putting those tent lights in there is an awesome idea! Softtopepr makes so much more sense for me, I plan to use my dirtbike in the back, then sleep in there at night.
Softopper and Besttop are owned by the same company (Bestop bought out Softopper). They are different designs and options. I prefer the Softopper. If you plan on sleeping under it line it with Reflectix for heat retention. I've had mine for 5 years and still like new. The rear clear window can be damaged if rolled up or folded when below 32*F. Can be removed in 2 minutes for hauling large items. I sleep on top the Decked Drawer system, not a lot of head room but it's great for sleeping.
Ya, this video is littered with comments about Bestop owning Softopper lol. I always wanted to add reflectix to mine but ended up moving to a hardshell! Sounds like you get a lot of good use out of your softopper!
Nice Review, Got one on my Tacoma, Made a thermo liner for the inside, cold camping became easier also in the heat works good creating the double-wall effect, my gf is still looking for the wool blankets…..🤣
I've had a Softopper on my '06 F350 long bed for ten years. It's far better than a hard topper (had one on an old Nissan and hated it). Goes up or down or off in minutes. We've had a few minor parts age and break but replacement part prices are very low and the company stands behind their product. Noticed a week ago that some of the canvas seams were rotting out. Contacted Softopper and ordered a replacement full canvas set and it came today. Total price for a new one with frame AND a replacement canvas set would be about 1/4 of a hard topper. Totally happy with it and the maker!
Hi there from Colorado! Thank you for this great review!! I have an F350 gasser. We'll be picking up a travel trailer in a week. It is a modest 4 season trailer that does not have a ton of external storage. So, I ordered a softtopper about 2 weeks ago so we can carry bins of extra equipment in the back of the truck. We use the truck for many things. So I think the flexibility to fold up the top will be awesome. I have a hardtop on our Toyota Tacoma. It is great, but there have been many times I wanted to take it off to carry oversized items. This softtopper will also make the f350 campable in the back. Safe travels!!
Picked up one of these used for my Tacoma. Good deal on it, I will most likely have to replace the gasket the rails sit on. Easy fix to waterproof it. Overall happy with it so far.
Dude! This is officer A Harmon, you just confessed to speeding on video! (Ticket is in the mail.) just kidding, I’m NoT an officer. But the ticket… May be on its way, stop speeding. Thanks for video though, I’ve been looking at the different options on covering my Dodge truck bed. Thanks for video. Like Also, just heard about the rain and leaks,…. This video really helped, great thoughts and input my friend. Thanks again!
Shoot, how fast do I talk about going in this video?? 80 is legal on a lot of highways lol. Glad the video helped, thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
I think there are name brand soft toppers out there that have a clear section on the sides, which could help with the parking issue point you had. I have a fibreglass on mine, but this looks really convenient with the fold back option if I want to transport my motorcycle somewhere easily.
My understanding is that those are first generation Bestop brand toppers. I’m not sure if/when softopper ever made a topper with side windows, and I wouldn’t want them, the canvas walls are overall better.
@@208Tyler I'm sure the solid windowless sides have their advantages. I looked a bit into some of these and they still seem a bit expensive, almost $1000 for some new in Canada. Did you consider getting a used fibreglass one for cheaper instead?
Ya, just harder to roll up and less privacy. I did consider it, but this being my first truck I wanted something a little more flexible. I also don’t have a garage to store one should I need to take the shell off. However, I think I will ultimately end up with some kind of hard shell or slide in camper solution years down the road
@@208Tyler Cool, I'm going to look into one too if I can find it for cheap. I'm in the same situation as you when it comes to the shell storage. I might just ask a friend if I can leave it in his backyard for a bit or find a cheap storage unit to rent over the summer.
Btw, Softopper is part of the Besttop family. Besttop is set up as a more premium product. Personally, the softopper is the one I bought as I don’t need the other features that the more expensive Besttop one has.
Yes. This video is slowly getting littered with comments mentioning that. I’ve know that since I bought it, but I don’t think the recent buyout has really changed the softtopper product
Thanks for the video. I am so tore. I have a 14’ gmc sierra crew cab short bed. We are starting camping this year with our three boys. I need something to safely and keeping dry to haul our gear and equipment and some firewood. I like a hard shell with the sides that flip up open. But they hard to find used it seems. And new they aren’t cheap by any means. I use my truck bed from time to time but not a ton. Plus I have a nice trailer if need be and it rare gets used could be a good way to utilize my trailer more. Idk so I like the versatility the soft topper offers. I have found the best too soft topper 2 (the new style) but it’s for a 19-22 truck like mine. I bet it’d work its 700 bucks on the marketplace. I’m just really torn on what I should do. A hard folding tonneau might would work but I’m just not sure. I need to load my truck bed up and just how much space is really needed.
I love the softopper, but I ultimately changed to a hardshell with “windoors”. For someone who only uses the bed for tools and camping gear, it’s great.
I have a tough time imagining that this couldn’t hold some snow weight on the top. It’s pretty sturdy when it’s all put together. My softopper held up through two tornado warnings and some other awful winds while driving.
Exactly the video i was looking for on one of these. Ive been on the fence about one but now i think im going to purchase one. Now i see you are in ada county as am i if i see you ill give you a wave 👋. Should the back window just be down during our cold idaho winter months then? Thanks for the review Tyler.
I sold it after a year. I never needed to take it off, so I moved onto a hardshell. I wanted to be able to toss stuff on the roof, and I eventually moved to a shell with windoors
They’re good. I moved onto a camper shell eventually, since I never ended up needing the flexibility of the softopper. Never had to take it off or fold it down after a year
i want to get this, i might soon. i work at a shop and a tundra came in with one on and i checked it out. there was a large gap on both the corners to the tail gate. im not sure if thats an issue or he just didnt have it installed right.
If you look at the frame of the softopper, the metal tubing extends down into the bed. This would interfere with any type of tonneau or bed cover. What are you hoping to accomplish?
Thks for the video! does anyone add a third break light to these toppers? I want to get one of these but don't want a ticket or if I get rear ended they could blame me for the accident. Thks again!
i have a 1500 sierra, 6.5 ft box. would i be able have a soft topper on and still fit 3-4 full size mountain bikes in there, front wheels hanging over tailgate; with the tailgate pad on? TIA
Not bug proof in my opinion. You could at some kind of insulation or seal some of the corners, but it’s not airtight. Specifically at the corners. And, tailgates aren’t air tight either
Hows the color holding up? Ive got a silver / gray silverado and likebthe black but worry it will get too hot in summer. Then the gray wont color match truck but imagine gray shows stain or sunfade easier. Your canvas color definitely seems like a great way to meet in middle ground. Im up in real warm summer and snowy winters so true 4 seasons
@@208Tyler thanks for response. Did you sell it for a certain reason or just sell the truck? I'm up in north Central WA so curious if you found it didn't work for up here or if your climate was similar
@@208Tyler I don't know how often I would need to take it off, but I don't want to look like one of "those guys" all the time. I want to comfortably camp in my truck without being a blow-hard. There just doesn't seem to be many long-term reviews of the Softopper and I'm starting to wonder if there's a reason for that.
@@208Tyler the mall crawler type. Too many people in my hometown drive around in their rigs that never leave the pavement. I'm thinking I'll go with a hard top because most people seem to only keep their Softopper for 1-2 years before upgrading.
All Access Cabs and Double cabs are right around 6.5 ft on first Gen tundras. Mines an 01, I think it’s 78-79” to be exact. $700-800 off their website.
Question: In your opinion, would a house cat be able to unbutton the softopper side buttons/hooks from the inside if they were scratching/pushing on the inner side or does it take a little bit of force to unbutton it? Thinking of getting one of these and one of the selling points is I can bring my cat with me in my travels secured in the truck bed. Don't want to find out the hard way that my pet can easily escape out the side going down the highway at 70mph.
It takes some pretty good force. Your cat isn’t going anywhere. Some people complain they can’t assemble the topper because the buttons are too hard to get on
@@208Tyler I really appreciate you answering my question, I made a contribution to your paypal link as a token of my thanks since I now intend to buy a softoper for my truck.
Looking at one of these for my truck and curious about comfort in cooler night temps. Does it provide any insulation value. I get it’s just a fabric cover but I think with some foam insulation under you and a good sleeping bag this could work ….any thoughts now that you’ve had it awhile
I never really got to cold weather camp in mine. Don’t expect it to keep you any warmer than a traditional camper shell would. Although, with fewer windows, it might be warmer to sleep in than a fiberglass shell with 3 windows. Some insulation would go a long way.
Thanks for the very informative video. I also got mine for versatility of being able to put the top up and down easily. I just installed my softopper and we had some rain a couple weeks afterwards. I had some water leakage not from the seams, but from the rail area near where the plugs on the bed rails are. Would you have any solutions for that? I'm also a 208 person in 1A county if you are able to help me out. My rails and clamps appear to be in the same position as yours.
You could try adding more weather sealing or reclamping or tightening up the rails, but I’m not exactly sure what the fix is gonna be for you. I feel like I might have experienced small leakages toward the cab side of the bed at the concerns, but I never had any water intrusion that was really inconvenient or ruined my sleeping setup
How are they easy to get a hold of?? I’ve been trying to call them for days to place an order and I can’t get a hold of anyone!! A lot of other people having the same issue. Any tips? Should I just order and hope for the best?
I just placed an order through their website. No need to call them, they’re a reputable company that delivers product… From what I understand, they’re often behind on high-demand models. So if you’ve got a a late mode tacoma it might be a while. My tundra topper came in less than 2 weeks I think
That could fit in spare bedroom if ya had to take off I do like how flip up towards cab and have more space when needing without taking whole thing off
If you have a Toyota tundra, stay far away from this brand. I had nothing but leaking issues with mine, and I mounted it the exact way they told me to. The only way to stop water from entering the bed of your pick up truck with a Toyota tundra, the 2017 model, is a bunch of aftermarket modifications to the system itself, andPermanent changes to your rails. I contacted the company a bunch and the only thing they told me was your beat pretty much after sending me some forums so I would definitely try another brand first if you have a tundra, soft topper isn’t really worth the money but I have one for sale if anybody wants one lol.😂
Dude so my side rails are showing a bit and my distance between front window soft topper and my rear truck window is decent. I have an 03 tundra. Just wondering what you think I should do to adjust where mine is and stuff. What are the lights you are using?
Mine didn’t have any issues. I thought it fit correctly. Are you sure you ordered the correct bed length (double cab vs access cab)? The lights I have are linked in this video: ruclips.net/video/jAROiIgITQ0/видео.html
I haven’t had to do it myself, but I have always heard the process is quick- disconnect the four straps and unbutton the canvas on the sides, then fold it forward. If you want it totally dismantled then you can take the frame off of the bedside rails as well. People generally talk about it as a quick (5 minute?) task that is easily done by yourself. I set it up all on my own, and it seems like tear down would be very simple. Here’s a video of a guy doing it himself: ruclips.net/video/7ip3gZ56xuI/видео.html
I haven’t had it out in a true summer desert/dust situation yet. So far I have slept under it two nights in Washington. I wouldn’t call it drafty, although it also wasn’t that windy those nights
Yes, it blocks the third brake light. I’ve never run into legal issues though. I’ve driven the truck through about 10 different states with the softopper on. Some google searching might help you determine if you’ll run into issues in your state
I did not notice massive amounts of dust getting in the camper while I used this. Unless your tailgate is perfectly sealed to the truck bed (many/most trucks aren’t) dust gets in anyway. I’ve also noticed that truck shells will let in dust or snow or rain unless the rear window perfectly fits the tailgate, which is a problem my current shell has, even though it’s designed for my truck.
Good to know. I didn’t even look at the bestop as they don’t support the first Gen tundra. I think softopper makes a pretty good product. I miss the look of it on mine.
@208Tyler I ordered my tent set up with my soft topper the topper came in probably within a month and after repeated tries to get in contact with them about my tent set up I gave up been about 2 years it never showed up
I've known this since the day I ordered the Soft Topper... I don't see how Best Top owning Soft Topper changes this review at all - the two "brands" make different products. It's a worthwhile comparison
They sell mesh windows (I think) but you vent it by unzipping it a little and running a fan, or don’t unzip it at all. There are tiny gaps near the tailgate. I usually camp at elevations where bugs aren’t an issue. They’re pretty waterproof as is. It’s about the same conundrums as you would have with a regular truck shell. Tenting is the perfect solution really, but then you have to deal with being on the ground and being a little less “secure”
Softopper IS bestop. Bestop bought out softopper back in June of 19. If you bought it before that, THEN you have an old, authentic Softopper. Either way, they are still in Boulder; just talked to them the other day.
This comment section is littered with these comments haha. While they’re under the same company umbrella, the products are not identical. Mine is/was still an authentic softopper…
Great video with no annoying music. Straight to the point and well articulated. Ty!
Thanks!
putting those tent lights in there is an awesome idea! Softtopepr makes so much more sense for me, I plan to use my dirtbike in the back, then sleep in there at night.
Ya it’s a nice touch!
Sounds like the softopper would work really good for you!
What lights are those?
Softopper and Besttop are owned by the same company (Bestop bought out Softopper). They are different designs and options. I prefer the Softopper. If you plan on sleeping under it line it with Reflectix for heat retention. I've had mine for 5 years and still like new. The rear clear window can be damaged if rolled up or folded when below 32*F. Can be removed in 2 minutes for hauling large items. I sleep on top the Decked Drawer system, not a lot of head room but it's great for sleeping.
Ya, this video is littered with comments about Bestop owning Softopper lol. I always wanted to add reflectix to mine but ended up moving to a hardshell! Sounds like you get a lot of good use out of your softopper!
@@208Tyler I should have watched all your video before commenting, my bad.
@@208Tyler Did you end up going with a snug top? If so what did it run you as far as cost?
@@Idc.350 I currently have a used covermaster. It was $400 on FB marketplace.
Thanks for your video. It really makes a lot of sense for me to go this route with my new truck. Great content and well done!
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the review! You have helped out a fellow 1st gen owner.
very well spoken... and direct simple overview. seriously, a great job in description and function. thanx
Thank you!
much support to those who need to live in there! god and the law bless you!!!
Nice Review, Got one on my Tacoma, Made a thermo liner for the inside, cold camping became easier also in the heat works good creating the double-wall effect, my gf is still looking for the wool blankets…..🤣
Oh nice! That would be great for camping, I bet it works well!
Excellent review, man! I just got a 23 Tacoma and this video helped solidify my decision in purchasing a Softopper.
Thank you! Hope you enjoy it!
I've had a Softopper on my '06 F350 long bed for ten years. It's far better than a hard topper (had one on an old Nissan and hated it). Goes up or down or off in minutes. We've had a few minor parts age and break but replacement part prices are very low and the company stands behind their product. Noticed a week ago that some of the canvas seams were rotting out. Contacted Softopper and ordered a replacement full canvas set and it came today. Total price for a new one with frame AND a replacement canvas set would be about 1/4 of a hard topper. Totally happy with it and the maker!
Hi there from Colorado! Thank you for this great review!!
I have an F350 gasser. We'll be picking up a travel trailer in a week. It is a modest 4 season trailer that does not have a ton of external storage. So, I ordered a softtopper about 2 weeks ago so we can carry bins of extra equipment in the back of the truck. We use the truck for many things. So I think the flexibility to fold up the top will be awesome. I have a hardtop on our Toyota Tacoma. It is great, but there have been many times I wanted to take it off to carry oversized items.
This softtopper will also make the f350 campable in the back.
Safe travels!!
Glad the review helped you!
It sounds alike the softtopper will fit your needs great! Enjoy it!
I bought one for my 2022 Tacoma then saw this review. Very reassured about my purchase. Thanks
Glad the video helped!
Thank you for your non biased review.
Hope it helped! Thanks for commenting
Picked up one of these used for my Tacoma. Good deal on it, I will most likely have to replace the gasket the rails sit on. Easy fix to waterproof it. Overall happy with it so far.
Great review and points. Just ordered and on it's way for our Tacoma and can't wait to use it for camping...
Awesome! I hope it treats you well!
Dude! This is officer A Harmon, you just confessed to speeding on video! (Ticket is in the mail.) just kidding, I’m NoT an officer.
But the ticket…
May be on its way, stop speeding.
Thanks for video though, I’ve been looking at the different options on covering my Dodge truck bed.
Thanks for video. Like
Also, just heard about the rain and leaks,…. This video really helped, great thoughts and input my friend. Thanks again!
Shoot, how fast do I talk about going in this video?? 80 is legal on a lot of highways lol.
Glad the video helped, thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
Bro you don't know how excited I am for my topper. Gonna be making a false platform that's gonna be lined so there will be comfort while roadtripping
Sounds nice!
Great video. It helped me make up my mind. Bravo 🎉
I think there are name brand soft toppers out there that have a clear section on the sides, which could help with the parking issue point you had. I have a fibreglass on mine, but this looks really convenient with the fold back option if I want to transport my motorcycle somewhere easily.
My understanding is that those are first generation Bestop brand toppers. I’m not sure if/when softopper ever made a topper with side windows, and I wouldn’t want them, the canvas walls are overall better.
@@208Tyler I'm sure the solid windowless sides have their advantages. I looked a bit into some of these and they still seem a bit expensive, almost $1000 for some new in Canada. Did you consider getting a used fibreglass one for cheaper instead?
Ya, just harder to roll up and less privacy. I did consider it, but this being my first truck I wanted something a little more flexible. I also don’t have a garage to store one should I need to take the shell off.
However, I think I will ultimately end up with some kind of hard shell or slide in camper solution years down the road
@@208Tyler Cool, I'm going to look into one too if I can find it for cheap. I'm in the same situation as you when it comes to the shell storage. I might just ask a friend if I can leave it in his backyard for a bit or find a cheap storage unit to rent over the summer.
They have the clear sides only for suvs like the old broncos and blazers
Nice video. I went with the original canvas top, bestop Supertop. I wanted the side windows.
Thanks!
Great review. I wish they did these for my 79 Datsun 620 long bed truck. Plus I'm in UK. Cheers
Btw, Softopper is part of the Besttop family. Besttop is set up as a more premium product. Personally, the softopper is the one I bought as I don’t need the other features that the more expensive Besttop one has.
Yes. This video is slowly getting littered with comments mentioning that.
I’ve know that since I bought it, but I don’t think the recent buyout has really changed the softtopper product
Thanks for the video. I am so tore. I have a 14’ gmc sierra crew cab short bed. We are starting camping this year with our three boys. I need something to safely and keeping dry to haul our gear and equipment and some firewood. I like a hard shell with the sides that flip up open. But they hard to find used it seems. And new they aren’t cheap by any means. I use my truck bed from time to time but not a ton. Plus I have a nice trailer if need be and it rare gets used could be a good way to utilize my trailer more. Idk so I like the versatility the soft topper offers. I have found the best too soft topper 2 (the new style) but it’s for a 19-22 truck like mine. I bet it’d work its 700 bucks on the marketplace. I’m just really torn on what I should do. A hard folding tonneau might would work but I’m just not sure. I need to load my truck bed up and just how much space is really needed.
I love the softopper, but I ultimately changed to a hardshell with “windoors”. For someone who only uses the bed for tools and camping gear, it’s great.
@@208Tyler I think that’s ultimately the better long term solution. I just hate to bite that bullet and spend on a shell. Such is life I guess
Ya. I got a good deal ($400) on mine, but the late model pickup options are pricey!!
from idaho too, thanks for the video.. looking to get one
Great video thank you
Very informative!
Thanks! Glad you found it useful
Great review. Appreciate the comment about rain. Now what about snow weight/loads?
I have a tough time imagining that this couldn’t hold some snow weight on the top. It’s pretty sturdy when it’s all put together.
My softopper held up through two tornado warnings and some other awful winds while driving.
Exactly the video i was looking for on one of these. Ive been on the fence about one but now i think im going to purchase one. Now i see you are in ada county as am i if i see you ill give you a wave 👋. Should the back window just be down during our cold idaho winter months then? Thanks for the review Tyler.
Awesome! Glad the video helped.
Haha perfect! Ya keep everything down for the winter
@@208Tyler gotcha. Thanks bro.
How about an update on the Softopper.
I sold it after a year. I never needed to take it off, so I moved onto a hardshell. I wanted to be able to toss stuff on the roof, and I eventually moved to a shell with windoors
I liked you video great info. I live in south Texas. The night time temp. could reach 75 and the mosquito are bad. What do you recommend I do?
I would probably get a fiberglass shell if you can find one, add bug netting to the windows, and run a fan or portable AC
Three years later do you still recommend a softopper? I want one for my tacoma to sleep in on a road trip.
They’re good. I moved onto a camper shell eventually, since I never ended up needing the flexibility of the softopper. Never had to take it off or fold it down after a year
I would like to see it folded back. I haul hay regularly and would need to have it out of the way for that.
ruclips.net/video/xKcBjw_6amg/видео.htmlsi=NXH3qk8iArsC_GRx
i want to get this, i might soon. i work at a shop and a tundra came in with one on and i checked it out. there was a large gap on both the corners to the tail gate. im not sure if thats an issue or he just didnt have it installed right.
Softopper is owned by Bestop ;)
Yes- I noticed that when it shipped. That being said, they aren’t identical products and the distinction stands
@@208Tyler Absolutely. I prefer the softopper versions for all model vehicles
My only issue with this so far is missing a 3rd brake light.
Thank you for the review! I have a soft/velcro rollback top cover for my Toyota Tacoma. I am hoping to integrate the two. Any thoughts?
If you look at the frame of the softopper, the metal tubing extends down into the bed. This would interfere with any type of tonneau or bed cover.
What are you hoping to accomplish?
Great video. Do you get good gas mileage with the topper on? Thank you.
Yes! I didn’t notice any difference in MPG!
Thks for the video! does anyone add a third break light to these toppers? I want to get one of these but don't want a ticket or if I get rear ended they could blame me for the accident. Thks again!
I haven’t seen it done, but it definitely could be done. You could alternatively put one in your tailgate hitch
i have a 1500 sierra, 6.5 ft box. would i be able have a soft topper on and still fit 3-4 full size mountain bikes in there, front wheels hanging over tailgate; with the tailgate pad on? TIA
I’m a dude with a 1st gen tundra and 0 mountain bikes. I don’t know the answer to your question
How do you clean it? Does it collect dirt and dust?
I never cleaned it. Seemed fine
Thanks for this, lots of good info. Exactly what I was looking for. Do you have square wheels on that longboard?
Nope, they’re round. Like this: www.amazon.com/dp/B07RWF5977?pd_rd_i=B07L18MGZC&pd_rd_w=Gl0iI&pf_rd_p=c9f54957-dab8-433b-b0f6-02bde7ccae59&pd_rd_wg=TMuIt&pf_rd_r=G1K87BAHKSSS75JXA9KH&pd_rd_r=32708e35-0f0e-4850-a561-559680f7fe3d&th=1&psc=1
@@208Tyler wow those look pretty crazy! I would have loved those in my longboarding days
Haha they definitely make an optical illusion, just a fun addition to the board
How well does it keep the bugs out, are there any reveals or area's where they can get in?
Not bug proof in my opinion. You could at some kind of insulation or seal some of the corners, but it’s not airtight. Specifically at the corners. And, tailgates aren’t air tight either
Nice review! Do you know if i can drive on the highway with the front and sides down but tailgate open and back rolled up? thanks!
I think that would work fine, I don't see why there would be an issue. I feel like I've seen people drive with the rear rolled up to fit dirtbikes
@@208Tyler thanks for the reply! I went ahead and ordered one for my “17” Colorado. Thanks for the helpful video.
@@Gmackrcplanes Awesome! Glad the video helped
Hows the color holding up? Ive got a silver / gray silverado and likebthe black but worry it will get too hot in summer. Then the gray wont color match truck but imagine gray shows stain or sunfade easier. Your canvas color definitely seems like a great way to meet in middle ground. Im up in real warm summer and snowy winters so true 4 seasons
I only had mine for a year, but the color was still great then.
@@208Tyler thanks for response. Did you sell it for a certain reason or just sell the truck? I'm up in north Central WA so curious if you found it didn't work for up here or if your climate was similar
SW Idaho. I got rid of it because I realized I never take it off, so I’m good to go to a hardshell. I got a hardshell with windows that flip out.
Who makes this topper & what is price?.....
Softopper…. Depends on the model
I know this video is pretty old. Do you still have this on your truck? If not, why did you replace it?
No. I never had the need to take off the softopper in the 1-1.5 years I had it, so I moved on to a hardshell with windoors
@@208Tyler I don't know how often I would need to take it off, but I don't want to look like one of "those guys" all the time. I want to comfortably camp in my truck without being a blow-hard. There just doesn't seem to be many long-term reviews of the Softopper and I'm starting to wonder if there's a reason for that.
@@davidscottwills one of what guys??
Used hardshells are great and a tough value to beat if you’re not looking at brand new, late model shells.
@@208Tyler the mall crawler type. Too many people in my hometown drive around in their rigs that never leave the pavement.
I'm thinking I'll go with a hard top because most people seem to only keep their Softopper for 1-2 years before upgrading.
Great review. I have a 2002 tundra with a 6ft bed. What year is yours and what size bed. What was your cost out the door?
All Access Cabs and Double cabs are right around 6.5 ft on first Gen tundras. Mines an 01, I think it’s 78-79” to be exact. $700-800 off their website.
Great review! What were those lights you used btw?
Oh ya, I need to do a video on that setup when I get the time! Here's the lights I used, they've worked great so far! amzn.to/3M0vP81
Question: In your opinion, would a house cat be able to unbutton the softopper side buttons/hooks from the inside if they were scratching/pushing on the inner side or does it take a little bit of force to unbutton it? Thinking of getting one of these and one of the selling points is I can bring my cat with me in my travels secured in the truck bed. Don't want to find out the hard way that my pet can easily escape out the side going down the highway at 70mph.
It takes some pretty good force. Your cat isn’t going anywhere. Some people complain they can’t assemble the topper because the buttons are too hard to get on
@@208Tyler I really appreciate you answering my question, I made a contribution to your paypal link as a token of my thanks since I now intend to buy a softoper for my truck.
@@kennethhudgins1369 Dude! Thanks so much. I appreciate it. I hope you get alot of good use out of your softopper!
Looking at one of these for my truck and curious about comfort in cooler night temps. Does it provide any insulation value. I get it’s just a fabric cover but I think with some foam insulation under you and a good sleeping bag this could work ….any thoughts now that you’ve had it awhile
I never really got to cold weather camp in mine. Don’t expect it to keep you any warmer than a traditional camper shell would. Although, with fewer windows, it might be warmer to sleep in than a fiberglass shell with 3 windows. Some insulation would go a long way.
Maybe you already mentioned this, but how long have you had the Soft Topper?
I purchased and installed the stopper at the beginning of August 2021
@@208Tyler Was there much of a delay before you received it?
7 days? I know some people have had to wait longer, I think my model probably has lower demand
What about going through car washes?
I don’t think I’ve ever taken this truck through an automatic car wash lol
I have a sliding rear window for my dog . Does front window open up ? Is a a sewed in plastic window ?
The front window is a complete panel that zips up and velcros on the two sides.
@@208Tyler Good news thanks that give my dog more air able to hear me . Now got see if they make 1 for my 6 ft bed canyon. Thank you for your help.
Can't find this info anywhere online... do you have interior height dimensions for the tundra that you can share?
Would that be a measurement from floor to ceiling? No
Correct, and darn!@@208Tyler
How does this do with snow?
Just fine! Mine survived a tornado watch/warning just fine, and plenty of snow
Thanks for the very informative video. I also got mine for versatility of being able to put the top up and down easily. I just installed my softopper and we had some rain a couple weeks afterwards. I had some water leakage not from the seams, but from the rail area near where the plugs on the bed rails are. Would you have any solutions for that? I'm also a 208 person in 1A county if you are able to help me out. My rails and clamps appear to be in the same position as yours.
You could try adding more weather sealing or reclamping or tightening up the rails, but I’m not exactly sure what the fix is gonna be for you. I feel like I might have experienced small leakages toward the cab side of the bed at the concerns, but I never had any water intrusion that was really inconvenient or ruined my sleeping setup
@@208Tyler thanks for the reply I think I'll try reclamping first before I put additional weather seal on.
How are they easy to get a hold of?? I’ve been trying to call them for days to place an order and I can’t get a hold of anyone!! A lot of other people having the same issue. Any tips? Should I just order and hope for the best?
I just placed an order through their website. No need to call them, they’re a reputable company that delivers product…
From what I understand, they’re often behind on high-demand models. So if you’ve got a a late mode tacoma it might be a while. My tundra topper came in less than 2 weeks I think
@@208Tylerthanks makes me feel better. It will probably be a wait then for my gladiator as well
Ya, I’m sure the gladiator will probably take longer
@@208Tyler I’ll comment back when it does I just ordered it today 🤞
Wanted this topper and was ready to purchase but they have terrible reviews regarding customer service.
Ok
Does the flap that drops down next to the cab roll up like the back end?
While it is detachable, it is not designed to be rolled up like the other sides. There’s no clips along that panel
Are these ok to go through touch free car wash??
I don’t see why not….
@@208Tyler I doubt it. That high pressure water and brushes are going to create leaks.
Nice video! Very informative.
Do you ever sleep directly in the bed with it on or do you tent camp?
I’ve done both, I prefer sleeping under the shell when possible. More secure- and if it’s windy you don’t listen to canvas flap all night
Can it handle a car wash ??
Yes.
Do we know if this would fit a longbed, 8ft, toyota t100?
My model wouldn’t, but if you go to their website, I’m sure they’ll be able to tell you if they carry one for that model truck.
That could fit in spare bedroom if ya had to take off I do like how flip up towards cab and have more space when needing without taking whole thing off
Ya they’re nice!!
what considered as "fake" soft topper?
Other brands by different names that make a “soft topper” for trucks. There’s several, the most well known is Bestop, which recently bought softopper.
If you have a Toyota tundra, stay far away from this brand. I had nothing but leaking issues with mine, and I mounted it the exact way they told me to. The only way to stop water from entering the bed of your pick up truck with a Toyota tundra, the 2017 model, is a bunch of aftermarket modifications to the system itself, andPermanent changes to your rails. I contacted the company a bunch and the only thing they told me was your beat pretty much after sending me some forums so I would definitely try another brand first if you have a tundra, soft topper isn’t really worth the money but I have one for sale if anybody wants one lol.😂
Dude so my side rails are showing a bit and my distance between front window soft topper and my rear truck window is decent.
I have an 03 tundra. Just wondering what you think I should do to adjust where mine is and stuff.
What are the lights you are using?
Mine didn’t have any issues. I thought it fit correctly. Are you sure you ordered the correct bed length (double cab vs access cab)?
The lights I have are linked in this video: ruclips.net/video/jAROiIgITQ0/видео.html
How long does it take to dismount a soft top? For instance, if one would like to use the bed to haul a dirt bike? Also, is it easily done solo?
I haven’t had to do it myself, but I have always heard the process is quick- disconnect the four straps and unbutton the canvas on the sides, then fold it forward. If you want it totally dismantled then you can take the frame off of the bedside rails as well. People generally talk about it as a quick (5 minute?) task that is easily done by yourself. I set it up all on my own, and it seems like tear down would be very simple. Here’s a video of a guy doing it himself: ruclips.net/video/7ip3gZ56xuI/видео.html
@@208Tyler why I ask, you and I are about the same size. Lol Thank you again for a speedy response.
Same use case here. But can't we just mount a chock in front of the tire to keep it away from the topper when its collapsed in the forward position?
Sure could. Or you can fully remove it if that makes it easier for you to work with.
How well does it handle dust? I’m in the southwest and that’s honestly more of a concern than rain.
You said that you sleep in it, is it drafty?
I haven’t had it out in a true summer desert/dust situation yet.
So far I have slept under it two nights in Washington. I wouldn’t call it drafty, although it also wasn’t that windy those nights
@@208Tyler Thanks. Look forward to future updates.
Hopefully some to come this summer
Does this block the third brake light? Will that cause legal issues?
Yes, it blocks the third brake light. I’ve never run into legal issues though. I’ve driven the truck through about 10 different states with the softopper on. Some google searching might help you determine if you’ll run into issues in your state
What about dust getting in
I did not notice massive amounts of dust getting in the camper while I used this.
Unless your tailgate is perfectly sealed to the truck bed (many/most trucks aren’t) dust gets in anyway.
I’ve also noticed that truck shells will let in dust or snow or rain unless the rear window perfectly fits the tailgate, which is a problem my current shell has, even though it’s designed for my truck.
I had a best top on my 08 d ram.....absolute junk.....dont buy.....youve been warned.....im about to buy the soft topper for my tacoma
Good to know. I didn’t even look at the bestop as they don’t support the first Gen tundra. I think softopper makes a pretty good product. I miss the look of it on mine.
Product is alright but you might not receive it and junk customer service never got my tent set up I ordered definitely would not recommend
Hmm, that's not a complaint I here often, my Soft Topper took 2 weeks or less to arrive.
@208Tyler I ordered my tent set up with my soft topper the topper came in probably within a month and after repeated tries to get in contact with them about my tent set up I gave up been about 2 years it never showed up
That sucks
soft top and best top is the same company. do your research.
I've known this since the day I ordered the Soft Topper... I don't see how Best Top owning Soft Topper changes this review at all - the two "brands" make different products. It's a worthwhile comparison
Soft tops on anything except Jeeps is ugly..but to each is he own
Nice
No way. Gives a great rugged look. Functional not mall crawler.
Sleeping in one of those in summer how do ya vent it and keep bugs out and rain proof
They sell mesh windows (I think) but you vent it by unzipping it a little and running a fan, or don’t unzip it at all. There are tiny gaps near the tailgate.
I usually camp at elevations where bugs aren’t an issue.
They’re pretty waterproof as is.
It’s about the same conundrums as you would have with a regular truck shell.
Tenting is the perfect solution really, but then you have to deal with being on the ground and being a little less “secure”
Softopper IS bestop. Bestop bought out softopper back in June of 19. If you bought it before that, THEN you have an old, authentic Softopper. Either way, they are still in Boulder; just talked to them the other day.
This comment section is littered with these comments haha.
While they’re under the same company umbrella, the products are not identical. Mine is/was still an authentic softopper…
1st gen best gen
Agreed! The tundra's been working out great