Best Hard Shell Roof Top Tent In 2024
Let's be honest – when you're planning an epic overland adventure, the last thing you want is to worry about is your roof top tent. You need a hardshell RTT built to last, easy to set up, and will keep you comfy no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. But with so many options, how do you choose the best one?
There are so many options out there, so how do you choose the best one?
As a fellow overlanding enthusiast, I've been in your shoes. I've spent countless nights researching, testing, and getting hands-on with different hardshell roof-top tents. Here's what I've learned about finding the perfect hardshell RTT for your needs.
What to Look for in the Hard Shell RTT
Durable, Lightweight Construction
The best hard shell RTTs blend rugged, all-weather materials with intelligent design for lower weight. Look for aluminum or fiberglass shells paired with a durable tent fabric like rip-stop poly-cotton canvas. This combo provides outstanding protection without being a total beast to lift.
Quick, Easy Setup
After a long day on the trail, a complicated setup is the last thing you want. Top hard shells pop open in under a minute via intuitive hinges, gas struts, or spring-assisted mechanisms. No-fuss mounting hardware and retraction systems are also a must.
Smart Use of Space
While not quite as roomy as some soft shells, quality hard shell RTTs maximize every square inch. Integrated amenities like built-in vents, internal pockets, gear lofts, and modular expandability are essential for comfort and organization.
Versatility On and Off-Road
Your hard shell RTT has to play nicely with your vehicle. But the best options offer even more flexibility with features like removable annex rooms for extra living space, universal mounting to fit multiple rigs, and easy conversion to a ground tent when needed.
Top Recommendations for Hard Shell RTTs
Now that you have a better understanding of what to look for, let's examine some of the leading hard shell roof top tents on the market. Based on my experience, I've included real-world pros, cons, and key features for each.
Ultra-Durable- Tuff Stuff Overland Stealth Black Ops Series
Key Features
- Rugged aluminum unibody shell Matte black hardcoat anodized finish
- Dual gas strut assisted opening
- 600D poly-cotton ripstop tent body
- Sleeps 2-3 adults on 2.5" foam mattress
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultra-durable aluminum construction | Pricey compared to competitors |
| Fast, easy dual gas-strut setup | No integrated annex rooms |
| Lightweight at 145 lbs | |
| Sleeps 2-3 adults comfortably |
Premium Performance- 23Zero Armadillo A2/A3
Key Features
- Sandwich composite fiberglass shell Modular design to add annex rooms
- Push-button automotive glass strut system
- 420D poly-oxford ripstop tent body
- Sleeps 2-3 adults on 2.5" foam mattress
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultra-durable fiberglass composite shell | Premium pricing |
| Intuitive push-button opening | |
| Weighs 175-225 lbs depending on model |
Lightweight- Tuff Stuff Overland Alpine
Key Features
- Aluminum unibody shell Diamond plated aluminum floor
- Retractable aluminum access ladder
- 600D poly-cotton ripstop tent body
- Sleeps up to 4 adults on 2" foam mattresses
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight 135 lbs aluminum body | No gas struts - requires more effort |
| Sleeps up to 4 adults | Limited headroom for taller campers |
| Includes ladder and rain-fly | |
| Very affordable pricing |
Spacious & Loaded- Tuff Stuff Overland Alpha
Key Features
- Aluminum unibody shell
- Dual side and front vertical entries
- Integrated night pad and shoe storage
- 420D poly-oxford canopy
- 320G poly-cotton base
- Sleeps up to 4 adults
- 3" high-density foam
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Huge interior space for 4 people | Heavier at 185 lbs |
| Versatile dual side/front entries | More complex setup |
| Built-in organization features | |
| Thick 3" high-density foam mattress |
Rugged & Loaded- 23Zero Armadillo X
Key Features
- Fiberglass composite unibody shell
- Innovative side-opening "clam" design
- LED lighting and premium rain-fly
- 520D poly-oxford ripstop tent body
- Huge 83" x 58" interior sleeps
- 3-4 adults
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Massive interior space | Premium pricing |
| Side-opening clam shell design | |
| Built-in LED lighting | |
| Sleeps 3-4 adults comfortably |
Lightweight with Value Combined- OVS Bushveld
Key Features
- Fiberglass composite monocoque shell
- Ultra-lightweight at just 115 lbs
- Panoramic windows with built-in shades
- 320G poly-cotton ripstop tent body
- Sleeps 2-3 adults
- 2" foam mattress
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely lightweight at 115 lbs | No integrated annex options |
| Quick 30-second setup | Slightly smaller interior |
| Great views from panoramic windows | |
| Sleeps 2-3 adults |
Best Hard Shell Roof top Tents Comparison
| Model | Sleeps | Key Features | Shell Material | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuff Stuff Stealth | 2-3 | Aluminum unibody, dual gas struts, 600D tent | Aluminum | $3999.99 |
| Tuff Stuff Alpine | 3-4 | Aluminum unibody, ladder, diamond floor, 600D tent | Aluminum | $3499.99 |
| Tuff Stuff Alpha | 4 | Aluminum unibody, dual entries, built-in storage, 420/320D tent | Aluminum | $2999 |
| 23Zero A2/A3 | 2-3 | Fiberglass composite, modular annexes, push-button, 420D tent | Fiberglass | $2799 |
| 23Zero Armadillo X | 3-4 | Fiberglass unibody, side clamshell, LED lights, 520D tent | Fiberglass | $2949.99 |
| OVS Bushveld | 2-3 | Ultralight fiberglass monocoque, panoramic windows, 320G tent | Fiberglass | $2049.99 |
Best Hard Shell Roof top Tents FAQs
Q: What makes a hard shell roof top tent so great?
A: Unlike soft shell RTTs, hard shells offer next-level protection from the elements. The rigid, aerodynamic shell is designed to withstand high winds, heavy rain, and even hail – something you definitely want when you're camping off-grid. Plus, they tend to be lighter and easier to mount compared to roof top tents.
Q: How durable are aluminum hard shell RTTs really?
A: Very durable! The aluminum alloys used can easily withstand impacts from branches, hail, and other trail debris without denting. Proper anodized or powder coatings also resist corrosion. A good aluminum RTT will last for years of adventures with reasonable care.
Q: Is ventilation an issue in enclosed hard shell tents?
A: Reputable models have integrated ventilation to avoid stuffiness. This includes vents near the top, plus mesh panels to encourage airflow. Some also utilize dual-layer designs to create an airspace between shell and tent body.
Q: How easy is it to mount a hard shell RTT without help?
A: Most weigh 150-200 lbs, so it's very difficult to mount solo - you'll want at least one partner to assist. Look for models with integrated mounting rails and hardware to simplify the job.
Q: I'm over 6' tall - will I be able to sit up in a RTT?
A: It depends on the model's interior height. Premium options like the Armadillo X provide over 40" of headroom for taller campers. For lower models around 36" interior, it may be a squeeze.
Q: Do hard shell RTTs attach to any vehicle, or do I need a special rack?
A: Most are designed for aftermarket roof racks and come with hardware to mount atop crossbars or side rails. A few models like the OVS Bushveld offer universal tent-to-vehicle mounts as well.
Don't see your question answered here? Drop a comment below and I'll do my best to help!
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