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The different types of roof top tents available are generally classified into three categories: soft shell, hard shell, and hybrid.
Soft Shell Roof Top Tents:
These are foldable tents that use manual or electronically-assisted unfolding procedures to expand. They are typically made of waterproof materials such as canvas or nylon and are similar to traditional ground tents installed on the top of a vehicle.
1. Standard Soft Shell Roof Top Tent:
Design: This type typically features a foldable design where the tent folds in half along the roof of the vehicle. When opened, it forms a tent with a footprint roughly double the size of the roof footprint.
Setup: To set up, you unfold the tent, extending it over the side of the vehicle, usually with an included ladder doubling as a support structure.
Capacity: Generally, standard models accommodate 2-3 people, depending on the tent size.
Advantages: More compact when packed, often lighter than the extended versions, and usually quicker to set up and take down.
2. Extended Soft Shell Roof Top Tent:
Design: Extended versions are similar in basic design to the standard ones but include additional extending panels or annexes. These extensions can provide additional sleeping space or a protected area for changing, cooking, or storage.
Setup: The setup is slightly more involved than the standard version due to the additional panels or annexes.
Capacity: These can often accommodate more people, sometimes up to 4-5, depending on the size and design of the extensions.
Advantages: Offers more space and versatility, which is great for longer trips or for those who want more room for comfort or storage.
Hard Shell Roof Top Tents:
Hard shell roof top tents come in two main subtypes:
1. Pop-Up Hard Shell Roof Top Tent:
Design: Pop-up hard shell tents typically have a box-like design. The top of the tent is hinged and pops up to create the tent structure. This design often allows for a uniform height across the tent.
Setup: They are known for their ease of setup. You simply release the latches and the tent pops up, often assisted by gas struts or springs.
Aerodynamics and Storage: When closed, pop-up tents are generally more aerodynamic compared to clamshell designs. This can be beneficial for fuel efficiency when driving. The interior space when closed is usually minimal, providing just enough room for bedding.
Space and Comfort: While providing a quick setup, the internal space is often limited to the footprint of the vehicle’s roof. These are suitable for 2-3 people, depending on the tent size.
2. Clamshell Hard Shell Roof Top Tent:
Design: The clamshell hard shell roof top tent is characterized by its distinctive “clamshell” design, featuring two hinged halves that mimic the opening and closing mechanism of a clam. This design facilitates a robust and secure shell for the tent.
Setup: Renowned for its quick and effortless setup, the clamshell tent is ideal for campers who value convenience. The opening process typically involves unlatching the shell, which then opens smoothly, often aided by gas struts.
Aerodynamics and Storage: When closed, the clamshell design offers excellent aerodynamics, contributing to better fuel efficiency during transit. The compact and secure nature of the closed tent also provides ample space for storing bedding and camping gear.
Space and Comfort: Upon opening, the clamshell tent reveals a surprisingly spacious interior. The design allows for ample headroom and sleeping space, comfortably accommodating campers and enhancing the overall camping experience.
Hybrid Roof Top Tents:
These tents combine features of both soft and hard shell tents, offering a versatile camping experience.
Hybrid rooftop tents are an innovative camping solution that combines features of traditional rooftop tents and other styles, such as clamshell or fold-out designs. There are several types of hybrid rooftop tents, each offering unique advantages:
Clamshell-Hardtop Hybrids
These tents combine the easy setup of a clamshell tent with the space of a hardtop. The hard shell provides protection and aerodynamics when closed, while the fold-out section offers extra room.
Fold-Out Soft-Shell Hybrids
These are a blend of traditional soft-shell rooftop tents and fold-out designs. They generally offer more space than regular soft-shell tents and are easier to set up than fully soft-shell models.
Tent and Annex Hybrids
This type combines a rooftop tent with an annex or additional room that hangs below the tent and rests on the ground. This design is great for families or those needing extra space.
Hard-Shell with Integrated Rack Systems
Some hybrid rooftop tents come with integrated racks on the hard shell, allowing for additional storage of gear like bikes, kayaks, or surfboards.
