Truck Bed Covers – Looks and Performance

While the bed may be one of the best things about having a truck (other than the rugged good looks, of course), it can also be a drawback. It's impossible to carry anything in the back without soaking it with rain during inclement weather. In addition, that bed can be an eyesore for anyone who desires looks as well as performance. Thankfully, truck bed covers can help you add a killer look, as well as increasing the functionality of your truck.

Tonneau Covers – Perhaps the most ubiquitous form of truck bed cover is the tonneau cover (today, at least). These come in a number of different configurations, though the cover is always rigid. Opening the tonneau cover can be done several ways, depending on the model you select. For instance, some covers have a folding rear section that allows easy access to the bed, while others have air shocks that allow the entire cover to raise and lower with ease.

Soft Covers – While soft covers don't necessarily have the same benefits as tonneau covers, they can be beneficial. Soft covers are much easier to get into and out of, for instance. Many soft covers can be rolled into a tube and stored at the top of the bed (below the rear window). These are excellent for people who want the benefits of a bed cover, but find they need immediate access to the entire bed frequently. Sliding bed covers are a variation on this theme and combine the rigidity of tonneau covers with the easy access of a soft cover.