Owning a pickup truck comes with quite a few benefits. Unfortunately, all the stuff you carry in the back is exposed to the world and the elements. Without a cover, not only are you risking your valuable equipment getting stolen, but it can also be ruined by something as simple as a light shower. This is why you need a good hard folding tonneau cover.
If you didn’t know, a tonneau is a cover for your pickup that sits overtop the bed. These covers come in both soft and hard forms. Both types can be easily attached to your pickup to offer protection from theft and from the elements.
If we decided to talk about both types of tonneau covers, this article would span many thousands of words. This is why we’re going to stick with the best hard folding tonneau covers!
In this article, we’ve gathered the five best-rated hard folding tonneau covers and reviewed them for your pleasure. And if you want to learn more about these products, we’ve also compiled a using guide that will get you up to speed on finding the tonneau cover that best fits your truck and how to install it.
Top 10 Best Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover On The Market 2021 Reviews
Before we get into the nitty-gritty on how to measure your truck bed for and how to install a tonneau cover, it’s time to check out our five top picks.
We’ve spent two dozen hours scouring internet forums and shops to find the five top-rated hard folding truck tonneau covers, so you don’t have to!
1. UnderCover Flex Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
When it comes to hard folding truck bed tonneau covers, one of the best brands you can go for is the UnderCover. This company has been in business for years and has an impeccable reputation for building high-quality truck bed covers.
The UnderCover Flex Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover is one of the best things you can buy for your pickup truck! This tri-fold under rail cover is incredibly sturdy and can withstand even the harshest of elements. Each panel is built out of high-quality FRP (fiber-reinforced plastic), which is lighter and more durable than aluminum. This material is also more resistant to dents than aluminum.
UnderCover Flex Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
With UnderCover hard folding truck bed cover, you won’t ever have to worry about water seeping into the back of your truck. Each cover comes with a rail mounting system equipped with rubber seals and tubes that safely carry away any runoff water.
The best thing about this hard folding tonneau cover is that you don’t have to visit your local mechanic to get it installed. The installation is pretty straightforward, and you can do it in the comfort of your home.
With all this said, there are a couple of issues with this product. Thankfully, they’re quite minor. The first issue is that it takes around two weeks for the seal to properly lay in on the rails. And if you have bed lining, you will have to make a couple of holes for the draining to come through. Other than that, this cover is top-notch!
2. Rugged Liner Premium Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
The second place in our list of best hard folding tonneau truck covers goes to a product built by the legendary Rugged Liner brand. This company has consistently made some of the best truck covers on the market, and their Premium Hard Folding truck bed Tonneau cover is no exception.
The best thing about this hard rugged liner hard folding tonneau cover is that it’s more affordable than most of its competition. This hard cover will save you almost 100 bucks compared to other products of the same quality.
Rugged Liner Premium Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
When it comes to compatibility, if you own a truck built anywhere between 2004 and 2020, you won’t have any issues installing this cover. What’s more, this cover is also available in all the most popular options, including 5.5, 6.5, and even 8 feet.
The installation of the Rugged Liner hard cover is simple as pie. Since it comes pre assembled out of the box, all you have to do is place it onto your truck bed and lock a couple of latches to keep it in place. It also features two LED lights to help you see better when it’s dark outside.
Unlike the previous folding hard cover we reviewed, the Rugged Liner is built out of vinyl and aluminum. This means it prone to denting, so be careful when handling equipment when the cover is completely closed. And make your tailgate is closed before you close the cover; otherwise, you’re risking damaging it.
3. Extang Solid Fold 2.0 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Most tonneau covers are made to protect your cargo from the elements. However, not all truck covers provide you with the added security to keep the stuff from the back of your truck away from prying hands. This is where Extang Solid Fold 2.0 comes into play!
By taking suggestions from Extang Tonneau Cover reviews, the company has redesigned its cover and upgraded it with the collected suggestions in mind. This truck bed cover features a solid 1-inch thick EnduraShiled panel for added durability and security.
Extang Solid Fold 2.0 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
This truck bed cover features a tri-fold design so you can choose between partial and full access to your cargo. The mechanism is light enough to be operated with just one hand. Unfortunately, if you’re planning on hauling a big load, you will have to take the entire tonneau cover off to gain full access to your truck bed.
Thankfully, Extang Solid Fold 2.0 installation takes less than 10 minutes! It comes fully assembled out of the box, and features patented Jaw Grip Clamps that attach to your truck bed flanges without any tools.
And don’t worry about compatibility; the Extang Solid Fold 2.0 fits almost all trucks that were built in the last 10 years. On top of that, thanks to its durable build, you won’t have to worry about rain or snow seeping through!
4. BAKFlip G2 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
BAK Industries has been around for more than 30 years. This company is well-known for producing all types of folding covers that are incredibly durable and long-lasting. The best example of their durability is the Bakflip G2 Folding Tonneau Cover!
The BAKFlip G2 is compatible with just about any truck built in the last fifteen years. This is amazing news to all of you who are having trouble parting ways with their old pickup truck. And don’t worry about the length either; the G2 is available in 5.6, 6.6, and 8 feet versions.
BAKFlip G2 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Just like the previous foldable hard truck covers, the G2 also features a tri-fold design. This means you can either access your cardo partially or fully. However, the G2 goes one step further. Thanks to the integrated buckle system, you can drive your truck with the cover opened, closed, or partially opened.
Unfortunately, the installation isn’t quite simple. You will have to assemble it and even drill drainage holes. Thankfully, once you install it, it will stay in place, and last you for years to come!
And we really mean this truck cover will last you for years. The G2 is really built to last. Besides being scratch-proof and dent-proof, but it can also withstand up to 300 pounds of weight. On top of that, you also get a 2-year, hassle-free warranty.
5. BAKFlip MX4 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
If you own a Ford F150, one of the best hard covers you can go for is none other than the Bak Industries BAKFlip MX4. Why? Well, this cover is specially designed for the Ford F150 line.
The MX4 features a tri-fold design that allows you to choose how much access you need to the truck bed. All three panels are built out of aluminum that’s covered with marine-grade vinyl. The vinyl offers excellent protection from the elements including UV rays.
BAKFlip MX4 Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
The installation of B Industries BAKFlip MX4 hard folding tonneau cover is as simple as turning a clamp. You don’t need any special tools or drills. This also means you won’t have to hassle with removing the cover.
Just like with the previous cover, the opening mechanism on this cover is also incredibly smooth. You can open the MX4 with only one hand in mere seconds. When closing the cover, make sure the tailgate is closed; otherwise, you won’t be able to close it, and you’re risking damaging the cover itself.
We were also amazed at how silent MX4 is. Even when driving over 60MPH, this cover produces very little noise, which is great news if you like driving with your windows down.
When it comes to waterproofing, you will have to drive around for a week or two before the seals adhere to the railing. Thankfully, this is the only downside to this hard folding cover.
6. Xcover Hard Tonneau Cover – Low Profile
This tonneau cover is for truck owners who want to retain their vehicle’s sleek and aerodynamic profile. Looking at the truck from the side, you’ll never know there’s a protective barrier over the truck bed.
Xcover Hard Tonneau Cover – Low Profile
Fitting the 2015-2023 Ford F150 with this product is a cinch as it does with other pickup trucks with a 5.6-foot bed. It’s sleek design gives trucks a more streamlined look.
The best part is its low-profile design creates a seamless surface to reduce aerodynamic drag. Although I am uncertain how much fuel I can save with this tonneau cover, I am confident it will be better than without it.
Opening this tonneau cover is more convenient than other brands, requiring only a finger to release the patent-pending rail and latch system. It’s the perfect solution for lazy heads, including myself, allowing us to access our truck beds with relative ease.
I am also impressed with this tonneau cover’s sturdiness. I had two 220-pound buddies of mine stand up on the truck bed barrier, and the panels held up. I was convinced it would give in under my friends’ weight.
Unfortunately, I find aligning the four clamp assemblies awkward. It would have been better if Xcover provided six instead of only four hardware. I also tried splashing a bucket of water over the tonneau cover and noticed leaks from the sides.
My advice? Try to have an assistant when setting this tonneau cover to get the clamps in perfect alignment and avoid leaks.
No product is ever faultless, and that includes the Xcover. Regardless, it remains an excellent choice for truck owners with 5.6-foot beds. Its sturdiness and low-profile design are also worth the money.
Pros
- Convenient operation
- Sleek, aerodynamic design
- Heavier capacity than other tonneau covers
Cons
- Awkward design of clamp assemblies
- Not as weather-resistant as others
7. Lund 95064 Genesis Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Here’s another tonneau cover option for those who prefer soft canvas over hard tops. Although I am not convinced a soft tonneau cover is better than hard tops, I’m ready to make an exception.
Lund 95064 Genesis Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
One thing I like about this product is its ease of folding. It’s light enough for a one-handed operation, giving you access to your 6.4-inch truck bed. I’m not surprised this tonneau cover is the favorite of 2009-2020 Classic Dodge Ram 1500 owners.
Installation is more straightforward than other tonneau covers I’ve had. I wouldn’t be surprised if you set this product in your truck in less than five minutes.
It also secures better than other soft tonneau covers. This attribute matters because I tend to step on the gas instinctively, and I cannot say I like the flapping noise in the back.
Although correct positioning addresses the issue of flapping in the wind at highway speeds, I still find this product inadequate in protecting my cargo from the rain. Water still creeps into the truck bed even with this tonneau perfectly installed.
Like other soft tonneau covers, I am uncomfortable leaving my truck unattended, especially with precious cargo on board. Anyone can rip the canvas open, and I can say goodbye to my stuff.
It’s another sad fact of soft tonneau covers I must learn to accept. However, I recommend beefing up the foam tape lining the truck bed rail to ensure near-zero leaks. As for the security issue, I suggest not leaving your vehicle unattended.
The Genesis has flaws like any other soft tonneau cover. However, it still offers peace of mind when driving on the highway, knowing your cargo is secure and you’re not spending more gas than you should.
Pros
- Folds effortlessly
- Installs within minutes
- Retains position better than others
- Ideal for longer truck beds
Cons
- Inadequate weather protection
- Maybe lack of security
8. Tyger Auto T3 Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover TG-BC3C1006
You don’t need a fancy tonneau cover to protect your 2019 Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra 1500. This product does the job, but with a few caveats.
Lund 95064 Genesis Tri-Fold Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
I’m not a fan of soft covers, preferring hard-top barriers to boost my confidence driving my truck on highways and parking it wherever I want.
However, I appreciate Tyger’s efforts to keep this tonneau cover as simple as possible without undermining its fundamental function. It looks sleek and should help improve my truck’s mileage.
Everything comes pre-assembled, allowing me to snap the clamps straight onto my truck bed rails. It fits nicely on a 5.8-foot truck bed, although I must reiterate careful measurements.
It doesn’t have advanced features for opening the tonneau cover, but it makes up for it by granting full access to the truck bed. Loading my cargo onto the platform and protecting it with the vinyl cover is a cinch.
My only lament about this tonneau cover is the clamps that don’t seem to secure it. Hence, driving over 80 on the highway can be noisy because it flaps like a tarp in the wind. It’s always possible to go at a slower speed or ensure a perfect fit on the truck bed before you hit the road.
As I’ve said, I’m not a fan of soft tonneau covers because their security is not as robust as a hard top. Anyone with a sharp object can rip right through the vinyl panel and access my cargo.
You can disregard my misgivings if you’re more confident with soft tonneau covers.
I might not be 100% sold on this tonneau cover, but I am sure others are. It remains a popular choice for truck owners with a 5.8-foot bed.
Pros
- Hassle-free installation
- Full bed accessibility
- Simple design
Cons
- Tends to flap
- Less secure than hard-tops
Best Hard Folding Tonneau Covers Using Guide
Now that you’re up to speed with the five best hard folding truck bed tonneau covers, it’s time to learn more about these amazing products!
How To Measure Truck Bed For Folding Cover
In the past, a standard length pickup truck bed was 8 feet long, and a short bed measured around 6 feet in length. Unfortunately, the good old days are long gone, and the variety of bed lengths offered by manufacturers has greatly expanded.
This is why you must measure the length of your pickup truck bed before you start looking for a new tonneau cover. Thankfully, this process is pretty straightforward, and all you need is a tape measure and a calculator.
You have to take your measuring tape and place it at the bulkhead of the truck bed and move it along the bed rail. Once you’ve reached the inside edge of the top of the tailgate, record the measurement in inches.
Now that you got the measurement in inches, it’s time to convert it to feet. Pull out your phone and open the calculator app and divide the measurement by twelve, and you’ve got the length of your truck bed in feet! Now you can head out and find the tonneau cover that will fit your truck!
What Is The Part That Holds The Folding Tonneau Cover
The part that holds the folding tonneau cover in place is a simple latch. These latches come in many flavors, but when it comes to hard folding tonneau covers, there are two types of latches:
- Pull cable release – is the most common type of hard tonneau locking latch. This system utilizes a cable located in the back center or on either back corner of the cover. When you pull on this cable, the latches on both sides of the cover simultaneously disengage and allow you to open it up. If you want to ensure the stuff in the back of your truck doesn’t get stolen, you need a truck that has a tailgate that can be locked. Otherwise, anyone can open the cover whenever they please.
- Key Lock – can be found on several types of tonneau covers. These include hard, retractable covers and hard one-piece tonneau covers. Once you turn the key, you will be able to depress a button that releases the latches. If you get a hard retractable tonneau cover, you will need a locking tail gat to prevent theft. Still, you will be able to pull it out without opening the tailgate. And if you go for a one-piece hard cover, you won’t need a locking tailgate since they offer maximum security.
How To Fix Folding Truck Bed Cover
Although hard folding tonneau truck covers are quite rugged, they can get damaged. Here are the three most common problems you might run into when using a tonneau cover.
#1 Water Leakage
Although tonneau covers are designed to be watertight, sometimes rainwater can get in. In many cases, the water seeps through the cover because it was damaged. If that happened to you, we recommend checking out our guide on how to fix a leaking tonneau cover.
And if you’re having trouble with pressurized water seeping through, you should use a tailgate cover seal that covers both the gap on all sides of the tailgate. These seals are incredibly effective in preventing moisture and dust from reaching into your truck bed.
#2 Noisy Tonneau Cover
A correctly fitted and installed folding tonneau cover shouldn’t make any noise. But, if it isn’t, you will hear noises whenever you reach a certain speed with your truck.
Folding tonneau cover noises are commonly caused by a loose fit or damage to the cover that allows air to rush through the cracks.
Suppose you notice any noise coming from your tonneau cover. In that case, we recommend you check and see if you can tighten it more by following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the fit isn’t the issue, you might want to check the seals for any signs of damage. If you notice any cracks, just seal them up, and the noise will be gone!
#3 Cover Won’t Open Or Becomes Stuck
If your hard tonneau cover won’t open properly or becomes stuck, there might be some rust in the opening mechanism. We recommend you apply some lubricant to these areas and see if that fixes the problem. If it doesn’t, you might want to start looking for a new folding hard tonneau cover.
How To Install A Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
Hard Folding Tonneau Covers are lightweight and use a small amount of hardware, and that’s why they’re so easy to install. Depending on the brand, the installation of Tonneau Covers can be slightly different. Still, most of them can be installed in the same manner.
Here’s how to install a Tonneau Cover:
- First, remove the cover, hardware, and accessories from the box. More detailed instructions will be included in the box.
- If you have a truck with a spray-in bed liner or bad rail caps, install the bulkhead seal at the front of the bed near the cab. Start with one corner and then remove section by section of the backing paper until the seal reaches from one side of the bed to the other. You can cut off any extra if left.
- Place the bed rails and put the plate ends towards the cab.
- Tighten the clamps by starting in the center of each rail. When the clamps are in place, close the tailgate.
- Fold the cover towards the cab and place it on the bed.
- Install the included strap clips and straps with the rivets or screws.
- Attach the bed cover from underneath with thumbscrews and rubber washers. Start at the front (near the cab) and work towards the tailgate.
- Close the bed cover and make sure it sits properly. If sealed correctly, tighten the screws completely.
- After that, you can install the bump-stop pads, followed by installing the prop rods on each side.
- Insert the drain tubes into the bed rails’ front end and run them out of the factory holes.
- Close the bed cover and tailgate, and your Tonneau Cover is installed!
The Conclusion For You To Buy The Best Hard Folding Tonneau Cover
If you paid close attention to this article, you might already know which is the best hard folding tonneau cover. But, if you didn’t have the time and skimmed through the whole thing, we got you covered.
If you are looking for the best hard folding tonneau cover on the market, go for the UnderCover Flex Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover. On the other hand, if you are strapped for cash, you can go for Rugged Liner Premium Hard Folding Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
