Soft shell roof top tents are slightly different in comparison to the hard shell alternatives. The tents have been around for the better part of the last decade and they are still popular.
These are also tents, but they take a little more time for you to set up and they can often be much better in terms of the overall living space. Here we have done a complete breakdown of the benefits and drawbacks of soft shell roof top tents.
Pros Of Soft Shell Roof Top Tents
Much like the hard shell roof top tents, you always have to consider the pros and cons before buying. Soft shell tents have plenty of benefits that will make them worth your time and effort. Here are some of the top pros to keep in mind:
Price
Since these tents are not made from the same durable materials as hard shell roof top tents, their price tends to be lower. This means that soft shell tents tend to be the best option if you are on a budget.
However, there are a couple of factors that come into play when it comes to price. One of these is the size. Some larger soft shell tents can be just as expensive as their hard shell counterparts. But overall, you should notice that these soft shell tents are a little more affordable.
Living Space
Soft shell roof top tents are often folded and this gives them a little more material for you to play with. Some of these tents can be folded and once you unfold them, they are bigger than your vehicle.
Soft shell rooftop tents tend to have a larger living space for things like mattresses and additional comfort. And many of them are said to sleep 3-4 people comfortably.
Cons Of Soft Shell Roof Top Tents
Having seen some of the benefits, you might also be wondering what the drawbacks are of soft shell roof top tents. Fortunately, we have experience with both types of tents and know first-hand the major drawbacks of these tents.
Drag On Your Car
One of the biggest downsides to soft shell roof top tents is that they are not aerodynamic. They cause some serious drag when they are strapped to the roof of your car.
If you’ve seen any of these on the road, you will notice that they are very bulky and have a soft outer shell. The tent’s shape and soft cover cause more drag and ultimately lower your gas mileage and/or range. You can find some options that are a little more sleek, but soft shell roof top tents are often bulky and not aerodynamic.
Lacks Durability
While these tents are by no means fragile, they are not as durable as hard shell roof top tents. You need to keep in mind that they are made from lighter and softer materials. These include nylon and canvas, which might be durable enough, but not as strong as a hard outer shell.
If you’re worried about rain seeping in, you could add your own waterproof coating.
Post time: Mar-30-2022