Skip to content
Free Shipping on all Orders!
Free Shipping on all Orders!
Roof top tent mounted on a jeep

Hardshell Vs. Softshell Roof Top Tent: Which is Right for Your Adventure?

Table of Contents

Overview

Choosing between a hardshell and a softshell rooftop tent depends on your adventure style. Hardshell rooftop tents provide heavy protection, easy installation, and better aerodynamics, making them ideal for those travelers who value convenience and reliability.

They are heavier and more expensive than softshell rooftop tents. Softshell rooftop tents are affordable, lighter, and offer more space making them suitable for those who prioritize cost and space.

They require more time to set up and provide less protection against the worst weather. You can choose a hardshell tent for quick, durable, and frequent trips, and you can go with a softshell tent if you want more space and a longer setup for extended journeys.

The Major Discussion: Hardshell vs. Softshell Rooftop Tents

Hardshell and softshell tents have their respective advantages and disadvantages. With the help of this debate, let’s explore how potential buyers determine which type best suits their camping needs and preferences.

 

Feature

Hardshell Rooftop Tent

Softshell Rooftop Tent

Structure

Rigid top and bottom

All-fabric construction

Setup Time

Quick and easy

Longer, more manual

Durability

High

Moderate

Weather Resistance

Excellent

Good

Space

Smaller (2-3 people)

Larger (3-5 people)

Price Range

$1,850 - $4,000

$900 - $2,500

Aerodynamics

Better

Less efficient

Noise in the Wind

Quieter

Noisier

 

 ovs bushveld rtt mounted on a 4x4 with family enjoying outdoor

 

Hardshell Rooftop Tents: The Sturdy Champions of the Camping World

Tough as a Rock

These tents are designed to withstand bad weather conditions without suffering damage.

They are constructed from robust materials like aluminum and fiberglass, providing a solid protective shell that ensures longevity and durability. 

Quick Setup for Impatient Adventurers

If you’re the type who can’t wait to hit the trail or crack open a cold one, hard shell tents are your best friend.

Most models feature gas struts or even automated systems that pop up faster than you can say “s’mores.”

Stand out the storm

Hardshell rooftop tents can withstand bad weather conditions. They are made of durable materials which provide great protection against heavy rain, wind and snow.

This durability and weather resistance make hardshell roof top tents a reliable choice for campers.   

Aerodynamic Awesomeness

Hard Shell tents are the streamlined sports cars of the roof top tent world. Their sleek design cuts through the air, improving your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

It’s like having a secret superpower for your road trips!

The price of luxury

Now, here’s the catch: all this convenience and durability come at a price. Hardshell tents typically range from $1,850 to $4,000.

But remember, you’re investing in years of comfortable camping and peace of mind.

Nomad roof top tent on jeep with ladder in mountains

Softshell Roof Top Tents: The Flexible Friend of Campers

Fabric Fantasy

Softshell rooftop tents are like the cozy blanket of your childhood dreams. Made entirely of fabric, they offer a more traditional tent feel with the added benefit of being  off the ground.

Extensive Space

Softshell rooftop tents are designed to expand the space, allowing campers to have more internal space compared to traditional tents. It enables you to move around comfortably inside the tent designed for multiple people.

Gentle on Your Wallet

For those watching their pennies but still wanting to elevate their camping game, softshell tents are a more budget-friendly option.

With prices ranging from $900 to $2,500, you can still get a great tent without breaking the bank.

Configuration Change

Softshell rooftop tents are versatile enough to adjust their setup according to different camping needs.

These tents are designed with features that allow campers to vary the orientation, adjust the internal layout, or change the setup to accommodate specific camping preferences.

Weather Woes

While softshell tents can handle their fair share of weather, they’re not quite as bomb-proof as their hardshell cousins.

In heavy rain or wind, you might experience some leaks or flapping fabric. But with proper care and maintenance, you can still stay dry and comfy.

23zero softshell roof top tent mounted on a small car

Choosing Your Perfect Perch: Factors to Consider

Now that we’ve laid out the basics, let’s talk about  how to choose the right tent for your adventures.

  1. Frequency of Use
  • Weekend Warrior: If you’re hitting the road every chance you get, a hard shell tent’s quick setup and durability might be worth the investment.
  • Occasional Camper: For less frequent trips, a softshell tent could be a more economical choice.
  1. Group Size
  • Solo or Duo: Hard shell tents are typically cozier, perfect for 1-2 people.
  • Family or Friend Group: Softshell tents offer more space for larger groups.
  1. Vehicle Considerations
  • Fuel Efficiency: If you’re covering long distances, a hard shell tent’s aerodynamic design can help save on gas.
  • Vehicle Size: Make sure your roof can handle the weight of the tent you choose.
  1. Climate and Conditions
  • Extreme Weather: Hard Shell Tents generally offer better protection in harsh conditions.
  • Mild Climate: Softshell tents can be perfectly suitable for fair-weather camping.
  1. Budget
  • High-End: If you’ve got the cash to splash, hardshell tents offer top-notch features and durability.
  • Budget-Conscious: Softshell tents provide a great camping experience at a more accessible price point.

Real Talk: Pros and Cons

Let’s break it down one more time with some straightforward pros and cons:

Hardshell Rooftop Tents

Pros:

  • Lightning-fast setup
  • Tough as nails
  • Quiet in windy conditions
  • Fuel-efficient design

Cons:

  • Higher price tag
  • Heavier on your vehicle
  • Less interior space

Softshell Rooftop Tents

Pros:

  • More affordable
  • Spacious interior
  • Lighter weight
  • Easier to mount on your vehicle

Cons:

  • A Longer setup time
  • Less durable in extreme conditions
  • Can be noisy in the wind.

Outcome: It’s Based On Your Adventure Taste

The context of comparing hardshell vs. softshell rooftop tents emphasizes how the choice between these two types of tents depends largely on the requirements of the camper’s adventure style.

Hardshell Rooftop tents provide excellent protection against elements such as rain, wind, and snow. This makes them more suitable for extreme weather conditions.

They feature a quick setup system with minimal effort for setting up camp. Their solid structure provides added security as they are more resistant to intrusion by animals. 

Softshell rooftop tents are known for their flexibility and comfort; they offer more internal space for longer stays. These tents are versatile in their design and setup options, catering to different camping styles and preferences.

They are lighter than hard shell tents, which can be beneficial for campers who prioritize ease of transport and less impact on vehicle handling.

For an in-depth analysis of current Best Roof Top Tents in the market, please read Best Roof Top Tents.

In short, the decision between hard and soft shell rooftop tents is about matching the tent’s features and benefits with your particular needs for outdoor adventures, ensuring a comfortable camping experience tailored to your individual style. 

23zero Armadillo hardshell roof top tent mounted on a jeep

Hard Shell vs. Soft Shell Roof Top Tents FAQs

  1. What are the main differences between hardshell and softshell rooftop tents?

Hardshell tents have rigid top and bottom shells, usually made of aluminum or fiberglass, while softshell tents are made entirely of fabric.

Hardshell tents are quicker to set up, more durable, and more aerodynamic, while softshell tents are generally more affordable and offer larger sleeping areas.

  1. Which type is easier to set up?

Hardshell tents are significantly easier and quicker to  set up, often featuring gas struts or automated systems.

Softshell tents typically take longer to set up and require more manual effort.

  1. How do they compare in terms of durability?

Hard shell tents are more durable due to their rigid structure, offering better protection against harsh weather, debris, and even theft.

Soft shell tents are more prone to wear and tear over time.

  1. Which type is more affordable?

Softshell tents are generally more affordable, with prices often below $1000. Hardshell tents are typically more expensive, with prices ranging from $1,850 to $5000 or more.

  1. How do they affect fuel efficiency?

Hard shell tents are more aerodynamic, resulting in better fuel efficiency. Softshell tents create more drag and can noticeably impact fuel consumption, especially on highways.

  1. Which type offers more sleeping space?

Softshell tents usually provide larger sleeping areas, often accommodating 3-5 people. Hardshell tents are typically more compact, suitable for 2-4 people.

  1. Can you store bedding inside the tent when it’s closed?

Hardshell tents often allow for bedding to be stored inside when closed, while most softshell tents lack this capability due to the folding fabric taking up space.

  1. How do they handle windy conditions?

 Hardshell tents are quieter and more stable in windy conditions due to their rigid structure. Softshell tents can be noisy with flapping fabric in strong winds.

  1. Which type is better for frequent travelers?

Hardshell tents are generally preferred by frequent travelers due to their quick setup, durability, and better aerodynamics for long drives.

  1. Can you store gear on top of the tent?

Many hard shell tents offer the option to carry gear on top, such as surfboards or fishing rods. This feature is typically not available with softshell tents.

Previous article Solo Overlanding
Next article The Best Roof Top Tent for Family of 5

Leave a comment

Comments must be approved before appearing

* Required fields