Hard vs. Soft Rooftop Cases: Which Is Right For You?
Whether you’re on a long overlanding trip or simply out for the weekend, utilizing your rig’s roof for extra cargo carrying ability is a good idea. If you get the right rooftop storage or cases, you can even keep stuff up there you might usually keep inside.
When it comes to rooftop storage containers, there are hard cases and soft bags. Both will get the job done, but it’s up to you to choose the version that works best for your setup. Let’s look at the difference between hard cases or soft bags for rooftop storage.
Hard Cases: Durable, Secure, Waterproof, and Dustproof
Hard cases are the most durable way to keep gear on your roof. Many can be locked to racks, as well as have their lids locked, too, for the ultimate in security. Certain cases, such as Ironman 4x4’s All-Weather Rugged Maxi Cases are waterproof and dustproof, so you can load them up without worrying about their contents getting wet or dusty. Made of UV-stabilized LLDPE (linear low density polyethylene) plastic with lockable latches, these cases have strong molded hinges and are also stackable, too.
Hard cases come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Ironman 4x4’s versions range from 48-liters all the way to big 216-liter cases. Weights range from 12 lbs. for a 48-liter case to 36 lbs. for a the 216-liter model.
The downside to hard cases is they can be bulky and, depending on your rack, may require specific hardware to mount. Many won’t fit in roof baskets either. But when it comes to durability and protection against the elements, hard cases are the top choice for rooftop storage.
Soft Cases: Lightweight, Flexible, and Versatile
Rooftop Cargo Storage Bags are also a great way to put gear on your roof. They can easily be secured to roof racks or thrown in roof baskets. They’re lightweight and flexible, too.
Bags, such as the Ironman 4x4 Roof Rack Duffle, are made from durable weather-proof 500-denier PVC with tear-resistant fibers. They have heavy-duty tie-down straps and buckles for quick mounting to whatever rack you might have. Also on board are also chunky weather-resistant zippers with Velcro overlaps to keep gear out of harsh conditions. Plus, they come in four different sizes ranging from 200–600 liters for all kinds of different roof types. Since they’re soft, they can be affixed directly to a roof, but may also be put onto a roof rack.
The downside to soft cases is they’re not lockable or as sturdy as hard cases. Plus, while weather-proof, they’re not impervious to water or dust, but are resistant to it.
Case by Case Basis
Much like tacos, when it comes to cases, you have to choose hard or soft and everyone has their favorite. Whether you choose sturdy, lockable cases, or soft, flexible ones, utilizing your vehicle’s roof for rooftop storage is a great way to free up space inside your vehicle.