I’ve got a 2016 Suburu Impreza Hatchback with factory side rails. I’m having a hard time figuring a solution to carry my new kayak for next season. I plan on getting a truck in the future, but till then this is what I’ve got.

 

Any recommendations would be helpful. Thanks!

I assume you've looked into cross bars?  I've used Thule, Yakima and two different off-brands.  One of the no-names was awesome....one was flimsy.

Once you've got cross bars, you have lots of options....from pool noodles to expensive racks

I was thinking of using Thule Dockgrips but rather than having the kayak floating I’d install them to stabilize the kayak and let the kayak rest against the cross bars as the grips are only rated for 85lbs.  Would this solution work?  

I've used Glide-And-Set for years.  Didn't know they're discontinued.

Bought a new set off Craigslist for about 1/2 retail.  Not sure what I'd use now....quite possibly those Dockgrips.  I'll be watching this thread for other options, as I probably won't get more than one more season out of mine.

My wife's got a Hullivator, but due to back issues, she probably won't launch/load alone anymore....maybe I'll re-appropriate the Hullivator...its a real slick option, but pretty pricey

 

4 hours ago, mrcimon said:

I’ve got a 2016 Suburu Impreza Hatchback with factory side rails. I’m having a hard time figuring a solution to carry my new kayak for next season. I plan 

Great choice on the yak!!!

One possible "tip" for top loading a heavy kayak onto a car is using a C-Tug cart and simply inverting it, wheels up. You put the inverted cart in a proper position, strap it down, so that you can lift the bow of your kayak up onto the wheels, then get behind the kayak stern . . . and lift and push. 

 

Not sure on a hatchback where you might mount the inverted C-Tug but worth a try. There are a few YT videos showing this loading technique.

 

Brad 

Rack systems are pricey maybe consider a Harbor Freight type trailer. When I was younger I used to toss a Loon 138 on the roof of a Jeep Liberty but I have switched to a truck with bed extender. If I had to give up the truck i would go to a trailer.

 

 

 

 

I actually just took a new job with a substantial pay increase, I'm thinking a truck may be closer than I was thinking.  Just have to convince the lady... haha

On 11/29/2018 at 7:05 PM, mrcimon said:

I actually just took a new job with a substantial pay increase, I'm thinking a truck may be closer than I was thinking.  Just have to convince the lady... haha

I use the Boondox T-bone on my truck. But for many years, I car-topped simply with foam blocks. I think Malone makes a cheap set, which worked very well for me. As you tighten the straps, the hull squeezes right into the foam. It’s no going anywhere. And once you do it a couple times, you get pretty efficient at it and build your confidence in its ability to hold your kayak firmly. I’m a bit of a speed demon on the road so I kept the cruise control at 65 with the boat on top of the car. Never had a problem. And I’ve made many trips that were several hours one way. I’ll also add that I car-topped a Hobie for a while this way, also with no problems.