Looking for the best tonneau cover I can get under $500. My work is covering it, and I’m fine with a soft cover since I know hard/fold-up options are usually more expensive. Ideally, I want something that keeps water out as much as possible and allows the tailgate to open and close without needing to open the cover.
Truck details: 2023 STX crew cab 5’7" bed 4x4.
I’ve got the Gator Soft Tri-Fold, and it’s been great. It has three separate panels and is easy to install or take off.
Rain said:
I’ve got the Gator Soft Tri-Fold, and it’s been great. It has three separate panels and is easy to install or take off.
Not a fan of tri-folds since they can block the back window when fully folded, but yeah, they do get the job done.
@Blaine
Mine doesn’t block the window when folded. The panels lay flat, and clips keep them secure. I’ve seen some that do block the view, though – can’t imagine that’s safe!
Rain said:
@Blaine
Mine doesn’t block the window when folded. The panels lay flat, and clips keep them secure. I’ve seen some that do block the view, though – can’t imagine that’s safe!
I had one like this, and it was super inconvenient. It blocked the whole window when folded.
@Blaine
That’s a bummer. The Gator lies flat when open, so I can still see out the back. If I need the full bed, I just take it off in about 5 minutes.
Rain said:
@Blaine
That’s a bummer. The Gator lies flat when open, so I can still see out the back. If I need the full bed, I just take it off in about 5 minutes.
Yeah, I had to remove mine anytime I moved big stuff. It was such a hassle.
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Avoid the Leer brand. I had one, and the brackets that hold the crossbars broke in under 9 months.
Check out marketplace. I found mine there for $150, then bought new hardware for about $60-$70. Easy to install too.
I’ve got a Tyger soft roll-up cover, and for the price (way under $500), it’s been awesome. I planned to replace it eventually but ended up sticking with it.
Roll-ups are nice because you can access the whole bed without blocking the window. It’s not completely waterproof, but only a little water gets in, usually just down the front edge. My bed liner keeps stuff dry anyway.
Had it for 3 years now, and it’s held up great, even with snow piling on it during winter. For the price, I’d definitely get another one for a new truck.
I just ordered a Truxedo Pro X15. Had it on my old truck and loved it, so I’m getting another for my F150. It’s a canvas roll-up, not vinyl, and installs easily. Costs about $550, so a bit over your budget, but worth it.