Jeep Tops: Anatomy of a Jeep Top

by BILLY HAN

Jeep tops are fairly universal Jeep accessories in that everyone from casual Jeep owners to hardcore off road enthusiasts has some basic knowledge of what a Jeep top is about.

But Jeep tops can get more complicated that one might think, and while it��s hard to go wrong when making a Jeep top purchase, having an intimate knowledge of Jeep tops can go a long way in extending the benefits.

For this reason, we��ve dissected nearly every imaginable Jeep top to take an in-depth look at what makes Jeep tops must-have Jeep accessories.

Which Jeep Top?

It��s an age old question; perhaps one that has been asked since the time of the dinosaurs. Not really, but choosing a Jeep top has always been a decision that requires a fair amount of thought.

At first glance, choosing Jeep tops seems pretty simple. The features are all plainly stated, pictures give you an idea of what to expect looks-wise, and your particular environmental situation further dictates which Jeep top you need.

But there are also many factors that aren��t taken into account when shopping for a Jeep top. Intangibles like installation and frame style are examples of lesser-known aspects of Jeep tops, while things like road noise or insulation are factors that can only be experienced firsthand.

With this in mind, we��ll do our best to ensure that no aspect of buying a Jeep top is unaccounted for.

Factory versus Aftermarket Jeep Tops

When it really comes down to it, there isn��t a huge discrepancy between what both factory and aftermarket Jeep tops have to offer.

A factory Jeep top will give you that genuine Jeep look and feel, plus the added security of sticking to true Jeep accessories that follow the same standard of quality as the vehicle itself. Aftermarket Jeep tops are for the most part similar to factory units, but with a few added Jeep accessories.

Although both versions of Jeep tops are made from the same materials, equivalent quality, and with the same purpose in mind, aftermarket tops offer certain features, benefits, or other Jeep accessories that you might not get out of factory Jeep tops.

For instance, certain aftermarket Jeep tops have been optimized to reduce road noise better than a factory Jeep top. Also, in the event that your Jeep top needs replacing, aftermarket replacement options are typically cheaper than factory tops. For these reasons, aftermarket Jeep tops usually make for favorable Jeep accessories when replacing aging factory tops.

Narrowing It Down

The first and most obvious way to categorize Jeep tops in terms of need is by splitting up Jeep hardtops and soft tops. Clearly, the two styles are distinctive enough that each Jeep top serves its purpose in different ways.

• Jeep Hardtops

  Hard-style Jeep tops are a never-fail option. They rarely if ever need replacing and provide enhancement and heavy duty protection. In addition, they offer a number of handy Jeep accessories, like power windows, a rear window defroster, and more. Hardtops come in a one-piece model, or a two-piece configuration with a removable sunroof.

  On the flipside, Jeep hardtops are not easily removed and stored for those who enjoy open-air summertime driving. Hardtop hoists and storage-based Jeep accessories are available, but require added purchases.

• Jeep Soft Tops

  For those who love customizability with their Jeep accessories, soft tops are the way to go. Available in a variety of designs, Jeep soft tops offer the kind of versatility, comfort, and style that justify a Jeep purchase in the first place. Plus soft tops are easy to install, remove, or store.

  On the other hand, soft Jeep tops aren��t exactly ideal for colder weather. Their thinner material and fabric construction leaves them with poor insulation, and also gives these Jeep tops an average lifespan of only 3 to 5 years before requiring replacement.

Upon Further Review��

Now to take a closer look at each of the respective Jeep top types according to their different models��

Jeep Hardtops

When it comes to hardtop Jeep tops, making a choice and meeting the requirements for installation is relatively easy, and getting the right Jeep top is usually a simple matter of picking either a one or two-piece top.

• Two-Piece Hardtops

  The two-piece hardtop is the definitive Jeep top for year-round performance in any climate.

  On one hand, you get the protection and insulation of a full-fledged hardtop during the winter. Then for warmer weather conditions, the roof piece is removable for open-air driving.

  
  

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