If you own a Jeep, you probably already know how customizable these vehicles are—it's a big part of the appeal. In fact, Jeep consistently ranks among the top brands in U.S. customer satisfaction thanks to its durability, versatility, and endless upgrade options.
One of the most popular upgrades, especially when the weather gets warm, is adding a bikini top—a lightweight cover that gives you the open-air experience while still providing a bit of shade and protection. Bikini Jeeps aren't just for looks (although they look awesome); they’re also functional and perfect for summer driving or serious off-roading.
So, whether you’re new to the Jeep lifestyle or just thinking about updating your rig, you need to know about Jeep bikini tops—from how they compare to soft tops, to choosing the right brand, installing it, and more.
Jeep Top Options for Off-Roading
When you're tackling the trails or cruising coastal highways, your Jeep top setup plays a big role in how comfortable and capable your ride is. Here's a quick breakdown of your main options:
- Hardtops: These offer full protection from the elements, great for cold climates or year-round driving. But they’re heavy and take more effort to remove.
- Soft Tops: Versatile and easier to remove than hard tops. Great for folks who want flexibility between seasons.
- Bikini Tops: The go-to for summer. They're minimalist, letting air flow freely and giving you that open-sky feel while still shielding you from harsh sun or light rain.
When it comes to off-roading, most enthusiasts lean toward bikini Jeeps. Why? Because they’re lighter, quicker to remove, and they provide better trail visibility, crucial when you're crawling over rocks or threading through tight trails.
Jeep Soft Top vs Bikini Top
Let’s break it down side-by-side so you can see which fits your lifestyle better:
|
Feature |
Soft Top |
Bikini Top |
|
Coverage |
Full coverage (top, sides, and rear) |
Top-only, open sides |
|
Weather Protection |
Rainproof with full enclosure |
Partial—best for sunny, dry conditions |
|
Ventilation |
Moderate airflow |
Excellent airflow |
|
Installation |
More complex—needs hardware |
Quick and easy |
|
Cost |
Typically more expensive |
Budget-friendly |
|
Season |
All-season use |
Spring and summer |
Jeep soft top vs bikini top really comes down to climate and usage. If you’re in a rainy or snowy area, stick with a soft top. But if you're all about summer cruising and open-air adventures, Jeep Wrangler summer tops like the bikini version are the way to go.
Benefits of Bikini Jeep Tops
So what makes these tops such a popular upgrade? Here are seven reasons Jeep owners love them:
- UV Protection: High-quality bikini Jeeps are made with UV-resistant fabric that shields passengers and interiors from sun damage.
- Superior Ventilation: Open sides mean constant airflow. Great for staying cool during long, hot drives or when navigating slow, technical trails.
- Stylish & Sporty Appearance: Bikini Jeeps just look tougher. They’ve got that clean, aggressive profile that stands out in the crowd.
- Lightweight Design: You can take them off or store them in a flash—ideal for spontaneous weekend trips.
- Quick Installation & Removal: Most setups take 15-30 minutes tops. No need to haul out special tools or deal with complicated hardware.
- Better Trail Visibility: With no side obstructions, you get a better line of sight when wheeling over tough terrain.
- Affordability: Bikini tops are an easy, low-cost way to upgrade your Jeep—perfect for first-time owners or seasoned off-roaders who want a seasonal swap.
Best Jeep Bikini Tops
Not all bikini tops are created equal. Here's a quick look at the top materials and best Jeep bikini tops on the market right now.
Material Options
- Marine-Grade Vinyl: Durable and waterproof, this is ideal for tough conditions and surprise downpours.
- Sailcloth: High-tension material that’s quieter, more insulated, and super long-lasting.
- PVC Mesh: Lightweight and breathable—perfect for high heat and light use.
Waterproof Jeep Bikini Tops
Some tops go the extra mile with water resistance. These are top picks if you live where summer storms are a thing:
- Bestop Safari Bikini
- Smittybilt Extended Mesh Top
- Rough Country Mesh Bimini Top
Each one is built for trail life and made to withstand sun, wind, and surprise showers.
Bikini Top Brands for Jeep Owners
Looking for a reliable brand? Here are the top names you can trust:
- Bestop
- The official OEM supplier for Jeep
- Premium fit and finish
- Available in several styles for JL, JK, TJ, and YJ
- Average price: $150–$350
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- Smittybilt
- Rugged and affordable
- Excellent daily-use choice with solid customer reviews
- Prices start around $90
- Warranty: 1-Year
- Rough Country
- Budget-conscious but built for action
- DIY install-friendly
- Best for summer trail riders
- Typically under $100
- Warranty: 3-Year
- Rampage Products
- Best for customization
- Offers half and full bikini styles
- Fits a variety of models
- Mid-range pricing, around $130–$200
- Warranty: Limited 1-Year
How to Install a Jeep Bikini Top
Installing a Jeep bikini top is one of the easiest upgrades you can make if you want that open-air summer vibe. Whether you're cruising down the highway or picking your way through rocky trails, setting up your bikini top the right way means you'll get a snug fit, solid protection, and a lot more trail time with a lot less hassle.
General Tools and Prep Work (All Models)
Before you get started, make sure you’ve got a few things handy:
- A clean surface (wipe down the roll bars and remove any old top)
- Allen wrench or socket wrench set
- Windshield header bar (if your bikini top needs one)
- A soft towel or mat to protect your Jeep’s paint
- Your bikini top kit (straps, hooks, and hardware)
Installation Steps Wrangler JL, TJ, YJ & JK (2007–Present)
- Take off any existing top and clean the roll bar area.
- If your top requires a windshield header, mount that first by locking it onto the top of your windshield frame.
- Drape the bikini top over the front roll bar, making sure everything lines up.
- Hook the front of the top into the windshield header.
- Use the straps to loop around the rear crossbars or roll cage, pulling them tight and evenly.
- Tuck in any loose edges and adjust the tension so you don’t get annoying flapping when you're driving at higher speeds.
Get Premium Jeep Wrangler Summer Tops
If you’re ready to upgrade your ride, Collins Bros Jeep has you covered. Since 1984, we’ve been the go-to for Jeep restorations, custom builds, and all the parts and accessories you need to make your rig truly yours. As an official supplier of OEM Jeep parts, we stock a massive range of Jeep soft tops, bikini tops, bumpers, lights, suspensions, and more. Shop Jeep parts now.
We know every Jeep owner and every trail is different, so we’re committed to helping you get the right setup for your style and needs. Need some expert advice? Contact us for a consultation to get upgrades built around your off-road goals.
