Hard vs Soft Tonneau Covers: Which One Is Better for Canada?
Share
If you're in Canada and own a pickup truck, the decision of which tonneau cover is more than just a style selection. With snow, freezing rain, heavy rain and drastic temperatures conditions in Canada require a truck bed cover that can handle all weather.
Do I need a hard tonneau cover or a soft tonneau cover?
In this article we’re going to compare hard vs soft tonneau covers, the pros and cons of each, such that you can choose what’s best for your truck — especially if you drive in Canadian weather!
What Is a Tonneau Cover?
A tonneau cover is a protective, decorative cover that fits over your truck bed. It’s a good way to protect freight from the weather, dirt and theft and make your truck look more attractive and aerodynamic.
There are many styles of pickup truck bed covers, but the best selling ones have been:
- Hard tonneau covers
- Soft tonneau covers
What Is a Hard Tonneau Cover?
A hard tonneau is fabricated from rigid materials including aluminum panels, fiberglass or molded plastic. They are designed for the utmost durability, and to prevent any access of components that could hurt anyone.
The majority of hard tonneau covers are folding or tri-fold which means you can open up part or all of the bed as needed.
The Advantages Of A Hard Tonneau Cover
- Great for protecting from snow, rain and ice.
- Enhanced protection for tools/materials in vehicles
- Hard panels will not sag or crack
- Ideal for harsh Canadian winters
- Clean, low-profile appearance
Drivers who regularly transport tools, equipment, or high-value cargo tend to lean towards hard tri-fold tonneau covers.
What Is a Soft Tonneau Cover?
A soft tonneau cover is usually constructed of a heavy-duty vinyl or fabric material that's stretched over a lightweight frame. Flexible soft covers can be easily opened and closed, providing an affordable option for drivers who prefer simplicity.
Some soft covers are folding or roll-up styles and install quickly and provide easy access.
Why You Should Have a Soft Tonneau Cover
- Lightweight and easy to operate
- Faster installation and removal
- More affordable than hard covers
- Easy access to the bed of your truck
- Great for everyday driving
Soft Tri-fold Tonneau Covers For drivers who prefer easy storage and don’t usually transport expensive items from place to place, Soft tri fold tonneau cover a high-quality option.
So, which is better? Hard or Soft tonneau covers: Side by side!
Feature Hard Tonneau Cover Soft Tonneau Cover
| Feature | Hard Tonneau Cover | Soft Tonneau Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Security | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | ⭐⭐ Limited |
| Weather Protection | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best for winter | ⭐⭐⭐ Good |
| Durability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Long-lasting | ⭐⭐⭐ Moderate |
| Weight | Heavier | Lightweight |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | Very easy |
| Price | Higher investment | More budget-friendly |
| Canadian Winter Performance | Excellent | Acceptable |
Which Tonneau Is Best for Canadian Winter?
If you’re like the average Canadian truck owner, hard tonneau covers are better in winter.
Hard covers:
- Resist heavy snow buildup
- Do not lose their shape in cold weather
- Provide better water sealing
- Keep road spray off of cargo
Soft tonneau covers are still operable in the winter months, but low temperatures can make vinyl prone to stiffening up and needing extra care if snow accumulates.
If cold-weather performance is your most significant consideration, then a very hard tri-fold tonneau cover typically provides the best long-term durability.
Which Tonneau Cover is Best for You?
Choose a hard tonneau cover if you:
- Winter driving on snow and ice frequently
- Carry tools or valuable equipment
- Want maximum security and durability
- Like the sturdy and sleek design with a low profile endeavor truck bed cover
Opt for a soft tonneau cover if you:
- Want a lightweight, easy-to-use option
- If you predominantly use your truck around town
- Prefer a lower upfront cost
- Require easy access to your truck bed
There are real benefits to each option — the best one really depends on how you use your truck.
Our Final Recommended for you Canadians that own trucks
Hard vs soft tonneau cover and which one is best for the Canadian climate: Weather can be particularly tricky in Canada.
For complete seasonal protection, performance and security hard tonneau covers are the number one choice.
For ease, for price and your daily driver, soft tonneaus are still a strong choice.
Whichever style you opt for, tonneau cover is one of the best investments to make for protecting your truck bed and cargo in Canada.
- Check out our hard tri-fold tonneau covers
- Check out our soft tri-fold tonneau covers