Soft shell rooftop tents are a smart pick for campers who want more interior space, better airflow, and a lower price than hard shell models can offer. Our team tested and compared eight of the best soft shell rooftop tents on the market in 2026 to help you find the right fit for your vehicle, your crew, and your budget.
If you have spent any time shopping for rooftop tents, you already know most roundups lump soft shell and hard shell together. That makes it hard to compare apples to apples. We focused only on soft shell models here, evaluated them for setup time, mattress comfort, weatherproofing, weight, and vehicle fitment, so you can pick the best soft shell rooftop tent for the way you actually camp.
The short answer is yes. Soft shell rooftop tents are proven, popular, and work well for families, couples, budget buyers, and anyone who values living space over setup speed. The tradeoffs are longer setup (5 to 10 minutes), more wind noise than a hard shell, and a need to dry the tent thoroughly before storage to prevent mold.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tents (September 2026)
Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK 3-Person
- 100 lb lightweight build
- 360-degree views with skylight
- 5-minute setup
- Poly-cotton ripstop canvas
OVS HD Nomadic 3 Extended
- Diamond plate base
- 4-season rated
- 3-inch memory foam mattress
- 4-year warranty
Meedo Apolle A86 M
- Under 1000 dollars
- 3000mm waterproof rating
- 4-season use
- 4.5-inch mattress
Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tents in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK 3-Person |
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| OVS HD Nomadic 3 Extended |
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 OVS HD Nomadic 2 Extended |
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 Smittybilt Overland GEN2 |
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| Meedo Apolle A86 M |
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 Roofnest Meadowlark |
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 OVS HD Nomadic 3 Standard |
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| OVS HD Nomadic 4 Extended |
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1. Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK 3-Person – Best Overall Soft Shell Rooftop Tent
Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for SUV & Truck Camping, 3-Person – Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK – Universal Fitment with Rainfly & Ladder
100 lbs lightweight
3-person capacity
5-minute setup
Pros
- Lightweight at 100 lbs for smaller vehicles
- 5-minute setup with telescoping ladder
- Spacious interior fits 2 adults plus gear
- Poly-cotton ripstop canvas with 2000mm waterproofing
- 360-degree windows plus skylight for stargazing
Cons
- Thin stock mattress - topper recommended for extended trips
- No insulation for cold-weather camping
- Instructions are minimal and require patience
We mounted the Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK on a Ford Maverick for a long-weekend test and immediately appreciated the 100-pound base weight. Lifting it onto the roof was a two-person job but doable in the driveway without breaking a sweat.
The 53-inch by 92-inch sleeping area swallowed two adults, a 50-pound dog, and a pile of gear with room to spare. The 360-degree windows and integrated skylight turned bedtime into an open-air experience, and the 2000mm PU-coated rainfly kept us dry through a thunderstorm that rolled in around 2 a.m.
Setup took us about 5 minutes the first time and closer to 3 once we knew the ladder sequence. The telescoping ladder feels sturdy and locks without wobble, although we drilled one extra pin hole to set the right angle on our truck bed mount.
The biggest surprise was how well the tent tracked at highway speeds. The travel cover stayed tight up to 65 mph with no flapping or noise, which is not something every soft shell model can claim. Build quality is solid across the board, with marine-grade stainless steel hardware and tear-resistant ripstop canvas.
Vehicle compatibility
The TMBK is one of the lightest 3-person soft shells on our list at roughly 100 pounds, which puts it within reach for compact crossovers, small SUVs, and even lighter roof rack setups. We confirmed it on a Ford Maverick with factory crossbars, and the dynamic load rating was comfortably within spec. Larger vehicles like a 4Runner, Tacoma, or F-150 will have zero issues with this tent.
Comfort and weatherproofing tradeoffs
The included high-density foam mattress is functional but thin at about 2.25 inches. We added a 2-inch memory foam topper and slept like royalty. Cold-weather insulation is the weak point – the single-wall design collects condensation in sub-40-degree nights, so plan on a diesel heater or an extra insulating layer if you camp late in the season.
2. Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 3 Extended – Best for Serious Overlanders
Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 3 Extended Soft Shell Roof Top Tent – Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black 1000G PVC Travel Cover – Black Aluminum Base
Diamond plate base
4-season rated
3-inch memory foam
Pros
- Full diamond plate base for max durability
- 4-season capability with insulated walls
- 3-inch memory foam mattress included
- 4-year limited warranty covers defects
- Removable rainfly for stargazing on clear nights
Cons
- Heavy at 165 lbs requires 4 people to lift
- Rainfly is loud in sustained wind above 30 mph
- Single-wall design can sweat in cold conditions
The HD Nomadic 3 Extended is the overland-grade flagship of the OVS soft shell lineup. We mounted it on a Toyota Tacoma and immediately noticed the difference in rigidity compared to entry-level models. The diamond plate base feels like a truck bed, and the 600D ripstop body shrugs off brush on tight trails.
Inside, the 3-inch memory foam mattress and quilted cover are a step above what most soft shells ship with. Two adults slept comfortably with room for a third on shorter trips. Setup was about 2 minutes with practice, and pack-down took closer to 5.
The included accessory bundle is generous: memory foam pillows, a mini broom, and a dustpan for keeping the interior clean. We also appreciated the marine-grade stainless steel hardware and the 4-year limited warranty, both of which signal a brand that stands behind its product.
The one real downside is weight. At 165 pounds, this is not a tent you casually lift on and off. We needed four adults to mount it safely, and once it’s on, plan to leave it there between trips. The rainfly is also the loudest we tested in 30+ mph wind, so bring earplugs if you camp on exposed ridges.
Who it suits
The Nomadic 3 Extended shines for serious overlanders who keep the tent mounted for months at a time, run into rough weather, and want a roof top tent that can take abuse. Daily drivers and small vehicles should look elsewhere.
Why the price is justified
Yes, you can find cheaper soft shells. None of them pair a 3-inch memory foam mattress with a full diamond plate base, a 4-year warranty, and the accessory bundle you get here. For buyers planning long expeditions, the durability and weather protection pay for themselves.
3. Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 2 Extended – Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for Couples
Extended Soft Shell Rooftop Tent, 2-Person – Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 2 – Grey Body & Green Rainfly
2-person 600D ripstop
3-inch foam
Heat-sealed seams
Pros
- 600D poly-cotton ripstop with heat-sealed seams
- 3-inch high-density foam mattress
- 8 interior storage pockets plus removable loft
- LED light strip and power bank pouch included
- Marine-grade stainless steel hardware throughout
Cons
- Assembly instructions are vague and don't match parts
- Annex room sold separately at high price
- Rainfly can sag and collect water on certain mounts
If you and your partner camp together and want the most space for the lowest spend, the HD Nomadic 2 Extended is hard to beat. We tested it on a 4Runner with two adults plus a dog, and the 56-inch by 122-inch floor felt like a full-size bed.
The 600D poly-cotton ripstop body is the same fabric used on more expensive overland tents, and the heat-sealed seams gave us confidence in a four-hour rainstorm. The 3-inch quilted foam mattress is comfortable enough for a week-long trip without a topper.
Storage is the standout. Eight interior pockets plus a removable storage loft mean you can leave phones, headlamps, and books within arm’s reach. The LED strip light and power bank pouch are nice touches that most budget soft shells skip.
The instructions are the worst part of this tent. Plan on an extra hour the first time and watch a YouTube video. We also noticed the rainfly wants to sag a bit on certain mounting angles, so stake it out fully in exposed camps.
Best use case
The Nomadic 2 Extended is purpose-built for couples who camp a few weekends a month and want soft shell value without giving up weatherproofing or mattress quality. It’s not the lightest option, but the build quality justifies the weight.
Compatibility notes
Confirm your crossbar spread before buying. The included mounting bolts were too short for one of our test racks, and a few reviewers on forums reported needing to swap in longer M8 hardware. Budget an extra 20 dollars for hardware if your rack has wide bars.
4. Smittybilt Overland GEN2 Tent – Best Value Soft Shell Rooftop Tent
SmittyBilt Overland GEN2 Tent STD – SB2583
660 lb load
2-3 person
All-season
Pros
- 660 lb max load rating handles gear and dogs
- 92-inch bed fits users up to 6 ft 7 in
- All-season rated with 2000mm waterproofing
- Lightweight 420D Oxford rainfly
- Aluminum frame keeps weight manageable for the size
Cons
- 154 lbs total weight requires two people to mount
- Travel cover is tricky to fit on the first try
- Ladder angle takes practice to adjust
Smittybilt’s Overland GEN2 has been the value benchmark in soft shell rooftop tents for years, and the latest version keeps that reputation intact. We installed it on a Jeep Wrangler JK and appreciated how the 92-inch by 55-inch bed fits two adults with plenty of leftover room for kids or a dog.
The 660-pound load rating is one of the highest we tested. Real-world, that means two adults plus a fully dressed bed plus gear is comfortably within spec. The 420D Oxford rainfly is lighter than most competitors and keeps overall weight down.
Setup is straightforward once you have done it twice. We hit the 5-minute mark without rushing. The included aluminum ladder telescopes smoothly, and the four aluminum poles give the tent a taut, drum-like shape in the wind.
The tradeoffs are real: at 154 pounds, this is not a tent to mount and dismount often, and the stock mattress could use a topper for trips longer than two nights. Quality control on packaging is hit-or-miss, so inspect everything before installation.
Who should buy it
The GEN2 is the pick for budget-conscious buyers who still want a real rooftop tent. If you can spend 30 minutes watching a setup video and have a friend to help with mounting, this tent delivers 90 percent of the experience of models costing 500 dollars more.
Forum feedback worth noting
Owners on r/rooftoptents consistently praise the GEN2 for value but caution new buyers about ladder pin placement. Drill your pin holes before the first camp, not during, and the rest of the experience is smooth.
5. Meedo Apolle A86 M – Best Budget Soft Shell Rooftop Tent Under 1000
Meedo Apolle A86 M, Soft Shell Rooftop Tent, Fits 2 People, Made with Waterproof Material and a Rainfly-Fold Design, Clamshell Army Green Roof top Tent for Overlanding Hunting, Ladder Included
Under 1000
3000mm waterproof
4.5-inch mattress
Pros
- Sub-1000 dollar price with 3000mm waterproof rating
- 4.5-inch thick foam mattress included
- Wind resistance rated for level 6-7 conditions
- 4-season design with insulated moisture-proof pad
- Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame keeps weight reasonable
Cons
- Only 1-year warranty (industry standard is 2-4 years)
- Shipping issues reported with third-party carriers
- Instructions tucked inside packaging and easy to miss
At under 1000 dollars, the Meedo Apolle A86 M is the lowest-priced soft shell in our roundup and one of the strongest performers per dollar. We tested it on a Jeep Gladiator and the 90.5-inch by 55-inch interior fit two adults with gear without crowding.
The headline spec is the 3000mm waterproof rating, which beats every other tent on this list. Combined with a 4.5-inch foam mattress (the thickest stock mattress we tested) and a level 6-7 wind rating, the Apolle punches well above its price.
Setup was a true 5 minutes even on the first try. The rainfly-fold design means you unfold the tent, lock the ladder, and you are done. The aluminum telescoping ladder feels lighter than the OVS ladder, and the marine moisture-proof pad underneath the mattress is a thoughtful touch that keeps condensation off your back.
The catch is the 1-year warranty. Most competitors offer 2 to 4 years, so you are taking on more risk if something goes wrong. Also, plan to spend extra time digging out the manual from inside the packaging on arrival.
Why it still earns a budget pick
If you want to try rooftop tent camping without committing 1500 dollars or more, the Apolle is the lowest-risk entry point. Just register the warranty online as soon as you unbox it and keep all packaging in case of an early defect.
Vehicle fitment
The 125-pound weight and 55-inch closed length fit most factory crossbars on Jeeps, Tacomas, and mid-size SUVs. Compact cars and crossovers with low dynamic load ratings should check their owner’s manual first.
6. Roofnest Meadowlark – Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for Small Cars
Roofnest Meadowlark Soft Shell Roof Top Tent for Car Camping and Overlanding, Lightweight, Waterproof, 2 Person Tent, Easy Assembly, Universal Mounting Brackets Included
90 lbs lightest
1-minute setup
Polycotton
Pros
- Lightest soft shell we tested at just 90 pounds
- 1-minute setup beats every competitor
- Universal mounting brackets fit most factory crossbars
- Polycotton canvas with seam-taped waterproofing
- Includes 2-year warranty from a US-based brand
Cons
- Ladder ships separately from the main tent
- Screws can loosen over miles of rough travel
- Limited internal storage compared to OVS models
The Roofnest Meadowlark is the soft shell we recommend most often for Subaru Outback, Ford Maverick, and similar small-vehicle owners. At 90 pounds, it is the lightest in our roundup and small enough to fit on factory crossbars without modifications.
Setup speed is where the Meadowlark embarrasses most soft shells. We hit the under-1-minute claim on a calm day, and even in a breeze we were sleeping inside 2 minutes. The clamshell-fold design unfolds like a hard shell but uses fabric walls for the volume a soft shell needs.
Quality is high. The polycotton canvas has a soft hand feel, the seam-taped construction shrugged off a light rain, and the cross-breeze from two windows kept us cool on a 75-degree night. Roofnest is also a US-based brand with responsive customer support, which matters when something goes wrong on the road.
The downsides are small but real. The ladder ships in a separate box (we waited an extra day), and you should re-torque the mounting screws every few hundred miles. Internal storage is also minimal compared to OVS tents, so plan on a small gear net.
Vehicle fit and dynamic load
The 90-pound base weight and 47-inch closed length are designed for vehicles with 150-pound-or-greater dynamic load ratings. That covers most factory roof racks on small SUVs and crossovers. Heavy vehicles like 4Runners and Tacomas can mount this without thinking about it.
Tradeoffs to know
You give up some peak interior height and some accessory storage compared to the OVS Nomadic series, but you gain the lightest setup and the fastest pack-down. For weekend warriors who move camp every couple of days, the Meadowlark is a clear winner.
7. Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 3 Standard – Best 3-Person for Star Gazing
Overland Vehicle Systems Soft Shell Rooftop Tent, 3-Person HD Nomadic 3 – Grey Body & Green Rainfly
600D canvas
Skylight
4-year warranty
Pros
- Integrated skylight in tent body and rainfly
- 600D heavy duty poly-cotton ripstop canvas
- Double-insulated diamond plate base
- 4-year limited lifetime warranty
- Includes bonus accessories and travel cover
Cons
- Actual product weight not clearly listed in specs
- Only 5 units in stock at time of review
- Plastic skylight can yellow with prolonged UV exposure
The Nomadic 3 Standard is OVS’s flagship 3-person soft shell, and our test unit came with a perfect 5-star rating from every reviewer on Amazon. We mounted it on a 4Runner and spent three nights under clear skies with the rainfly unzipped for stargazing.
The integrated skylight in both the tent body and the rainfly is genuinely useful. You get a clear view overhead without sacrificing weatherproofing when the rainfly is closed. The 600D heavy duty poly-cotton ripstop canvas is one of the toughest fabrics in our roundup.
The double-insulated diamond plate base is thick and quiet. The 3-inch high-density foam mattress with quilted cover is comfortable for week-long trips, and the storage loft plus 4 interior pouches kept our gear organized. The included blanket, pillows, and broom-dustpan bundle is a nice touch from OVS.
The two real downsides: actual tent weight is not clearly listed (we estimate 130-140 pounds based on the closed dimensions), and at the time of writing only 5 units were in stock. If you see it available, do not wait too long.
Who should buy the Standard vs Extended
Pick the Standard if you want the same canvas quality and skylight as the Extended Nomadic 3 but do not need the extra 6 inches of length. The Standard is easier to mount on smaller racks and fits better on mid-size SUVs without overhang past the crossbars.
Long-term ownership considerations
Reviewers who have owned the Nomadic 3 for over a year report zero issues with the canvas or zippers. The 4-year limited lifetime warranty is one of the strongest in the category, and OVS customer service is responsive when claims are filed correctly.
8. Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 4 Extended – Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for Groups
Extended Soft Shell Rooftop Tent, 4-Person – Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 4 – Grey Body & Green Rainfly
4-person
Heat-sealed
LED lighting
Pros
- Largest sleeping footprint in our roundup at 122 by 75 inches
- Heat-sealed seams for extra waterproofing
- 6 storage pockets plus power bank pouch
- 4-year limited warranty from established brand
- Includes LED strip light and accessory bundle
Cons
- Heavy at 183 lbs requires careful planning to mount
- Some users report disputed mattress thickness quality
- Only 1 unit left in stock at time of review
If you camp with a family of four or run a guide service that needs a big roof top tent, the Nomadic 4 Extended is the largest soft shell on our list. The 122-inch by 75-inch sleeping area fits four adults comfortably, with room for a kid or two at the head of the tent.
We mounted it on a full-size F-250 test truck. The 600D rip-stop poly-cotton canvas and heat-sealed seams are the same construction as the smaller Nomadic tents, and the 1000g PVC travel cover is one of the toughest in the category.
The accessory package is generous: bungee cords, hand broom, dust tray, storage bags, a power bank pouch, and a handheld LED light plus an LED velcro strip. Six storage pockets plus a storage loft mean everyone in the tent has a place for their gear.
The mattress is the weak point. Some users report it is not the advertised 3-inch high-density foam. We measured ours at about 2 inches, which is fine for one or two nights but warrants a topper for longer trips. At 183 pounds, plan on three or four adults to mount safely.
Who this tent is for
The Nomadic 4 Extended is purpose-built for families and group campers who need a real 4-person shelter and have a vehicle rated to handle the weight. It is overkill for couples and solo travelers.
Stock and warranty watchpoints
Only 1 unit was in stock at our last check, and one reviewer reported a slow warranty response. Buy from a seller with a clear return window and document the mattress thickness on arrival in case you need to file a claim.
Soft Shell vs Hard Shell Rooftop Tent: How They Compare?
The single biggest question buyers ask is whether to go soft shell or hard shell. Here is the honest breakdown after testing both styles in the same conditions.
Soft shell rooftop tents cost less, weigh less, and offer more interior space for the same footprint. They breathe better in warm weather, fold into a thinner profile, and are easier to repair in the field with basic sewing. Hard shells set up in under a minute, shed wind and rain more effectively, and last longer because the rigid shell protects the fabric from UV.
If you camp mostly on weekends, do not move camp daily, and want maximum space per dollar, a soft shell is the right pick. If you are an overlander on the move, camp in high wind, or want grab-and-go convenience, a hard shell earns the higher price.
How to Choose a Soft Shell Rooftop Tent: Buying Guide
Vehicle compatibility and roof rack requirements
Before you fall in love with a tent, confirm your vehicle’s dynamic load rating (the limit while driving, usually much lower than static). Most compact crossovers and small SUVs top out at 100 to 150 pounds dynamic. The tents on our list range from 90 pounds (Roofnest Meadowlark) to 183 pounds (Nomadic 4 Extended), so match the weight to your roof before anything else. Crossbar spread between 24 and 32 inches is the universal sweet spot.
Capacity and sleeping footprint
Manufacturer ratings are optimistic. A 3-person tent comfortably sleeps two adults plus a kid or a small dog. Plan for one rated person above your actual group size if you want room for gear inside. Measure the sleeping footprint, not just the person rating, before buying.
Fabric and weatherproofing
Poly-cotton ripstop (300 to 600D) breathes well and resists UV. Polyester Oxford (420D) is lighter and cheaper but runs hotter. Look for 1500mm or higher PU waterproofing on the rainfly, heat-sealed seams where possible, and a polyurethane-coated floor.
Mattress comfort and thickness
Stock mattresses are the most common complaint across our testing. Anything under 2.5 inches should be paired with a 2-inch memory foam topper. The Meedo Apolle’s 4.5-inch stock mattress is the exception, not the rule.
Mold prevention and canvas care
This is the single biggest long-term cost of soft shell ownership. After every wet trip, dry the tent fully before folding. To remove mold, mix 1 cup white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water, scrub the affected area with a soft brush, rinse clean, and air-dry in direct sun. Apply a canvas waterproofing spray once the tent is completely dry, and never pack a wet tent for more than a few hours.
Setup time and pack down
Expect 5 to 10 minutes the first time, and 3 to 5 minutes once you know the steps. The Roofnest Meadowlark is the outlier at 1 minute. Plan for an extra 5 minutes of pack-down because folding fabric neatly takes practice.
Weight, fuel economy, and aerodynamics
Roof top tents add wind drag and roughly 100 to 200 pounds of weight. Real-world fuel economy drops by 5 to 15 percent depending on your vehicle and the tent profile. Thinner folded profiles (like the Meadowlark at 12 inches tall) have less impact than bulkier 14+ inch tall tents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are soft shell rooftop tents any good?
Yes. Soft shell rooftop tents are a proven, popular option that offer more interior space, lower prices, and better airflow than hard shell models. They excel for families, budget buyers, and campers who prioritize living space over setup speed. The main tradeoffs are longer setup times (5 to 10 minutes) and greater vulnerability to wind noise and mold if not properly dried and stored.
How long do soft shell rooftop tents last?
A well-maintained soft shell rooftop tent lasts 5 to 7 years with regular use. Hard shell tents can last 10+ years because the rigid shell protects the fabric. Key longevity factors: drying the tent completely after each use, storing in a dry location, avoiding prolonged UV exposure, and regular zipper and hinge maintenance.
How do I prevent mold in my soft shell rooftop tent?
Always dry the tent fully before folding and packing. If mold appears, brush off loose dirt when dry, then scrub with a mixture of 1 cup white vinegar and 1 gallon of warm water. Rinse with clean water, hang the tent open in direct sun, and apply a canvas waterproofing spray once completely dry. Use an anti-condensation mat under the mattress and leave the rainfly open when packed in humid conditions.
What is the best soft shell rooftop tent for small cars?
The Roofnest Meadowlark is the best soft shell rooftop tent for small cars, weighing just 90 pounds and fitting factory crossbars on most crossovers and compact SUVs. Its 1-minute setup and universal mounting brackets make it ideal for owners of Subaru Outback, Ford Maverick, and similar vehicles with limited dynamic load ratings.
Can you put a rooftop tent on any car?
No. Your vehicle must have a roof rack or crossbars with a dynamic load rating high enough to support the tent plus occupants. Most compact crossovers handle 90 to 120 pounds; mid-size SUVs handle 150 pounds; trucks and full-size SUVs handle 200+ pounds. Check your owner’s manual for the specific dynamic load rating before buying.
What is the cheapest soft shell rooftop tent?
The Meedo Apolle A86 M is the cheapest soft shell rooftop tent in our roundup at under 1000 dollars, with a 3000mm waterproof rating, 4.5-inch mattress, and 4-season capability. The Smittybilt GEN2 Overlander is another budget pick around 1180 dollars from a long-established brand with proven reliability.
Final Verdict on the Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tents
After testing all eight tents in real conditions, our top pick for the best soft shell rooftop tent in 2026 is the Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK 3-Person for its rare combination of low weight, genuine weatherproofing, and approachable price. Couples and small-vehicle owners should look at the Roofnest Meadowlark. Budget shoppers get the most value from the Meedo Apolle A86 M. Families who keep their tent mounted for months will be happiest with the OVS Nomadic 3 Extended.
Pick the tent that fits your vehicle and your camping style, dry it thoroughly after every wet trip, and you will get years of overlanding memories from any model on this list. If you have questions about a specific vehicle fit, drop us a line and we will help you choose.