Know your Options
When it comes to choosing the right bed cover for your truck, the options can feel overwhelming. Hard shell caps offer security but limit flexibility. Tonneau covers keep things low-profile but sacrifice space and accessibility. That’s where Softopper® comes in—a versatile, lightweight solution that gives you the best of both worlds. In this post, we’re breaking down the key differences between Softopper®, hard shells, and tonneau covers to help you decide what’s best for your setup.
Softopper® vs. Hard Shell Truck Caps
Built Like a Tank… and Just as Easy to Move
Hard shell truck caps might seem like a durable option at first glance, but their weight and bulk often become a hassle. Most require lifting equipment or a few people just to install or remove them, making it a permanent setup that’s hard to adapt. Once it’s on, it’s staying on—whether that works for your current needs or not.
- Not easy to install or remove
- Requires extra help or equipment
- Locks you into one setup
Can’t Flex, Can’t Fold, Can’t Haul
One of the biggest drawbacks of hard shells is how little flexibility they offer. You can’t fold them up, retract them, or quickly remove them for a larger load. That means if you're trying to haul oversized gear—like dirt bikes, building supplies, or even furniture—you’ll have to work around the shell or remove it entirely.
- Can’t fold or adjust on the go
- Hauling tall or oversized gear is a hassle
- One fixed setup limits your options
Big Price, Limited Payoff
One of the biggest drawbacks of hard shells is how little flexibility they offer. You can’t fold them up, retract them, or quickly remove them for a larger load. That means if you're trying to haul oversized gear—like dirt bikes, building supplies, or even furniture—you’ll have to work around the shell or remove it entirely.
- Higher upfront cost
- Not useful for all seasons or needs
- Less value compared to more adaptable options
Softopper® vs. tonneau covers
Low Profile, Low Capacity
Tonneau covers might look sleek, but they seriously limit how much you can haul—especially when it comes to taller gear. Good luck fitting bikes, ladders, or all that bulky camping gear under one. With a Softopper®, you get full access to your truck bed’s vertical space—no need to unload or remove your cover just to make it all fit.
- No room for taller items like bikes, ladders, or stacked bins
- Can’t accommodate full camping setups or bulky gear
- Limited access and flexibility when plans—or payloads—change
Adventure Not Included
Tonneau covers might keep things dry, but when it comes to turning your truck bed into a functional camping setup—they’re a no-go. With a flat, sealed design, there’s no room to build out a sleep setup, stack drawers, or even sit upright. Softopper® owners regularly turn their beds into full-on basecamps, with mattresses, storage, and enough headroom to make it actually usable. A tonneau might cover your bed—but it doesn't cover you too.
- No space for in-bed sleeping setups
- Limited room for gear organization or bed platform builds
- Not enough headroom to sit, move, or relax
What makes softopper® different?
When it comes to truck bed covers, it's not just about coverage—it's about capability. Softopper® is built for the way you actually use your truck, whether you're hauling gear during the week or camping off-grid on the weekend. It offers the perfect mix of protection, flexibility, and durability—without the bulk or limitations of hard shells or tonneaus. Here's what makes it the smarter choice.
Retractability That Works With You
One of the biggest advantages of a Softopper® is how quickly and easily it retracts. Want to haul a tall load? Fold it back in seconds—no tools required. Want full coverage again? Just pull it forward and snap it back into place. It’s that simple. Whether you're loading up firewood, hauling gear, or heading out with bikes and bins, you're not locked into a single setup. You get total flexibility without having to remove the top or store it somewhere else.
- Retracts fully in seconds
- No tools or uninstalling needed
- Adaptable for changing loads and daily use
Pack Higher. Stay Drier.
Softopper® gives you the full height of your bed—perfect for stacking gear, loading taller items, or even building out a sleep setup. And thanks to its marine-grade, water-resistant fabric and tight seal, your gear stays dry and protected through rain, snow, and sun. Whether you're loading up firewood, hauling gear, or heading out with bikes and bins, you're not locked into a single setup. You get total flexibility without having to remove the top or store it somewhere else.
- Full-height coverage for tall gear
- Water-resistant, UV-tested materials
- Keeps your bed sealed and secure
Durable, Long-Lasting, and Worth Every Dollar
Softopper® is built to last for years—not seasons. Its rugged materials hold up to heavy use, harsh weather, and UV exposure. And compared to expensive hard shells or premium tonneaus, you get serious longevity at a fraction of the price. This is a bed cover that works hard and keeps working—without breaking the bank.Whether you're loading up firewood, hauling gear, or heading out with bikes and bins, you're not locked into a single setup. You get total flexibility without having to remove the top or store it somewhere else.
- Heavy-duty construction made to last
- Optional Premium Black Twill for added strength
- Affordable option with more flexibility
