Best Soft Tonneau Cover

Are you searching for the perfect soft tonneau cover to protect and enhance your pickup truck? Look no further. Here, we’ll provide an in-depth review of five top-rated tonneau covers that are sure to check off all of your needs and wants.

From security features to easy installation instructions, these tonneau covers not only help safeguard cargo from weather conditions but also look great on any style of vehicle!

We’ll explore each product detail comprehensively with pros & cons, price points, as well as maintenance tips so you can find the best option for you. Let us guide you through this journey towards a new level of protection for your ride.

7 Best Soft Tonneau Cover 2023

Before diving into our top picks, it’s essential to understand what makes a soft tonneau cover stand out among its competitors. The best soft tonneau covers offer an optimal balance of durability, ease of installation, advanced security features, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal.

In the following sections, we will delve into the specifics of each top-rated soft tonneau cover, shedding light on features and benefits that make each one a worthy investment for your vehicle.

TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Tonneau Cover 

The TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll-Up Tonneau Cover is unbelievably functional and designed for ease-of-use. With a simple unlock of the tailgate latches, you can roll up your cover. It’s engineered with a heavy-duty 1.5” frame and is equipped with high-quality leather-embossed vinyl.

This cover doesn’t just look good, but it also stands guard against weather conditions. The pre-set tarp tension keeps the cover tight, preventing water ingress, while support bows allow it to withstand several inches of snow when closed.

Installation is a breeze with no drilling or special tools necessary. You can fully install this roll-up truck bed cover in under 30 minutes! Simply clamp the rails onto your truck bed, attach the cover, roll it, and you’re good to go.

TruXport is backed by a 5-year, no-hassle warranty and a committed service team available to assist you at all times. If you require replacement parts, a simple call to our team will do the trick.

Roll-up covers are generally less expensive than tri-fold designs, and the TruXport is a perfect example of cost-effective quality. Its leather-grained vinyl is attached to the top of the bed rails with hook-and-loop fasteners, ensuring a simple and effective system.

To access the entire bed, just unlatch it at the rear and roll it forward—no need to remove the cover. Unlike lesser expensive roll-up models, the TruXport includes a pre-set tension control to help keep the cover tight and secure.

Features

• Heavy-duty 1.5” frame for added durability and protection.
• High-quality leather-embossed vinyl for aesthetic appeal.
• Pre-set tarp tension to keep the cover tight and prevent water ingress.
• Easy installation with no drilling or special tools necessary.
• Backed by a 5-year, no-hassle warranty.
• Cost-effective when compared to tri-fold designs.
• Pre-set tension control to keep the cover tight and secure.

Tyger Auto T3 Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover 

The Tyger Auto T3 Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover is a dual-coated, US patented design made out of heavy-duty 24oz. marine-grade vinyl. It also features aircraft-grade aluminum frames, and comes with stainless steel clamps, enhancing both its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Pre-assembled horizontal crossbars offer support and conveniently fold up with the cover, providing full bed access when needed. The installation process is simple and requires no drilling, with instructions and mounting hardware provided.

Small holes may need to be cut in the bedliner for vehicles equipped with over-the-bedrail bedliner to secure the clamps for proper cover installation. However, the cover will work perfectly with under-the-bedrail bedliner without any modification.

The Tyger T3 is one of the most affordable and popular tonneau covers on Amazon. The tri-fold design makes it super easy to open and close, and the heavy-duty vinyl attached to an aluminum frame ensures the bed is secure when closed. If you prioritize an easy-to-use cover at a low price, this product fits the bill perfectly.

Features

• Dual-coated design made of heavy-duty 24oz. marine-grade vinyl.
• Aircraft-grade aluminum frames for enhanced durability.
• Comes with stainless steel clamps for easy installation.
• Pre-assembled horizontal crossbars that offer support and conveniently fold up with the cover.
• No drilling installation with instruction and mounting hardware provided.

MaxMate Soft Roll-up Tonneau Cover 

MaxMate Soft Roll-up Tonneau Cover is a manifestation of innovative engineering and superior craftsmanship. Boasting a US Design Patented status, the cover is dual-coated and constructed out of heavy-duty 24oz. marine-grade vinyl. It features built-in horizontal crossbars that offer robust support when the cover is lying flat and conveniently roll up with the tarp to provide full bed access when required.

The design integrates aircraft-grade aluminum side rails and stainless steel clamps for secure mounting to the truck bed. The cover seals with a Velcro strip on the sides and safeguards with a latch lock system at the tailgate. An adjustable tension system is also available on the end of the side rails to maintain the cover’s tightness and keep the vinyl wrinkle-free in all weather conditions.

Installation is a breeze with no drilling required. Instruction and mounting hardware are thoughtfully provided. However, note that vehicles equipped with over-the-bedrail bedliner may need small holes to be cut in the bedliner to secure the clamps for proper cover installation. The cover works seamlessly with under-the-bedrail bedliner without any modification.

MaxMate guarantees your investment with a 10-year, no-hassle warranty for US customers, offering unparalleled peace of mind.

Features

• US Design Patented and dual-coated heavy-duty 24oz. marine-grade vinyl construction.
• Built-in horizontal crossbars that offer support and roll-up function for full bed access.
• Aircraft-grade aluminum side rails and stainless steel clamps for secure mounting.
• Velcro side seals and a latch lock system at the tailgate for security.
• Adjustable tension system on side rails for maintaining tightness and vinyl’s wrinkle-free condition.
• No drilling installation with instructions and mounting hardware provided.

RealTruck Extang Trifecta 2.0 Signature Soft Folding Tonneau Cover 

The RealTruck Extang Trifecta 2.0 Signature Soft Folding Tonneau Cover is a premium product that sets itself apart with its unique black material tarp. This tarp is not only stylish but also remarkably durable and dirt-resistant, promising to maintain its excellent looks throughout the year.

This top-tier tonneau cover is designed for simplicity with an easy installation process and operation. It features two EZ-Lock clamps located at the tailgate to keep the cover firmly locked in place. The cover can be folded twice, buckled to the cab, and ready to go.

The entire cover can be removed within minutes making it handy when you need to haul large items like a new sofa. It boasts the fastest install among soft-folding covers as it comes fully assembled. The installation process only requires squaring up the cover to your truck and tightening the two cab clamps to the bed wall. No need for rails or special tools. In fact, it takes longer to remove the cover from its box than to install it.

The Extang Trifecta Signature 2.0 stands out for its use of canvas rather than marine-grade vinyl. The canvas material is a bit more durable than vinyl, however, it tends to absorb more water. While there have been a few customer complaints regarding water incursion, the majority affirm that the Extang is an effective waterproof cover. The folding design features aluminum support bars and spring-loaded lock clamps, while the triple-fin perimeter seals work efficiently to keep out water, making this a durable truck bed cover.

Features

• Premium black material tarp for durability and style.
• EZ-lock clamps for secure and easy operation.
• Fully assembled for the fastest install.
• Canvas material for enhanced durability.
• Aluminum support bars and spring-loaded lock clamps for robust support.

TruXedo Lo Pro Soft Roll Up Tonneau Cover 

The TruXedo Lo Pro Soft Roll Up Tonneau Cover is America’s top choice, being the best-selling roll-up truck bed cover in North America. The Lo Pro is characterized by its tear-resistant, leather-grained vinyl offering superior weather resistance, enhanced by aircraft-grade aluminum bows designed to withstand heavy snow loads.

This cover features a signature low profile design, sitting only 3/4″ above the truck bed, providing a sleek and concealed look. The Lo Pro mounts inside the rails of the truck bed, allowing full access to stake pocket holes for use with additional accessories. This cover can be fully installed in under 30 minutes without any need for drilling or special tools.

The Lo Pro is backed by a lifetime, no-hassle warranty, and the TruXedo team is always ready to assist with any replacement parts. The TruXedo Lo Pro is similar to the TruXport, equipped with a self-adjusting tensioner, a trigger latch release, and crafted from marine-grade vinyl.

However, it stands out due to its low-profile design that aligns nearly flush with the bed rails, and its longer warranty. Even among its over 900 reviews, very few complaints were found about water incursion, and many reports praised its excellent longevity.

Features

• America’s top-selling roll-up truck bed cover.
• Tear-resistant, leather-grained vinyl for superior weather resistance.
• Aircraft-grade aluminum bows to withstand heavy snow load.
• Low profile design providing a sleek and concealed look.
• Easy installation with no drilling required.
• Backed by a lifetime, no-hassle warranty.

Lund Genesis Elite Tri-Fold Soft Folding Tonneau Cover 

The Lund Genesis Elite Tri-Fold Soft Folding Tonneau cover is a premium product crafted from matte canvas. This twill-woven material is virtually maintenance-free, an ideal option for those always on the move. The cover provides excellent protection while maintaining a high-end look.

Unlocking the cover is a breeze with the two easily accessible clamps on each side of the tailgate. It folds towards the cab and can be secured at either the first or second fold with integrated straps, accommodating various cargo sizes. The Lund Genesis Elite Tri-Fold is known for its extreme weather seal, hassle-free tension for a tight cover, and low-profile, attractive looks.

The installation process is astoundingly quick, taking only 5 minutes from box to truck. It requires no special tools – you just square up the cover to your bed, secure the clamps, and you’re ready to go. This tri-fold truck bed cover is proudly made in the USA using globally sourced materials and is backed by a limited lifetime guarantee.

The Lund Genesis is a cost-effective folding soft tonneau cover that offers effective waterproofing due to the use of foam rubber seals. The aluminum components are powder-coated to resist corrosion.

The truck bed cover is backed by a lifetime warranty, making it a great choice if you’re looking for waterproofing at under $500. However, it does have a limitation: it only allows for 2/3 bed access unless fully removed. Thanks to its lightweight design, removal isn’t too challenging.

Features

• Premium matte canvas for durability and style.
• Easy-to-use clamps for easy operation.
• Quick 5-minute installation.
• Foam rubber seals for excellent waterproofing.
• Backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

GATOR ETX Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover

The GATOR ETX Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover exemplifies quick and hassle-free installation. It can be installed in approximately 10 minutes by merely clamping the rails on without the need for a drill, thus providing instant and convenient cargo protection. This cover boasts a heavy-duty aluminum frame, industrial-strength vinyl, and superior perimeter sealing to keep rain, snow, and dust out of your truck bed. It assures the protection of your cargo under any weather condition.

To open the cover, simply fold the panels towards the cab and secure them in place with the integrated buckling system. It offers flexibility as you can drive with the cover in the 2/3 open position when there is a need for bed access for hauling large loads. The GATOR ETX exhibits a sleek and durable design, mounting on top of your truck bed rails, thus offering a clean, low-profile appearance that enhances the overall look of your truck. Each cover is custom-fit to match your truck’s year, make, and model specifications.

Features

• Fast and easy no-tool installation.
• Heavy-duty aluminum frame and industrial-strength vinyl for maximum protection.
• Superior perimeter sealing to safeguard against harsh weather elements.
• Flexible operation with the option to drive in a 2/3 open position for large loads.
• Sleek and durable design that enhances your truck’s appearance.
• Custom-fit for each truck’s specific year, make, and model.

Best Soft Tonneau Cover – Buying Guide

Buying the best soft tonneau cover for your truck isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about functionality, durability, and fit within your budget. It’s for the busy parent, the adventurous off-roader, or the dedicated worker. Hence, an educated decision is fundamental to benefit from a good tonneau cover.

Cost

Soft tonneau covers are the least expensive type of tonneau cover, typically costing between $300 and $600. These tonneau covers don’t offer as much security as a hardcover, neither are they as durable. However, a quality soft tonneau cover can still protect your truck bed (and its contents) from the elements. The low price typically starts at $300, with the usual price around $400, and high-end options going up to $600.

Material

Soft tonneau covers are typically made with marine-grade vinyl. This material is resistant to tearing and has excellent water-repelling capabilities. Vinyl is also lightweight and relatively inexpensive. Some soft tonneau covers may use a canvas fabric instead of vinyl.

Canvas has a greater resistance to UV light than vinyl but is not as waterproof. Canvas is more prone to molding and is a little more difficult to clean. Canvas and vinyl each have a different look, with vinyl covers offering a more glossy appearance while canvas covers have a matte finish.

Folding Style

There are two common designs for how a soft tonneau cover is opened: folding and roll-up. Folding soft tonneau covers operate similarly to hard-folding tonneau covers. These are easy to open quickly.

Folding covers have metal parts that can better keep your cover in place. Roll-up soft tonneau covers take much longer to open but allow for greater truck access once opened. These tonneau covers are likely less expensive than similar folding covers.

Installation

Installing a soft tonneau cover can be as simple as clamping it onto the truck bed rails, without the need for any tools or drilling. Most soft covers are designed to be installed by the average truck owner without requiring professional assistance.

However, it’s important to note that the ease of installation can vary greatly from one product to another. Some covers may require additional hardware or adjustments to the truck bed for the proper fit. Always read the manufacturer’s installation instructions thoroughly before purchasing.

Security

While soft tonneau covers may not offer the same level of security as their hard counterparts, they still provide a significant deterrent to potential theft. When closed and latched, these covers hide your truck bed’s contents from view and require effort to open. Some soft tonneau covers also offer locking mechanisms, further increasing their security. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable way to keep your cargo safe.

Ease of Use

Another factor to consider when buying the best soft tonneau cover is the ease of use. Can you easily open and close the cover? Can you secure it properly when it’s not in use? Does it roll up or fold up out of the way when you need full access to your truck bed? These questions are important to consider as they can affect your daily routine and how efficiently you can use your truck.

Maintenance

Maintenance is another critical aspect to look at when selecting a soft tonneau cover. The material, be it vinyl or canvas, should be easy to clean and maintain. Some materials may require special cleaners or protectants to keep them in good condition. It’s also worth noting how the cover will handle various weather conditions. A good soft tonneau cover should be able to withstand the elements without fading, cracking, or tearing.

Customer Reviews

Finally, customer reviews can offer invaluable insights into a product’s performance that you can’t find anywhere else. They can provide information on the cover’s durability, ease of installation, and overall quality.

Remember, reviews can be subjective, so it’s important to read a variety of opinions before making a final decision. Look for patterns in reviews, as they can highlight common issues or benefits associated with a specific cover.

Choosing the best soft tonneau cover is not a decision to be taken lightly. With the above factors in mind, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget, and ultimately, enhances the utility and aesthetic appeal of your pickup truck.

See more: Best Tonneau Cover For Ford Maverick

Benefits of Using a Soft Tonneau Cover

Whether for work or play your pickup truck serves a myriad of purposes. However, an open truck bed leaves your cargo exposed to the elements and the prying eyes of potential thieves. That’s where a soft tonneau cover comes in, providing a practical and stylish solution.

A soft tonneau cover helps to protect your truck bed and its contents from rain, snow, UV rays, and more. These covers also enhance the aerodynamics of your truck – potentially improving fuel efficiency. They’re lightweight, easy to install, and can be removed quickly if you need to haul large items.

Soft tonneau covers are also cost-effective. They’re typically less expensive than their hard counterparts, making them a budget-friendly choice for truck owners. Despite their lower cost, they don’t compromise on quality or durability. Made from resilient materials such as marine-grade vinyl or canvas, these covers can withstand the test of time and the harshness of outdoor conditions.

Moreover, soft tonneau covers add a sleek appearance to your vehicle. They come in a variety of styles, allowing you to choose one that matches your truck’s aesthetic. You can opt for a glossy vinyl cover for a polished look or go for a canvas cover that lends a rugged, matte finish.

In terms of functionality, soft tonneau covers offer two main designs – folding and roll-up. A folding cover is easy to use and provides quick access to your truck bed, while a roll-up cover, although it takes longer to open, offers greater truck access once open.

Despite not offering the same security level as hard covers, soft tonneau covers still provide substantial theft protection. When closed and latched, they keep your cargo concealed and require effort to open. Some models even come with locking mechanisms for added security.

Finally, soft tonneau covers are easy to maintain. Most can be cleaned with mild soap and water, and some may need an occasional application of a protectant to keep the material in good condition.

In essence, purchasing a soft tonneau cover is an investment in the longevity and versatility of your truck. This guide will help you navigate the various factors to consider when choosing the best soft tonneau cover for your needs and budget.

FAQs

When choosing the best soft tonneau cover, it’s natural to have some questions popping up in your mind. How to maintain the cover? Which material is best? How does the installation process work? These are just a few potential inquiries. Below, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make an educated choice.

Why should I opt for a soft tonneau cover?

Soft tonneau covers are a cost-effective, easy-to-use solution for protecting your truck bed and its contents from the elements. The marine-grade vinyl or canvas fabric used in these covers is specially designed to withstand various weather conditions.

They are lightweight, easy to install, and don’t require professional assistance. Moreover, they offer good security features, including locking mechanisms in some models, making them a worthwhile investment.

How can I maintain my soft tonneau cover?

Maintaining a soft tonneau cover is relatively straightforward. Regular cleaning, preferably once a month, is enough in most cases. Use mild soap and water for a routine clean, ensuring you rinse off all soap residues to prevent any potential damage to the cover.

If your cover is made of vinyl, consider applying a vinyl cleaner or protectant. This helps to keep the material flexible and resistant to UV damage. Remember, always follow the care instructions given by the manufacturer for the best results.

What is the difference between a folding and roll-up soft tonneau cover?

The major difference between folding and roll-up soft tonneau covers lies in how they open and the access they provide to the truck bed. A folding soft tonneau cover operates similarly to a hard-folding cover, allowing quick and easy access to the cargo. They typically have metal parts to keep the cover in place.

On the other hand, roll-up soft tonneau covers take longer to open, but once opened, they grant greater access to the truck bed. They are generally less expensive than similar folding covers.

Do soft tonneau covers enhance fuel efficiency?

Soft tonneau covers can indeed help improve fuel efficiency, although the impact might not be significant. When the truck bed is open, the wind drag can increase the vehicle’s fuel consumption.

A tonneau cover streamlines the vehicle’s shape, reducing wind drag and potentially enhancing fuel efficiency. However, this should not be the sole reason to purchase a tonneau cover as the effect on fuel consumption is minor and varies based on driving conditions and habits.

Final Thought

Choosing the best soft tonneau cover for your pickup truck boils down to understanding your specific needs, preferences, and budget. These covers offer a range of benefits from protection against the elements and theft, to improved fuel efficiency and an enhanced aesthetic appeal. The simplicity of installation and maintenance further adds to their value.

While a soft tonneau cover may not offer the high-level security of a hard tonneau cover, it sufficiently conceals your cargo and requires effort to open, deterring potential thieves. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of soft tonneau covers compared to hard ones cannot be overstated.

Folding or roll-up, glossy vinyl or rugged canvas, the choice is yours. Each design and material offers its own unique advantages and aesthetic appeal. The key is to choose a cover that aligns with your functional requirements and personal style preferences.

In conclusion, investing in a soft tonneau cover translates into an investment in your truck’s longevity and versatility. No matter which one you choose, you can rest assured you’re making a valuable addition to your vehicle that will serve you for years to come.