Which Roof Top Tent should you buy? Soft VS Hard Shell & Darche VS Ironman VS Campboss RTT's

Published by John on 20th Feb 2022

Rooftop tents are the perfect addition to your camping setup since they can:

Free up valuable room inside your 4wd for other necessary items
Diminish the possibility to get sand and dirt in
Prevent undesirable animals from visiting in the night
Give you the most fantastic view as soon as you wake up

But with so many types and brands of rooftop tents currently available in the market, how do you know which one would suit your camping needs?

This post will cover a few critical aspects of Rooftop tents and an overview of their types, functionalities and specifications, with a special mention of the most common brands on the market, precisely CampBoss 4x4, Darche, Ironman 4x4.

First of all, let's analyse rooftop tents' pros and cons more in detail and how they compare to standard camping gear alternatives.

Advantages of rooftop tents:

Quick and straightforward set up at the campsite (it shouldn't take longer than 5 minutes)
Peace of mind of sleeping off the ground, away from dirt, mud, snow in the winter, and above all; unwelcomed insects, snakes, and other animals that may visit you while you are asleep
Most rooftop tents have the mattress included so you can keep the bedding inside and not have to worry about fixing your bed each time you want to go to sleep.
You don't need a perfectly level ground as you would with a traditional tent, although you still want to level your 4wd a minimum with stones or blocks.
Tight space campsite? No problem! Hard-shell or pop-up rooftop tents can extend vertically without sticking up outside the car roof area. Alternatively, your internal tent area can double up with annex extensions to the ground.

Disadvantages of rooftop tents:

Price tag. Rooftop tents are significantly more expensive than traditional ground-based tents.
Difficult/annoying ladder access; getting into and out of the tent using the ladder might be difficult for older people, small kids, and animals, but overnight trips to the toilet may become tricky.
You can't invite too many guests to your rooftop disco party...capacity and height are limited.
Some older models require two people for lifting the tent to the roof of the car and mount it.
Wind resistance and extra fuel consumption, some models are pretty bulky and would impact the aerodynamics of your car resulting in higher fuel consumption.

The more popular types of rooftop tents:

Softshell rooftop tents

Usually the cheapest option, they fundamentally look like standard tents placed on top of your vehicle.

These tents are also lightweight, with potential room capacity for fitting small families. However, they are the slowest option to set up and pack up compared to other types.

Especially when packing it up, you may have to walk around the car folding all overhanging bits in and then try to wrestle the protective cover over the top. On the other hand, families appreciate these tents due to the smaller cost and extra room that optional annexes can create.

Advantages of Softshell rooftop tents

Less expensive
Lightweight
Extendable real estate by attaching annexes room to accommodate more people (ideals for families)

Disadvantages of Softshell rooftop tents

Slow to set up and pack up
Noisy when it flaps around in strong winds
Wind resistance/fuel consumption due to poor aerodynamics

Examples from the best soft shell roof top tents brands in the market:

DARCHE SOFT SHELL ROOF TOP TENTS

Darche HI-VIEW Series

If you love a quick weekend escape or an extended driving holiday without complicated setup times, the Hi-View Series Roof Top Tent is perfect for your next open road adventure.

This versatile workhorse will be your home away from home. Bush, beach or desert, you'll be tucked up high and safely away from the crocs and critters in minutes, with the simple set up and pack down design. Just fold out your RTT, drop the telescopic ladder and enjoy the starry night views as you drift off.

Built tough for the rugged Australian landscape, the Hi-View RTT can handle whatever you can throw at it - wind, rain, and the harsh Australian sun are no bother for this little gem. Designed for maximum ventilation, the extra-large zippered mesh windows on both sides provide exceptional airflow in warm weather without compromising on storm and sun protection. The adjustable fly and built-in air vents will see you through the rainy weather, preventing condensation and providing even more airflow. At the same time, the gusseted window awnings offer you shade on sunny days.

The Hi-View series is made from tough 260gsm ripstop polycotton canvas. This tent has an impressive PU 1500mm water rating and seam sealing that will keep you dry in extended rainy conditions, giving you great protection from the elements all year round. The tent includes premium quality, high-density 65mm mattress with a removable cover and water-resistant base. There's enough room to stash your sleeping bag or doona inside, so your bed is made and waiting for you upon setting up.

The insulated baseboard is made with heavy-duty compressed aluminium. The kit also includes a fully removable, durable PVC cover for protection when you're in transit. The included mounting brackets suit most commercially available flat roof rack or roof rail systems. Ensure to check the weight rating and suitability of your roof rack and vehicle with appropriate manufacturers before purchase. We recommend professional installation through your local 4WD centre or contact us on 02 4041 4080 for installation advice.

KEY FEATURES

Includes built-in adjustable trigger lock canopy
Exceptional ventilation with zippered sky window, built-in air vents and full-width, extra-large side windows
Protection from the mozzies and other bugs with fine insect mesh on all windows
Easy-action 2.3m aluminium telescopic ladder will suit most vehicle heights (max vehicle/bed base height 2.2m)
Internal storage pockets to stash your gear
All-season protection including taped seams, twin needle stitching and removable fly
Heavy-duty construction including self-repairing coil zips and reinforced stitching on all stress points
Wind tested to withstand a constant wind speed of 80km/h
Includes transit cover
Includes mounting kit, guy ropes, window poles, pegs and instructions
Annex available (sold separately)

Darche Hi-View 1400 Roof Top Tent (no annex) SPECS

Sleeping Capacity: 2 Person
External Dimensions: 2400L x 1400W mm
Sleeping Area: 2400L x 1400W mm (oversize double bed + room to spare)
Max. Head Height: 1250mm
Mat Thickness: 65mm
Material: 260gsm Ripstop Polycotton Canvas
Fly Material: 210D Ripstop Polyester Oxford
Transit Cover Material: Heavy-duty 600gsm PVC with reinforced welded corners
Floor Material: Coated Heavy-Duty Compressed Alloy Base
Frame Material: ø25mm Aluminium
Waterhead Rating Canvas: PU 1500mm Water Rated
Waterhead Rating Fly: PU 2000mm Water Rated
Packed Dimensions: 1435L x 1215W x 330H mm
Weight: 56.5kg
Warranty: 3 Year

LEARN MORE HERE

Darche Hi-View 1600 Roof Top Tent (no annex) SPECS

Sleeping Capacity: 2 Person
External Dimensions: 2400L x 1600W mm
Sleeping Area: 2400L x 1600W mm
Max. Head Height: 1250mm
Mat Thickness: 65mm
Material: 260gsm Ripstop Polycotton Canvas
Fly Material: 210D Ripstop Polyester Oxford
Transit Cover Material: Heavy-duty 600gsm PVC with reinforced welded corners
Floor Material: Coated Heavy-Duty Compressed Alloy Base
Frame Material: ø25mm Aluminium
Waterhead Rating Canvas: PU 1500mm Water Rated
Waterhead Rating Fly: PU 2000mm Water Rated
Packed Dimensions: 1435L x 1635W x 330H mm
Weight: 64kg
Warranty: 3 Year

LEARN MORE HERE

Darche Hi-View 1800 Roof Top Tent (no annex) SPECS

Great for small families or those who want more space in their sleeping quarters, the Hi-View 1800 is a generously sized Roof Top Tent, perfect for your next weekend escape or extended driving holiday.

Sleeping Capacity: 2-3 Person
External Dimensions: 2400L x 1800W mm
Sleeping Area: 2400L x 1800W mm (room for three)
Max. Head Height: 1250mm
Mat Thickness: 65mm
Material: 260gsm Ripstop Polycotton Canvas
Fly Material: 210D Ripstop Polyester Oxford
Transit Cover Material: Heavy-duty 600gsm PVC with reinforced welded corners
Floor Material: Coated Heavy-Duty Compressed Alloy Base
Frame Material: ø25mm Aluminium
Waterhead Rating Canvas: PU 1500mm Water Rated
Waterhead Rating Fly: PU 2000mm Water Rated
Packed Dimensions: 1215L x 1835W x 330H mm
Weight: 70kg
Warranty: 3 Year

LEARN MORE HERE

Darche Hi-View 2200 Roof Top Tent (no annex) SPECS

The ultimate family Roof Top Tent, the Hi-View 2200 is the largest in the Hi-View range, giving you all the room you need for your next family weekend escape or extended driving holiday.

Sleeping Capacity: 4 Person
External Dimensions: 2400L x 2200W mm
Sleeping Area: 2400L x 2200W mm (room for four)
Max. Head Height: 1250mm
Mat Thickness: 65mm
Material: 260gsm Ripstop Polycotton Canvas
Fly Material: 210D Ripstop Polyester Oxford
Transit Cover Material: Heavy-duty 600gsm PVC with reinforced welded corners
Floor Material: Coated Heavy-Duty Compressed Alloy Base
Frame Material: ø25mm Aluminium
Waterhead Rating Canvas: PU 1500mm Water Rated
Waterhead Rating Fly: PU 2000mm Water Rated
Packed Dimensions: 1215L x 2235W x 330H mm including ladder
Weight: 87kg
Warranty: 3 Year

LEARN MORE HERE

Darche PANORAMA Series

For the dedicated 4x4 tourer, the Panorama 2 1400 is the ultimate kit for your rig. Its compact design and super-low pack down profile reduces wind drag and overall vehicle height, perfect for lifted vehicles navigating the urban jungle between off-road adventures.

This unrivalled RTT gives you the same simple set-up and pack down design that all DARCHE RTTs offer, but its high-spec build gives you the quality that will survive the harshest Australian elements.

Stay cool and comfortable in the heat while drifting off under the starry night views from the zippered sky window. Designed for maximum ventilation, extra-large zippered mesh windows on both sides provide exceptional airflow in warm weather without compromising on storm and sun protection. The removable fly and built-in air vents reduce condensation and provide airflow through rainy weather, while the gusseted window awnings offer you extra protection in all weather conditions.

The Panorama series is made from premium 320gsm ripstop polycotton canvas. This tent has an impressive PU 1500mm water rating, seam sealing and a removable polyester fly that will keep you dry in extended rainy conditions, giving you great protection from the elements all year round. The tent includes a premium quality, high-density 50mm mattress with a removable cover and water-resistant base.

This high spec RTT is made with an insulated baseboard, constructed from heavy-duty compressed checker-plate aluminium. The kit also includes a fully removable, durable PVC cover for protection when you're in transit. The included mounting brackets suit most commercially available flat roof rack or roof rail systems. Make sure to check the weight rating and suitability of your roof rack and vehicle with appropriate manufacturers prior to purchase.

We recommend professional installation through your local 4WD centre or contact us on 02 4041 4080 for installation advice.

Key Features

Compact and low-profile pack down design
Premium quality 320gsm ripstop polycotton canvas
Designed for quick set up and pack down, with convenient trigger lock canopy pole
Exceptional ventilation with zippered sky window, built-in air vents and full-width side windows
Fine insect mesh on all windows
Easy-action 2.3m aluminium telescopic ladder will suit most vehicle heights (max vehicle/bed base height 2.2m)
Internal storage pockets to stash your gear
All-season protection including taped seams, twin needle stitching and removable fly
Heavy-duty construction including self-repairing coil zips and reinforced stitching on all stress points
Wind tested to withstand a constant wind speed of 80km/h
Includes transit cover
Includes mounting kit, guy ropes, window poles, pegs and instructions
Annex available (sold separately)

Darche PANORAMA 1400 Roof Top Tent (no annex) SPECS

Sleeping Capacity: 2 Person
External Dimensions: 2400L x 1400W mm
Sleeping Area: 2400L x 1400W mm
Max. Head Height: 1250mm
Mat Thickness: 50mm
Material: 320gsm Ripstop Polycotton Canvas
Fly Material: 210D Ripstop Polyester Oxford
Transit Cover Material: Heavy-duty 600gsm PVC with reinforced welded corners
Floor Material: Coated Heavy-Duty Compressed Alloy Base
Frame Material: ø25mm Aluminium
Waterhead Rating Canvas: PU 1500mm Water Rated
Waterhead Rating Fly: PU 2000mm Water Rated
Packed Dimensions: 1215L x 1435W x 290H mm including ladder
Weight: 63kg
Warranty: 3 Year

LEARN MORE HERE

Darche INTREPIDOR Series

If you're new to touring or prefer a tub-mount option for your dual cab ute - the Intrepidor 1400 Roof Top Tent is perfect for your next open road adventure.

Its lightweight construction is ideal for smaller SUVs and soft-roaders. With a quick set up time, you'll be drifting off under the night sky in minutes. Just fold out your RTT, drop the adjustable ladder and enjoy views of the Milky Way from the zippered sky window.

Built for comfort, the Intrepidor RTT is designed for maximum ventilation with extra-large zippered mesh windows on both sides, which provide exceptional airflow in warm weather without compromising on storm and sun protection. The adjustable fly and built-in air vents will see you through the rainy weather, preventing condensation and providing even more airflow, while the gusseted window awnings offer you shade on sunny days.

The Intrepid series is made from tough 260gsm ripstop polycotton canvas. This tent has an impressive PU 1500mm water rating and seam sealing that will keep you dry in extended rainy conditions, giving you great protection from the elements all year round.

The tent includes a premium quality, high-density 65mm mattress with a removable cover and water-resistant base. There's enough room to stash your sleeping bag or doona inside, so your bed is made and waiting for you upon set up.

The insulated baseboard is made with heavy-duty compressed aluminium. The kit also includes a fully removable, durable PVC cover for protection when you're in transit.

The included mounting brackets suit most commercially available flat roof rack or roof rail systems. Make sure to check the weight rating and suitability of your roof rack and vehicle with appropriate manufacturers prior to purchase.

We recommend professional installation through your local 4WD centre or contact us on 02 4041 4080 for installation advice.

Key features

Lightweight design suits smaller SUVs and soft-roaders, along with most other vehicles
Quick set up and pack down softshell design
Exceptional ventilation with zippered sky window, built-in air vents and full-width, extra-large side windows
Protection from the mozzies and other bugs with fine insect mesh on all windows
2.1m extendable ladder (max vehicle/bed base height 2.1m)
Internal storage pockets to stash your gear
All-season protection including taped seams, twin needle stitching and removable fly
Heavy-duty construction including self-repairing coil zips and reinforced stitching on all stress points
Includes transit cover
Includes mounting kit, guy ropes, window poles, pegs and instructions

Darche INTREPIDOR 2 1400 Roof Top Tent (no annex) SPECS

Sleeping Capacity: 2 Person
External Dimensions: 2400L x 1400W mm
Sleeping Area: 2400L x 1400W mm (double bed + room to spare)
Max. Head Height: 1250mm
Mat Thickness: 65mm
Material: 260gsm Ripstop Polycotton Canvas
Fly Material: 210D Ripstop Polyester Oxford
Transit Cover Material: Heavy-duty 600gsm PVC with reinforced welded corners
Floor Material: Coated Heavy-Duty Compressed Alloy Base
Frame Material: ø25mm Aluminium
Waterhead Rating Canvas: PU 1500mm Water Rated
Waterhead Rating Fly: PU 2000mm Water Rated
Packed Dimensions: 1435L x 1215W x 350H mm including ladder
Weight: 49.3kg
Warranty: 3 Year

LEARN MORE HERE

Darche KOZI Series

The DARCHE Kozi Series Roof Top Tent is the ideal Roof Top Tent for starting your outdoor and off-road adventures.

This lightweight RTT is made with an aluminium baseboard, weighing only 48kg. This model is easy to set up and will suit a wide range of vehicles. With plenty of space for two, the sleeping quarters include a high-density foam mattress with removable polycotton cover for a comfortable night's sleep and easy care. Stay cool and comfortable in the heat, while drifting off under the starry night views from the zippered sky window with multiple windows and air vents for great ventilation.

Made from premium 300D Polyester Oxford material, this tent has an impressive PU 1500mm water rating, seam sealing and a removable polyester fly that will keep you dry in extended rainy conditions, giving you great protection from the elements all year round. The pre-mounted channel rails suit most commercially available flat roof rack or roof rail systems. Ensure to check the weight rating and suitability of your roof rack and vehicle with appropriate manufacturers before purchase.

KEY FEATURES

Easy setup soft shell rooftop tent
The lightweight design suits a wide range of vehicles
Baseboard with pre-mounted channel rails provides quick installation and setup
Premium quality 300D Polyester Oxford material
High-density foam mattress with removable top and water-resistant base
Multiple access points with front and back zipped doorways
Exceptional ventilation with zippered sky window and 3 x zippered windows on both sides
Fine insect mesh on all windows
Easy-action 2.3m alloy telescopic ladder will suit most vehicle heights (max vehicle + RTT height 2.2m)
Durable water-repellent flysheet with UPF 50+ protection
Removable pack down elastic cords with 4 attachments points
Includes transit cover
Includes mounting kit and window poles

Darche KOZI Roof Top Tent 1300

Sleeping Capacity: 2 Person
External Dimensions: 2100L x 1300W x 1120H mm
Sleeping Area: 2060L x 1250W mm
Max. Head Height: 970mm
Mat Thickness: 65mm
Material: 300D Polyester Oxford PU
Waterhead Rating: 1500mm Water Rated
Mesh Material: Heavy-duty 125gsm Super-fine Mesh
Fly Material: 420D Polyester Oxford PU Coated
Waterhead Rating Fly: 1500mm Water Rated
Transit Cover Material: Heavy-duty 600gsm PVC with reinforced welded corners
Frame Material: Ø25mm Aluminium Poles
Baseboard Material: Light-weight 20mm aluminium
Packed Dimensions: 1050L x 1300W x 285H mm
Weight: 48kg
Warranty: 2 Years

LEARN MORE HERE

IRONMAN 4X4 SOFT SHELL ROOF TOP TENTS

The Ironman 4×4 Roof Top Tent provides the ultimate in ease and convenience when travelling. Unfolding in minutes, a rooftop tent provides sleeping quarters off the ground, protected from the elements. Spacious and comfortable, all bedding can remain inside the tent during the journey, freeing up vital storage space in the vehicle, and allowing the tent to be quickly and easily packed away.

SLEEP CAPACITY 2 People
DIMENSIONS (mm) Closed: 1450 (L) x 1240 (W) x 360 (H)
Open: 3150 (L) x 1400 (W) x 1380 (H)
MATTRESS SIZE (mm) 2300 (L) x 1350 (W) Double
WEIGHT 62kg
CASING PVC Cover

LEARN MORE HERE

HARD SHELL CLAM ROOF TOP TENTS

When opened, Hard Clamshell tents transform into big triangles and are the quickest to set and pack up.

The hinges are all mounted on the same tracks making them easier to repair during maintenance.

The fabric is stretched tight, so it's also less flappy in bad weather. You can also angle the roof to deal with the weather by moving your car.

Advantages of Hardshell clam rooftop tents

Very quick set up and pack up
The walls won't flap much in high winds
Moving parts are easier to access
You can angle the roof to deal with the weather by moving your car

Disadvantages of Hardshell clam rooftop tents

No headroom up one end
Price tag, these tents are not your cheapest option
Heavy; they can weigh above 80Kgs

Examples from the best Hardshell clam rooftop tents brands in the market:

CAMPBOSS 4X4 BOSS Roof Top Tent

In an ever-changing world, we're all looking to get out there and enjoy this great country of ours. And there's nothing better while you're out adventuring in your 4x4 than having an easy and convenient way to set up camp and get a comfortable night's rest.

KEY FEATURES

Tent is made from 280gsm poly-cotton rip-stop canvas and finished in khaki green colour
The mattress is high density 60mm with waterproof zip-over cover
The cover flaps over the sides and front entry are supported by galvanised spring steel supports
20mm thick non-condensation mat under the mattress
SBS zippers all round
Mosquito and midges proof mesh
Access from three sides
Extra-long aluminium ladder that extends to 2.6m for lifted vehicles
RT Boss Tent can be folded down with the bedding and ladder packed inside
Powder-coated aluminium construction
Outer shell is folded, sealed and riveted so sections can be replaced if damaged
Foam-filled and insulated roof with sound deadening carpet
Roof organiser including five pockets and one clear pocket for tablet and iPad viewing or lighting
Lightweight aluminium honeycomb base for insulation and strength
Gas struts aid lifting the roof - especially when loaded
Internal height-adjustable safety support to keep the roof in place while open
Includes a set roof racks to hold solar panels, canoes, kayaks, bikes or storage bags
Key locking SS latches
Interior LED strip light (dimmable, bug free yellow/white) and 2 x USB ports, 1 x CIG socket

All-round sail rail style fixing system to attach light bars, awnings, shower tents, and other accessories

SPECIFICATIONS

Water column rate: 2,000mm
External closed size: L 2,330mm x W 1,480mm x H 220mm
External open size: L 2,330mm x W 1,480mm x H 1,490mm
Weight approx. 83kg including ladder

LEARN MORE HERE

CONCLUSION

Not sure which roof top tent would fit your needs?

How many beds do you need?

If you only need to sleep with 1 or 2 adults, you have the most options. Any more than that, and your options are limited. It's challenging to find a roomy hard shell roof top tent that is affordable; therefore, families are usually limited to a softshell. This is because they fold out over the side of your vehicle, effectively doubling the sleeping space.

You can also add an under awning annex tent to a softshell creating a whole new ground-level room, the perfect solution for two adults and two kids.

Hardshell tents easily fit two people, so singles and couples should have no problems. They can, of course, still get a soft shell tent for its affordability and extra space, but a single person may have trouble packing it up solo as sometimes you need someone to hold it down while the other zips up the cover.

How much weight can your car support?

Rooftop tents weigh from approx. 50kg to upwards of 90kg. So, you will need to make sure that when it's installed, your car does not weigh over its GVM (the maximum your vehicle can weigh when fully loaded).

Here at All Four x 4 Spares, we can help you increase your GVM with a Lovell GVM Suspension Upgrade.

Equally just as important is your roof rack's maximum static and maximum dynamic load. The static weight is how much the racks can hold when the vehicle is not moving, and the dynamic weight is how much it can hold when the vehicle is moving.

Often the roof racks that come standard with a vehicle just don't cut it, and an aftermarket roof rack will be required, here is a wide range.

Where can I buy a Rooftop tent?

All Four x 4 Spares stocks a massive range of Roof Top Tents, Annexes, awning extensions and camping equipment from the best camping & outdoor brands.

If you need any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our experienced sales team, and they will guide you towards choosing the right product for your needs.

Do you have any questions about Rooftop tents? Contact our team today on (02) 4041 4000.