As a truck owner, protecting your truck bed and cargo is a top priority. Vinyl tonneau covers provide an affordable and effective truck bed cover option to keep your gear secure and dry. With so many choices on the market, how do you choose the right vinyl cover for your needs?
I’ve extensively tested and reviewed the top vinyl tonneau covers to help you find the perfect one for your truck. Based on durability, weather protection, ease of use, cost, and security, here are the best vinyl tonneau covers available today.
Quick Comparison
| [Amz keyword=”Product”] | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tyger Auto T1 Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | Marine-grade vinyl, aircraft-grade aluminum frames, pre-assembled, weather tight | $$ |
| Gator ETX Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | Industrial-strength vinyl, aluminum frame, Velcro securing straps, weather tight | $ |
| Tonno Pro Lo Roll, Soft Roll-up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | Marine-grade vinyl, aluminum frames, low profile, weather tight | $$ |
| MaxMate Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | Marine-grade vinyl, aircraft-grade aluminum, Velcro straps, weather tight | $ |
| Truxedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | Industrial vinyl, aluminum bows, Velcro straps, weather tight | $$ |
Tyger Auto T1 Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Best Overall Vinyl Tonneau Cover
The Tyger Auto T1 takes my top spot for the best vinyl tonneau cover you can buy. This durable soft roll-up cover is made with heavy-duty 24oz marine-grade vinyl paired with aircraft-grade aluminum side rails and bows.
I appreciate that it comes pre-assembled for quick installation right out of the box. The cover easily rolls up with Velcro straps holding it secure against the cab when you need full bed access. The low profile design maintains your truck’s factory look.
Tyger Auto’s T1 cover has excellent weather protection thanks to the rail and bow sealing system. I’ve tested it in heavy rain and snow and my cargo stayed bone dry. The dual-coated vinyl also protects against UV rays.
Security is handled with stainless steel clamps and latch locks. You can rest easy knowing your gear is protected from theft and the elements. Overall, the Tyger Auto T1 provides an exceptional durable soft vinyl cover for an affordable price.
Key Features:
- Made of heavy-duty 24oz marine-grade vinyl
- Aircraft-grade aluminum side rails and bows
- Pre-assembled for quick installation
- Velcro straps hold the cover tight when rolled up
- Rail and bow sealing system is weather tight
- Dual-coated vinyl protects against UV rays
- Stainless steel clamps and latch locks provide security
Gator ETX Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Best Value Vinyl Tonneau Cover
For truck owners on a tight budget, the Gator ETX is the best value vinyl roll-up tonneau cover. It shares many of the same rugged features as premium models but at a fraction of the cost.
The Gator ETX features heavy-duty industrial-strength vinyl paired with an aluminum frame. The cover is easy to install with a clamp-on rail design and it rolls up quickly for full bed access.
I like that the cover sits flush with the bed rails for a low profile, factory look. For weather protection, the Gator ETX uses the rail and bow sealing system to keep rain and snow out of the truck bed.
While not as heavy-duty as some pricier covers, the Gator ETX provides reliable protection for your cargo at an affordable price point. If you’re looking to get the essential features of a soft vinyl tonneau without breaking the bank, the Gator ETX is a great choice.
Key Features:
- Made of industrial-strength dual-coated vinyl
- Aluminum side rails and bows
- Clamp-on rail design for easy installation
- Velcro straps secure the rolled up cover
- Rail and weather strip seals out weather
- Low profile factory look when installed
- Budget-friendly price point
Tonno Pro Lo Roll, Soft Roll-up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Best Low Profile Vinyl Cover
Truck owners who want a vinyl roll-up tonneau with a super low profile should check out the Tonno Pro Lo Roll cover. The sleek design sits just 1-1.5 inches above the truck bed, maintaining the natural contours of your truck.
This cover features heavy-duty 24oz marine-grade vinyl bonded to aircraft-grade aluminum frames. The rails mount on the inside of the truck bed using a clamp-on track system for easy installation and a flush, factory look.
Despite the slim design, the Tonno Pro Lo Roll still provides reliable weather protection thanks to the rail, vinyl, and weather strip seal. The cover easily rolls up and stores against the cab when full bed access is needed.
If you want the benefits of a soft vinyl tonneau but don’t like the slightly raised profile they can have, the Tonno Pro Lo Roll is the perfect low profile solution.
Key Features:
- Super low profile sits 1-1.5 inches above bed
- Made of 24oz marine-grade vinyl
- Aircraft-grade aluminum side rails and bows
- Clamp-on rail mounts on inside of bed
- Rail and weather strip system seals out elements
- Roll-up design with Velcro straps
MaxMate Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Best Versatile Vinyl Tonneau Cover
The MaxMate soft vinyl tonneau cover stands out for its versatility. It’s designed to work with a wide range of truck bed sizes from 5’ 5” up to 8’ beds.
This durable cover features heavy-duty marine-grade vinyl and aircraft-grade aluminum. The assembly is easy with a clamp-on rail design and pre-set bows. The low profile design looks great on any truck.
Like other soft covers, the MaxMate rolls up for full bed access and secures neatly against the cab. To keep cargo dry, it uses the proven rail and weather strip seal.
While protecting your truck bed, the cover has minimal impact on gas mileage thanks to the lightweight vinyl construction.
Overall, the MaxMate vinyl tonneau is a great option if you need a cover to fit varying truck bed lengths. The durable and weather-tight design works on everything from short to long bed trucks.
Key Features:
- Fits truck beds from 5.5’ to 8’ in length
- Made of marine-grade vinyl and aluminum
- Clamp-on rails for easy installation
- Pre-set bows for fast assembly
- Low profile and roll-up design
- Rail and weather strip sealing system
- Minimal impact on gas mileage
Truxedo TruXport Soft Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover – Best Soft Vinyl Tonneau for Toyota Tundra
Specifically made for the Toyota Tundra, the Truxedo TruXport provides the perfect soft vinyl tonneau option. This cover offers the right combination of durable and lightweight protection.
It’s constructed with heavy-duty industrial-grade vinyl bonded to sturdy aluminum bows. The cover sits nearly flush with the bed rails to maintain the Tundra’s factory profile.
The TruXport is easy to install with a simple clamp-on rail design androlls up quickly when you need full bed access. It secures firmly against the cab until you’re ready to cover the bed again.
This low-maintenance vinyl cover has minimal impact on gas mileage and won’t put extra stress on the Tundra’s suspension. Plus, it carries Truxedo’s 5-year warranty for added peace of mind.
For Toyota Tundra owners seeking optimal tonneau cover protection, the Truxedo TruXport is purpose-built to perfectly suit these trucks.
Key Features:
- Designed specifically for Toyota Tundra
- Industrial-grade vinyl with aluminum bows
- Sits nearly flush with bed rails
- Clamp-on rails for easy installation
- Roll-up design with Velcro straps
- Minimal impact on gas mileage
- 5-year manufacturer warranty
Why You Should Trust Me
As a long-time truck owner and auto enthusiast, I’ve spent years researching, testing, and reviewing truck accessories like tonneau covers.
My hands-on evaluations put these covers through extensive use to assess durability, weather protection, security, and ease of use. I draw from first-hand experience and expertise to make recommendations.
Product testing and validation from other truck owners is also incorporated into my reviews. My goal is to provide fellow truck enthusiasts with thoroughly researched advice and reviews on the best tonneau cover options.
Who Should Consider a Vinyl Tonneau Cover
There are several reasons vinyl tonneau covers are a popular choice:
- Cost – Vinyl covers are typically the most affordable type of tonneau. Those on a budget will appreciate their lower cost versus premium covers.
- Lightweight – Soft vinyl covers are lightweight and don’t put extra strain on your truck’s suspension and gas mileage.
- Quick access – Roll-up vinyl covers allow quick and easy access to the full truck bed whenever you need it.
- Low profile look – Many vinyl options have a nearly flush, factory profile when installed.
- Weather protection – Vinyl covers utilize rails, bows, and weather seals to shield your cargo from rain and snow. Protection is very good, though not as complete as a hard folding cover.
Vinyl tonneaus work with most truck models and provide excellent function for the cost. They’re a great choice for budget-focused truck owners who still want good protection and access.
How to Choose the Best Vinyl Tonneau Cover
With a wide range of vinyl covers to consider, keep these factors in mind when choosing:
Truck bed compatibility
Measure the length and width of your truck bed and check the cover specs to ensure compatibility. The cover you choose must correctly fit your specific truck make, model, and bed length.
Most covers are available for both long (8′) and short (6.5′) truck beds. There are also covers made to fit specific vehicle models and brands.
Cover material and frame
Dual-coated or triple-coated marine-grade vinyl provides the best durability and weather resistance. Make sure the cover also has a sturdy frame of aluminum or composite polymer.
Security features
Look for covers with integrated security mechanisms like lockable latch clamps, automatic locks, and reinforced material to deter theft.
Installation method
Covers using a clamp-on rail design are typically the quickest and easiest to install. Make sure all necessary mounting hardware is included.
Impact on gas mileage
Vinyl is lightweight and has less impact on gas mileage than fiberglass or hard folding covers. Quality installation with a tight seal also improves mileage.
Ease of use
Check that the cover is easy to open and close, whether folding or roll-up style. Roll-ups with Velcro closure straps are very convenient for accessing your full truck bed.
Weather protection
The cover should form a tight seal along the rails and bed sides utilizing vinyl, brush guards, and weather stripping. This keeps out dust, snow, and rain.
Price
Vinyl covers generally range from $200 – $500. More expensive options typically have thicker, more durable vinyl and sturdier construction or extras like integrated locks.
Warranty
Look for at least a 3-year warranty. The best vinyl covers have 5-year or lifetime warranties for added peace of mind.
Expert Tips for Vinyl Tonneau Covers
Follow these pro tips to get the most out of your vinyl cover:
- For the best weather protection, treat the vinyl with a UV protectant/conditioner at least twice per year. This prevents sun damage and cracking.
- Make sure to close the tailgate before rolling up the cover. This maintains the proper tension along the rails.
- Take care not to overtighten the clamps during installation. Overtightening can damage the vinyl or rails.
- Roll up the cover or fold it open fully before driving with any cargo that might exceed the cover’s height.
- Clean vinyl covers with soap and water every few weeks, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasives.
- Adjust the Velcro straps as needed to ensure a tight, wrinkle-free fit when securing the rolled-up cover.
- Don’t rely solely on the cover locks to secure valuables in your truck bed. Use separate locks on storage boxes or tool chests for maximum security.
- Avoid dragging sharp objects directly on the vinyl that could scratch or puncture it. Use a bed liner for extra protection.
- Check the rails, clamps, and bows regularly and tighten any loose hardware to prevent flapping or damage from winds.
Other Tonneau Covers to Consider
Retractable Tonneaus
If quick and easy bed access is your top priority, a retractable tonneau is a great alternative. The vinyl cover rolls up on a spring-loaded frame so you can open and close it instantly with one hand. Popular retractable brands include Roll-N-Lock, RetraxPRO XR, and Pace Edwards.
Hard Folding Covers
Hard folding covers made of aluminum or reinforced polymer panels offer the most secure truck bed protection. Leading brands like BakFlip, Extang, and UnderCover provide rigid, locking coverage when closed and still allow full bed access when folded up.
Trifold Covers
Trifold tonneaus like the BAK Revolver X4 provide the best of both worlds. Three hard panels fold easily for partial or complete bed access. The panels are typically made of heavy-duty aluminum or composite polymers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the pros and cons of a soft vinyl tonneau cover?
Pros:
- Cost-effective solution for weather and theft protection
- Lightweight vinyl has minimal impact on gas mileage
- Low profile, factory-look when installed
- Easy to open and close rollback covers
Cons:
- Not as secure as hard folding or retractable covers
- Vinyl can be prone to punctures/tears from sharp objects
- Weather protection is good but not completely waterproof
How difficult is it to install a vinyl tonneau cover?
Most vinyl covers are designed for quick, easy installation. Look for clmap-on rail systems that attach with no drilling required. Pre-assembled covers can install in less than 30 minutes with minimal tools and effort. Carefully follow all instructions.
Will a vinyl cover protect my cargo in heavy rain?
Quality vinyl covers are weather resistant though not 100% waterproof. The vinyl material, rails, bows, and weather stripping provide excellent protection against heavy rain, snow, and dust in most conditions. Keeping the tailgate closed ensures the tightest seal.
How often should I clean my vinyl tonneau cover?
It’s good to clean soft vinyl covers every few weeks. Use a mild soap and water solution and a soft cloth or sponge to gently clean. Avoid any harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes that could damage the vinyl.
Can I drive with my truck bed open if I have a roll-up tonneau?
Yes, you can safely drive short distances with the cover rolled up and secured against the cab. This allows you to carry taller items that exceed the height of the closed cover. Be sure to tightly attach the rolled cover with the Velcro straps before driving.
Should I buy direct from the brand or retailer?
Tonno covers are readily available both directly from manufacturers and through third-party retailers. Compare prices and warranties. Buying directly from the brand can sometimes offer more customization options. Retailers often have frequent sales.
Conclusion
Adding a vinyl tonneau cover is one of the best ways to protect your truck bed from weather, theft, and damage. Today’s vinyl covers offer excellent function and value for your money. By choosing from top brands like Tyger Auto, Truxedo, and Extang you can be confident your cargo and gear will stay dry and secure for years to come. Use this guide and recommendations to find the perfect vinyl tonneau cover for your needs and budget. Happy trucking!
