Is the FLATED Truck Topper Worth the $$$ -- Review, Road Test & Pros and Cons

[@larryjanson4011]

40 years as a commercial truck driver, i do not even use my rear viewc except to check how close the tail gaters are. i use my side mirrors.

[@scottfergusson8411]

Love mine on my Tacoma. When I need it , I can put in on and take it off by myself. Rolls up into a mid size ( supplied) backpack. Stick it on a shelf in the garage and done. Not taking any room up on the side of the house. LOVE IT ! Also it’s only 50 lbs so my suspension doesn’t even know it’s there. GREAT FRICKIN IDEA !

[@alexgarcia3900]

Nice! Do you have the longbed tacoma?

[@scottfergusson8411]

@@alexgarcia3900 Short

[@FreedomFishing]

Goodness. Make it extend over the length tailgate, strap to the tailgate, put a door on it, and it could be a blowup camper shell for short bed trucks.

[@garym51124]

Yea or some attachment for it. Then it might be worth close to what they are asking. A softtopper with the tent attachment is still cheaper

[@oscarescuder1352]

Saw the water intrusions and wondered if manufacturer can add more rain flaps on top front bottom sides and corners, I’m assuming it was a downward rain pour, how about unexpected sideway gusts with rain or strong crosswinds, an additional rain flap would help I guess

[@07cowboy07]

I bought my truck specifically to camp in. I was going to buy one of these and build a removable camping setup. Buddy talked me out of it and I bought a truck bed tent for 1/10th of the price. Plus, if the tent gets ruined in a year, it’s still cheaper to replace and have the extra money for more adventures. $1,800 is just a lot to pay for something so vulnerable to punctures and tears and, mainly, just be used for truck camping. Plus, it doesn’t look that great.

[@rangerdanger88]

If this material is same as used with rafts and paddle boards, I'm sure it will be durable enough in every situation but the most extreme. River rafts bounce off a lot of rock and not all smooth and do quite well. Can you imagine damaging a $3-6k truck topper as opposed to a $1500-2000 Flated. Also,much easier and cheaper to repair Flated.

[@rustybumperclassics6342]

I'm going with the tent too

[@JulietHotelFoxtrot]

Yeah, it looks like a bad craft project. I don't want or need my truck to look like an inflatable boat.

[@brianhargiss9575]

I actually love the look. Way better than the folding canvas toppers, plus way sturdier.

[@jamesriley1207]

Best review. Needs skirting around front, corners, and sides to prevent water intrusion at highway speeds.

[@StressLessCamping]

@@jamesriley1207we got the latest version and that's one of the improvements we've noticed - it now has a skirt around the base of the topper. It's been super rainy here in NorCal as we have driven around and it's pretty waterproof. I've been rather surprised.

[@jamesriley1207]

Pics? I am not seeing that on the website. @@StressLessCamping

[@SuperLatino55]

Can you tell me the price.? And I have a dodge Ram Laramie 1500. Fits on this pickup.?

[@StressLessCamping]

@@SuperLatino55 it’s listed on the company’s website based on the model you’re interested in.

[@carr28usa]

If I was camping in the back how would I velcro the back flap back down from the inside after I get in to prevent rain or snow from getting in?

[@user-fz2ul7wl2d]

Get some commercial velcro tape. That stuff is awesome. It will stick to anything. Probably better that the stuff that comes with the topper itself.

[@FLATED]

Nice review.. Thank you. We do suggest putting a stip of self stick 3m backed velcro across the top of the tailgate if you are leaving it on semi permanent.

[@KatjaKillingsworth]

So every time you want to load or unload something you have to tear of the velcro closure?

[@zesty8652]

@@KatjaKillingsworth no theyre saying the velcro that stays on the tailgate should be stuck down if you plant to use the topper semi-permanently

[@Ram1rez601]

Texas highways are marked at 80 mph but everyone does 90 to 100 mph. If it stays on at 100 mph, it is worth it.

[@RockyNikita]

My question too (22' TRX) and similar Arizona speeds...

[@scottfergusson8411]

It does ! It’s very solid!

[@0159ralph]

You forgot a couple of things about Texas drivers. They're great at texting while going 100 mph, and are pro's during the ice storms especially in the DFW metro area....

[@RepublicSaversSince1791]

Nothing was normal in the ice storm you're mentioning.

[@gordfoley4760]

I think its pretty cool. It would even have air barrier for insulation purposes. But, $1800 seems a bit expensive for what it is.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

They have a lower profile model that is a little less expensive

[@wesleymcgonagle6653]

I think there's an another pro for the midsize vehicles that have less than desirable payload limits. at 50lbs compared to 300lbs for fibreglass models, Tacoma drivers could carry a lot more gear. I think it's awesome. Great video lots of details.

[@jimmy4x4socal44]

Can you zip and close yourself in for camping?

[@jsanchezelonce3414]

This was a great video and makes me want to buy one of these.

[@PGHATCO]

What are your thoughts for road trips pulling our travel trailer and having crated dogs in the back? Bed outlet in our 2500 will have air flowing back there for them

[@robingirven4570]

Interesting! I’ve never heard of such a thing. I actually think it looks pretty cool on your truck. 😊

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Maybe it will grow on me. 😁

[@user-fz2ul7wl2d]

First thing firth, rule number one. Always, always keep either flex seal or Gorilla grey or clear tape. It's a pretty much permanent seal. That shit is awesome. Even sticks under water. How do I know. Because I used it on my above ground pool. 2 years later, still holding. 👍😁

[@hrmckinstry]

Con is on dirt roads the zippers on the back window attract dirt that effects the zippers. Need to keep them clean or you can damage them. Front corners on a F150 can easily be sealed but they don’t really leak much. Back window needs constant cleaning if you drive on dusty dirt roads. Leaving mine on all winter where it snows a fair amount.

[@user-fz2ul7wl2d]

This ⚙ is used on the semi ridged inflated boats for the NAVY SEALS, and US COAST GAURD boats. Very tough

[@phase2services]

Its a temporary truck cap not a fashion statement! Not sure how it looks?? Seriously, its for utility use. If you want style then buy a fiberglass top!

[@djryan8944]

You should ask Flated to make one for Lightning with sloped down roof. It would help the range (a la Cybertruck).

[@tdematties]

This guy asks the right questions

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

👍

[@tdematties]

@@thefreezedryingcommunity my friend said they knew someone who had it for a year or so and had to had it patched about 4 times.

[@jimmyjurado5161]

great review. the back window cover looks like it needs some design improvements. that was a turn off for me. either it fits or it does not.

[@annettetoop4964]

I would like to see how you close up the tailgate and back flap from the inside, since that's what you'd have to do when sleeping in it.

[@nedaddy1]

$1800 seems pretty steep when you compare it to the Softtopper which I just bought for $989+shipping

[@rotelfan2000]

this is where I am. this is ALOT easier to COMPLETELY remove though, whereas the softopper can be folded and that's nice, but it's still there. I'm torn, but don;t desperately need either

[@alexgarcia3900]

Eww to soft topper lol.

[@Bryan-li8qi]

the whole idea of the inflatable topper is so that nothing is "permanent"...why would someone want to permanently place a velcro strip on the exterior of their tailgate? You could maybe do a magnetic version for the trucks that aren't made out of aluminum...but that's it. that being said...thank you for the review. answered some good questions

[@gumslinger11]

Really well done review! Still on the fence about this.

[@mikebrunais2959]

Have you had it on your truck in the winter? Does it hold heat at all?

[@gainesj1]

Solid concept. It’s niche just like a softopper. And I’ve had one of those on my now 3rd truck for about 9 years.

[@user-ze9uy5iq5o]

Doesn’t tons of dust get in the truck bed?

[@ClickinChicken]

They say you don't lose heat from the floor. The topper itself looks well insulated. My floor in winter (stilts cabin) is like a walking on an ice rink. You're not sub zero camping, but you can insulate the truck bed sides,. have a good day! :)

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Thanks for the info!

[@bfoles506]

Awesome product! We use our truck for working the property. This is perfect to camp, put the boards on top, and bikes in the back without having a dedicated topper that comes with storage issues. Question, did you say that was regular carpetting or boat carpet? We also have the same truck with 2" level and 33s so its tall for putting rigid boards on top to reach. Wanted to get your thoughts for sliding equipment like your kayak on top. Thanks!! Great video!!

[@kevinmaceachern7125]

My only concern is theft... there is nothing preventing it from being removed from the truck. I love the idea of it and would have a use for it, and because it's inflatable makes it's storage footprint small.

[@jt1610]

The driving test should have been done during that rain you saw coming. Driving test showed air movement so if I had to bet I’d say rain would get pushed in.

[@morkmckerr]

what about a 1 year update vid?

[@lionelgarcia2386]

Very nice review and introduction to this product. I have never heard of this kind of product before. Very interesting. Eliminates having to run with a hard shell all the time. Or at least the hassle of removing and storing. I also make use of a Retrax cover, and open bed when hauling daily things etc. So I require flexibility. My primary concern would be safety on the road relative to having my things secured when in public parking lots, and while sleeping in non-traditional RV places. It seems the product would be very vulnerable to attack. So this product may be limited in its use. Both while sleeping, and while stopping to shop. Someone will have to remain with the truck. Unless the product is inflated and deflated at a camping site. Otherwise, it seems to be a good product, as long as its limitations are known. Thank you.

[@GertyJams22]

Great review. Thank you. Question: does rear cab/topper window open for pass thru? Or for the pups to peek in.

[@johncooper9421]

How thick is the front and sides. I have a tool box across the bed. Would it wrap around the tool box?

[@jamespolucha8790]

Was thinking of one but the price said no way

[@clintondoner1133]

I wish it had a stop light on it.

[@TheWhiteTaco]

Anyone know if you can use this with a roll up tonneau cover already installed? If so this topper would be great when you really only need a topper a couple times a year but still want some cargo protection the rest of the year

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I had to take mine off to install this. If your tonneau rolled up is not real close to the back window in the cab, you can probably squeeze the topper over it

[@sbhtennis]

What about with a retractable cover?

[@atlas283]

@@sbhtennis Possibly. You have to attach the straps to the bed tie-downs, which would not be possible (with the tonneau closed, at least). If you can Macgyver another way to strap it down, you're good. If it's open, you MIGHT be able to, but your retractable cover container will probably be in the way of the straps.

[@PaulLeslie-b1v]

That's a good, useful review. Thanks!

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Glad it was helpful!

[@SteveVickAK]

Great review! Do you think it would work at 20 below in Alaska? Wondering if I would have to re-inflate it a lot due to cold temps.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

It has dipped below freezing a handful of times since I purchased and I haven't had to inflate it yet.

[@RepublicSaversSince1791]

I wonder why these arent offered for normal 6' bd lengths?

[@zertoil]

The bulkhead gap is how most trucks are now since the beds are not one continuous piece anymore.

[@TimPaddy]

How easy is it to deflate and pack up back to a "small" size? I currently use a bed tent, because i haul 3 dirt bikes then camp, and I'd have to set this up on site.

[@Jean-GuyMaurier]

Can this be installed on a truck with a back rack.

[@TechEdFireman]

Will you be doing a video on the bike rack? I have been thinking about getting that brand of bike rack...would like to see it in action and to hear any pros and cons.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

The velocirax is great! I have been using it for about 2 years now. The only thing I don't like about our 5 place is the spacing. I think their options are spaced farther apart now. We have to put MTB's on in a specific order or they will rub on long trips. Overall, a super well built rack and loading and unloading couldn't be easier.

[@seanjamesmacleod241]

Could use for camping

[@MrSkyentist]

Instead of a velcro on rear window, they should have done a frame section like the front design is. Have it zipper in place with a velcro cover to guard water intrusion, then just have some standoff mounts (similar to the tie down points) with integrated poles that you can store inside. Doing this, you could unzip the rear "door", fold it up, flip down the poles and lock them into place so it would act like a traditional rear window on a topper. It would take about the same time as removing the rear plastic window and you would never have the issue of the tailgate strap moving or worrying about it coming off.

[@user-fz2ul7wl2d]

Use neapream foam tape for gaps between the bed and the topper itself.

[@JBGecko13yt]

its not permanent so its perfect!

[@Leatherguy52]

Isn't a third middle brake light required in most states?

[@MarioLuigi-vb3rp]

Yes the price is high and it doesn’t come in different colors it also needs a vented window option and lighting.

[@MrBoondocker247]

Just like a convertible car top it's ok as long as no one hates you, I could see someone taking a knife to it. That said also not secure for cargo

[@mur6822]

this said Ram Promaster build but is a second Flated video. You bought the higher topper. there is one that one be level with the cab and not have that bump up.

[@vincentramirez4926]

If to be used just for camping, can this be installed on top of 3 fold hard tonneau cover?

[@risanch]

this perfect for someone who doesn't want or needs a full time hard shell on their truck. As for the tailgate Velcro strap. Keep in mind it was more than likely designed to be a temporary topper. that's the reason for the strap you tension pull. You can take it on and off as needed. If you're really anal about it you can buy a strip of adhesive backed Velcro and permanently install it.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I use mine almost full time. So far so good!

[@gufranshaikh1699]

if i am planning to live out of my truck for the whole summer should i get it?

[@cirkuitknight]

Im guessing this wouldnt be a good thing for overland tents?

[@KicosTCG]

Any updates on this?

[@michele5695]

Does it smell plasticy? If so it would be difficult to sleep in.

[@danielrodriguez5349]

Thank you for the review!

[@jonzaremba]

You've got a great dog.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

He's my co-pilot

[@SuperLatino55]

Can you tell me the price.? My pickup it’s a dodge Ram Laramie 1500.. 2012

[@joer1757]

I wish they could design the windows and screens so that the window could open partially without rain getting in

[@GrannyGusBear]

Do they make these for step side Ford rangers 1998 ??🐾🧸

[@Grimreaper45705]

I’m looking at getting one for flexibility

[@antoinegruner2327]

How is the goplus paddle board? Do you like it?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

It's not the greatest. I have other brands that have been better

[@DDW11OR]

How is it for elevation change. Phoenix Arizona at 1,500 ft to flagstaff at over 7,000 feet Will the seams burst. Then deflate going the other direction

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I'm not sure. I havent used it in that much extreme. I have gone from 5800 to 8000 and not had issues

[@adriandelatorre8341]

I like it. Thinking or ordering one.

[@tomoneill9301]

Why didn't you drive with kayak on?

[@johnandargiesadventures4203]

Yes Excellent review!

[@floridasaltlife]

$1800 is crazy for a blow up topper, quality inflatable mattresses are less than $200, I don't see 9x here.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

A blow up mattress material would not hold up to 80 mph winds. This is the material they use for paddle boards and coast guard boats. Different materials all together.

[@chuckgunn1359]

Spend half the amount and get a Softopper. Softopper looks better and is more versatile imo.

[@Flies_the_limit]

Any updates now that youve had it for awhile?

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Still works great! Never had any leaks or issues. I use mine part time and like the fact that I can deflate it when I don't want it on there.

[@brendajackson294]

you mentioned a toyota tundra but how about a tacoma? Thanks for the video. I have not seen this before.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Yes they make them for mid sized and smaller trucks as well

[@CBWANADA]

B interesting ifnwas a little taller to fit dirtbike in there. Pull dirt bike out, camp, put back in no set up hassles

[@joer1757]

how much weight will the top (roof) support while inflated?

[@atlas283]

There's a photo on the website of a 4-wheeler parked on it. So, at least that much. Several reviewers have video of themselves standing on it. Definitely more than I'd want to put on a topper.

[@Bryan-li8qi]

It held you at 165lbs standing on your two feet which is not widely dispersing your weight. Of course it's going to handle half that weight in kayaks spread out over a larger area lol. We would have been more impressed if you did the kayaks first then showed it holding you up.

[@JamesWebbFitness]

This is a fantastic video, thank you.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

I have had 200 lbs. on it. I'm not sure what the maximum weight would be

[@mz8755]

the cost really surpried me. i thought this can be a lot cheaper.

[@ubercop2000]

Good review

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Thanks! Hope you found it helpful

[@joeys7519]

Cool product

[@rjmoose8918]

This is pretty interesting... Next test would be driving in rain. Bet it would leak a lot.

[@HabitualButtonPusher]

My concern was speed and my lead foot, so this definitely would not be an option for me.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

It can handle speed. I have driven with it on for several days and you can't even tell it's on there

[@TheCoopMan]

Not long ago, cloth canvas toppers sold for under $800. I was watching wondering if this is worth another $1k over that but when I looked it up, those soft tops sell for almost $1200 now. So only $600 difference for better sealing, one person setup and more stability. I dropped $4200 on a colormatch ARE topper last year. And while I still believe for permanent coverage, there’s no comparison between this and an actual truck topper , if I needed to be able to swap out quickly, this seems like the best option available currently.

[@michiganborn8303]

10:17 You didn't have to go out of your way to shave just to give us all the test drive unless you think your whiskers would blow out the window and pop the cap. 😅

[@johnandargiesadventures4203]

WHOOOAAA..... $1800, Sorry, that's going to eliminate a lot of people. I have sold truck canopies for 50 years and I watched the review to the end, it's really a cool idea and serves a purpose but Not at the High end price. I realize its one half the price of a permanent canopy but that's enough to push people to find a Used fiberglass at $600-$1000. It will fill a niche though and pretty soon Costco will be selling it at $799 just like those nice inflatable boats they have every summer.

[@NoName-fx9zi]

Yeah, that is pricey....but, you are mostly paying for the convenience and flexibility factor. You can put it on and take it off so quick and easy whenever you feel like by yourself. You just can't do that with any regular truck bed camper top. But hopefully price does go down over time once the idea spreads to some other manufacturers.

[@ReviewsRUS2024]

That’s actually a lot cheaper than most canopy’s, just a standard leer is like 3600$ 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@aaronliebert758]

Honestly I'm broke and I just bought one for my silverado bc it was the best and cheapest option available and the ability to install and remove by myself makes it worth the price point

[@wreckitmech306]

Then you would understand how much cheaper this option is... It's half the price of a normal topper

[@jacksonhicks1869]

I don’t think it’s that crazy of a price.

[@damando225]

I like that

[@franciscopatino5649]

You can eliminate me 😳

[@King_TuTT]

looks good. not a fan of so many darn logos on it.. I don't like logos and stickers on my vehicles.

[@RogerJohnson-j9v]

if you drove with that thing on your truck in the rain i garrantee that pickup box woudve had a bunch of water in it

[@codybeverly9756]

Yeah... the seal needs to be better but that is going to be for each person and their truck to deal with. Honestly, I just think pool noodle cut in half and Velcro on the bottoms is going be more than enough to get those seals taken care of. Simple, I'm sure there is better ways just super quick easy answer.

[@ronaldstephens5695]

White truck needs a white camper. Black conduct the heat too much. Definitely no good in the desert! Other than that, it’s a great camper.

[@buffalobmf]

Go find a nice used fiberglass one for $1500

[@nissanfrontierlife8792]

Look cool but I will go with the softtopper , long run it will last longer, just because is already proven to last

[@ReelTimeCapt]

For my Tacoma its and 1800 and then some. For a little more I can get a hard top. Thx and nice review but no thx.

[@gamergeek8933]

its kinda cool but buy a used topper for $100 if its gonna stay on your truck. This is only useful if you dont want a topper all the time.

[@angelogarciajr5356]

It is a pretty good idea and can work for some people but not for me. No security. I live in an area with a bunch of idiots night people roaming the streets and I am sure it will get knifed and it seems very easy to get into. I go into bear areas and a bear will be in my sleeping bag as soon as it smells my snacks in the topper. I would rather pick up a hard side shell used. Thx for sharing.

[@wat3rdog25]

$1800? I paid $1200 for my ATC fiberglass brand new back in 2017. I ordered their lowest teir with a carpet liner. I could have order a couple upgrades and still have been under 1800

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

Yes. and in 2017 I would have paid $25,000 for a new truck instead of $50k. 2017 prices are about 1/2 the price of anything now.

[@owenriggs8518]

About $1,000 overpriced

[@peteprieto1958]

Better if it was cabover

[@ferretapocalypse]

For 1800 you may as well save for a regular topper. If this was like 600 it might be worth it just to,use for camping.

[@thefreezedryingcommunity]

reguler topper is $3-4k for a decent one and it has to remain on the truck or take up lots of space for storage. It's also a pain to remove and install it. It's a different product