Soft Shell Roof Top Tents
Soft Shell Roof Top Tents: Spacious, Lightweight & Affordable RTTs for Every Vehicle
A soft shell roof top tent is the most popular style of rooftop tent for good reason. Soft shell roof top tents fold out using a fabric body supported by poles and frames, offering more sleeping space, better value, and lighter weight than hard shell models. They are a great entry point for casual campers and families getting into overlanding, while still being rugged enough for serious off road adventures in harsh weather. Soft shell rooftop tents typically cost between $900 and $2,500, whereas hard shell models often start at $1,850 and can exceed $4,000.
At Off Road Tents, we carry soft shell roof top tents from Smittybilt, Overland Vehicle Systems, Tuff Stuff, 23Zero, Eezi-Awn, Rhino-Rack, Thule Tepui, and more. Whether you are looking for the best soft shell roof top tent for a family of four, a cheap soft shell roof top car tent for weekend trips, or a premium car roof top tent soft shell model built for expedition-grade use, you will find it here. Soft shell tents provide a great balance of interior space, affordability, and durability that makes them the right choice for most vehicles and most campers exploring the great outdoors.
📞 Not sure if a soft shell or hard shell is right for you? Call us at 844-200-3979. We will help you compare options, check your vehicle's weight capacity, and find the right soft shell roof top tent for your rig.
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Featured Soft Shell Roof Top Tents
Rooftop tents are available in various models, including hard shell and soft shell designs, each offering unique features and benefits for different camping styles. Here are eight of our best-selling soft shell tents, covering every budget from entry-level to premium.
Guana Equipment Wanaka 55"
Price: $1,500.00
Capacity: 2-3 person | Annex: XL included
Fabric: Heavy-duty ripstop | Load: 770 lbs
The Guana Equipment Wanaka is our best-selling soft shell roof top tent and a highly sought-after model for good reason. It comes with an XL annex included in the price, providing a massive covered room beneath the tent for storage, changing, sleeping extra guests, or keeping gear dry. Built with durable ripstop canvas capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions, a 60mm high-density foam mattress, mesh-covered windows on all four sides, a skyview window, and an LED light strip. Available in three sizes (55", 64", 72"). At $1,500 with annex included, the Wanaka offers exceptional value compared to tents that charge extra for annex rooms.
Front Runner Feather Lite RTT
Price: $1,199.00
Capacity: 2 person | Design: Ultra lightweight
The Front Runner Feather Lite is a lightweight soft shell roof top tent designed for overlanders who prioritize keeping weight down for better fuel economy and vehicle handling. Compact when folded, fast to deploy, and built with durable fabric that handles rain and wind. Front Runner is known globally for rugged, no-nonsense overlanding gear, and the Feather Lite lives up to that reputation. A sturdy, reliable soft top tent for couples or solo adventurers exploring off grid locations.
OVS TMBK 3-Person RTT
Price: $999.99
Capacity: 3 person | Warranty: 4-year
Fabric: Durable ripstop | Type: Classic fold-out
The OVS TMBK 3-Person is the ld tmbk 3 soft shell roof top tent that delivers serious value under $1,000. This is one of the most affordable 3-person soft shell tents with a quality build and a 4-year limited warranty from Overland Vehicle Systems. Durable ripstop fabric, foam mattress, telescoping ladder, and mesh windows for ventilation. Fits trucks, SUVs, and most vehicles with roof racks. The TMBK is a great entry point for budget-conscious campers who want a reliable soft shell roof top tent without compromising on quality or weather resistance.
Smittybilt Overlander Gen1
Price: $1,365.99
Capacity: 2-3 person | Weight: 117 lbs
Fabric: 600D ripstop polyester | Load: 660 lbs
The Smittybilt Overlander Gen1 is one of the most popular soft shell roof top tents ever made and a proven performer across thousands of rigs. 600D heavy-duty ripstop polyester canvas with waterproof polyurethane coating, 420D oxford rainfly, stainless steel hinges, LED light strip, and a comfortable foam mattress. At 117 lbs, it is lightweight enough for most vehicles including smaller cars and crossovers. 660 lb load capacity handles two adults plus gear with room to spare. The original budget soft shell tent that started countless overlanding adventures.
C6 Rev Rack Tent
Price: $562.00
Capacity: 2 person | Type: Compact soft shell
The C6 Rev Rack Tent is one of the most affordable soft shell roof top tents you can buy. At $562, it is an unbeatable entry point for anyone who wants to try rooftop tent camping without a major investment. Compact, lightweight, and simple to fold and set up. This is the cheap soft shell roof top car tent that gets you off the ground and into the adventure without breaking the bank. Perfect for solo campers or couples who want to test out the roof tent lifestyle before upgrading.
OVS Nomadic 4 Extended
Price: $1,749.99
Capacity: 4-5 person | Interior: 122" x 75"
Fabric: 600D poly-cotton ripstop | Warranty: 4-year
The OVS Nomadic 4 Extended is one of the most spacious soft shell rooftop tents available. Massive 122" x 75" interior comfortably sleeps 4-5 people. Double-insulated base with 600D poly-cotton ripstop fabric for excellent weather resistance across all four seasons. 3" thick high-density foam mattress, LED light strip, six integrated storage bags, and telescoping aluminum ladder. The Nomadic 4 Extended comes with a 4-year limited warranty, one of the best coverage periods in the industry. Perfect for families heading off grid who need room, quality, and protection from the elements.
Tuff Stuff Elite 5-Person
Price: $2,499.99
Capacity: 5 person | Annex: Included
Mattresses: 2 separate | Ladders: 2
The Tuff Stuff Elite is the largest soft shell roof top tent we carry. It comfortably accommodates 5 people with two separate mattresses and a divider in the middle, so families or groups can share the tent with privacy. Two ladders for dual entry. A huge annex room is included. Strong 1" thick aluminum frame, heavy-duty zippers, excellent quality canvas, shoe bags, and bedding storage. This is almost a camping apartment on your roof. Ideal for mounting on trailers or trucks where you need maximum sleeping capacity from a single tent.
iKamper X-Cover 3.0
Price: $2,995.00
Capacity: 2-3 person | Design: Premium soft shell
Brand: iKamper | Quality: Top-tier
The iKamper X-Cover 3.0 brings iKamper's premium build quality to the soft shell format. iKamper is best known for their hardshell Skycamp series, but the X-Cover proves they can create an equally impressive soft top tent. Premium materials, thoughtful design details, and iKamper's reputation for durability make this the best soft shell roof top tent for overlanders who want the highest quality without going hardshell. Compact when closed, spacious when deployed, and built to handle everything from summer road trips to winter camping in harsh weather.
Soft Shell Roof Top Tent Comparison
Here is a side-by-side comparison of every soft shell roof top tent we carry so you can compare options quickly. Soft shell rooftop tents typically offer more interior space compared to hard shell models, accommodating a wider range of mattress sizes and internal layouts, which can include setups for 1 to 6 people.
| Model | Capacity | Price | Weight | Annex | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C6 Rev Rack Tent | 2 person | $562 | ~90 lbs | No | Most affordable, starter tent |
| OVS TMBK 3 | 3 person | $999.99 | ~120 lbs | No | Budget 3-person, 4-year warranty |
| Front Runner Feather Lite | 2 person | $1,199 | ~100 lbs | No | Ultra lightweight, global brand |
| Smittybilt Overlander Gen1 | 2-3 person | $1,365.99 | 117 lbs | Optional | Proven classic, budget 3-person |
| Guana Wanaka 55" | 2-3 person | $1,500 | ~139 lbs | XL Included | Best annex value, 3 sizes |
| OVS Nomadic 4 Extended | 4-5 person | $1,749.99 | ~140 lbs | Optional | Family, max sleeping area |
| Tuff Stuff Ranger 65" | 3 person | $1,705 | ~140 lbs | Included | Best mid-range with annex |
| Smittybilt Gen2 Overlander XL | 3-4 person | $1,949.99 | 139 lbs | Optional | King-size budget family |
| Tuff Stuff Elite 5-Person | 5 person | $2,499.99 | ~160 lbs | Included | Largest capacity, 2 mattresses |
| Eezi-Awn Series 3 | 2-3 person | $2,640 | Varies | No | Expedition, lifetime durability |
| 23Zero Walkabout 72 | 3-4 person | $2,695 | ~145 lbs | Optional | Premium, LST blackout canvas |
| iKamper X-Cover 3.0 | 2-3 person | $2,995 | ~130 lbs | No | Premium build, iKamper quality |
We also carry the Rhino Rack soft shell roof top tent, a quality 2-person model with an innovative quick-mount system that allows removal and reinstallation in just five minutes. The Guana Equipment Wanaka series (55", 64", 72") is another popular soft shell car roof top tent with a massive annex included. And the GoFSR High Country series offers Freespirit Recreation's Tri-Layer fabric in a soft top tent design. Browse the full collection below to see current pricing and availability.
Soft Shell vs Hard Shell Roof Top Tent
The difference between a soft shell roof top tent and a hard shell comes down to how they open, how much space they create, and what they cost. Hard shell rooftop tents open and close using a rigid top and bottom shell, making them fast, simple, and incredibly durable. Soft shell rooftop tents fold out using a fabric body supported by poles and frames, offering more space options and better value for families or longer stays. Here is how they compare on the factors that actually matter when you are choosing between a hard shell or soft shell roof top tent.
| Factor | Soft Shell | Hard Shell |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | 3-10 minutes (remove cover, unfold fabric, extend poles) | 30-60 seconds (flip open, gas struts do the work) |
| Sleeping Space | Larger footprint, 1-6 person options, wider mattress range | Compact, typically 1-3 adults, limited by shell size |
| Price Range | $900 - $2,500 (more affordable, great entry point) | $1,850 - $4,000+ (premium price tag) |
| Weight | 100-140 lbs (lightweight, suits most vehicles) | 120-200+ lbs (heavier, needs sturdy rack) |
| Aerodynamics | Slim profile when folded, minimal wind drag | Lower profile overall, hard shells tend to be more aerodynamic |
| Annex Capability | Yes, many models accommodate annex rooms | Limited, most hard shell models cannot add annexes |
| Durability | Durable fabric, poles, waterproof coating. Requires cover care | Extremely rugged shell, minimal maintenance |
| Storage When Closed | Cover must be zipped up, can be cumbersome | Everything stores inside the shell automatically |
| Fuel Economy | Slim fold creates less drag, better fuel efficiency | Varies by model, some add height and weight |
Soft shell rooftop tents generally provide a larger sleeping area, accommodating more people compared to hard shell models, which are often limited to 1-3 adults. Soft shell rooftop tents are generally more affordable than hard shell tents, making them a better option for budget-conscious campers. Hard shell rooftop tents are known for their quick setup and pack-down times, often taking less than a minute to deploy, making them ideal for frequent travelers. The right choice depends on what matters most to you: if setup time is everything and you camp frequently, a hard shell wins. If space, budget, and the ability to add an annex room are priorities, a soft shell roof top tent is the better fit.
How to Choose the Right Soft Shell Roof Top Tent
Check Your Vehicle's Weight Capacity First
It is crucial to verify your vehicle's dynamic and static roof load ratings when choosing a soft shell roof top tent. Dynamic weight capacity is the maximum weight your roof can support while driving, usually between 100-200 lbs. Static weight capacity measures the load when stationary, typically 3-4 times higher than dynamic capacity, and must support the tent, all occupants, and gear. The tent's weight should be at least 20% less than the vehicle's dynamic weight capacity for safe handling. Soft shells are typically lighter and better suited for vehicles with lower roof load capacities, including small sedans, crossovers, and cars. Soft shell roof top tents can typically weigh between 100 and 140 lbs, making them easier to install and better suited for smaller vehicles like crossovers or station wagons.
Fabric and Construction Quality
Quality materials such as 600D ripstop polyester or poly-cotton blends are recommended for durability and waterproofing in roof top tents. Look for high quality materials with PU coatings rated at 2000mm or higher for reliable rain protection. The fabric should be treated for UV resistance and mold resistance to ensure it lasts. Seams should be sealed or taped. Zippers should be heavy-duty (YKK is the gold standard). The frame should be sturdy aluminum or steel that can withstand wind and weather conditions without bending. High-density foam mattresses of at least 3 inches thick are recommended for better sleep. Pillows, bedding, and a ladder should be included or available as accessories.
Ventilation and Condensation
Breathability and ventilation are enhanced in soft shell tents by features such as large mesh windows and poly-cotton canvas construction. Ventilation features, such as anti-condensation mats and multiple mesh windows, are important to prevent condensation in soft shell tents. Look for tents with windows on multiple sides that you can open for more airflow. Poly-cotton canvas breathes better than pure polyester. Some models include skylight windows that create upward ventilation and allow you to stargaze from inside your tent.
Annex Rooms and Accessories
Soft shell roof top tents can accommodate annex rooms for extra space, providing covered storage or additional living areas. An annex hangs beneath the tent and creates a sheltered room at ground level, perfect for changing clothes, storing gear, sleeping extra guests, or keeping pets safe. Many soft shell tents either include an annex or offer one as an add-on. If extra space matters to you, prioritize models that support an annex. Also consider whether the tent works with awnings, as many overlanders pair a soft shell roof top tent with a 270 or 180 degree awning for complete camp coverage and compact storage when not in use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best soft shell roof top tent?
For best overall value, the Smittybilt Gen2 Overlander XL delivers king-size sleeping space for a family at roughly half the cost of comparable hard shell tents. For best warranty and build quality in the mid-range, the OVS Nomadic 4 Extended ($1,749.99) offers a 4-year warranty and 4-5 person capacity. For premium soft shell quality, the 23Zero Walkabout 72 with LST blackout canvas is exceptional. For expedition-grade durability, the Eezi-Awn Series 3 is built for a lifetime of adventure. The best soft shell roof top tent depends on your budget, how many people need to sleep in it, and how rugged your trips get.
How long does it take to set up a soft shell roof top tent?
Soft shell rooftop tents typically take 3 to 10 minutes to set up and pack down. The process involves removing the travel cover, unfolding the fabric body, extending the internal poles to create the tent structure, and pulling out the telescoping ladder. Packing down follows the same steps in reverse. Some newer coverless designs like the OVS XD Sherpa reduce setup time by eliminating the cover step entirely. By comparison, hard shell rooftop tents typically require 30 to 60 seconds to deploy. After a few practice runs, most campers can set up a soft shell tent in under 5 minutes comfortably.
Will a soft shell roof top tent fit on my car?
Soft shell roof top tents fit most vehicles with a roof rack or cross bars, including trucks, SUVs, Jeeps, and even smaller cars and crossovers. Soft shells are typically lighter (100-140 lbs) than hard shell models, making them suitable for vehicles with lower roof load capacities. The key is checking your vehicle's dynamic weight capacity, which is usually between 100-200 lbs. Your tent's weight should be at least 20% less than that rating. Models like the Tuff Stuff Trailhead at 110 lbs work on smaller vehicles like a Subaru Outback, Toyota RAV4, or even some sedans with aftermarket roof racks. Call us at 844-200-3979 and we will confirm fitment for your specific vehicle.
Are soft shell roof top tents waterproof?
Yes. Quality soft shell roof top tents use waterproof fabrics with PU coatings rated at 2000mm or higher, sealed seams, and included rainflies for additional protection from rain and snow. Materials like 600D ripstop polyester and poly-cotton blends are durable and weather resistant. The travel cover that protects the tent when closed is also waterproof. While no tent is completely impervious to every weather condition indefinitely, a well-made soft shell roof top tent from brands like Smittybilt, OVS, Tuff Stuff, 23Zero, or Eezi-Awn will keep you dry in heavy rain and perform reliably across all four seasons.
What is the difference between a soft shell and hard shell roof top tent?
The difference comes down to construction and opening style. A hard shell roof top tent uses a rigid top and bottom shell that flips open on gas struts in under one minute. A soft shell roof top tent folds out using a fabric body supported by poles and frames. Soft shells typically offer more sleeping space, can accommodate annex rooms, weigh less, and cost significantly less. Hard shells tend to set up faster, store everything internally, and require less maintenance. Soft shell roof top tents typically cost between $900 and $2,500. Hard shell models start at $1,850 and can exceed $4,000. For most families and budget-conscious campers, a soft shell rooftop tent offers the best combination of space, value, and quality.
Can you use a soft shell roof top tent in winter?
Yes. Many soft shell roof top tents are rated for 4-season use. Models with insulated bases, quality poly-cotton or ripstop fabric, sealed seams, and a good rainfly will handle cold weather, snow, and wind. Add a quality sleeping bag rated for winter temperatures, high-density foam mattress pads, and proper bedding, and you can camp comfortably in freezing conditions. The key is choosing a soft shell tent with thick, durable fabric and good ventilation to manage condensation. The OVS Nomadic series, Smittybilt Gen2, and 23Zero Walkabout are all rated for year-round use in harsh weather.
How much does a soft shell roof top tent weigh?
Soft shell roof top tents can typically weigh between 100 and 140 lbs. Compact 2-person models like the Tuff Stuff Trailhead weigh around 110 lbs. Larger 4-5 person models like the OVS Nomadic 4 Extended and Smittybilt Gen2 Overlander XL weigh around 139-140 lbs. The largest models, like the Tuff Stuff Elite 5-Person, can reach 160 lbs. This lighter weight compared to many hard shell models makes soft shell tents easier to install and better suited for smaller vehicles. Always verify your rack and vehicle can safely support the tent's weight while driving.
Do soft shell roof top tents come with a mattress?
Yes. Every soft shell roof top tent we sell includes a foam mattress. Most come with a high-density foam mattress between 2" and 3" thick. The Smittybilt Gen2 Overlander XL includes a 60mm (approximately 2.4") mattress. The OVS Nomadic series includes a 3" thick mattress. High-density foam mattresses of at least 3 inches thick are recommended for better sleep in roof top tents. The mattress stays inside the tent when folded for travel, along with your pillows and bedding, so you can pull into camp and have your bed ready to go.
Why Buy Soft Shell Roof Top Tents from Off Road Tents
We carry one of the largest selections of soft shell roof top tents online, with models from Smittybilt, OVS, Tuff Stuff, 23Zero, Eezi-Awn, Rhino-Rack, Thule Tepui, Guana Equipment, and more. Every soft shell roof top tent ships free. Every tent is backed by the manufacturer's warranty. And when you call us, you talk to overlanders who have slept in these tents across every season. We know the difference between a roof top tent soft shell that works for a family weekend and one built for month-long expeditions. We know which models fit which vehicles. We know which soft shell tents handle wind, rain, and snow, and which ones are best kept to fair weather. Call us at 844-200-3979 and we will help you find the right one.
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