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The Forester has the tallest roof of the three current Subaru models, so loading skis takes more reach than on a Crosstrek or Outback. What the Forester makes up for is interior space — there’s enough cabin and cargo room to keep wet boots, helmets, and layers off the skis entirely, which matters more for ski trips than it does for bikes or kayaks.
Here’s how to pick a rack that works with the Forester’s height instead of fighting it.
Quick Picks
- Best overall: Thule SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack — quick clamp-style loading, holds both skis and snowboards.
- Best for families and groups: Yakima FatCat EVO 6 — six-pair capacity for larger groups.
Choosing a Ski Rack for a Forester
The SnowPack: The Easiest Default
The Thule SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack uses padded clamps that open and close quickly, which matters on a cold morning before the lifts open. For most Forester owners carrying two to four pairs, this is the practical starting point — the extra reach the Forester’s roof requires is the same regardless of rack, so there’s little reason to overthink the choice.
The FatCat EVO 6: For Families and Groups
The Forester’s generous interior means a family traveling with a full set of gear can still keep boots and helmets inside, which frees the roof for a larger rack without crowding the cabin. The Yakima FatCat EVO 6 holds up to six pairs, making it the practical choice for groups or families who’d otherwise need two separate racks.
Where the Forester Actually Wins: Interior Room
Every Subaru puts skis on the roof, but boots, helmets, and wet outer layers still need somewhere to go — and that’s where the Forester’s tall cabin and generous cargo area pull ahead of the Crosstrek. If your primary goal is enclosed, weatherproof storage for gear rather than skis themselves, a roof cargo box like the Thule Motion XT is worth considering alongside the ski rack, especially for families who’d rather not deal with wet boot bags in the trunk.
For most Forester owners, though, the interior alone is roomy enough to skip the cargo box and just use the roof for skis.
Forester vs Crosstrek vs Outback for Ski Trips
| Model | Roof Length | Loading Height | Where It Wins |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forester | Moderate | Tallest — more reach to load | Interior room to stash wet boots and gear |
| Crosstrek | Shortest, narrowest | Lowest, easiest to reach | Solo skiers, day trips |
| Outback | Longest of the three | Moderate | Large-capacity and family racks |
The Forester isn’t the easiest to load, but it’s the one Subaru where the cabin itself does real work — less need to compromise between gear and passengers.
Common Mistakes Forester Owners Make
- Not accounting for the extra reach when loading solo. The Forester’s tall roof means more lifting than a Crosstrek — a step stool helps if you load alone often.
- Forgetting the added height once skis are loaded. Garages and drive-throughs are the usual surprise.
- Leaving the rack mounted after ski season. An empty rack still adds wind noise and drag year-round.
FAQs
Does the Forester’s height make ski racks harder to use?
Somewhat — loading takes more reach than a Crosstrek. It’s manageable for most owners, but a step stool helps for solo loading.
How many pairs of skis can a Forester carry?
Most racks handle two to four pairs, with larger options like the FatCat EVO 6 holding up to six.
Do I need a cargo box in addition to a ski rack?
Not usually — the Forester’s interior is roomy enough for boots and helmets. A cargo box is worth it mainly for families who want fully enclosed storage.
Final Thoughts
On a Forester, the roof height adds some effort to loading, but the spacious cabin more than makes up for it — there’s rarely a need to compromise between gear and passenger comfort. Pick a rack sized for your typical group, and let the interior handle the rest.
Recap: Best Ski Racks for a Subaru Forester
- Thule SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack — best overall
- Yakima FatCat EVO 6 — best for families and groups
- Thule Motion XT — cargo box, for enclosed boot/gear storage
Related Guides
• Best Cargo Box for Subaru Forester
• Best Ski Rack for Subaru Crosstrek
• Best Ski Rack for Subaru Outback
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