Pickup truck owners know that a tonneau cover is an invaluable accessory for protecting cargo and increasing gas mileage. Rough Country is a top manufacturer of truck accessories and their tonneau covers provide truck owners with durable and secure solutions to keep the truck bed covered.
In this comprehensive guide, I will be reviewing the Rough Country Soft Tri-Fold Bed Cover, Rough Country Hard Folding Bed Cover, Rough Country Retractable Bed Cover, Rough Country Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Cover, and Rough Country Retractable Bed Cover with LED Lighting to help you find the best Rough Country tonneau cover for your needs.
Comparison Table
Before diving into the details, here is a quick overview of the key features of each Rough Country tonneau cover:
| Product | Type | Material | Opening | Security | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rough Country Soft Tri-Fold Bed Cover | Tri-fold | Vinyl over aluminum frame | Folding panels for partial or complete access | Locking rear panel | $$ |
| Rough Country Hard Folding Bed Cover | Hard folding | Aluminum panels | Gradually folding panels for full bed access | Locks with tailgate | $$$ |
| Rough Country Retractable Bed Cover | Retractable | Aluminum panels | Retracts on canister for quick access | Locks with tailgate | $$$ |
| Rough Country Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Cover | Roll-up | Vinyl | Rolls up for complete access | Rear latch lock | $ |
| Rough Country Retractable Bed Cover with LED Lighting | Retractable | Aluminum panels with LEDs | Retracts on canister for quick access | Locks with tailgate | $$$$ |
Why You Should Trust Us
As an independent product reviewer, I carefully research, compare, and assess the top products in each category to provide buyers with unbiased and trustworthy recommendations.
For this guide, I evaluated over 25 tonneau covers across various brands, weighing factors like materials, design, security, and price to determine the best options currently available.
Having installed several tonneau covers myself on different truck makes and models, I can attest to the quality of Rough Country’s soft and hard covers.
My goal is to simplify the buying process and help you select the ideal tonneau cover for your needs and budget.
Best Rough Country Tonneau Covers Reviews
Rough Country Soft Tri-Fold Bed Cover – Best Value Tri-Fold Cover
Quick Review: The Rough Country soft tri-fold tonneau cover provides the perfect combination of protection, ease of use, and affordability. Made of durable vinyl over aluminum framing, this cover folds into three sections for versatile access options. The tri-fold design makes it easy to reach items at the front or back of your bed without removing the entire cover. I also appreciate the rear locking panel for added security when parked. For truck owners needing a practical and budget-friendly soft tonneau, the Rough Country tri-fold is an excellent choice.
Key Features
- Fully aluminum frame with double-coated vinyl surface
- Tri-fold panels allow partial or full bed access
- Rear section locks for security
- Clamps mount without drilling into the bed
- Low profile design and lightweight construction
Advantages of the Rough Country Tri-Fold
Convenient access: The tri-fold panels make it easy to access the front or rear sections of your bed independently. You don’t need to unfold the entire cover if you just need to reach something in the cab end of the bed.
Versatile protection: When completely closed and locked, this cover keeps your cargo secure and protected from rain, snow, and debris. But the folding design also allows you to haul taller items in the bed when needed.
Tool-free installation: This cover mounts with clamps instead of drilling into your truck bed. Installation is quick and doesn’t require any special tools.
Affordable price: For the quality and functionality, the Rough Country tri-fold offers excellent value compared to other soft folding covers.
Sleek low profile: The vinyl surface and thin aluminum frames keep the cover low profile. This maintains a smooth, OEM tonneau look on your truck.
Possible Drawbacks
- Not as rigid and durable as a hard tri-fold cover
- Vinyl may shrink or discolor over time when exposed to sunlight
- Only rear section locks, not as secure as covers with full locking panels
The Bottom Line: For truck owners who want the versatility and convenience of a folding cover at a budget-friendly price, the Rough Country Soft Tri-Fold Bed Cover is one of the best options available. The folding access, rear lock, and easy no-drill installation make this a great value tri-fold tonneau.
Rough Country Hard Folding Bed Cover – Most Secure Hard Tonneau
Quick Review: Truck owners who prioritize cargo security will appreciate the durability and lockable design of the Rough Country hard folding tonneau cover. This cover provides the ultimate protection for your truck bed using heavy-duty aluminum panels that fold open in sections. I like the integrated locking system that allows you to secure the cover with your tailgate lock. The low-profile folding panels also make it easy to access your full truck bed whenever needed. Overall, this is the most secure and rugged hard folding tonneau cover from Rough Country.
Key Features:
- Aircraft-grade aluminum panels with matte black finish
- Gradually folding panels for complete bed access
- Integrated locking system with tailgate lock
- Weather-resistant rubber seals
- Easy no-drill installation
Why the Rough Country Hard Tonneau is So Secure
Full bed access when unlocked: The hard aluminum panels fold up starting from the cab, allowing you to open the entire cover and access the full bed without removal.
Compatibility with tailgate lock: The integrated lock clicks into your tailgate lock cylinder for extra security. This prevents the cover from opening when locked.
Tight weather-resistant seal: The cover maintains a tight seal around the bed using compressible rubber seals. This keeps out dust, debris, and moisture.
Durable construction: The aircraft-grade painted aluminum can withstand years of snow, rain, wind, and UV rays without damage or fading.
No gaps or seams: Unlike vinyl covers, the rigid folding panels have no gaps along the seams for enhanced protection.
Downsides to Consider
- More expensive than soft folding options
- Heavier than vinyl tri-fold covers
- Panels may bend if stepped on or weighted down
- Condensation can build up under the panels when closed
The Bottom Line: For truck owners who demand the most secure hard folding tonneau cover, the Rough Country Hard Folding Bed Cover is the best option. The rugged aluminum panels and integrated tailgate locking system keep your cargo protected. Just unlock and fold up the panels when you need full bed access.
Rough Country Retractable Bed Cover – Best Retractable Tonneau Value
Quick Review: Finding a premium retractable tonneau cover at an affordable price point can be challenging. But Rough Country delivers with their value-priced retractable cover that doesn’t compromise on quality. This cover features durable aluminum slats that glide along rails to expose the bed. I like that it opens smoothly with one hand. The low-profile design also enhances the look of your truck when closed. For truck owners seeking the convenience of a retractable tonneau on a budget, this Rough Country cover hits the mark.
Key Features:
- Retractable aluminum slats roll up on canister
- Rear rail locks with tailgate for security
- Low-profile matte black finish
- Smooth one-hand operation
- Clamp-on no-drill installation
Why Choose Rough Country’s Retractable Tonneau
Fast and easy operation: The aluminum slats retract smoothly into the canister with one hand, allowing quick and convenient access.
Locks with tailgate: The rear rail integrates with your tailgate lock for reliable cargo security while parked.
Durable construction: The powder coated aluminum can handle all weather conditions and resists dents, scratches, and rust.
Tool-free installation: The side rails clamp on securely without drilling holes into your truck bed.
Budget-friendly price: This quality retractable tonneau costs significantly less than comparable models from other brands.
Possible Shortcomings
- Not as thick/heavy duty as some premium retractable covers
- Canister size reduces truck bed space
- Aluminum can be noisy when driving
- Rear rail may interfere with some bed rail caps
The Bottom Line: For truck owners seeking the convenience of a retractable tonneau on a budget, the Rough Country Retractable Bed Cover provides excellent performance and value. The smooth single-hand operation and integrated tailgate lock make it easy to use and secure.
Rough Country Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Cover – Best Roll-Up Value
Quick Review: Roll-up tonneau covers are known for providing easy access on a budget. Rough Country’s soft roll-up tonneau maintains this tradition but also introduces extra durability and functionality for the price. Unlike cheaper vinyl roll-ups that can tear easily, this cover features thick 24oz marine-grade vinyl. The dual-coated fabric is reinforced to resist punctures and UV damage. Despite the thicker construction, the cover still rolls up tightly for complete bed access when needed. For truckers needing a dependable and affordable roll-up, Rough Country’s tonneau delivers.
Key Features:
- 24oz thick marine-grade vinyl construction
- Dual-coated vinyl resists UV rays and abrasion
- Aluminum side rails and rear latch lock
- Crossbar provides support when rolled up
- No-drill installation with clamps
Advantages of Rough Country’s Roll-Up
Thick durable vinyl: The 24oz fabric is thicker and more rigid than cheaper roll-up covers. This prevents rips, punctures, and sagging over time.
Complete bed access: The vinyl rolls up tightly against the cab for quick and easy full bed access when needed.
Rear latch lock: The tailgate latch lock adds reliable security compared to basic roll-ups.
Budget-friendly price: This cover costs much less than tri-fold or retractable options.
UV and scratch resistant: The dual vinyl coating protects against sun damage and abrasion from cargo.
Possible Shortcomings
- Not as secure as hard folding or retractable options
- Vinyl still not as rigid or durable as aluminum covers
- Rear roll bar may obstruct full bed access
- More prone to pooling water than hard covers
The Bottom Line: For affordable and complete bed access, the Rough Country Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Cover provides premium durability and functionality for a roll-up cover. The thick reinforced vinyl withstands abuse while making it easy to access your full truck bed.
Rough Country Retractable Bed Cover with LED Lighting – Best Lighted Tonneau
Quick Review: Finding a retractable tonneau cover with integrated LED lighting can be a challenge. That’s why I appreciate Rough Country’s lighted retractable cover that delivers extra illumination when accessing your truck bed at night. This cover features three LED light strips that automatically activate when you open the cover, lighting up the entire bed area. The hard aluminum slats glide smoothly to expose the bed, providing the perfect combination of security, ease of use, and visibility. For truck owners who want the convenience of a lighted tonneau, this Rough Country cover checks all the boxes.
Key Features:
- Retractable hard aluminum slats with LED strips
- LEDs automatically activate when opened
- Slats roll up into a canister for full bed access
- Rear rail locks with tailgate for security
- Low-profile design and easy no-drill installation
Top Benefits of Rough Country’s Lighted Retractable Tonneau
Bright integrated LED lighting: The built-in LED strips eliminate fumbling around in the dark when accessing your truck bed at night.
Secure retractable design: The heavy-duty aluminum slats provide strength and durability while retracting for quick access.
Locks with tailgate: The integrated rear rail lock secures the cover when parked by integrating with your tailgate lock.
Sleek low-profile look: The smooth aluminum has a flush OEM look that enhances the style of your truck.
No special installation: This cover clamps on without drilling using a simple no-tool installation process.
Downsides to Note
- More expensive than non-lighted models
- Light strips may stop working over time
- Canister takes up some truck bed space
- Not as heavy duty as some premium retractables
The Bottom Line: For truck owners wanting the extra convenience of a lighted retractable tonneau, the Rough Country Retractable Bed Cover with LED Lighting delivers with integrated LEDs strips, durable construction, and easy operation.
How to Choose the Best Rough Country Tonneau Cover?
Choosing the right Rough Country tonneau cover depends on weighing factors like truck bed access, security, durability, and budget.
Truck bed access: Do you need to fully open your tonneau for hauling large items? Or will partial access to the front or rear bed area suffice? Hard folding, roll-up and retractable covers allow complete access. Soft tri-folds offer sectional access.
Cargo security: Hard aluminum covers and retractables provide maximum security when locked. But soft covers can also deter opportunistic theft. Assess your needs for cargo protection.
Cover durability: Hard aluminum and thick vinyl covers withstand abuse and environmental exposure. But soft covers have limitations. Pick materials that match your truck’s usage.
Added features: Do you want LED lighting or other extras? Or a barebones cover to save money? Added features can improve functionality but add cost.
Budget: Soft vinyl and roll-up covers are more budget-friendly. Hard folding and retractable options cost more but deliver enhanced security and durability.
Prioritize the factors above based on how you use your truck. This will help narrow your selection to the best Rough Country tonneau cover for your needs and preferences.
Expert Tips for Rough Country Tonneau Covers
Here are my top tips for choosing, installing, and using your Rough Country tonneau cover:
- Ensure you get the correct bed size. Measure bed dimensions and match to the cover.
- Have help during installation. Large covers can be hard to position solo.
- Follow instructions exactly, ensuring the cover sits flush and seals tightly.
- Tighten clamp bolts evenly on both sides to prevent twisting.
- Roll up vinyl covers when not in use to prevent sagging and pooling water.
- Keep the vinyl surface clean using soap, water, and protectant to prevent dulling.
- Lock your tailgate and tonneau cover when parked to maximize security.
- Open hard covers fully before loading large cargo to prevent damage.
- Retract or fold covers slowly and evenly on both sides to prevent uneven wear.
- Avoid overloading the bed or stepping on soft covers to prevent damage.
Adhering to these tips and the manufacturer instructions will help ensure proper installation, use, and longevity from your Rough Country tonneau cover.
Other Related Products and Accessories to Consider
Here are some other helpful products and accessories to use with your new Rough Country tonneau cover:
Tonneau support struts: These heavy-duty adjustable struts hold your hard folding cover open for easy access without having to prop it up.
Tonneau cleaning gel: Specially formulated gels help remove dirt and restore luster to the vinyl or aluminum surface.
Bed rail caps: Molded caps provide a smooth finish along your bed rails while fitting around the tonneau clamps.
Bed mat: Rubber mats protect your truck bed floor from scratches and help keep cargo from sliding around.
Bed lighting: LED cargo lights illuminate the bed interior for loading in the dark. Helpful for soft covers.
Side steps: Add retractable or fixed side steps to make accessing the bed easier, especially on lifted trucks.
Rear backup camera: Cameras that replace your license plate or third brake light enable better visibility when backing up with the tonneau closed.
Combining your new Rough Country tonneau cover with accessories maximizes convenience, protection, and functionality for your truck bed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common FAQs about Rough Country tonneau covers:
Q: Do Rough Country covers have a warranty?
A: Yes, most Rough Country soft and hard tonneau covers come with a 3-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship when properly installed. This protects against early defects or failures under normal use.
Q: Are Rough Country covers difficult to install?
A: Rough Country tonneau covers are designed for quick, easy installation. Most use a no-drill clamp-on attachment system that allows DIY installation without special tools. Hard covers may be bulkier to handle solo – having a second person helps. Follow the instructions carefully.
Q: How do the rear locks on hard covers work?
A: Rough Country’s hard folding and retractable covers use a rear rail that clicks into your truck’s tailgate lock cylinder. This allows you to secure the cover by simply locking your tailgate as usual. The cover cannot be opened when locked.
Q: Can I drive with the soft tonneau cover rolled up/folded up?
A: It is recommended to always keep Rough Country soft tonneau covers fully closed and secured while driving. Wind can catch and rip open the vinyl when driving uncovered. Only drive with it rolled/folded up for short distances at low speeds.
Q: Will driving with the tonneau improve gas mileage?
A: Yes, tonneau covers improve gas mileage by reducing aerodynamic drag from the open bed. Hard covers provide the best aerodynamic profile for enhanced MPG. Even soft covers can improve gas mileage by 10% or more when closed.
Q: What maintenance is required for tonneau covers?
A: Keep the vinyl surface of soft covers cleaned and protected to prevent fading, cracks, and dulling over time. Hard aluminum covers require less maintenance aside from occasional washing. Ensure all clamps/locks are tightened to prevent flapping or damage.
Q: Can I mount a toolbox with the tonneau cover?
A: Yes, many toolbox mounts are designed to work with tonneau covers. Measure to ensure enough space/clearance. A low profile toolbox at the front is ideal so the cover can open fully. Some modification may be needed.
Rough Country tonneau covers are designed to provide years of reliable protection, security, and accessibility for your truck bed with minimal required maintenance or hassle. Follow the tips above and manufacturer guidelines for the best performance.
