by Matt Konkle
Managing Editor
How many times have you heard "Go Topless" these days?
Well, it may not be the official motto of summer for Jeep owners, but the idea is always floating around during nice warm summer weather.
That’s because top-off driving is really what separates a Jeep from just about anything else out there you can drive. A perfectly engineered ability to just rip off the skin on your vehicle and head out wherever you want.
It’s a simple thing, really. Just retract the soft top, take out those windows, and you are all set for open-air driving. Those with hardtops have a bit more work to do and often need a partner to remove the top. But once either is gone, you have an entirely different driving experience.
And then the fun starts.
And many times, it is also where the sun starts.
Anyone who has been through the process know what this means. If you don’t, well, let’s just say the sun can leave a mark on your skin and makes for a hot cabin — especially when there is a lot of stop-and-go driving.
The best way to counter this issue, and still retain open air fun, is by installing a Jeep bikini top.
These lightweight products are easy to work with, are relatively trouble-free when installing and give you the sun protection you need during sweltering summer months. Plus, even though they won’t provide full top security against inclement weather, bikini tops do offer up enough of a buffer against the rain just in case an unexpected shower arrives.
Now, one thing to realize though, is Jeep bikini tops are not a “one-size-fits-all” solution. Luckily, navigating through the process isn’t as diverse as, say, choosing an entirely new soft top that has a bunch of different styles, fitment methods, materials and aesthetic options.
So, what are the differences in Jeep bikini tops?
Well, the first is size. Summer bikini tops can be a normal length that just covers the front seats, or they can be full-length products that stretch past the rear seats. For many, this choice is usually is determined by how many passengers travel with you. If you always seem to have a full cabin along for the ride, whether family or friends, then that full-length top is probably the best move. But if you are usually by yourself, then a half version can be a great choice for overhead protection, while still retaining open sky in the back.
Next up are the material differences on these tops and the most popular is a solid canvas that can be either vinyl or an OEM-style fabric. As a result, these usually are more durable than other versions and the solid material tends to be quieter in windy conditions. They also do the best job keeping you cool in the summer while giving you adequate cover above your head when it rains. Keep in mind, though, with your normal top and doors off, you’ll still be exposed to the elements. So if you are caught in a heavier storm it is probably a good idea get that soft top back into place. Those without a soft top should find some cover until the storm passes.
Another popular bikini top material these days is mesh, which is more of a see-through canvas design that allows some light and air to move through the top while filtering out harmful UV rays. These mesh versions still provide shade while you are driving and the increased airflow can make things cooler, but this type of material can also end up turning up the heat in the cabin during slower stop-and-go driving. Additionally, another benefit depending on the mesh top you choose, the product can be left on the vehicle full-time as it can fit under the soft or hardtop.
Finally, there are connection differences in Jeep bikini tops. Those with older CJ and Wrangler YJ vehicles may be able to use the same front windshield retaining channel to secure their bikini top. Hardtop owners, or those with a front channel that no longer works, will need to install a new channel before the top will work. Also, some bikini tops use rear straps to firmly connect with footman loops around the tailgate while others have a strapless design that secure around the Jeep's rollbars.
Wrangler TJ owners can choose between tops that attach with either a drilled-in windshield channel, or a no-drill channel that clamps into openings on the interior windshield frame. Bikini tops that use one of those connection methods are not interchangeable with the other, so it is important you choose the correct top to fit that channel you want.
Those with Wrangler JK or JL editions have a few difference connection methods as well. Some tops require a separate no-drill channel to connect, while others utilize hook and loop, or elastic, straps that lock on certain windshield points in order to secure the top.
