Advantages To Owning A Hardtop Jeep

For most of the country—even good portions of the South, recently—snow has been falling and colder temperatures have been driving everyone indoors. Whether you’re in Florida, like the TopLift Pros team, or elsewhere across the country, we’re entering into the time of year that people start feeling trapped inside because of the consistent cold, rain, and snow. The weather and the stir-crazy feelings tend to make us all daydream a bit more about what we’ll do when the weather clears and we can head outdoors once more.

Of course, for a lot of us, those daydreams can compel a lot of plans into being. Maybe you’re blanketed in by snow and planning a beach vacation, or maybe you’re starting to map out your backwoods camping trips. Whatever your plans, we know this is the time of year that so many people think about trading in their cars or adding another to your family’s fleet as they plan their upcoming adventures. The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most popular vehicles out there for the outdoorsy, adventurous types—and for good reason! They’re an excellent option for anyone who likes to get off paved roads and get out amidst nature. The Wrangler is one of the most customizable vehicles out there, which is awesome for us. What that means, however, is that there are a lot of options to consider before you dive in and make your down payment. Start with one that could have a big impact on your adventures; do you choose soft top or hard?

Wrangler Top Options

More often than not, when we picture a Jeep Wrangler cruising down the highway, the image that comes to mind is an open air Jeep, so why does the top matter? Sure, we know the appeal of driving with the top off and the sun beaming down. But sometimes, inclement weather happens, and in that moment, you’ll be thankful for the bit of added protection. Whether you choose hardtop or soft, having the option of a covering doesn’t mean you have to use it all the time. That’s the beauty of a Wrangler, after all. But having a top means having the option for extra security, protection from the elements, and improved storage space, among other benefits. A lot of the difference comes down to choosing between a soft top and hard.

Soft Top Versus Hardtop

A soft top is made from a waterproof but flexible material that can easily be removed and replaced. A hard top is pretty much the same thing, but stiff. In many of the basics, both soft and hardtops are pretty similar. They both offer protection from the elements and can be removed without much hassle. That’s about where the similarities end, though. A soft top is pretty easy to remove, fold up, and store on a shelf in your garage. But, because it’s made from a less durable material, they tend to wear out more quickly and don’t do much to provide insulation against the cold or noise.

Jeep hardtops, on the other hand, offer a bit more versatility. Because they are made from thicker and more durable material, they tend to last longer. A hardtop also provides more insulation and helps reduce the noise a bit while driving. They do require a bit more effort to remove, but with a hardtop hoist, that shouldn’t be a big concern. No need for a Jeep hardtop removal service required! Plus, that hardtop will allow you to add additional storage for longer trips. A rack on top of the hardtop means you can easily transport your skis and boards as well as your luggage. The other key difference between a soft top and hard is that a hardtop can actually provide you with some additional security. Where a soft top can easily be cut through, a hardtop allows you to lock your jeep and leave things inside without worry. And, as an added bonus, hardtops allow for a bit more modern convenience. Some of the newer Jeep Wrangler models with hardtops can be wired for lights and other electric-powered options.

Which Is Better?

Ultimately, the question of soft top versus hard is going to come down to your own preferences and what you hope to get from it. If you plan on taking your Wrangler on a lot of long weekend trips, a hard top will give you a bit more security when you hit the road. If you’re planning a lot of off-roading and city driving, but few trips, a soft top will be easier to remove and replace in case of inclement weather.

Of course, one of the most commonly raised concerns about a hard top is that it can’t be removed by one person. Don’t let this deter you! With a hardtop hoist from TopLift Pros, you can easily pop your hardtop up and off without another set of hands to help! And, to make life even easier, it doubles as a hardtop stand that conforms around the front hood so it won’t take up valuable parking space in your garage. Learn more and shop TopLift Pros online today!