Hard-shell vs. Soft-shell rooftop tents | the ultimate guide from the experts in kelowna, bc
At Over The Top Racks & Accessories, we’ve installed and tested rooftop tents from premium brands like iKamper, Overland Vehicle Systems, Yakima, Thule Tepui, RoofNest, and Treeline Outdoors. Choosing between a hard-shell and a soft-shell rooftop tent isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about aligning the tent’s features with your adventure style, vehicle setup, and overall needs. Let’s dive into the key differences to help you decide which type of tent deserves a spot on your rig.
Hard-Shell Rooftop Tents | The Pros and Cons
Hard-shell rooftop tents, such as those from iKamper and RoofNest, have gained popularity among overlanders and travelers for good reasons:
Advantages:
Aerodynamics and Efficiency: Hard-shell tents feature sleek, low-profile designs that reduce wind resistance, improving fuel economy compared to soft-shell tents.
Ease of Setup: Most hard-shell tents can be deployed in under a minute, making them perfect for adventurers who value convenience.
Durability: The hard exterior offers superior longevity as well as protection from the elements, be it heavy rain, snow, or intense UV rays.
Comfort: Many hard-shell models include high-quality mattresses and better insulation for year-round use.
Rack-a-bility: Most have crossbars that come standard or available separately to carry additional gear on top of the tent.
Disadvantages:
Cost: Premium engineering and materials come at a price, often making hard-shell tents more expensive.
Weight: Hard-shell tents are typically heavier, requiring a sturdy rack and potentially affecting vehicle handling as well as exceeding safe operating limits.
Space: While efficient, most hard-shells lack the expansive living space and annex options of their soft-shell counterparts.
Capacity: Typically they sleep fewer and have limited space to store and transport bedding inside.
Soft-Shell Rooftop Tents |The Pros and Cons
Soft-shell rooftop tents, like those from Overland Vehicle Systems and Treeline Outdoors, remain a favourite for families and off-road adventurers:
Advantages:
Versatility: These tents often include (or have available) annex rooms, creating additional living and storage space for gear or guests.
Lighter Weight: Soft-shell tents are generally lighter, making them a viable option for smaller vehicles or fully loaded overland vehicles.
Affordability: They deliver excellent value, providing more sleeping space at a lower cost.
Compact Packing: When folded, these tents offer a relatively small footprint for transport, something to consider from an aesthetic perspective or functionally on a low bed pickup rack.
Disadvantages:
Setup Time: While not difficult, setting up a soft-shell tent usually takes a few extra minutes.
Weather Resistance: Soft-shells are more prone to wear and tear from prolonged exposure to rain, snow, and UV rays.
Aerodynamics: Their larger packed size can increase wind resistance, impacting fuel efficiency.
The Foundation | Why Your Rack Matters
Regardless of your tent choice, the most critical factor for safety and performance is your vehicle’s rack foundation. Here’s why:
Dynamic Load: This refers to the tent’s weight plus the forces generated while driving. A robust rack is essential to handle this stress without compromising vehicle stability.
Static Load: When parked and the tent is in use, the rack must support the combined weight of the tent, occupants, and any gear. Premium brands like Yakima, Thule, and Rhino-Rack are designed specifically for these loads.
Off-Road Durability: If you’re taking your setup off the beaten path, the rack must withstand additional stresses from uneven terrain and vibrations as few are guaranteed off the pavement - it’s better to overdo it, than underdo it.
At Over The Top Racks & Accessories, we’ll match your rooftop tent with a rack system built to handle your adventures. Our team ensures proper installation, accounting for dynamic and static loads to give you peace of mind on and off the road.
Final Thoughts | Which Tent is Right for You?
The choice between hard-shell and soft-shell rooftop tents boils down to your priorities. If you’re an overlander seeking fast setups and all-weather durability, a hard-shell tent from iKamper or RoofNest might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you need extra space for family camping trips or want a more budget-friendly option, consider a soft-shell tent from Overland Vehicle Systems or Treeline Outdoors.
Still unsure? Swing by our shop and let our experienced team guide you. From helping you choose the perfect tent to ensuring a rock-solid rack foundation, we’ve got you covered. Adventure is calling—make sure you’re ready to answer.