Jeep Wrangler tops are made with fiberglass, like in the case of a hardtop, or a combination of 4-ply or 2-ply composites and fabrics like polyester and cotton. Hardtops are more durable but more expensive, while soft tops are more flexible and affordable.
Depending on your needs, both tops are viable for your Jeep Wrangler. However, hardtop Jeep Wrangler covers are usually better in the winter.
Fortunately, 4 Wheel Parts has plenty of hardtops and soft tops for your Jeep Wrangler that will help you make it through the winter.
Hard Top Pros
Hardtop Jeep Wrangler tops offer several advantages. These advantages include durability, insulation, roof rack options, and even better security.
Durability
Jeep Wrangler hardtops are more durable than soft top covers. Hardtops are more durable because they’re made with stronger materials like fiberglass. Fiberglass holds up well against ice, rain, snow, dirt, and other types of debris. When off-roading, you don’t have to worry as much about rocks falling or damage from scraping against rocks in tight areas.
Insulation
Hardtops are also better at insulating your Jeep Wrangler. In the summer months, the hardtop does a better job of keeping cold air in and warm air out. On the other hand, Jeep Wrangler hardtops will also keep your Jeep warmer during the winter months. Insulation also reduces the amount of noise you’ll hear in the cabin, even in bad weather.
Roof Rack Options
Roof racks help you carry additional items on the roof of your Jeep Wrangler. A roof rack is good for carrying items like sporting goods, camping supplies, and much more. Without a Jeep Wrangler hardtop, you can’t install a roof rack unless you install an exoskeleton, which gives hardtops the advantage here. Other types of roof attachments are also possible when you have a Jeep Wrangler hardtop.
Security
Security is another advantage that Jeep Wrangler hardtops offer. Hardtops are made with fiberglass, which is much harder to break into than the fabrics used for soft tops. Therefore, installing a hardtop keeps your Jeep Wrangler more secure and deters theft.
Hard Top Cons
Hardtop covers for Jeep Wranglers aren’t perfect and come with some disadvantages. The most notable disadvantages include the price, challenging installation process, and a lack of storage options.
Challenging to Install or Remove
Hardtop covers are challenging to install and remove due to the size and weight of the roof. Typically, you’ll need more than one person to install or remove a Jeep Wrangler hardtop. Having roof racks installed on the hardtop will make it even harder to handle.
Expensive
Jeep Wrangler hardtops are expensive. On average, hardtops from the factory cost just under $3,000. However, hardtops from aftermarket brands may cost upwards of $4,000. Even though it might save some cash, getting your hands on a used Jeep Wrangler hardtop will still cost you more than most soft tops.
Difficult to Store
Jeep Wrangler hardtops don’t fold up in the same way as soft tops. They’re bulky and rigid. Some pieces will fold but you’ll need adequate storage space to keep your Jeep Wrangler hardtop protected. Without a garage, it’s hard to find space inside your home that will accommodate a hardtop.
Soft Top Pros
Soft top Jeep Wrangler tops offer several advantages when compared to hard tops. They’re more affordable, easy to store, and simple to install.
Easy to Install
Soft tops are simple to install and you won’t need a second person. The easy installation process makes soft top covers more flexible for activities like off-roading. Plus, you can attach it or remove it quickly if the weather changes rapidly.
Easy to Store
Soft top covers are easy to store. Most Jeep Wrangler soft tops have a fold-up design, so you can store them safely in your home. Moreover, many Jeep Wrangler soft tops will fit inside the Jeep. The simple storage options make soft tops even more flexible than hard tops.
Inexpensive
When it comes to price, it’s hard to beat Jeep Wrangler soft tops. Soft tops are less expensive than hard tops because they’re made with more affordable materials. On average, soft top covers costs between $200 and $1,000. Even the most expensive soft tops are more affordable than hard tops.
Soft Top Cons
Soft tops, like hard tops, aren’t perfect. Unfortunately, there are a handful of disadvantages you need to know. The most notable disadvantages are the lack of insulation, increased noise, and a lack of security/durability.
Lack of Insulation
One of the biggest issues with soft tops is the lack of insulation. Jeep Wranglers have good heaters and air conditioning but the soft top doesn’t offer much insulation, so hot or cold air escapes from the cabin. The lack of insulation makes the cabin hotter in the summer and colder in the winter.
Noisy
Jeep Wrangler soft tops are also noisy. The lightweight fabric-like material will blow around in the wind and create a lot of noise such as buffetting in the cabin. Driving at high speeds on highways will also result in a loud cabin.
Lack of Security
Soft top Jeep Wrangler tops lack security. It’s easy for someone to break into your Jeep Wrangler with a soft top cover. While the material is strong, sharp blades may cut through the fabric or windows. 4-ply composite soft tops for Jeep Wranglers offer the best protection.
Less Durable
Soft-top Jeep Wrangler tops aren’t durable when you compare them to hardtop covers. Sharp objects may puncture them and a thick snowfall may cause a soft top to cave in. Also, soft tops are more prone to leaking because of small holes that form over time. When off-roading, soft-top Jeep Wranglers may also tear or rip when you come into contact with rocks or narrow passes.
Best Option for Winter
Jeep Wrangler hardtops are the best option for winter. Soft-top Jeep Wrangler tops are viable in the winter but the lack of insulation and support makes them a less desirable option. So, if you plan on using a soft top cover in the winter, make sure you use one that’s made with premium materials like a 4-ply composite that has a PVC outer layer.
When you need a new hardtop or soft top for your Jeep Wrangler in the winter, look no further than 4 Wheel Parts. You’ll find all the best Jeep Wrangler tops from several of the best brands.
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