Truck bed covers protect cargo several ways.
Soft covers are the low cost option and offer advantages for very little money.
Here are 5 ways a soft cover maybe the best way to cover your truck bed.
1.
Full bed access.
By retracting into a storage can at the front of the bed, the retractable cover opens up the whole bed for full access.
That way you can haul anything that fits in the bed.
Other covers, like tilting lids, restrict cargo to just the height of the bed rails if you want to close the cover.
2.
Weatherproofing.
Retractable covers offer a sealed box to protect from weather.
Every sealing design differs, so you need to seek out user feedback on sealing performance of each model.
But the retractable covers in general offer superior weather protection.
3.
Metal security.
The main cover material consists of an aluminum sheet.
When in place, the cover is an aluminum sheet that fits within supporting rails.
That makes for a tough cover and a secure boxed in bed in your pickup.
4.
Locked in.
With a locking tailgate and a locked metal cover, it's hard to beat the security of a retractable cover.
There's security from any cover, since cargo that's hidden away attracts no attention.
But for real security being able to lock in the bed behind a metal cover is highly secure.
5.
Low profile look.
Some tonneau covers extend above the bed rails several inches or extend down into the bed several inches.
The retractable tonneaus, on the other hand, are thin and mount flush with the bed rails for the best low profile look and function.
Truck bed covers that retract offer premium looks and performance.
If you want the convenience of a retractable tonneau and are willing to pay the price, this may be your best option.