Looking to maximize your truck’s capabilities? A truck shell can dramatically improve access, utility, and fun! Here’s how.
A bed shell (also known as a truck cap or truck cover) is the perfect solution for extending the function of your pickup. The greatest things about a pickup are the ability to haul heavy loads and gain access to areas that are difficult or impossible with other vehicles. A truck shell can be added to almost any model to increase versatility of the bed. From grocery runs to construction sites and tailgates to mountain overland trails, a truck with a shell, cap, or topper – whatever you like to call it – is built for so much more.
What is a Truck Shell?
A truck shell is an extra body piece that is typically fastened to the bed rails of a pickup with bolt down clamps. They’re generally constructed from specially formed fiberglass and metal support framing and the paint can be color-coded to exactly match your pickup. LEER truck shells come in various heights such as “Cab High” or “Mid High-Rise” and even commercial models with internal shelves to optimize capacity.
They also offer a number of specialized features like windoors, dog screens, and even internally mounted firearms storage with the LEER Locker for the avid outdoor enthusiast who wants to be prepared for the hunt while keeping things safely stored away. Additional accessories are also available, giving you the option to customize your storage area with things like bins, remote keyless entry, and fishing rod holders.
Benefits of Using a Truck Bed Shell
When you consider upgrading your pickup’s bed, a shell holds many advantages over a soft topper and even a bed rack. The solid sides and tinted glass deter prying eyes and hold up far better to attempted entry than woven fabric.
Another factor that makes a topper like a LEER a great choice over a bed rack is its ability to keep cargo safe from the elements or sneaky animals. More and more, LEER shells are being used as a haul-along base camp by those who want to push further into the bush without the need to pull a trailer or take time to set up a tent.
Increased Cargo Safety
When you add a shell, you increase the amount of safe storage and cargo space within and above your bed. It’s a great way to haul large items that don’t fit in your cab but that need to be kept out of the wind, rain, and even sun.
Accessibility to cargo can also be dramatically improved with additions like a BEDSLIDE. You can easily reach into the back of your truck without having to climb inside. Bring everything in the bed of your truck out to you as you pull the entire length of your bed – and its total load capacity – out on a sturdy platform. BEDSLIDEs even make for fantastic work stations and allow any stadium sport fan to elevate their tailgating game to a whole new level.
Security
Truck covers keep items safely stored away from prying eyes and would-be burglars. Those of us who enjoy traveling know that at some point, we’ll go through an area “rumored” to be less than desirable to park in. According to local law enforcement officers in the southern California area, the two main factors in theft from vehicles are item visibility and ease of access. Eliminating a crook’s target acquisition with hard shell sides, tinted windows and lockable doors is a fantastic way to reduce the likelihood of being a victim of theft.
Increased Versatility
We can all use our pickups as work vehicles, an adventuremobile, a storage space, and more. The ability to store all kinds of items inside your bed can make it easier to transport them when needed. You can organize everything from groceries to tools, and even keep bicycles and kayaks safe while traveling. With a truck shell, you’ll have easy access to all kinds of cargo, including:
- Fishing and hunting gear
- Power tools
- Work supplies
- Travel gear, bags and luggage
- Adventure equipment for overlanding or camping
- Family stuff, like strollers and food
- Pet kennels and beds
- Farm goods like hay, feed and tack
A lot of people even add a mobile-friendly refrigerator like a Snomaster back there, so you always have cold snacks and drinks ready to go without the need for ice! You can even install a pop-up tent on top of certain truck shell models, so you always have a spot to nap.
A Family Room On the Go
As we mentioned before, many people really enjoy the ability to push further into adventures with truck camping, without needing a trailer or having to set up a ground tent. Another great aspect of a truck shell is the ability to use it as a family gathering spot if a sudden rain starts to fall just as you reach your picnic spot. It also serves as a great place for little ones to take a quick nap or safely play when the “outside” gets to be too much.
First Class Accommodations for the Dogs
Got hunting dogs, or just a furry friend along for the ride? Under the protection of a truck shell, they’ll be comfortable either free roaming or lounging in a designated kennel stashed in your bed. LEER offers a heavy duty option for dog screens that let your best friend(s) get plenty of ventilation while staying out of the direct sun or rain. With a truck shell, the whole bed becomes a first class kennel – and you know your leather seats won’t get chewed up or furry if you pop into the store for some milk bones.
How to Choose the Right Cover
There are a few factors to consider when you’re choosing a truck shell. These include the size of your pickup, your intended uses, and the weight limits of your bed. Consulting with a local dealer is always the best way to find your perfect fit.