What Kind of Bestop, Rampage, or Smittybilt Jeep Soft Top is Right for You?
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A lot of Jeeps come with soft tops. If yours doesn’t, or you want to replace the one it came with, you will find that there is a huge selection available at Just Jeeps. Bestop, Rampage, and Smittybilt are a few of the leading brands that offer Jeep soft tops. Knowing what separates one style and one brand from another makes it a lot easier to find the right fit for how you actually use your Jeep.
Soft Tops vs Hard Tops
Soft tops are more versatile than hard tops because they are easy to attach and detach. That flexibility is a big part of why so many Wrangler and CJ owners prefer them, but there are a few other practical advantages worth knowing about:
- Lighter weight — soft tops add less mass than hardtops, which can make a small but noticeable difference in fuel economy and handling;
- More storage-friendly — a folded or removed soft top takes up far less space than a hardtop panel, which typically requires a dedicated storage spot or hoist;
- Lower cost — quality soft tops from brands like Bestop and Smittybilt are generally more affordable than equivalent hardtop options, and replacement fabrics extend their lifespan further;
- Easier seasonal swaps — going from full coverage to open-air driving takes minutes with most modern soft top designs;
- Wide variety of styles — from full enclosure tops to bikini tops and everything in between, soft tops give you far more options for customizing your setup.
Hard tops do offer better insulation and security, and they tend to hold up longer in harsh winters. For most Jeep owners, though, a quality soft top handles Canadian seasons well and gives you a level of versatility that a hardtop simply can’t match.
Keep in mind that soft tops are not all made equal. Some are made of better quality materials than others. Durability is one of the most important considerations – especially if you plan to spend a lot of time driving on rough, rocky terrains.
Top Jeep Soft Top Options: Bestop, Rampage & Smittybilt
Choosing a soft top comes down to your Jeep model, how you drive, and what features matter most to you. A few of the top choices include Bestop’s Bikini Top, Bestop Supertops, Rampage Covers, and Smittybilt Jeep Tops — each with its own strengths and best-fit use cases.
Bestop’s bikini tops
This series is available for Wranglers, CJ5, and CJ7. You can choose between the Safari extended length and the Targa standard length. The header-style tops latch directly onto the windshield header with the use of a one-piece windshield channel.
A premium fabric that maintains shape in extreme temperatures and industrial-grade fasteners and thread are the materials used in the construction of the Bikini tops. A tight fit is ensured thanks to industrial-grade webbing.
Bestop Supertops
The soft tops in the Supertop series set the standard for style, fit, and function. The fabric with which they are made is mildew-resistant and contains UV inhibitors. Installation is easy with the Belt-Rail attachment system.
These tops are offered in factory original colours. Water-tight protection is made possible with the sealed seams. The fabric, windows, and hardware are included.
Rampage Covers
The soft tops offered by Rampage are made by experienced engineers and designers. They are precision-engineered and feature both mildew-resistant and UV-resistant materials to withstand extreme weather driving in various conditions.
The Frameless Trail goes over the original equipment factory roll bar. It provides a secure fit without the need for support hardware or additional bows. This product has a unique design that includes removable rear and side windows, allowing you to convert the cover into an open safari-style top. To deal with water runoff, the roof features a patented anti-puddle support system.
The 4 Layer top provides a lot of value, as it comes with many features at a low cost. This is a water-repellent cover that protects the Jeep from moisture. Available in gray, the fabric is made of 4-layer non-woven polypropylene and features a rugged spun bond outer layer.
The Rampage Full Cab Top includes both the full enclosure and a rear tonneau cover. It fully encloses the driver and passenger compartments and the rear storage bed in a Jeep Wrangler. A zip-out window and a handy lower access door are featured on the rear cab panel.
Smittybilt Jeep Tops
These tops offer a lot of benefits that don’t come with any factory top. They are made out of highly durable materials, including marine-grade fabric. There is a wide selection of soft top goods, including extended styles, standard styles, windbreaker tops, and tonneau covers. The soft tops from this brand come with tinted windows.
Smittybilt offers replacement soft tops made of marine-grade, durable vinyl with Wick Stop threads that seal the stitch holes. The Bowless Combo Top features OEM diamond-style fabric and 30-ml DOT-tinted glass. The rear window and side windows completely zip out.
Smittybilt soft tops are available in attractive spice or diamond black.
Conclusion
Finding the right soft top for your Jeep doesn’t have to be complicated. Bestop, Rampage, and Smittybilt each bring something different to the table — the best pick depends on your Jeep model, your budget, and how much protection and flexibility you need day to day. At Just Jeeps, our team knows these products inside and out, and we’re happy to walk you through the options until you find the one that fits your Jeep and your lifestyle.
Jeep Soft Tops FAQ
A bikini top covers only the front section of the Jeep’s roof, leaving rear passengers exposed to the open air. It’s a popular choice for warm-weather driving and trail use where ventilation matters more than full coverage. A full soft top encloses the entire cab, including rear passengers, and provides protection from rain, wind, and cooler temperatures. The right choice depends on how and when you drive.
Yes, most quality soft tops can handle Canadian winters, though they do require a bit more attention during the cold months. Vinyl windows become stiffer in freezing temperatures and should be handled carefully to avoid cracking. It helps to keep the top clean, park out of direct sun when possible, and avoid forcing zippers when they’re stiff. Newer materials in tops from Bestop and Smittybilt hold up better in cold weather than older-style fabrics.
Most aftermarket soft tops are designed with DIY installation in mind. Complete kits from Bestop and Smittybilt come with all necessary hardware and step-by-step instructions. A straightforward swap typically takes one to two hours for a first-timer. If you’re not comfortable with the install, the team at Just Jeeps can take care of it for you.
Each brand has its strengths. Bestop is widely regarded as the premium option, with precise fitment and top-quality materials — it’s the go-to for owners who want the best and are willing to pay for it. Smittybilt delivers solid quality at a more accessible price point and offers a wide range of styles. Rampage sits in a similar mid-range category and is known for innovative design features like the anti-puddle system on the Frameless Trail. The best pick depends on your model, your budget, and how hard you run your Jeep.
Clean the fabric at least once a month using a soft brush and mild soap or a dedicated soft top cleaner — avoid household detergents, which can damage the material. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry. Keep the zippers clean and lubricated using a bar of dry soap or a zipper-specific lubricant. Treat the windows with a vinyl cleaner and protectant to keep them clear and flexible. Store the top properly when it’s off the Jeep and avoid leaving it bunched up in the sun.
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