Soft Tops

Soft top styles

A soft top is a fabric roof that replaces or covers the factory hardtop, so it folds back for open-air driving. Full tops include a frame, with bows that hold the fabric in shape. Bowless tops do away with the overhead bows, so the fabric stacks neatly when folded. Sprint-style tops cover only the front half of the roof and are a common option for a quick open-air setup.

Fabric and finish

Most tops are made from woven vinyl-coated fabric. Premium types such as Black Diamond have a textured outer surface that resists fading and scuffing, while other colors, such as Spice, change the look of the vehicle. Fabric thickness, UV resistance and the type of stitching all affect longevity. Check the manufacturer's descriptions for fabric weight and care instructions.

What to compare

• Vehicle fitment: soft tops are cut for specific model years and body generations, and door count matters. A two-door top will not fit a four-door body.
• Windows: some tops use tinted or clear vinyl windows, while others use heavier flexible panels. Vinyl windows can scratch, so use a soft cloth for cleaning.
• Hardware: look for zippers, tracks and bows. Confirm that the kit includes the parts you need, such as header bar or sunrider bars.
• Door compatibility: confirm whether it works with full doors, half doors or the stock hardware.

Installation and care

Most tops can be installed at home with common tools, though a second person helps. Install on a warm day, since the fabric stretches into shape better when it is warm. Clean windows only with products made for vinyl, and avoid pressure washing seams. Never roll the windows tightly in cold weather, because they can crease. Soft tops are not as secure as a hard roof, so do not leave valuables inside.

Confirm fitment first

Confirm fitment for your exact year, make and model, and cross-check part numbers with the manufacturer's specifications. Fitment can change between generations of the same vehicle, so verify the body style and door configuration before choosing. Also check how the top interacts with your existing roll bar, doors and windshield frame, since small differences in hardware can change the fit and the way the fabric seals at the edges.

Mistakes and long-term care

Avoid folding a top when it is cold and stiff, and do not close a top over wet fabric for a long time, because mildew can form in the folds. Zippers last longer if you keep them clean and lightly lubricated with a product made for the purpose. Avoid automatic car washes with brushes, which can scratch windows and fray seams. Tension matters too, because a top that is too loose will flap and wear, while one that is too tight can strain stitching. Rub the vinyl windows with a plastic-safe protectant occasionally. Store the removed top flat or loosely folded in a dry place, away from sharp objects and direct heat, so it keeps its shape between seasons.

Keep a small repair kit of vinyl patch tape and spare snaps or fasteners handy. A small tear caught early is easy to patch, while a large one tends to spread along the stitching when the fabric flexes in the wind.