People say, “the world is your oyster.” And, as a trucker, I totally agree to people. At every chance I get, I hit the road and stay out for as long as I can. I have driven for days at a stretch. It’s the truck-driver way of living – your trailer becomes your home. Now, I enjoy frugal living on the roads, but I also keep my trucks loaded with the basic necessities, toolbox, truck accessories, and variety of others. Hence, a camper shell is indispensable for me.
Some commercial trucks come with tonneau covers. If yours doesn’t, you can buy one online easily as I did. But what sort of a tonneau cover should you buy? In my experience, that depends on the purpose. Do you want to protect your expensive gear in it? Or, do you need easy side access doors or a rear door to reach the truck bed? I, for example, prefer topper designs with a lot of headroom. But more on this, later!
For now, let’s check out my reviews of the best truck caps manufactured by the best names in the business, and understand their advantages and downsides in order to see which is the right truck cap for you.
Best Truck Caps for 2021
There’s a wide selection of truck caps available with any online and offline dealer for truck owners. In fact, you might get good discounts, deals, code or coupons, too, if you check out properly. Here’s the series of the truck caps that I recommend my fellow truck owners to ensure complete comfort and safety for everything stored in your truck bed. These are, infact, the most respected truck cap brands in the world.
1. TYGER, Three-Fold Hood Cover for Pickup, Fits 2002-2016 Dodge Ram 1500 and 2003-2016 Dodge Ram 2500/3500
Every truck fanatic knows about Tyger Auto among other brands. It’s among the top of the line auto parts manufacturers making an assortment of premium products including truck caps for many years. Its truck topper with three folds collapses to allow access to the bed without any hassle. It comes assembled, and you can install it on the truck bed rails for better preservation.
You can drive through snow and rain with your side window closed and without worrying about leaks, elements or the items in your truck bed. It meets seamlessly with the tailgate so that no moisture can seep in through the corners or any other source. It’s lightweight and yet durable and tear-resistant. The patented lock design, with clamps and steel rods, offers great security.
Features:
- Its weather seal along with side windows, protects the bed against dust, moisture, elements, and harsh climatic conditions.
- It adds a customized look to your vehicle.
- Its straps that can hold the folded cover down while traveling with the bed opened.
Pros:
- Minimalistic and sophisticated appearance.
- Unlike other caps, this truck cap comes fully assembled.
- High-quality materials to meet the best industry standards as claimed by manufacturers.
- Horizontal crossbars for complete support and stability at a cab level even.
- Convenient fold-up for easy access to the bed.
Cons:
- Drilling of small holes required in bed liners over the bed rail.
Why It’s On This List:
Here’s why every truck owner love this cover:
a) Easy Mounting
This truck cover cap type has tweezers that feature a patented design in the US. It’s engineered to make the process of installing the cover on the bed smooth. Plus, you don’t need to use the drill for this.
b) Fuel Economy
This sleek cover on your truck bed can reduce the aerodynamic drag and thus save the fuel spent. By using this truck cap, you’ll notice a drop in fuel usage by 10-13% and is thus good for the environment. It’s what all conscious truck owners demand!
c) Great Quality
This truck cap is made of marine-grade vinyl and is twice-coated for exterior protection. The structure is made of aircraft-grade aluminum and has clamps of stainless steel. So, you get unmatched stability.
2. MaxMate – Roll-up truck cover, compatible with Nissan Frontier 2005-2019, Suzuki Equator 2009-2014 | Fleetside Bed | for models with or without the Utili-Track system
This truck cap model by Maxmate company is quite similar to the Tyger cap option that’s just been mentioned above. It is one of the truck cap brands having a soft cover that can be easily rolled up to let you access the bed easily. The rolled-up cover with tarpaulin can be kept securely in place when you drive around with an open bed and closed side door.
Once spread out over the bed, it can be held in place with the help of the latch lock and the Velcro straps to this cab high tension so that it remains free from wrinkles. unlike other caps, It is easy to install and comes with a manual for instructions that will explain the process if you’re a first-time user of a truck cap
Features:
- You get the chance to change the style and look of your truck with this topper.
- It has weather seals with velcro stickers to give complete safety as claimed by manufacturers.
- Its tension system and ability for adjustments at the end of the side rails keep it in place.
Pros:
- Stylish and elegant design of the truck cap.
- Package complete with mounting hardware and LED brake light.
- Unlike other truck caps, this one requires no drilling for bed liners under the bed rail during installation.
- Excellent product style within an affordable price range.
- Two sets of clamps for excellent mounting and clamping.
Cons:
- Drilling pits required for under-the-truck-rail bed liners.
Why It’s On This List:
Here are the 3 reasons, why you need this one of the best truck topper products.
a) Fuel and Money Saver
This truck cap is built with a side access door, and has a sleek design for a lower drag of the airflow as the pickup truck drives along. As a result, there’s an overall reduction in fuel usage by up to 12% as claimed by manufacturers. That means you get to save on fuel bills, making it a dream from truck owners!
b) High-Quality Materials
People want quality materials! This cover is made of double-coated vinyl, and the frame has heavy duty aluminum bars. These materials make it strong and stable, and the cover for your pickup truck will fight against harsh weather conditions without any issue for lot of years to come.
c) Easy Sealing
This truck topper comes with a foam tape. Use this for sealing it with the truck’s tailgate. This seal links to the cover’s underside before connecting with the clamp or base rails to cover gaps.
3. Bestop 7631735 Black Diamond Supertop for Truck – Eight Feet Bed for 1994-2017 Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500 (w/o Ram box), 1999-2017 Ford F-250/F-350
If head-space is a concern for you, then this bed cover by Bestop company is one of the best choices in 2020. You can fold it forward, just like you would in a convertible. This will give you easy access to the truck bed. It is easy to install. The brand’s signature attachment system ensures secure mounting.
It’s designed for eight feet bedded truck. The side panels can be attached and removed easily with tooth zippers. The Supertop is engineered to give complete protection to your belongings kept in the truck bed. Plus, you can enjoy a better fit and tighter fit in the back, thanks to the retainer bar in the front for perfect finish.
Features:
- It is heat-sealed at the seams to provide complete resistance against moisture.
- The cover has a tight fit and gives your truck a cool new finish and appearance.
- The seams are strong and durable and protect cargo space from weather elements.
Pros:
- Easy side collapsibility like a convertible’s top.
- Durable, and affordable with an elegant style.
- Folds easily for convenient storage with a quick bow release system.
- No drilling required for installation.
- Comes with rails, clamp hardware, and tinted side windows in the package.
Cons:
- May need to sit in the summer sun for a better fit and finish.
Why It’s On This List:
Here’s why you should get this best truck cap for a price?
a) Detachable Windows:
This truck cap comes with detachable side windows that tinted. You can easily remove and install side windows with the help of heavy-duty OEM zippers with molded teeth. This allows ventilation when you want!
b) Easy Operation:
This truck topper has a uniquely designed tailgate bar for easy operations. So, anyone can use it independently without having to open the rear door.
c) High-Quality Materials:
Manufacturers claim that it is made of premium level fabric that’s UV-protected and mildew resistant. The thread used throughout the cover has industrial level strength. Don’t forget the heavy duty structural reinforcement that offers stability.
4. Bestop 7630835 Black Diamond Supertop for Truck – 5.0′ Bed for 2005-2017 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab
This is another one from the truck cap model series by one of the best truck cap brands, Bestop. designed for five inches truck beds, it comes with the best design and technology. It offers easy access to the truck bed by folding forward conveniently, just like you’d expect in a convertible top, thanks to the quick bow release system.
This cover is easy to install unlike other truck caps. Once mounted, you can expect excellent stability and function, thanks to the high-quality framework and the brand’s signature BeltRail system of attachment. It will provide complete safe-guard for the cargo in the truck bed. It’s the perfect cover for your truck bed if you’re going to carry large gear or equipment.
Features:
- You won’t need to open the rear door to operate independently, thanks to its tailgate bar.
- The side window screens can be removed easily to allow better ventilation.
- The retainer bar in the front offers a tight fit even in the back.
Pros:
- Easy to store in the back of the vehicle by folding it away.
- Comes with detachable windows on the sides, top fabric, rails, and hardware.
- Secure attachment at the seams to prevent moisture.
- Complete combination of style, function, utility, and durability.
- Extremely convenient for first-time buyers.
Cons:
- May need heat to fit properly.
Why It’s On This List:
Here’s every reason for you to get this truck cap.
a) Adventurous Look
This topper skin has a chic diamond-black color, and its fabric has a textured styling. Once installed, it sits tight and wrinkle-free. The cover can upgrade the style and look of your vehicle carrying cargo, adding an out-of-doors, sturdy feel.
b) Great Quality
The cover is made using premium fabric, with industrial-quality material for durable construction and function. That, along with a strong framework, zippers with molded teeth, and strong seams, provides the best standard.
c) Easy Installation
This cover can be installed in no time at all, with the help of four clamps. Just snap it into place – and you’re good to go! It comes with all the hardware to make your job easy. Plus, no drilling!
5. Bestop 76303-35 Black Diamond Supertop for Truck Bed Cover for 1997-2017 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500/2500/3500, 6.5′ Bed
Do you have a truck model with a bed length 6.5′, the Bestop truck cap is perfect for you. It’s super-easy to install, and it instantly increases the room in your truck bed because of the high rise design to keep all your equipment or large gear. This unit is stable and durable and makes your truck look amazing.
The cover collapses easily, unlike others, to give you complete and easy access to the entire truck bed. This topper offers excellent ventilation if you’re planning to go on a journey with your pets in the back of your truck. The tailgate bar will let you continue independent operations with no need to remove the rear door.
Features:
- It is a heavy duty truck cap with a strong, corrosion-resistant frame.
- It’s made with a high-quality fabric that does not fade or wear quickly.
- Its seams are heat-sealed to give complete protection against moisture.
Pros:
- Perfect for hitches mounted on the bed, as well as the fifth wheel.
- Convenient folding for easy access to the whole bed.
- Secure mounting, with BeltRail, the original attachment system of the manufacturers company.
- Superior safety for the truck bed, as well as its cargo.
- Comes with installation hardware and window panels.
Cons:
- Removal of the front window not possible.
Why It’s On This List:
Here’s everything that makes this a great truck topper without any thoughts.
a) Long-Lasting:
The fabric of this topper is designed to beat the harsh UV rays and other severe weather conditions. The frame of this unit is protected from corrosion, and the zippers have molded teeth. So, it will last for many years. It is a great choice for anyone.
b) Easily Removable Windows:
Each side window is easy to detach and then link back to the cap according to your needs. They come with heavy duty zippers that make this convenient. The windows are tinted for safety from the sun.
c) Convenient Mounting:
Installing this truck cap on their truck is going to be easy for people, even if they are a first-timer. All you have to do is slide it into the right area for installation. The hardware included in the package makes the job simpler.
Truck Cap Buying Guide
So, I’ve told you about the brands of top truck toppers available in the market. These truck tops are my favorites because each of them is an excellent combination of look, functionality, size and longevity. But as you must have realized, the truck caps are of different styles. So, how will you pick the right products for your truck?
As promised, I am here to give you a hand – with details and guidelines about buying best tonneau covers like i bought mine. Take a glance!
a) Fit:
Beside style, the first thing you need to check in a truck cap model is the fit. I remember how, during my first purchase, I just matched the information on the seller’s site with estimated dimensions of my truck. And, the cover didn’t fit properly!
b) Mounting:
Make sure you go through tonneau covers that cuts your labor for installation jobs. These days, truck caps are designed to give you a simple mounting mechanism. That way, even your first bed cover won’t be a hassle for you.
c) Durability:
Check out the materials with which the truck cap is made. Make sure that the frame is made from rust-proof metals, while the cover is weather-resistant and tear-proof. You’ll need to beat all the weather woes with your truck cap!
d) Hardware:
It’s not enough for the truck cap to be made of high-standard materials. Hardware is an essential aspect. I suggest you take a thorough check at the hinges, seams, threads used, how it fits into a unit, and more.
e) Locking Mechanism:
While truck caps are not designed for safety against theft, you still need a secure locking mechanism beside your windows and door. Some systems have rotary latches with galvanized cables for locks. In my opinion, steel rods in the latch are better for performance.
f) Quality:
Here, I’m talking about applying your intuitions. There’s no yardstick for measuring the calibre of a truck cap model. But I like to check the framing of the tailgate doors, the way the edge blends with the truck, overall finishing, etc.
You might be driving a ford or a nissan. You can be a first-timer or might be looking to replace your old truck cap with a new one, these design elements will help you to get the best ones, always.
Tips on Buying a Truck Caps
Alright, I understand if you’re a little bit confused by all the information about buying a truck cap model. This is particularly true during the first purchases, right? So, here are a couple of tips and ways to help you consider essential factors and make a decision regarding your new truck cap.
What’s Your Purpose?
No matter what you think, just ask yourself this simple question to know the design or material you want. Is it for simple security for your daily needs? Or are you fond of an elegant style? Are you looking for ways to cover your adventure sports gear? Choose a cap accordingly.
Truck Cap Types
The categories of truck topper models vary based on shape, material, etc. People can choose any category – a high rise topper or go for one that can be rolled out on the bed liner. For example, It can be made of fiberglass or fabric.
The truck cap choice depends on whether or not you want to keep the topper up all the time for pricey gear, or you wish to drive with an opened bed at any point and have easy access to the entire bed frequently.
Material vs. Cost
Depending on the type of material of the truck cap, the prices will also vary. See, it’s really easy for anyone with a truck to give in to sweet talks of the contractors, the promises on their websites, and the appeal of bulky and rugged-looking aluminum fiberglass caps.
But, are you ready to dole out the amount of money it will cost you? More importantly, is it going to be worth it, spending a small fortune on, say, an expensive fiberglass truck cap to keep your cargo safe? Make sure that every dollar you spend on the cover is well-spent.
a) Aluminum Truck Caps:
- Costs less than $1000, and hence, has a pocket-friendly price.
- Lightweight and simple, with top line features like double doors, shelving, locked tool boxes, etc.
- May dent or look dingy after some time.
b) Fiberglass Truck caps
- Can cost around $2000 and are thus a little more expensive in terms of price.
- Aesthetically pleasing, durable, and doesn’t give in to wear and tear.
- A little on the heavier side, and needs a paint job to match the truck.
c) Plastic/Composite Truck Caps
- Comes at around $1500 price- between aluminum and fiberglass truck toppers.
- A combo of the best type of aluminum and fiberglass cap qualities, with modern engineering.
- Options of colors in plastic truck caps are limited.
Other Considerations
a) Pricing: Honestly, it can be a little challenging for people to set an exact budget based on the price of the truck toppers. It depends on the truck topper and the truck. Plus, adding options makes costlier. So choose wisely.
b) Door/Window: Do you need easy access to your bed? In that case, check for back and side doors or side window with screens, especially the commercial caps of trucks. Plus, these toppers built along with side access doors, provide ventilation for pets on a long trip.
c) Lining: If you are planning to travel with pets, you can choose truck toppers soft liners for insulation beside close door. I, however, like it when a solid material lines the cover wall, since I like to pack all my tools, accessories and gear in the truck bed.
d) Off-Truck Storage: What are your plans with the topper when the truck’s in the garage? Soft caps are easy to fold and seat it in the back of the vehicle. You can also get a pallet or base as cargo storage options for truck toppers.
e) Roof Rail Installation: Think about whether you want the truck topper to have roof rails. Consider installing them before you put up the truck cap. I think it’s more difficult to add rails once the truck toppers are up.
f) Warranty: Very few truck toppers that will offer a lifetime warranty. But, if someone plans on using the tonneau cover for a long time, he needs a truck topper that warranties assistance whenever issues crop up.
So, all you need to do is take into account the components and features of the truck toppers following the guidelines I’ve shared with everyone, instead of getting confused by the comments and feedback on the page of the manufacturer.
Benefits of Truck Caps
I have shared the guidelines for buying the right camper shells that will work for you. But what is the advantage of having a truck topper? Let me explain the benefits of having a truck cap.
Benefits of Truck Caps
a) Protected Space: Your truck bed is nothing more than just an open space for keeping useful articles and cargo in that space capacity. It’s only with a truck cap model (especially fiberglass caps) with perfect contours and clean body lines that it becomes a protected storage space capactity for everything you want to carry in it.
b) Safegaurd for Truck Bed: Truck toppers work as perfect solution, not just to protect from what’s in your bed but also for the truck bed itself. It also has the features to keep dust, rain water, mildew, and UV rays and other elements at bay, along with the roof, when the bed is not in use.
c) Fuel Efficiency: This one is one of my favorite features. Truck caps can lower air drag when you’re driving along the freeway, especially in windy conditions. So, you save on fuel. The drive becomes smoother, too.
d) Stylish: The addition of truck toppers itself makes the truck really cool. Plus, you can go ahead and change the windows, dividers, racks, and more to give your truck a customized appearance.
e) Optimized Space Usage: Many truck caps offer increased capacity, especially the high rise truck toppers that give the cab height and can handle larger gear in there or stack items while giving safety.
f) Versatility: That’s one of most significant features people look for in a model. There are different kinds of truck caps, from commercial caps to a truck topper with sleek and soft contours designed for personal use. They can work with versatility, turning your open bed into covered storage and transportation for gear, business commodities, or pets on camping trips.
No matter, which part of the world you stay, just keep these features, recommendations and guidelines in mind when you start shopping for your truck cap model. Also, make sure to choose something that suits your specific needs. Don’t forget to check out for a hefty discount code on the site, either. Who knows, you might have the best luck with the purchase of one the best truck caps!
Conclusion:
As a truck owner, I cannot imagine my vehicle without a truck topper and fancy door. Sure, I can no longer fit a large size boat and other things in my trucks anymore. And, finding things I need demands a little more effort than before. Plus, the truck caps offer no solution to prevent theft, what with the liftgate window, and the simple lock.
But I’m still a fan of the truck caps because it creates a weatherproof storage area for all that I need on the way. Installer makes a big difference as well. I have covered all from start to finish for best truck caps in the world. Since, there are a variety of truck caps available on the market so choose your model wisely. Whether you want to use the truck for commercial jobs or to go for long adventure places, don’t miss the opportunity to optimize the space in your truck’s bed with the perfect truck cap model – while making it appear super cool! I hope this info helps!