Camping enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers are increasingly turning to rooftop tents for a convenient, comfortable, and elevated camping experience. Among the various options available, soft shell rooftop tents are rapidly gaining popularity in 2025, especially for their ease of use, lightweight design, and versatility. Whether you have an SUV or a pickup truck, a soft shell rooftop tent can be the perfect addition to your vehicle, allowing you to explore off-grid locations with ease.

In this article, we’ll explore why soft shell rooftop tents are becoming a favorite, compare them with hard shell alternatives, and highlight some of the best soft shell rooftop tents available on the market today.

What is a Soft Shell Rooftop Tent?

A soft shell rooftop tent typically features a fabric outer shell, often made from durable, weather-resistant materials like ripstop nylon or polyester. These tents fold out from a compact, soft-sided storage bag mounted on your vehicle’s roof rack. Unlike hard shell tents, which have a rigid outer shell usually made of fiberglass or aluminum soft shell rooftop tent rely on fabric panels supported by poles or a frame.

This design makes soft shell rooftop tents generally lighter and more affordable, appealing to adventurers who want quick setup without sacrificing comfort or protection from the elements.

Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for SUV: Ideal for Versatility

Soft shell rooftop tents are especially popular among SUV owners. The typical height and shape of an SUV roof pair well with the soft shell design, offering a balance between aerodynamics and space. A soft shell rooftop tent for SUV is easy to install and doesn’t add excessive weight, preserving your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

Many manufacturers design these tents with extra features tailored for SUVs, including built-in mattress pads, integrated rain flies, and windows with mesh screens for ventilation. This makes them perfect for weekend trips, long road journeys, or even extended expeditions.

Soft Shell Rooftop Tent vs Hard Shell: Which Should You Choose?

One of the most common questions when shopping for rooftop tents is the choice between soft shell and hard shell models. Each has its pros and cons, but here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Weight: Soft shell tents are lighter, making them easier to mount and less impactful on vehicle handling. Hard shell tents tend to be heavier.

Setup Time: Soft shell tents usually require a few more minutes to set up due to fabric unfolding and pole assembly, whereas hard shell tents often open in seconds.

Durability: Hard shell tents provide superior protection against harsh weather and physical damage. Soft shell tents are durable but can be more vulnerable to tears if not maintained.

Cost: Soft shell rooftop tents are generally more affordable, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious adventurers.

Storage Size: Hard shell tents pack down more compactly and offer a sleek look on your roof rack; soft shell tents are bulkier when folded.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your priorities: if you want quick deployment and rugged protection, hard shell might be best. If you want lightweight versatility and affordability, a soft shell rooftop tent is an excellent option.

Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tent Options in 2025

Here are some of the best soft shell rooftop tents to consider for your next adventure:

Smittybilt Overlander Tent
Known for its durability and affordable price, this tent offers a spacious interior, heavy-duty waterproof fabric, and a quick setup process. It’s a great choice for both trucks and SUVs.

Rightline Gear Soft Shell Tent
This model balances quality and portability, featuring a lightweight design with sturdy poles and waterproof materials. It’s praised for its excellent ventilation and solid rain protection.

Tepui Explorer Series
A bit pricier but loved by outdoor enthusiasts, Tepui’s soft shell tents offer excellent weather resistance, integrated foam mattresses, and ample space for up to three people.

Front Runner Roof Top Tent
This tent is built for adventure, boasting quick deployment, breathable fabrics, and rugged construction. Perfect for those who want a dependable tent without the bulk of a hard shell.

Soft Shell Rooftop Tent Reviews: What Are Users Saying?

Customer feedback is essential when choosing the right rooftop tent. Soft shell rooftop tent reviews reveal common themes: users love the lightweight and flexible design but recommend investing in proper maintenance to avoid wear and tear.

Many reviewers appreciate the balance between comfort and portability, noting that these tents provide a great sleeping experience elevated off the ground, away from bugs and uneven terrain. However, some mention that setup takes a bit more time compared to hard shell tents, but most agree the tradeoff is worth it for the lower cost and lighter weight.

Why Choose a Soft Shell Rooftop Tent in 2025?

As camping and overlanding trends evolve, so do the designs of rooftop tents. In 2025, soft shell rooftop tents have become more weather-resistant, easier to install, and offer better features than ever before. For adventurers seeking flexibility without a massive price tag or heavy rooftop load soft shell rooftop tent options deliver. From weekend warriors to serious explorers, these tents make it simple to get out into nature quickly and comfortably, no matter where your journey takes you.