A soft-top is one step down from full metal hardtops like those found on classic jeeps like CJs. A soft top is made out of a thin layer of both nylon and vinyl.
It is fairly lightweight and can be easily folded away when you are not using it. A soft-top can be left on the Jeep at all times, but you will want to keep it out of the elements when not driving in order to prevent rain or snow from damaging it.
Does the Jeep Gladiator have a Soft Top?
Yes, the Jeep Gladiator does have a soft top. This is part of the standard “Freedom Top” package that was developed for this vehicle.
The soft top helps to give the Jeep Gladiator a lighter weight and more aerodynamic design as well. It also comes with an outer layer of protection against potential debris or rock chips that could otherwise scratch or damage your hardtop roof and paint job. With all these benefits, there are few reasons not to get a freedom top for your Jeep Gladiator!
Soft top vs Hardtop Jeep Gladiator
The soft top is a very nice addition to your Jeep Gladiator. However, at the same time, it does not provide many benefits over a hardtop.
With that said, it is much lighter in weight and maybe more convenient while carrying stuff in the back of your Jeep Gladiator. However, with this being said, if you are planning to carry anything big and heavy in the back or climb up rocks or mountains without a trailer or something similar to tow behind your Jeep Gladiator’s roof, you may want a full metal hard-top instead.
The Freedom Top is great because it makes an already lightweight vehicle even lighter with the addition of its soft-top roof. It also allows for easier access inside while driving if needed. All in all, it’s a great addition to your Jeep Gladiator.
If you have any additional questions on the subject of soft tops, feel free to shoot me an email. How much does it weigh? The Freedom Top alone weighs about two 100 pound bags filled with 5 pounds of cotton each.
For this reason, it is recommended that the vehicle cover is be removed prior to transporting the soft top for long distance travel of more than 1 day.
Do I need a hardtop or soft-top for my Jeep Gladiator?
This question is one that has been asked by many people looking into adding a soft top to their Jeep Gladiator JL. To answer this, it is best to first explain what a soft top is.
A soft-top is basically like a removable cover for your Jeep Gladiator’s original roof. It offers extra protection for your vehicle while you are traveling long distances or trying to store your Jeep in tight spaces with limited headroom.
A soft-top does not provide any additional safety features when you are driving your Jeep Gladiator on the road like a hardtop will. However, if you want more storage space in the back of the vehicle, then it also works in this regard as well. With that said, if you make the choice of adding a soft top to your JL over getting a hard one, just keep these things in mind before purchasing one.
How much does the soft-top cost?
The Freedom top is part of the standard package you will get when you purchase a Jeep Gladiator. Therefore, the cost shouldn’t be too much. It’s basically just included with your purchase.
I would assume that any additional soft-tops will need to be purchased aftermarket if you don’t get them in a package deal on your vehicle like I mentioned above.
Roundabout an estimate price for this is somewhere around $500-$1000 depending on exactly what model and size you get from whoever you decide to buy one from after reading this article.
How do I take out my soft top?
First, locate the retention latches for both sides of your soft top. Each of these is plastic handles that are near the doors. You can open them using your hands, but if they are stuck you may need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry them open. Once you have both latches opened, lift the top up by hand and set it aside.
Is there any other reason not to get a soft top?
If you are currently planning on selling your Jeep Gladiator in the future, it would be advisable for you to get both parts for your vehicle as soon as possible so that you can make more money off of it itself.
