Roll Bar Pads and Covers

Why use roll bar padding

Roll bars and sport bars are bare steel tubes, and on a rough trail occupants can bump their head or arms against them. Padding provides a measure of cushion for minor contact and covers the tubes to protect them from fading, scuffs and rust on the surface. It does not replace a helmet in a serious event, and it is not designed to absorb crash loads.

Types of covers

• Foam-backed sleeves wrap around the tubing and fasten with hook and loop or a zipper. They are common and generally quick to install.
• Fabric covers in denim, canvas or vinyl match soft tops and seat upholstery.
• MOLLE-style covers include webbing for attaching pouches, flashlights or small gear.
• Full kits cover the main bar plus side bars and rear sections in a set.

Choosing the right fit

Bars differ by vehicle, year and manufacturer. Check the listing for the tube diameter and the part of the bar the cover is made for, such as a front sport bar, rear section or side members. Some covers are vehicle-specific, and others are universal wrap designs that can be trimmed. A snug fit prevents sliding and rattling, so match diameter and length where possible.

Look for UV-resistant fabric, double stitching and closures that hold in the wind with the top down. Most covers can be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water. Remove and air-dry them if they get wet, to prevent mildew on foam. Keep them away from direct heat, such as exhaust parts, which can melt vinyl.

Installation usually takes minutes. Slip the cover over the tube, close the fasteners, and make sure the cover does not interfere with seat belts, shoulder harness mounts, speaker bars or a soft top bow. Do not wrap a cover over a harness mounting point, and check that nothing pinches belts or restricts their movement.

Compatibility

Confirm fitment for your year, make, model and bar style, and check the manufacturer's specifications for sizes. If your vehicle has an aftermarket cage with larger tubing, measure the actual tube diameter and circumference first, because factory-bar covers are usually too small for it, and check the length against the straight section you want covered.

Maintenance and mistakes to avoid

Check the covers for sagging foam, torn seams and loose hook-and-loop fasteners. Foam compresses over time, so replace worn padding to keep a decent cushion. Do not use solvents or harsh cleaners, which can break down foam and fade fabric. If you remove the bar covers to wash them, check the tubing underneath for surface rust and touch it up. Be careful of covers made of slippery vinyl in hot weather, since they can get very hot in direct sun. When the top is down for long periods, consider a cover with a lighter color, which stays cooler in strong sunlight.

Think about cleaning, too. Dust and sweat collect on bar covers during hot weather, so wipe them regularly, especially if passengers rest their arms and shoulders against them.