Too much snow, heavy downpours, and unfavorable weather can damage goods in the truck bed.
To avoid these issues, you can use the best retractable tonneau cover that perfectly coordinates and compliments your truck’s daily experience.
With versatile options, choosing the right one can be a tricky task. We have researched the market and come up with the top truck bed covers, including Retrax vs Roll n Lock.
And these covers ensure your cargo is safe during stormy, cold, and rainy conditions. Some models have an unmatched style featuring a unique vinyl over the aluminum finish.
They maintain a professional and classic tone to meet different personalities. Also, the designs with aluminum undercarriage guarantee frictionless rotation, and below are the discussion.
Best Overall: Gator Recoil Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
The top Tonneau cover we like is Gator Recoil with complete dimensions. It’s perfect for 2015-2018 Ford F150 trucks to keep valuables safe.
Featured Specs
- With Aluminum slats
- 3-incremental points latches
- Quick-release handle
- Has 60 Pounds
- It has a retractable design
Benefits
The enormous size of this retractable bed cover reviews truck makes it easy to install and maintain. It has wide dimensions of 80 inches long by 23 inches wide by 8 inches tall.
The size also offers enough flexibility to cover your truck bed and keep out elements such as dust, dirt, water, and more. You can travel with comfort even if you have essential luggage at the back.
Engineered in the USA, this unit weighs only 60 pounds for simple installation. If more than one person installs it, the faster the process is with more comfort zone.
The overall look surpasses the rest and brings out a definitive fashion statement. Whether you have a bright or dark truck, the cover blends well with the finish.
Drawbacks
Some consumers complain about a 1/4-inch gap at the front. This results in air and water penetration leading to damage of goods.
The material is quite challenging, and leaving out in the sun helps soften it for quick installation.
Extra features
Also, it’s pretty flush when you cover the truck bed for a minimalist appearance. And similarly, it secures much better than other covers in the market.
This unit has aluminum slats for additional safety after installation. They are sturdy, tough, and wear resistance to increase your cover’s lifespan.
What’s more, pulling the handle on the driver’s side opens this cover for simple access. And the latches have three total points to meet your installation needs.
Buying advice
This truck bed cover is pretty flush and secures firmly. It lets you access the bed easily when needed without difficulties.
Also, when driving, wind can blow across it without worries about noise and blowing away. That means extra safety and reliable use for most consumers.
Runner Up: RetraxONE MX Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
The many retractable tonneau cover reviews include RetraxONE MX. It prides on premium security features and adaptability to keep your truck safe at all times.
Features specs
- One-piece aluminum material
- 200 pounds support
- Stylish matte finish
- It is 5′ 7″ in size
- Has ball-bearing rollers
Benefits
You can keep goods in your truck bed safe with this premium cover. Its legendary style features a lovely matte finish for appeal and protection.
Also, the surface guarantees safety from scratches, dents, and UV damage. Now, you can park or drive your vehicle in any weather condition, such as hot summer.
What’s more, securing and locking this cover in place takes minimal time. Ensure you fix along the bed rails by the bed key or latch to increase convenience in usage.
Some truck beds have low-quality designs that provide mediocre service. This has a durable construction featuring a one-piece aluminum material for additional strength.
Also, this fabric’s reinforced polycarbonate lets you retract without hinges, screws, or joints. And at the same time, it can support up to 200 pounds while distributing the weight evenly.
Drawbacks
The rear part of this cover has a single rubber flap too thin, leading to water entry. And using the supplied Allen wrench strips out the plastic adjustment screws quickly.
Another drawback is gasket overlap, especially in the middle, and not so much on the edges or corners.
We like the innovative functionality of this removable tonneau cover. It has ball-bearing rollers that come sealed and mounted onto the support beams.
The large size is perfect for Ford F-150 SuperCab and SuperCrew truck beds measuring about 67.1 inches or 5′ 7 inches.
They let you retract effortlessly without using failure-prone springs. Plus, a sturdy structure with a one-year guarantee gives you more user confidence.
Buying advice
This cover’s legendary style offers maximum protection to goods on the truck bed. It has a matte finish for appeal and safety against UV, scratches, and dents.
Alternative: Roll N Lock M-Series Retractable Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
If you own a GM, Sierra, or Chevy Silverado, then the Roll N Lock truck bed cover is the best option. It’s among the best rolling bed covers that fit the vehicles mentioned above’ truck beds, measuring up to 78.8 inches.
Featured specs
- Vinyl over aluminum style
- Has a torsion spring
- 3-inch aluminum casing
- Clamp-on design
- Contoured hinge
Benefits
The advantage of using truck bed covers is improved safety of goods in different weathers. This model boasts of unmatched style featuring a unique vinyl over the aluminum finish.
It’s able to maintain a professional and classic tone to meet different personalities. Also, the aluminum undercarriage has a contoured hinge for the feet protection and frictionless rotation.
Drive with ease through harsh winds, dusty roads, or rainy days, knowing that your valuables have maximum protection. And at the same time, you can concentrate on the road.
Drawbacks
The included instructions need more details about the setup and maintenance. And the overall size is quite large for one person to cover a truck bed comfortably.
Extra features
Besides, most retractable truck bed covers waterproof properties to improve safety. This one’s relatively easy to install and withstands harsh conditions.
Unmatched storage includes a compact canister that sits 7 ¼” deep and features an aerodynamic casing lid. They combine efforts to preserve your truck bed’s cargo space for more goods accommodation.
Check out this best rolling bed cover’s torsion spring that comes enclosed in a sturdy casing. The enclosure is made from heavy-duty aluminum to increase safety and longevity.
Buying advice
What sets this cover apart is its professional and classic tone. It comes with an aluminum finish for appeal and protection against unfavorable weather.
Its aluminum undercarriage has a contoured hinge for the feet protection and frictionless rotation.
Alternative: TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
The TruXedo soft roll-up cover ideal for truck beds up to 8′ 2″ fits perfectly for Limited/Legacy Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra.
Featured specs
- No-drill installation
- Trap tension
- Support bows
- Tailgate Latches
- Heavy-duty frame
Benefits
We understand truck bed covers need proper installation for them to hold correctly in all weather conditions. Also, the setup might be lengthy, depending on the brand and overall construction.
TruXedo guarantees a no-drill installation to save effort and time. It’s one of the best rolling bed covers that demand around 30 minutes to complete the setup.
What’s more, clamping the rails into a car bed and attaching it, is easy just like roll and go. Plus, you don’t have to buy special tools to fix the different parts firmly.
Stand guard against unfavorable weather such as dust, snow, and rain. This cover leaves your cargo secure and dry during all conditions like showers.
Also, manually adjusting the tarp tension keeps this cover firm to prevent water damages. And the sturdy support bows can withstand several inches of dust or snow when it’s closed.
Drawbacks
Some consumers feel that the rear tailgate area is slightly loose, leading to minor leaks.
The clamps holding the frame use some space, resulting in less storage room. And they also leave some edges that scratch furniture and boards.
Extra Features
You will notice the unbelievable and superior functionality of this truck bed cover. Not only is it simple to use, but it also features user-friendly elements.
For instance, unlocking the tailgate latches then rolling up this cover keeps it secured. Plus, a heavy-duty frame with a 1.5″ thickness improves durability and support.
Additional features include the leather-embossed vinyl for extra aesthetics, durability, and low maintenance.
Buying advice
If you have the Limited/Legacy Chevrolet Silverado 1500 or GMC Sierra, TruXedo is the perfect bed truck cover. It has tailgate latches, a heavy-duty frame, and leather-embossed vinyl for durability.
Alternative: Undercover ArmorFlex Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
There are soft-folding and hard-folding truck bed covers in the market. With Undercover ArmorFlex, it has the latter design for superior and anti-tear service.
Featured specs
- Has three secure positions
- Dual prop rods
- Hard Folding Design
- Dual-action tailgate seal
- Automatic latching system
Benefits
Are you looking for a steady, reliable, and hard folding truck bed cover? You are in the right place because we have the Undercover ArmorFlex.
It’s designed for 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra that has a rail system. And the truck bed should not exceed 5’5″, equivalent to 66.7 inches.
Also, the superior design of this item will not interfere with bed access. It lets you drive in most weather conditions as it secures your goods.
Apart from cargo protection, the three secure positions come in handy for those who want a flexible operation. Pick the closed, fully open, or partially closed to enjoy maximum safety.
Plus, it folds into a steady, upright profile thanks to the dual prop roads. They are created using strong material to withstand heavy tensions and, at the same time, prevent overload of your cab.
Drawbacks
It is a bit difficult to remove the prop road on one side. Also, the hardware comes off this cover, according to some users.
On heavy downpours, there are some leakages.
Extra features
Enhance the functionality and security of your load every time you go on a drive. The automatic latching system of this cover locks each panel with releases on the sides.
That means an easy operation for most consumers to save time and improve comfort. And the dual-action tailgate seal will let you fit the rear part without lifting your cover first.
Lastly, this item has matte-finished panels made from heavy-duty aluminum for extra durability. They work with the LINE-X coating to prevent dings, scratches, and dents for maximum protection in unfavorable environments.
Buying advice
The Undercover ArmorFlex Tonneau cover has a hard-folding structure for superior and anti-tear operation. You can install and remove it as needed without worries about dents, damages, and scratches.
Retractable Tonneau Cover FAQ
Are retractable tonneau covers waterproof?
This question comes to mind to most truck owners that need a reliable truck bed cover. They are concerned about the waterproof and also water tightness of this fabric.
A tonneau cover can offer maximum air and water tightness, depending on the installation. Ensure you follow the instructions to keep most of the liquid out, especially in a heavy downpour.
The standard designs include a hard-folding and soft-folding tonneau cover, which open in different ways. Remember that the overall construction will dictate the level of water resistance to expect and also performance.
Another factor that affects the waterproofness of a truck bed cover is its watertight capability. If you want to keep out as much dampness or water out, choose a one-piece painted style.
It usually has durable materials such as ABS plastic and fiberglass to improve security. Not only for protection, but they overlap the bed rails and tailgate much better than other versions.
As a result, the rear hinge gets affected with small water drops even in heavy pours. Check out the UnderCover truck bed cover above and see its glossy finish, which improves even the appeal.
Do tonneau covers save gas?
You can improve your truck’s fuel consumption by adding a tonneau cover. It not only helps in the reduction of aerodynamic drag but also increases gas mileage.
Some experts say that this cover saves 10-15% on gas, but this depends on your driving model. Also, gas prices change means the estimation might be less, but the cover’s price pays itself over time.
You may notice a considerable difference per mile even if the truck has an open bed or the tailgate is up.
Is a tonneau cover worth it?
Using one of the best retractable tonneau covers has its pros and cons. Fortunately, the advantages are much higher than the drawbacks making it a worthy investment.
For instance, this cover can offer a good compromise for drivers who cover the truck bed only. But remember, the many styles determine how the cap will fair in the long run.
Ensure you pick a model that fits your needs, finance, and usage. Below are some designs available in most stores.
Types of Covers
Retractable cover
A retractable cover has a canister mounted to let you roll it off quickly. Its premium design may feature materials such as polypropylenes, padded polymers, or aluminum.
That does not mean the fabric influences the overall style but its performance. And this brand often directs water and other liquids towards the bulkhead.
Then finally, the water channels through hoses attached to the truckbed’s drainage ports. What’s more, they use unique compression seals to prevent too much water intrusion.
Hard-Folding cover
The other type for the best rolling bed covers is hard folding. Its fine structure consists of FRP, thermoplastic, or aluminum panels that fold easily to allow simple bed access.
What’s more, they give you quick access even when they are opened, unlike the other versions. They are ideal for truck owners who store and take out items from their truck bed frequently.
After installing this hard-folding cover, it guarantees the right balance of utility, space, and water resistance. Some like the Undercover ArmorFlex Truck has excellent cargo protection featuring three secure positions for total closure, fully open, or partially closed.
Soft Folding cover
The soft folding style has either a canvas or vinyl canvas tarp, usually mounted on a folding aluminum frame. It’s among the simplest to install without the use of drills and tools.
The manufacturer supplies hand-tightened clamps for you to connect to the bed rails. And they help channel the water down the truck’s sides even though some minor leakages might pass through.
Hard Roll-Up cover
The last style we check is a hard roll-up tonneau truck bed. They are made from canvas or vinyl lining over interlocking aluminum panels.
These features combine security and better performance without looking too rough. Moreover, the sturdy panels create a protective cover that keeps out most of the water from heavy downpours and other weather conditions.
How to install retractable tonneau cover?
The many video tutorials for installing a retractable tonneau cover are quite a lot. That’s why we have these simple instructions you can follow, especially if you have a RetraxPRO XR Tonneau.
Instructions to Follow When Installing Retractable Tonneau Cover
Opening the package
Grab your canister and remove the packaging materials on each side. Once done, go to the latch, open, and pull out the sheet a little bit. That’s going to help you line up the rails.
Take the passenger side rail and attach it to the canister. When you look at the blanket, you can see it has some bearings on the side. Those are going to line up with the channelings on the rail.
At the top of the rail, there’s a hole going towards the back of the canister. Line those up and slide the fence into the blanket.
Push down the hole in the canister and the threaded hole in the rail so that they meet. Take your bolt and push it through the canister and into the rail.
1/8th” Allen screwdriver
Use 1/8th” Allen screwdriver to tighten the bolt down.
There’s going to be another hole at the front side of the canister. It also lines up with the threaded hole of the rail.
Take another bolt and push it through, then tighten. After the rails are on, please put on the canister cover that will slide underneath your rails and push it into place.
There should be holes that line up in the cover and the rail. Use a longer Allen hedge bolt to go through the railing and into the canister cover.
Again, use your 1/8th” Allen screwdriver to thread the bolt in.
After the rails and head are put on, lock the blanket in place. Now, you can put it in your truck.
Putting in truck
Lift the canister over the truck’s rails and slide it to the bulkhead. Set it down and make sure the seal at the back isn’t folded up for a flush finish down.
To get the correct spacing on the rail holes, use 1/8th” spacer tool and place it against the bottom portion of the rail. Close the tailgate and ensure a 1/8th” tail gap is between the bottom rail and tailgate.
Move the entire assembly if space is more than 1/8th” gap.
Taking the clamp
Next, take your clamp that usually comes assembled in the kit. Open and stick under the bed cap and over the rail.
It’s going right in between the two plastics threaded pieces. Use a 14mm spanner to tighten it down.
The piece at the bottom will act as an anchor to ensure that both of your rails are straight.
Take your 2nd clamp and place it towards your canister as the two plastic threaded spaces in your rail go right in between those.
Testing
Test the operation to know if the stability, screws, and bolts are in place. At first, it might be slightly tight, but it will break in overtime.
Conclusion
Protect your cargo on the road with the best retractable tonneau cover. It offers maximum safety against showers, storms, and other severe conditions.
Remember that the soft folding covers have either a canvas or vinyl canvas tarp usually mounted on a folding aluminum frame. They are much easier to install without the use of drills and tools.
Also, a retractable design offers improved flexibility during and after installation. Go through this in-depth review and choose the best rolling bed cover, which meets your needs.
