Best Winter Setup for Subaru Forester | Roof Racks, Ski Carriers, Roof Boxes & Snow Chains
The Subaru Forester has earned a reputation as one of New Zealand's most practical adventure SUVs. With available AWD, generous cargo space and plenty of roof carrying options, it's equally at home on family ski trips, camping weekends and everyday duties. This guide covers roof racks, ski and snowboard carriers, roof boxes and snow chains to help choose a practical winter setup for your Subaru Forester.
Choosing the right ski carrier, roof box and snow chain setup depends on how much gear you carry, how often you head to the mountain - and how you use your Subaru Forester through winter.
Recommended Winter Gear for the Subaru Forester
Winter setup notes for the Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester works particularly well as a winter adventure vehicle because it can easily switch between everyday duties and ski trips.
A roof rack and Thule SnowPack L setup is a simple solution for carrying skis and snowboards while keeping valuable cabin space free. If you're travelling with family or bulky winter gear, a roof box can add extra storage for boots, jackets and luggage.
Snow chains are also worth sorting before winter travel, particularly for alpine roads where conditions can change quickly.
Do you need roof racks first?
Yes. A Thule ski carrier or roof box needs a suitable roof rack system fitted first. For the Subaru Forester, the correct roof rack setup depends on the vehicle year and roof type, so it is worth checking fitment before choosing accessories.
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Best ski carrier for the Subaru Forester
Thule SnowPack L
For the Subaru Forester, the Thule SnowPack L is a strong all-round choice for family ski trips and mixed ski/snowboard setups, with room for up to 6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards.
- Carries up to 6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards
- Wide loading space for family ski trips and mixed gear
- Fits most Thule roof rack systems using the top T-track
- Lockable design for extra peace of mind
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Ski carrier or roof box?
A ski carrier is the simplest option if you mainly need to carry skis or snowboards. For the Subaru Forester, a Medium or Large roof box is a strong all-round winter option, especially for family trips, longer drives and bulky gear.
Ski Carrier
Best for day trips, simple ski transport and keeping the setup light and easy to remove.
Roof Box
Best for family snow trips, longer drives and carrying bulky gear all year, including skis and snowboards.
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Snow Chains for the Subaru Forester
If you are heading to places like Mt Hutt, Cardrona, Treble Cone, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Whakapapa or TĹ«roa, snow chains are worth sorting before the trip. Alpine road conditions can change quickly, and chains may be required depending on the weather and road status.
Chain fitment depends on tyre size, wheel clearance and the vehicle's drivetrain requirements, so it is important to check the correct option for your Subaru Forester before heading away.
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Which setup makes the most sense?
If you only need to carry skis or snowboards, a roof rack and ski carrier setup is usually the cleanest option. If you are travelling with family gear, soft bags, boots and jackets, a roof box is often the better winter setup (can be used year round too). For ski field driving, snow chains are the final piece of the puzzle.
Related winter guides
Final thoughts
For the Subaru Forester, the best winter setup depends on how much gear you carry and how often you head to the mountain. Start with the correct roof racks, choose between a ski carrier or roof box, then make sure your snow chains are sorted before winter driving.
