If you’re a ute owner in Perth, one of the first decisions you’ll make when protecting your vehicle and cargo is choosing between a hard vs soft ute cover. Both options have their unique benefits, but understanding their differences is key to making the right choice for your needs.

At Morley Canvas, we understand that each ute owner has unique needs. This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of both hard vs soft ute covers so you can choose the option that best fits your lifestyle.

What Is a Hard Ute Cover?

A hard ute cover, typically made from aluminium, steel, or alloy, is a popular choice for ute owners who prioritise security and durability.

Advantages of Hard Ute Covers

Enhanced Security: Hard ute covers are highly secure, making them an excellent choice for protecting valuable tools or equipment.
Weatherproofing: These covers provide superior protection against rain, wind, and harsh sun, ensuring your cargo stays safe in all conditions.
Streamlined Appearance: A hard ute cover gives your vehicle a sleek, polished look, which is appealing to many ute owners.

Disadvantages of Hard Ute Covers

Lack of Flexibility: Hard covers are rigid, which can limit your ability to carry oversized or irregularly shaped loads.
Weight: They are heavier than soft covers, potentially affecting fuel efficiency and vehicle handling.
Cost: Hard ute covers are more expensive to purchase and install, making them a less budget-friendly option.

What Is a Soft Ute Cover?

A soft ute cover, made from flexible materials like canvas or PVC, is a lightweight and versatile option that provides excellent protection for your ute and its cargo. This type of cover is popular for its practicality, affordability, and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of ute owners.

View our canvas ute canopy and ute tonneau cover options.

Advantages of Soft Ute Covers

Affordability: Soft ute covers are significantly cheaper than hard covers, offering an excellent solution for budget-conscious ute owners without compromising on quality.
Lightweight Design: Their lightweight nature makes soft ute covers easy to handle and install. Plus, they don’t add unnecessary weight to your vehicle, helping preserve fuel efficiency and making your ute easier to drive.
Versatility: The flexible design of soft ute covers allows you to transport larger or irregularly shaped items by simply rolling up or removing the cover as needed. This adaptability is one of the main reasons many ute owners prefer soft covers.
Easy Maintenance: Canvas and PVC materials are easy to clean and repair. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is all it takes to keep your soft ute cover looking and functioning at its best. Repairs, when necessary, are often quick and cost-effective.
Quick Installation and Removal: Soft ute covers can be fitted or removed with minimal effort, making them highly convenient for ute owners who frequently adjust their setup to accommodate different types of cargo.

Disadvantages of Soft Ute Covers (and How to Overcome Them)

Security: While soft ute covers are strong and durable, they don’t offer the same rigid security as a hard cover. However, this is rarely a concern for most users, as high-quality soft covers can deter casual tampering. Choosing a premium canvas or PVC cover with reinforced fasteners or locks can add an extra layer of protection for your cargo.
Durability in Extreme Conditions: Though robust, soft ute covers may not last as long as hard covers in extremely harsh conditions. Prolonged exposure to intense sun, heavy rain, or high winds can impact their lifespan over time. Invest in a premium soft ute cover specifically designed for extreme climates, such as those crafted from durable canvas, acrylic canvas, or PVC materials to withstand intense sun, rain, and wind — just like Morley Canvas’ ute covers. Proper care, like regular cleaning and correct storage, ensures long-lasting performance.

Hard vs Soft Ute Cover: Key Considerations

When deciding between a hard or soft ute cover, keep the following factors in mind:

Budget: A soft ute cover is more affordable, offering excellent value for money, while a hard ute cover may be worth the extra cost for added security.
Use Case: For flexible use, such as transporting camping gear or irregularly shaped items, a soft cover is ideal. For higher-value items, a hard cover offers greater peace of mind.
Aesthetic Preference: Hard covers provide a sleek and professional look, while soft covers have a rugged, utilitarian appearance.
Weather Resistance: Both options provide good weather protection, but high-quality canvas or PVC materials are specifically designed to handle Perth’s climate.
Customisation: Soft covers offer more customisation options, including colours, sizes, and designs, tailored to your specific needs.

Why Choose a Soft Ute Cover from Morley Canvas?

At Morley Canvas, we specialise in crafting soft ute covers that combine durability, affordability, and versatility with features designed to meet the demands of Perth’s harsh climate.

Here’s why our covers stand out:

Locally Made

Manufactured in our Perth and Australind workshops, all our covers are crafted by experienced professionals to handle Western Australia’s tough conditions.

Custom Solutions

Every soft ute cover is tailored to your specific vehicle, whether it’s a single cab, dual cab, or completely custom ute. We also offer design enhancements like additional windows, fly screen openings, and unique layouts to suit your exact needs.

Premium Materials

We use high-quality canvas, acrylic canvas, and PVC materials that provide excellent weather resistance and protection against intense sun, heavy rain, and wind. These materials are designed to keep your tools and cargo safe while maintaining long-lasting durability.

Outstanding Customer Service

With over 40 years of experience, our team offers expert advice, ensuring you receive the perfect cover for your ute. From initial consultation to installation, we prioritise quality and satisfaction every step of the way.

Upgrade Your Ute with a Custom Soft Ute Cover

Choosing between a hard vs soft ute cover ultimately depends on your needs, but soft ute covers are an excellent choice for their practicality, affordability, and flexibility. At Morley Canvas, we are committed to delivering premium soft ute covers to protect your ute and enhance its functionality.

Visit our Ute Canopies and Covers page to explore our custom options or contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.

Ute Covers: Choosing Between A Hard or Soft Ute Cover