Supertop or Softopper?

[Off-Grid Engineering]

I am planning on purchasing a soft-top camper shell this week. I would love to have a CanBack but dont want to drop the coin. Between the Softopper and the Bestop Supertop, which one is better quality? Which one would you get? what have you heard or experienced? Help me decide!

 

[TangoBlue]

I know folks who have both; the materials seem pretty good and the frames seem sturdy enough but I can't attest to their long-time durability. It really depends upon how you plan on using your truck. If you can see yourself needing the bed wide open and you want no top in the way, than maybe you need to go with one of these.

But if you really want the CAN-BACK then I vote to save your money -- I love my CAN-BACK; the only downfall is that it isn't easily removed. It's all stainless steel construction and durable marine-grade fabric have stood up well over the last 2 years I've had it, and the frame can support a roof basket and moderate load. I also enjoy the remarks from folks that say, "I wish I had gotten a CAN-BACK."

Just my 2 cents...
Below is a poor comparison between the 2 different tops. The owner of the white Tacoma has since traded his top for a bed-box.

 

[Off-Grid Engineering]

Thanks for the reply. I'm actually using a really nice ARE shell right now. I'm interested in going to something lighter that can be stowed for motorcycle transportation. I also have a UWS toolbox that I use when the shell is not on. So many choices. I think I'm going with the Softopper from Boulder, CO. They're local and I've heard good things.

 

[TangoBlue]

I thought I saw ARE shell in your sig. That sounds like a good choice - you now have the option to switch between the 2 shells depending on your plans or season.

Good luck!

 

[CYi5]

I've seen a softopper first hand, but haven't seen a supertop. I personally don't like the criss cross supports that the softopper has and the velcro'd rear flap will eventually remove itself from your tailgate. The ability to flip it up though is pretty sweet.

I had a can-back on my ext. cab taco. It isn't too difficult to remove, as I always left the rails connected to the truck and just unscrewed the uprights. My truck was totalled and I liked the can-back so much (and not easy to get these days) that i'm saving it under my bed until I get another truck.

The ability to mount a rack directly to the can-back is also a key feature. Whether it's an RTT, kayaks, basket, or lumber, the can-back holds them solidly.

Used can-backs come up every now and then, a perfect black one on ttora last month for $400. Sorry to skirt your question comparing the two, but I would wait if I were you.

 

[Off-Grid Engineering]

I appreciate the responses. It's apparent that the CanBack is a far superior product. I would love to have one. But after spending 1900 on a fully decked out ARE shell and 350 on a UWS toolbox, I cannot justify another 1200 on a CanBack. That is just too much coin to drop in the bed of a truck. I will be satisfied with one of the two I mentioned and deal with the shortcomings.

I really do appreciate the opinions though. That's why I love this website. None of you guys will let your fellow ExPo'ers buy an inferior product.

After researching all afternoon, It seems like the Softopper is a slightly better buy. If only for the fact that I would be supporting a local business. Any thoughts on this particular product?

 

[adrenaline503]

I had a softopper before i put on my flatbed. It was great and I miss it.

 

[CYi5]

I cannot justify another 1200 on a CanBack.

Buy used , no shame in it.

 

[Applejack]

I have the Bestop on my tacoma and it's been great. The only thing I don't really like is that zippers get sticky when they're dusty. I don't think anything matches it's versatility. I can take it down in 5 minutes when I don't want it up.