Roof Rack

The heart of any Subaru Forester roof rack system is its cross bars. These bars provide the stable foundation needed to attach gear and cargo carriers. Whether your vehicle has raised roof rails or flush roof rails, choosing the right Subaru Forester roof rack cross bars ensures your setup is both safe and reliable.

Top Cross Bar Options for the Forester

Thule Evo Cross Bars – A popular Subaru Forester Thule roof rack choice, known for its aerodynamic design, quiet ride, and perfect fit. The Thule roof rack Subaru Forester kits come with lifetime warranties for peace of mind.
Yakima JetStream – Sleek, durable, and easy to install, with a t-slot design for quick accessory swaps.
Prinsu Roof Rack Subaru Forester – A modular platform-style option, great for heavy loads and overlanding setups.

When selecting roof rack cross bars Subaru Forester owners should always confirm compatibility with their specific year and rail type.

Installation Tips for Subaru Roof Rack Systems

Installing a roof rack Subaru Forester kit is generally straightforward, but accuracy is key:

Keep cross bar spacing around 32 inches (up to 41 max) for balanced weight distribution.
Follow instructions carefully to avoid stripped hardware or loose connections.
Double-check torque settings to ensure the rack stays secure even at highway speeds.

Owners often highlight how simple it is to set up a Subaru Forester roof rack Thule system compared to generic aftermarket racks.

Subaru Forester Roof Rack Weight Limit

Before loading gear, always check the Subaru Forester roof rack weight limit in your owner’s manual. Most setups handle between 150–220 lbs, though platform racks like the Subaru Forester Wilderness roof rack or Prinsu system can manage significantly more. Staying within the limit ensures safety and avoids damage to your vehicle’s roof structure.

Popular Subaru Forester Roof Rack Accessories

Once your cross bars are in place, you can expand your setup with Subaru Forester roof rack accessories such as:

Cargo boxes for long trips
Subaru Forester roof rack basket for everyday hauling
Bike, ski, or kayak mounts
Roof top tents for camping adventures

These accessories transform a Subaru Forester with roof rack into a versatile, adventure-ready vehicle.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Subaru Forester Roof Rack

When shopping for the best Subaru Forester roof rack, it’s important to consider your lifestyle, cargo needs, and the type of trips you’ll be taking. Here are the key factors to look at before making your choice:

1. Weight Capacity (Dynamic vs. Static)

Dynamic weight capacity = how much the rack can hold while driving (important for bikes, kayaks, luggage).

Static weight capacity = how much it can hold while parked (crucial for roof top tents).

Most Subaru Forester roof racks range between 220 lbs – 700 lbs static capacity, depending on the model.

2. Type of Roof Rack

Platform roof racks – Best for overlanding and heavy-duty gear. Great if you want to mount a roof top tent.
Crossbar roof racks – Lightweight and perfect for kayaks, skis, bikes, or cargo boxes.
Basket roof racks – Provide extra storage for irregularly shaped items.
Ski and snowboard carriers – Hold skis and snowboards securely during winter travel and often have locks for security.

3. Materials & Durability

Aluminum roof racks – Lightweight, rust-resistant, and great for fuel efficiency.
Steel roof racks – Heavier but extremely strong and durable. Best for rugged off-road trips.

4. Aerodynamics & Noise

Look for racks with wind deflectors, streamlined crossbars, or low-profile designs. These features reduce wind resistance, save fuel, and cut down on road noise.

5. Installation (Drill vs. No-Drill)

Most modern Subaru Forester roof racks are no-drill systems that attach directly to factory roof rails. No-drill racks are easier to install and remove while protecting your vehicle’s paint and roof structure.

6. Accessories & Expandability

Consider whether you’ll need add-ons like:

Kayak mounts
Cargo boxes
Bike carriers
Roof top tents
Awning mounts

Choosing a modular roof rack system ensures you can expand as your needs grow.

Subaru Forester Roof Rack Comparison Table

Roof Rack Model	Type	Weight	Weight Capacity	Drill Required	Best For	Warranty
Prinsu Roof Rack	Platform	46 lbs	500+ lbs	No	Overlanding, RTT	Limited Lifetime
Front Runner Wilderness Rack	Platform	55 lbs	600+ lbs	No	Heavy loads, accessories	Limited Lifetime
Front Runner Slimline II	Platform	45 lbs	660+ lbs	No	Cargo + RTT	Limited Lifetime
Thule Wingbar EVO	Crossbars	14 lbs (pair)	220 lbs	No	Bikes, skis, cargo boxes	5 Years
Thule Cargo Basket	Basket	25 lbs	150 lbs	No	General cargo	5 Years

Top Subaru Forester Roof Rack Picks

If you’re still unsure which roof rack is right for your Subaru Forester, here’s a quick breakdown of our top choices:

Best Overall Subaru Forester Roof Rack – Prinsu Roof Rack
- Lightweight, modular, and versatile. Perfect balance of price, durability, and expandability.
Best for Roof Top Tents (RTT) – Front Runner Slimline II
- Massive 660+ lbs weight capacity makes it ideal for roof top tents and heavy overlanding setups.
Best for Heavy Cargo Loads – Front Runner Wilderness Roof Rack
- Built tough with 600+ lbs capacity and accessory-friendly design.
Best Budget-Friendly Option – Thule Wingbar EVO
- Affordable crossbars with 220 lbs weight capacity, great for bikes, skis, or cargo boxes.
Best for Everyday Utility – Thule Cargo Basket
- Compact, easy to install, and perfect for luggage, groceries, and general gear.

Subaru Forester Roof Rack Maintenance and Repair

Keeping your Subaru Forester roof rack in top condition is essential for both safety and longevity. Regular maintenance ensures that your roof rails, crossbars, and rack components remain secure and ready for any adventure. Start by inspecting the crossbars and roof rails for any signs of wear, rust, or damage, especially after long trips or exposure to harsh weather. Tighten all screws and bolts periodically to maintain a firm connection between the rack and your vehicle’s roof.

It’s also important to clean the roof rails and rack regularly, removing dirt and debris that can accumulate and cause premature wear. After transporting heavy gear or driving on rough terrain, give your Subaru Forester’s roof rack a thorough check to ensure everything is still secure. If you notice any damaged parts, consult your user manual or reach out to the manufacturer—brands like Thule offer excellent support and replacement parts to keep your rack in perfect working order.

By following these simple maintenance and repair tips, you’ll extend the life of your Subaru Forester roof rack and ensure it remains a safe and reliable way to transport your gear, no matter where life takes you.

Subaru Forester Roof Rack Safety Considerations

When it comes to installing and using a roof rack on your Subaru Forester, safety should always come first. Begin by carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the rack is properly secured to your vehicle’s roof and crossbars. Double-check all connections and hardware for a tight, secure fit before loading any gear.

Never exceed the recommended weight limit for your rack or crossbars, as overloading can compromise both security and vehicle handling. Be mindful of your vehicle’s increased height with a loaded roof rack, especially when entering garages or passing under low bridges. Regular verification of the rack’s security and connection to your Subaru Forester is crucial—make it a habit to inspect the rack before every trip, especially after driving on the highway or rough roads.

By prioritizing these safety considerations, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your Subaru Forester roof rack is secure, your gear is safe, and your adventures can continue without worry.

Subaru Forester Roof Rack FAQS

Can you install a roof rack on a Subaru Forester?

Yes you can! All of the roof rack models mentioned in this artcle can be installed on your Subaru Forester as well as many more out there!

What is the Subaru Forester roof weight capacity?

That all depends on the roof rack itself. Some have a weight capacity of up to 500 lbs and some can have a weight capacity of more than 700lbs!

What is the Subaru Forester roof rack weight limit?

The roof rails that are sitting on your Subaru Forester can hold up to 700 lbs while the roof rails on your Subaru Forester Wilderness can withstand up to 800 lbs of weight capacity!

Is there a Subaru Forester roof rack basket?

Yes there is! Thule makes heavy-duty roof rack baskets that can also be mounted on top of your Subaru Forester.

How to install a roof rack on a Subaru Forester?

Subaru Forester roof rack models require no drilling or further modifications in order to be installed. Simply follow the assembly and installation instructions given and use the necessary hardware that is provided.