Imagine this; it’s another Monday morning, and you are late for work as you get into your Jeep. The garage door opens, revealing a beautiful day, perfect to beat the Monday blues. However, to fully enjoy the nice weather, you would have to take off your Jeep’s hardtop roof, which requires two things you are short on — time and an extra set of hands. Luckily, all you need is a good Jeep Wrangler soft top. And even when using your Jeep as intended, exploring the wilderness on off-road trails, a soft top can make a world of difference.
However, depending on the generation and configuration, every Jeep Wrangler model is only compatible with specific soft tops, making the buying process a bit complicated. For instance, a soft top for a Wrangler YJ won’t work on a JK model —the same thing applies for 2 and 4 doors configurations.
Don’t worry, though. To help you find the perfect one for your specific Jeep Wrangler model, we have prepared a comprehensive guide with essential things to consider before committing to buying one and 9 of the best Jeep soft tops we could find.
I hope it helps!
Soft Top vs. Hard Top
Not many manufacturers provide as many customization options for their cars as Jeep does with its Wrangler SUV. And, if the factory options aren’t enough for you, there is an ocean of aftermarket tuners with enough products to boggle your mind.
Nonetheless, it’s important to mention that not just any soft top will do here. Choosing the right type of top for your Wrangler is an important decision as it sure affects your truck’s overall appearance but can also be a security concern. Still, the final decision is really a question of personal preference—we can point out the advantages and disadvantages of each option, but you’ll be the judge.
Let’s start with the most crucial consideration: security. Indeed, it is no secret that any burglar can simply use a pocket knife to cut a soft top and gain access to your Jeep. If you decide to go the soft top route, there’s really not much you can do but bring valuables with you when leaving your vehicle unattended. Meanwhile, hard tops are considered much safer and a lot more secure, but of course, they need to be left at home if you decide to go for a topless drive, which can be a significant drawback if it starts to rain halfway into your journey.
On the other hand, it’s much easier to enjoy open-air driving with a soft top, as putting it down only takes a few minutes, and it can be stored in the trunk. Moreover, some Jeep soft tops below also come with foldback sunroof features where you don’t even need to leave the driver’s seat.
However, remember that it is only worth purchasing a soft top if your geographical region allows for warm summer months. Soft tops are unsurprisingly not the best in winter. The smart thing to do is get a hard top and a soft top, use the hard top in the winter months and store it away during the summer season to enjoy a nice and sunny drive every now and then.
What to Consider When Buying a Jeep Soft Top
Compatibility
Compatibility is probably the most critical factor to consider since it will really be of no use if it doesn’t even fit your Jeep Wrangler model. Always check and double-check the application list and ensure the soft top you choose is compatible with your Jeep’s generation, model year, door configuration, and trim level to be sure.
Soft top material
Another important aspect is the quality of the material used for the soft top. Most models these days are made of multi-layer hybrid material, sufficient for everyday use. However, if you frequently subject your SUV to abuse, or frequently drive off the beaten paths, in trails where branches and flying rocks could damage a cheaper fabric, it’s in your best interest to go for a thicker, more resistant material, even if that means spending a few extra bucks.
It is also important to remember that a thinner material will often be significantly noisier when driving at high speed. It might not be that much of a drawback if you mostly use your soft top off-road, but it might be a bit annoying on long highway drives.
Installation requirements
Since we are talking about aftermarket Jeep soft tops here, there is little to no standardization regarding the mounting hardware or even the type of fastening mechanism used. Almost every soft top is unique and requires a specific installation process using distinct hardware pieces.
A good Jeep soft top should be straightforward to install and remove so you can easily switch between hard and soft tops when required. One of the main reasons to install a soft top on your Jeep is to enjoy a top-down drive on demand. It defeats the purpose of having a soft top if even the thought of opening the roof exhausts you to the point where you’d rather continue the drive as is.
Moreover, the soft top you choose shouldn’t force you to make any permanent changes to your Jeep; all hardware parts should be designed to work with the existing mounting points.
Security aspects
An inherent disadvantage of using a soft top is compromising your Jeep’s security. There is no escaping the fact that any thief can gain access to your Jeep’s content by merely cutting through the soft top’s fabric (not that it’s that easy to cut, but any determined thief equipped with a sharp-enough knife could get in).
There is no fool-proof solution to this flaw aside from trying to make the thief’s life as complicated as possible by choosing a soft top made of a thicker material and with thicker windows. Moreover, most Jeep soft tops mentioned below come with several safety features to enhance your vehicle’s security. Features like locking zippers and hidden access points go a long way in deterring criminals from trying to break in.
Airflow
Admittedly, airflow or aerodynamic effect isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the best Jeep soft tops (it’s not like Wranglers are that aerodynamic to begin with, but a soft top surely doesn’t help). However, it is a factor that demands consideration. Off-roading is a 5-mph sport, but when cruising down the freeway at 70 mph, disturbed airflow over the vehicle can result in excessive wind noise and dynamic imbalance or instability in extreme cases.
Best Soft Top for Jeep Wrangler YJ (1986-1995)
1. Sierra Offroad Soft Top
The first entry on our list is the Sierra Offroad soft top designed to fit all Jeep Wrangler YJ models, built between 1988 and 1995. Sierra’s soft top is made from its unique black “Denim Vinyl” material, a 2-ply composite material that closely resembles denim in appearance. Still, it may look like denim, but that doesn’t mean it is built like it. On the contrary, premium marine-grade fabrics are used to help prevent fading even after years of use. Moreover, the heavy-duty zippers work smoothly to ensure easy operation.
However, the Sierra Offroad soft top’s most notable feature is the tinted windows dark enough to block unwanted UV rays from entering your Jeep without affecting visibility.
If you drive a YJ Wrangler, no other option can beat the Sierra Offroad soft top for the price. You get a durable fabric, strong zippers, and a three-year limited warranty, all this for less than $200. Furthermore, the top is built according to factory specifications, so there are no fitment issues whatsoever—simply can’t go wrong with this one!
Highlighted features
- Compatible with 1988-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ models
- Black marine-grade denim vinyl
- Built for two-door models
- Designed to factory measurements
- Tinted side and cargo windows
Pros
- Uses heavy-duty self-correcting zippers
- Easy to operate and install
- High value for money
- Tinted windows for optimum protection without compromising visibility
- High-quality denim vinyl uses 2-ply fabric
- Three years limited warranty
Cons
- Only fits original factory frames
2. TACTIK YJBLKTNTDR Fabric Only Replacement Soft Top
The Tactik YJBLKTNTDR replacement soft top is another great option for Jeep Wranglers YJ, made from multi-layered vinyl-coated poly-cotton material known for its durability and abrasion resistance.
As a result, Tactik’s soft top can be used in summer, winter, rain, and even snow without any leakage issue. Just keep in mind that it might still be quite cold in winter, though—soft tops aren’t exactly known for their insulation properties.
Moreover, it’s equipped with two DOT-compliant 20 mm thick side and rear windows, featuring a 31% tint to improve visibility and reduce strain on your eyes on a sunny day. Nonetheless, if you want to work on your tan, you can easily remove the side windows and roll up the cargo window.
If you don’t mind spending a little extra to get a high-quality and durable soft top for your Wrangler YJ, the Tactik YJBLKTNTDR is an enticing option. It perfectly fits the OEM mounting points without the need for any permanent changes and will last you for years.
Highlighted features
- Compatible with 1988-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ models
- 2-ply vinyl-coated poly-cotton material
- Built for two-door models
- Designed to factory measurements
- Side and cargo window with 31% tint
Pros
- Tape sealed seams for utmost protection
- Marine-grade stitching
- Easily removable window skins
- DOT compliant window tints and glass
- Comes with a detailed installation guide
- Precise fitment and leak-proof operation
Cons
- Window zipper can be a little tricky to operate sometimes
Best Soft Top for Jeep Wrangler TJ (1996-2006)
3. Rampage 109535 Frameless Trail Top
The Rampage 109535 frameless trail soft top is made of premium sailcloth to minimize aerodynamic disruption and reduce wind noise at high speeds. In addition, you get welded seams and heat seal taped joints to keep water, heat, and snow out. Finally, reinforced stitching with marine-grade thread in areas susceptible to high stresses ensures the top stays strong even after years of use.
It’s also fitted with thicker, heavy-duty 30 mm side and cargo windows. Also worth mentioning, the windows on this model are also made extra-large to improve overall visibility and make your Jeep feel airier. Of course, you can choose to get rid of all windows and safely store them in a dedicated area between the ceiling and rooftop, a pretty neat addition.
Rampage’s trail top is designed to fit 1997-2006 two-door Jeep Wrangler TJ models, using the factory roll bar. It is excellent for everyday use, but if you like to venture off-road often, we recommend considering the following model instead.
Highlighted features
- Compatible with 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler YJ models
- 30 oz. premium sailcloth material
- Built for two-door models
- Designed to fit factory rollbars
- Tinted side and cargo windows
Pros
- Easily fits OEM roll cage
- Removable windows for an open-air experience
- Reasonably priced
- Strong and leak-proof sewn heat-sealed seams
- Three years limited warranty
Cons
- Not the best for rough off-road use
4. Bestop 51193-35 Replace-a-Top Soft Top
Another excellent option for YJ Jeep Wranglers comes courtesy of Bestop, a reputed aftermarket brand known for developing innovative and reliable Jeep accessories. The Bestop 5119335 Replace-A-Top is a fabric top that replaces your factory soft top without the need for other changes.
Bestop’s model is made from 30 oz. dual-layered black diamond fabric resistant to fade and stains even in the most demanding conditions. The material is thicker than Jeep’s factory soft tops; hence, it will take a lot longer to develop wrinkles, keeping your Jeep looking neat for years to come.
In addition to the soft top fabric, Bestop’s Replace-A-Top kit also comes with side and rear windows made from 30 mil. DOT-approved vinyl material. The side rear and cargo windows offer an 18% tint for a stealthy overall appearance.
If you own a Wrangler YJ built between 2003-2006 and your original soft top is nowhere near its former glory, the Bestop Replace-A-Top is the best Jeep soft top for you. Unfortunately, since it reuses your Jeep’s OEM hardware, it doesn’t come with extra hardware. If you are buying your first soft top instead of replacing an old one, you might need to buy separate hardware here. Nonetheless, if you need a soft top tough and durable enough to be used for off-road applications, this is the one!
Highlighted features
- Compatible with 2003-2006 Jeep Wrangler YJ models
- 30 oz. dual-layer diamond black fabric
- Built for two-door models
- Designed to fit factory hardware
- 18% tinted side and cargo windows
Pros
- Comes with detailed instructions
- Easy to install and remove
- Heat-sealed windows with strong zippers
- Perfect fit for compatible models
- Resistant to fade, stains, and mildew
- Two years limited warranty
Cons
- Doesn’t fit Wranglers TJ Unlimited models
Best Soft Top for Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-2017)
5. Smittybilt 9087235 Bowless Soft Top Combo
When it comes to off-roading accessories and equipment, Smittybilt is a household name and is now famous for developing high-quality products for serious off-road applications. Unsurprisingly, the 9087235 Soft Top Combo is yet another excellent example of the brand’s superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.
This soft top fits 2007-2017 Wrangler JK without using the factory bows. However, you will need to purchase a separate kit consisting of window frames, windshield channels, crossbars, and the tailgate bar. Nonetheless, you do get the side and rear windows with 40 Mil. DOT-approved vinyl in the package, though.
Worth mentioning, due to this soft top’s bowless nature, you cannot fold it down to turn your Jeep into a convertible like some other soft tops. If you want to take it out, it needs to be taken apart instead. However, on the plus side, you can turn it into a bikini top by merely removing the rear cargo window.
If you have damaged or malfunctioning bows on your JK Wrangler, buying the Smittybilt 9087235 can save you a significant amount of money as most other soft tops require factory hardware. Additionally, you also get a super tough and wrinkle-free 37 oz. black multi-layered fabric that is extremely durable and long-lasting.
Highlighted features
- Compatible with 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler JK models
- 37 oz. multi-layer black fabric
- Built for four-door models
- Bowless design
- Tinted side and cargo windows
Pros
- Reasonably priced considering what you get in return
- Exceptionally rugged and long-lasting fabric
- No factory bows required
- Soft top is up to 10 dB quieter than standard
- Straightforward strapped installation
- Top offers internal storage compartments
Cons
- Installation hardware sold separately
6. Rampage 990135 Trailview Soft Top
The 990135 TrailView soft top is Rampage’s best offering for the Jeep Wrangler JK and is quite unique, providing a rear tonneau cover, giving your beloved Jeep a pick-up truck-like appearance. And even better, it can be installed directly onto the OEM roll bars and will fit like a glove without any uneven corners or loose ends. The kit also comes with all the necessary mounting hardware like door surrounds, tailgate bar, and other foldback hardware, so all you need to do is follow the instruction manual and get cracking.
This soft top uses Rampage’s famous 30 oz. premium sailcloth fabric, complete with high-grade tinted windows for utmost reliability and longevity. It’s also worth mentioning that the sailcloth here is available in the majestic black diamond color and goes well with pretty much any body color.
Still, the best part about the TrailView soft top is the sunroof feature. Whenever you fancy a bit of open-air driving, you can simply undo a few latches and fold the front panel back without even having to leave your seat. Admittedly, the initial installation process is a bit complicated. Still, once it’s all set, it’s significantly better than most other soft tops, and the extra work will be all worth it.
Highlighted features
- Compatible with 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK models
- 30 oz. premium sailcloth fabric
- Built for four-door models
- Comes with a rear tonneau cover
- Tinted side and cargo windows
Pros
- Convenient instant sunroof feature
- Tonneau cover provides a distinct pick-up truck-like appearance
- Uses high-quality and durable fabric with reinforced stitching using strong threads
- Thick 30 mil windows all-around
- Comes with all necessary installation hardware
- Three years manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Costs more than previous models
- Slightly tedious installation process
7. Bestop 5472235 Black Diamond Supertop NX
Owners of 2-door Jeep Wrangler JK, don’t worry; we haven’t forgotten about you. The Bestop 5472235 is specially designed to fit only 2-door JK models built between 2007 and 2018. It employs a multi-layered twill fabric that is not only strong and durable but also fade-and-wrinkle-resistant. Besides, the premium fabric combined with the high-quality zippers makes for a highly appealing combination. Bestop even goes above and beyond with its thread selection, using 135-gauge industrial polyester to ensure long-lasting and reliable seams.
Moreover, it features 18% tinted windows all-around made of 40 mm thick DOT-approved vinyl. You can choose to remove the windows whenever you fancy an open-air driving experience, and it’s also equipped with a foldback sunroof feature similar to any factory soft top.
The Bestop Supertop NX is compatible with the regular factory door set up in addition to any Bestop door kit. You get all the necessary mounting hardware included in the package, so all you have to do is set everything up. Furthermore, the metal hardware pieces are powder-coated in an attractive black finish for protection against corrosion and scratches over time.
Highlighted features
- Compatible with 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK models
- 30 oz. triple-layer twill fabric
- Built for two-door models
- Designed to fit factory steel doors
- 18% tinted side and cargo windows
Pros
- Comes with all required installation hardware
- Quick and easy to operate
- Foldback sunroof option and removable windows
- Dedicated tailgate bar for added convenience
- Thick tinted windows
- Two years limited warranty
Cons
- Certain buyers have experienced minor quality issues
Best Soft Top for Jeep Wrangler JL (2018-present)
8. Bestop 5686235 Trektop Soft Top
At the time of writing this article, there aren’t many aftermarket brands that provide satisfactory soft top options for the current generation Jeep Wrangler, but Bestop is an exception. Its Trektop is a frameless soft top designed exclusively to fit two and four-door JL models and uses Bestop’s famous multi-layered fabric material, available in standard diamond black and stealthy matt black.
The Trektop is by no means a convertible soft top, but it does come with a Sunrider that allows you to fold the soft top’s front portion back with virtually no effort. In addition, you can also convert this soft top into a bikini top by removing the side windows and rear cargo panels using the zipper. And while talking about the zippers, we should mention that Bestop uses a clever hybrid zipper system requiring fewer zippers than other soft tops. Instead, Bestop has come up with a slide-in and out installation feature for quick and easy operation.
If you are looking for an innovative soft top offering more bang for your bucks without breaking the bank, this is the model you need!
Highlighted features
- Compatible with 2018-present Jeep Wrangler JL models
- Multi-layer black diamond fabric
- Built for two and four-door models
- Comes with all required mounting hardware
Pros
- Usable and convenient Sunrider feature
- Option to convert to bikini top
- Comes with high-quality mounting hardware
- Straightforward installation process
- Two years limited warranty
Cons
- On the expensive side
9. Bestop 5472517 Supertop Ultra
If the previous model doesn’t meet your minimum radness requirement, the Bestop 5472517 Supertop Ultra surely will. It’s one of the most versatile and feature-loaded soft tops you can buy for your four-door Wrangler JL. It offers the usual multi-layer fabric found in previous models, but the flexibility level makes this soft top stand out from the rest. It can also be set in 4 different configurations: fully-enclosed, convertible, bikini top, and Sunrider.
Worth mentioning, the Supertop Ultra is equipped with Bestop’s improved patented guide track system that facilitates smooth and effortless transition between styles. The system also neatly stores the entire roof assembly behind the rear seats to provide maximum usable space.
Bestop’s soft top offers the classic boxy silhouette consistent with the Wrangler’s traditional design instead of the slantback layout in some other models. The standard configuration provides significantly more cargo space than a slanted roofline would otherwise take up.
If you regularly go on off-road adventures, road trips, and trail runs, the Bestop Supertop Ultra will go a long way in making these experiences more memorable. It isn’t cheap though, but it’s worth every penny!
Highlighted features
- Compatible with 2018-present Jeep Wrangler JL models
- Multi-layer twill fabric
- Built for four-door models
- Four possible soft top configurations
- Tinted side and cargo windows
Pros
- Extremely versatile and flexible Jeep soft top
- Zipper-less system for easy removal of windows
- Guide track system for smooth top operation
- Takes minutes to transform soft top
Cons
- On the expensive side
FAQs
What is the best way to secure my Jeep when using a soft top?
Let’s face it; there is only so much you can do to secure your Jeep against criminals when using a soft top. Still, there are two simple rules you can follow to ensure you don’t have to worry every time you step away from your beloved Jeep.
Rule number one: never leave anything even remotely valuable in your vehicle. Since you can’t prevent thieves from breaking into your Jeep, at least don’t tempt them.
And rule number two: always leave your doors unlocked. Yes, you read that right; by doing so, we want to rule out the thief’s need to slice the soft top to gain access. If he really wants to get in, just let him open the door and realize that there’s nothing of real value inside. That way, you at least won’t end up with a sliced soft top. Of course, to reduce the risk of your car being stolen, we would strongly recommend you use an anti-theft device like a steering wheel lock, for instance.
Are soft tops weather resistant?
Yes, soft tops are water-resistant, and most can even withstand extreme weather conditions. In addition, some brands also claim their soft tops are automatic carwash-friendly. We suggest you take such flamboyant claims with a pinch of salt, though, as they can often be misleading.
Verdict
We hope this elaborate article will help you make an informed decision regarding the best Jeep soft top for your needs and budget. Of course, there is no clear winner here as all models in the list are great at what they do and, more importantly, serve different Wrangler generations and configurations. Still, the main point we are trying to make is that there is no way around it. If you have a Jeep, you have to get yourself a soft top too.
Trust me; you’ll thank me later!
Download your Jeep Wrangler owners manual here!
