We get asked a lot how TigerTough covers stack up against other big names in the seat cover game. So today, we're going head-to-head with Marathon seat covers (now owned by Covercraft) and giving you a no-fluff, side-by-side look.
This isn’t a review. We're just laying out the details so you can decide what works best for your truck. Let’s get into it.
What Changed with Marathon?
If you’ve used Marathon covers before May 2024, these aren’t the same. Covercraft bought them out, and a few things have changed. We cover that in another blog, but keep in mind this comparison features the new Marathon covers, not the originals.
Unboxing What’s Inside
Marathon by Covercraft
Arrives in a decent-sized box, packed in a clear plastic bag.
Includes universal install instructions, a tool (plastic piece with Velcro) for removing headrests, and a mix of seat bottom, back, headrest, and armrest covers.
Fabric is listed as Cordura®, but the denier isn’t specified.*
Made in Mexico.
Comes with a four-year manufacturer’s defect warranty.
Standard features include seatback pockets and a center console cover.
*Disclaimer: We reached out to Covercraft and asked about the denier of the Cordura® used for the Marathon seat covers. They said they didn’t know. Our best guess is that they use around an 800-denier Cordura®.
TigerTough
Ships in a soft-sided branded bag.
Includes detailed color install guide with truck-specific instructions.
Covers come clearly labeled for driver and passenger sides.
Made from 1000D Cordura®…tough enough to last the lifetime of your truck.
Made in the USA.
Covered by a 2-year unconditional warranty. If anything breaks, for any reason, we’ll replace it.
Installation Comparison
Marathon
Driver and passenger pieces aren’t labeled.
Instructions are generic, with a QR code that just links to the homepage (not install help).
The center console cover isn’t marked, and we couldn’t get it on despite trying.
Overall, it was a bit of a guessing game.
TigerTough
Every piece is labeled and tailored to your specific truck.
Installation was smooth, even for someone who doesn’t install covers regularly.
Headrests, seat backs, and seat bottoms went on quickly and securely.
All seat cover sets come with detailed instructions and an installation video.
Side-by-Side Fit and Finish
We installed both covers on a 2023 Ford F-150 (Marathon on the passenger side, TigerTough on the driver’s). Here’s how they compare:
Feature
Marathon
TigerTough
Material
Cordura® (unknown denier)
1000D Cordura®
Waterproof
✅
✅
Airbag Safe
✅
✅
Seatback Pocket
Standard
Optional
Center Console Cover
Included, but hard to install
Not included for this model
Warranty
4-year manufacturer’s defect
2-year unconditional
Made In
Mexico
U.S.A.
Price
$495
$317
Fit and Construction Details
Both seat covers are three-piece systems (headrest, seat back, seat bottom) and install separately, which helps them stay in place. They both feature:
Flaps under the headrest for a tighter fit (no saggy elastic bags here).
Tearaway stitching for side airbags.
Hook-and-loop closures.
Differences That Stood Out
Seat Bottom Security
TigerTough wraps around the seat and uses Stringlock to keep the cover tight. It won’t budge. Marathon uses a clip-and-buckle system that feels decent, but isn’t quite as locked-in.
Console Cover Fit
Marathon includes one, but it wasn’t sized right and wouldn’t go on. TigerTough doesn’t offer one for this truck, though they do for others.
Back Panel Design
TigerTough makes its own flap that replaces your factory one. Marathon leaves the factory flap and covers over it. Both work, but the TigerTough setup is cleaner.
Final Thoughts
We’re not here to tell you which seat cover is best…that’s your call. But we are here to make sure you’ve got all the facts.
If you value American-made products, a truly secure fit, and a no-questions-asked warranty, TigerTough’s going to be tough to beat.
When we researched top seat covers for work trucks, we didn’t just pick the ones at the top of Google. We asked blue-collar men and women what kinds of covers they’ve tried in their trucks, and this is the list they came up with:
Since we’re comparing covers for work trucks, we used a 2023 Ford F150 regular cab for pricing and research. Let’s get right into highlighting these seat-savers.
It’s nearly impossible to Google truck seat covers without Covercraft popping up. We give them credit. They’ve been in the business for over 50 years and have a great product with a stellar reputation.
They make seat covers and covers for cars, boats, RVs, airplanes, and patio furniture. First, let's take a look at the Endura PrecisionFit.
The fabric for the Endura PrecisionFit is vague. According to the description, it’s a canvas-nylon-polyester blend. But what does that mean? We contacted customer service to learn more, and they didn’t elaborate beyond the product description. It’s tough to know how durable their covers are without knowing more about the fabric.
This is a great seat cover, and we don’t think you’ll be disappointed. But it’s at the top of the price range for a set of bucket seat covers for a 2023 Ford F150 Regular Cab. If you can get them on sale, they might be a worthwhile investment, but we can’t say for how long without knowing more about their material.
Everyone loves Carhartt. We get it. Their reputation is undeniable. They've got that classic look of your grandpa's favorite jacket; overall, we feel nostalgic about them. The brand has been around since 1889 even though Covercraft Carhartt SeatSavers are newer to the market, so let's look at how these cover stand up to some others.
While we have a lot of respect for Carhartt, when it comes to choosing seat covers, we’d actually lean towards Covercraft’s Endura PrecisionFit over the Carhartt SeatSavers. It's not just about the price; the PrecisionFit covers just seem to fit better and provide more value. If you’re into a variety of colors, you might find the two-color options of these covers a bit limiting. And the two-piece design? It tends to slide around on the seat because of how it's fastened. Since these are an expensive choice, we really hoped for a bit more from them.
Okay, we know what you’re thinking…this is about work truck seat covers, and most of us aren’t driving around Baywatch trucks. Yep, this is a wet suit in seat cover form. We didn’t think it would be a fair comparison either, but after hearing from multiple people in the construction industry who love their Wet Okole seat covers, we decided to give these a fair shake.
Since they’re made from wetsuit neoprene and bonded with nylon, they’re waterproof and totally safe on vehicle seats.
Ashley DeCurtis, VP of Sales for BuildWitt, bought a used Nissan Xterra and considered the leather seats' condition, “I didn’t want to make it worse,” she says. What attracted her to Wet Okole was that the covers were pliable and waterproof, “they’re great for anything in wet environments.”
What ultimately sold her was the complete customization from colors to piping to embroidered headrests. Wet Okole has dozens of add-ons, like seatback pockets, front lower pockets, lumbar support, carbon fiber seat heaters, and sunglass pouches.
DeCurtis is no stranger to the blue collar world, being a former police officer and now speaking to contractors daily in her role at BuildWitt, so she knows what kind of abuse work trucks see. Although she’s had the seat covers in her Xterra for four years; she questions whether they’d withstand the use they’d see in a work truck.
However, Brent Fox, a contractor in the Nashville area, can speak to the durability. "I had Wet Okole in the truck I just retired. Rode on them for 12 years and, at some point, sent them back for a refurb. They were a great product and easy company to work with."
Price: $374
Pros
✅ Easily washable
✅ Self-extinguishing
✅ Airbag safe
Cons
❌ Only a 90-day warranty
❌ No returns accepted
Verdict
These seat covers really do a solid job of protecting the seats in your work truck, almost like a wetsuit, and you can even clean them with wetsuit shampoo. They’re self-extinguishing, which is a big plus if you ever find yourself dealing with flames inside your truck. Plus, they're designed to be airbag safe as they don’t cover the side of the seat where the airbag is located. Airbag safety is a must for us.
At first, we were a bit skeptical, but these covers have received great reviews. We really appreciate the custom fit and how easy they are to clean. However, at $374 a pair, they’re not exactly budget-friendly, and the very limited warranty makes us a bit hesitant to give them our full endorsement.
Canvasback Universal Fit seat covers. Source: Canvasback
We won’t lie; we hadn’t heard of this brand until Ambre Schaffer, Marketing Director at Aggtrans, pointed them out. These seat covers are a one-size-fits-most style, so consider that when ordering. You won’t be getting a custom fit for your seats.
Canvasback seems to be best known for their cargo liners. Liners are custom fit for your vehicle’s cargo space and attach with hook and loop.
Ambre confirms the durability and easy installation, “[the cargo liner] is custom fit to your specific vehicle and velcros right in place. They've been installed for three years without budging or showing any signs of wear. If I needed to remove them, they'd pull right up.
"In addition to carrying around all of my photography/videography gear and field gear for construction, I'm a search and rescue handler with a k9. We're usually covered in mud and debris.”
With a review like that, we had to include this option.
Price: $150
Pros
Durable cargo liners customized to fit most vehicles. Despite not having custom-fit seat covers, the covers are at the bottom of our price range at $140 for a pair of bucket seat covers. On top of all this, Canvasback is woman-owned, and we think that’s pretty cool.
✅ Inexpensive
✅ Fits most vehicles
✅ Woman-owned company
Cons
❌ Not custom fit
❌ Limited six-month warranty
Verdict
We probably wouldn’t put these in a work truck to protect the seats, but we like the cargo liner options. If you’ve got a dog or use your cargo space a good deal, we’d suggest looking into Canvasback. Plus, we can’t help but love that they’re made in Minnesota.
Like TigerTough, these covers are made from CORDURA®. It’s a slightly different kind though. ShearComfort uses a heavy duty 500 denier CORDURA® fabric, which isn’t as durable as the 1000 Denier CORDURA® we use. But this is still going to be a durable seat cover.
Price: $405
Pros
These airbag-safe seat covers are waterproof, durable, and guaranteed to fit perfectly. There’s a lot to love about them, and they’d perform well in a work truck.
✅ Waterproof
✅ Guaranteed perfect fit
✅ Airbag safe
Cons
❌ They don't use CORDURA® on their entire seat cover
❌ Price is a little high
❌ Limited Warranty
Verdict
They’re tough and built for hard work, but we don't love that ShearComfort doesn't use CORDURA® on the entire seat cover. They only use it on the portions you'd touch when sitting in the seat. The rest is made of a thin, stretchy material which will give out over time. They have great reviews from their customers. ShearComfort is a good option for your work truck, but not the best.
VERTEX OFF-ROAD is a newer company, started in 2021, and they specialize in truck seat covers. They consider themselves "American craftsman and enthusiasts committed to building top-quality products that help you upgrade and protect your truck for everywhere the road ahead takes you."
Well, what's not to love about that? Let's look at their 1000-Denier CORDURA® Canvas seat covers.
Price: $400
Pros
✅ Use CORDURA® nylon on their colvers
✅ Automatically include a center console cover
✅ Lifetime warranty, albeit limited
✅ Airbag safe
Cons
❌ Foam-backed seat covers (foam breaks down over time)
❌ Limited vehicle line
Verdict
We love that they're using CORDURA® nylon canvas for this particular cover. They also automatically include a center console cover and pockets for the seatbacks. They also have a lifetime warranty and seem pretty flexible, but it does exclude everyday wear and tear.
This is the first time we've run across another brand that uses a string to cinch around the seat for a secure fit. It's just too bad they don't use StringLock.
This seems like a great cover. These are going to be a durable option for your truck. And given that they come with a center console cover and seatback pockets, the price is fair for what you get.
TigerTough
TigerTough seat covers
TigerTough seat covers are designed for hardworking men and women. They’re extremely tough (hence the name), so tough, in fact, we’ve extended our seat cover line to heavy equipment because we’re that confident they can withstand what you throw at them.
We put our seat covers through torture tests. Do we do these tests for fun? Yes. Do we love proving how resilient these covers are with each test? Also yes.
Need more proof that we believe in our products? We have an unconditional warranty for at least two years on our products. They’ll get gross, they’ll get stained, but they won’t fail you, and neither will we.
Price: $297
Pros
✅ Unconditional warranty
✅ Custom fit
✅ Two-week turnaround
✅ Waterproof
✅ Airbag safe
Cons
❌ Limited colors
Verdict
These are some of the lowest-priced seat covers in this lineup, with an average 4.9 star rating from users. Everyone from parents to first responders uses TigerTough seat covers, and they’ve always risen to the occasion.
Of course we love our own seat covers (or we wouldn’t work here). But that doesn’t mean they’re best for you and your work truck. Look at all the options and choose the covers that fit you best.
Summary
Not all seat covers are created equally. Some will be better for you than others. We think you should have ones that:
Are waterproof
Easy to clean
Have a great warranty and return policy
Made in America
You don’t want to be stuck with seat covers that aren’t getting the job done. You want something that will last for years and ultimately save you money in the long run.
Look at the features of all these work truck seat covers and decide which one is best for you based on your needs and budget.
All specs based on 2023 Ford F150 Regular Cab Bucket Seats
Update on 07/06/2023: We Initially had WeatherTech Seat Protectors as part of this list but removed them when we found out they weren't considered airbag-compatible in all vehicles. Take a look at WeatherTech Seat Protector Review for more information.
Construction truck (and heavy equipment) cabs see it all: dust, dirt, coffee, sandwich guts. No shortage of debris will find its way onto the seat. So, protecting those seats with a seat cover is smart. But which cover should you go with?
You’ll want something tough, waterproof, antimicrobial if there’s more than one butt in the driver’s seat, and doesn’t bunch up like a sock in a work boot. We could say you should choose TigerTough, but that’s not the only option out there.
We’ll share some of our favorite seat covers, and you can choose which is best for you.
Best Work Truck Seat Covers
We’ve spent many manhours testing out seat covers, trying them. Some have been competitive, others have been disappointing. We won’t waste your time with the seat covers we weren’t impressed with. But no matter what, try to look for these qualities in a truck seat cover:
Washable
Waterproof
Airbag safe
Separate seatback and bottom
Good warranty
Made in the U.S.
We’ll share prices with you based on a 2023 Ford F-150. With all that info in mind, let’s get into these seat covers for construction workers.
Marathon
On paper, Marathon is one of our biggest competitors. Their covers are made from 1000-denier CORDURA®️ in good ole Montana.
Disclaimer: Marathon recently got acquired by CoverCraft and a few things have changed since then. We just got our hands on a new Marahon by CoverCraft seat cover, and we'll be doing a side-by-side comparison soon. For now, this is based off the original Martahon seat covers.
Pros
Washable
Waterproof
Airbag safe
Separate seatback and bottom
Made in the U.S.
Price is on the lower end
They have a bunch of accessories you can add to the seat covers
Cons
Some recent negative reviews about quality on their Google listing
Camo is only 500-denier CORDURA®️
Production time is 4-5 weeks
No returns
Limited warranty
Price: $315 (with headrests)
Carhartt PrecisionFit
OK, we don’t normally suggest these because the price is steep. But they’re a great option if you’re loyal to Carhartt.
Pros
Washable
Water-resistant
Airbag safe
Separate seatback and bottom (their SeatSavers aren’t)
People love Wet Okole, despite that the name means “wet butt” in Hawaiian. They fit well and look good on. Raving fans have had Wet Okole on for years. They’re made in California and loved by surfers and construction workers alike.
Separate seatback and bottom (their SeatSavers aren’t)
Made in the U.S.
Cons
They’ll protect your seat from liquid, but the cover is designed to hold the liquid, so you’ll literally have a wet butt with spills. Think of it like a diaper--it's going protect your seat from spills, but it's also going to get a little squishy with any wetness.
Price: $374
TigerTough
Our covers are made in Minnesota from American-made materials by American men and women. We design exclusively for the blue-collar world, so you won’t see us offering covers for minivans or coupes anytime soon. Our covers made from 1000-denier CORDURA®️ are put through torture tests so we can confidently say they’re nearly indestructible.
The competition is slim when it comes to heavy equipment seat covers, but there are a few out there. You’re going to want to look for similar things in heavy equipment seat covers:
Washable
Waterproof
Separate seatback and bottom (if applicable)
Good warranty
Made in the U.S.
Ultra Seat
This is an aftermarket seat company that makes covers for its seats. It offers only three different kinds of covers: high back, medium back, and low back.
Pros
Washable
Separate seatback and bottom
They fit their seats like a dream, and should also fit Grammer seats well
The quality seems great
Made in Canda
Inexpesive
Cons
They won’t fit OEM seats well
Price: $168 (high back seat)
TigerTough
Our heavy equipment seat covers are super similar to our vehicle seat covers, except we offer an unlimited, unconditional warranty on them.
Pros
Washable
Separate seatback and bottom
They fit your heavy equipment seat extremely well
Made in America
Unconditional, unlimited warranty
Cons
Not every make/model of heavy equipment available
More expensive than the competition
Price: $247 (Cat 312 excavator seat)
Best Seat Covers for Construction
Every cover has its pros and cons. Determine which is best for you and your budget. And if you find a better option, let us know, we’d love to add it to the list!
We've seen people reviewing our seat covers (which are made for humans) and talking about how they love them for their dogs.
Whether you've got hunting dogs, service dogs, household pets, volunteer with a rescue, or work with a K9 unit, you will need a cover that protects from wetness, stains, scratching, and chewing.
Since we make our covers for humans, it's only fair that we look at seat covers that humans can use, so we won't review pet hammocks. And because we only make seat covers for trucks, SUVs, and vans, we'll look at those covers.
We're going to divide these into two types:
Seat protectors: Not a custom fit, have a boxier shape and will obviously be a cover in your truck
Seat covers: Custom fit and will blend in with your truck's interior
Here are some of the top-searched brands for backseat and how they hold up to dogs:
Seat protectors all have a very similar shape: a boxy apron that fits hundreds of different bench seats with a skirt that runs around the edge, so it will feel (and look) like a universal cover. But these top contenders all have strengths in different areas.
WeatherTech Seat Protector
Image source: WeatherTech website
We've reviewed WeatherTech before, and here's the bottom line: We love WeatherTech, but would stick to their floor liners and not their seat protectors.
We like that these are made in America, easy to install, and machine washable. We don't love that you won't be able to access the center seatbelt or use the features of a split seat.
Takeaways from the WeatherTech Seat Protector:
No center seatbelt access
Can't use the split seat
Water resistant, not waterproof
Made in America
Quick to install
Washable
Some people love this seat protector; some people don't. Overall, half of their customers wouldn't recommend it.
“The straps around the headrest did not provide a very tight fit, and my two labs consistently moved the seat cover off the seat while jumping in and out of the truck during our trip. It is well made but moves around too much.”
Orvis is known for quality gear that can brave the elements, so the Orvis Backseat Protector should be no exception.
This has a very similar fit to WeatherTech's version, but this is a new item from Orvis, so we'll need to wait for reviews to come in to see if it's a better investment.
Orvis stands behind their products with the Great Catch Guarantee. If you aren't happy with your item, you can return it for a small restocking fee online or for free at a local store.
We've also reviewed Canvasback before. They're known for their cargo liners but make seat protectors too. They were founded in the 1990s by a dog owner wanting to make interior vehicle protection durable enough for dogs.
Their rear bench covers are like the ones we mentioned above, with a few notable differences: they're waterproof, have more color options, and can fit smaller SUVs.
Takeaways from the Canvasback Bench Seat Cover:
No center seatbelt access
Can't use the split seat
Waterproof
Made in America
Woman-owned company
Quick to install
Machine washable
“I was delighted to find a car seat cover made in the USA and happy to support a woman-owned business! … The price is on par with what I've paid for other seat covers (namely Orvis). The quality appears to be good; I appreciate that the pieces velcro together for easy cleaning. Like most seat covers, it doesn't fit perfectly, but with so many car makes and models out there, I imagine it's hard to find a perfect fit.”
We hadn't heard of Kurgo before we started researching, but their site was really nice to use. We actually liked their No Slip Grip Bench Seat Cover better than this one, but the No Slip option was only 55" wide, not wide enough to work in most large SUVs and pickup trucks. So, we'll be reviewing the Kurgo Wander Bench Seat Cover Extended Width.
The cool thing about this cover is that it has additional pockets to store a leash, poop bags, etc. Kurgo also has a piped edge ( a slight raised edge around the seat) to help prevent liquidy messes from spilling into the floor. According to their customer service, their products are made in Vietnam, China, and Taiwan.
Takeaways from the Kurgo Wander Bench Seat Cover:
No center seatbelt access
Can't use the split seat
Waterproof
Made in Vietnam, China, or Taiwan
Quick to install
Not machine washable
“After having this seat cover in my SUV for several years, we bought the extended size for our 2020 F-150 back bench seat - it fits perfect. These products are awesome and wear like iron.”
Meadowlark really isn't any different than the other seat protectors here. But it is the most affordable. It has the same basic shape and won't let you use the 40/60 or 60/40 split seat features.
Takeaways from the Meadowlark
No center seatbelt access
Can't use the split seat
Waterproof
Made in China
Inexpensive
Quick to install
Washable
“Been looking around for a decent cover for my dog. He tends to drool after a fun day at the park. This did the trick, and it fit the rear bench perfectly.”
4Knines Multi-Function Crew Cab Truck Seat Cover with Hammock
Image source: 4Knines website
We added the 4Knines cover to this lineup because it had some unique options not available in the other brands mentioned.
Now, we said we weren't going to review hammocks, and we stand by that, but this protector has a foldaway hammock that you can tuck away, making this one an option for people to use. It also has a split design, so you can flip seats up or down as needed without removing the cover. We love that.
4Knines does warn that their cover isn't chew-proof. So keep that in mind if you've got a chewer.
Takeaways from the 4Knines Multi-Function Crew Cab Truck Seat Covers
Access to all seat belts
Split-seat design
Waterproof
Made in China
Optional hammock
Quick to install
Machine washable
Not chew-proof
“This is our second 4knines cover (the other goes to our smaller vehicle), and just as I suspected, this cover is the best one I've seen for a truck! Easy to install and fits just right! I love that it's easy to split if I have something big I need to put inside the cab or if I've got the kiddos with me. No need to worry about dog hair or drool all over everything, which is a big plus in my book (it's a legit worry when you've got a giant breed!). If it does get dirty, it's easy to take off and throw in the wash.”
It's tough to say. Your preferences will be different than ours. But if you want an American-made seat cover, go with Canvasback. They're a little cheaper than WeatherTech, a small business, and have more color and pattern options.
If you don't care where your seat protector is made, we like 4Knines. It's more attractive than the extended fit of the Kurgo, and you can use your split bench features. It's not the cheapest, but it's also not the most expensive.
Seat Covers for Dogs
These seat covers will be tailored to fit your truck's bench seat like a glove. It's a custom fit that will complement your vehicle's interior. These don't just have one or two sizes. They have dozens (if not hundreds) of sizes because they're made for your specific truck.
Covercraft Carhartt SeatSavers
We're no strangers to Covercraft's Carhartt seat covers. These are a fan favorite in the seat cover world. We love that these give you a custom fit and remind you of your favorite Carhartt jacket.
These covers, like TigerTough, are meant to withstand the conditions of hardworking men and women. Grease, dust, snow, mud, it can handle it all. Think about what a pair of Carhartt coveralls goes through, the seat covers can put up with the same.
They have two kinds of Carhartt covers. Both covers offer a custom fit, a three-year limited warranty, and two Carhart colors. Let's go over the differences.
Carhartt Seat Savers
Image source: Covercraft website
This is the more affordable of the two Carhartt options offered by Covercraft. The only thing that would make them better is if they were all made in America, had multiple pieces, and were waterproof (they're water resistant).
Being one piece, you need to tuck the cover into the crease where the seat back meets the seat bottom. If your dogs are rambunctious in the truck, you might find that these don't always stay in place.
Takeaways for the Covercraft Carhartt SeatSavers:
Access to all seatbelts
Split-seat design
One-piece cover
Water resistant (not waterproof)
Made in Mexico and the United States
Three-year warranty
Machine washable
“They look good, they fit great, and the dogs and wife love them. We do a lot of hunting and fishing, and they clean up great, and dog hair does not stick to them.”
These are the premium Carhartt seat covers from Covercraft. They're most similar to what we have at TigerTough because they are multiple pieces, so you'll get the best, most secure fit on your seats.
These offer a better fit than the SeatSavers, and they're made exclusively in the United States.
Takeaways from the CoverCraft Carhartt Precision Fit Seat Covers:
Access to all seatbelts
Split-seat design
Multi-piece cover
Water resistant (not waterproof)
Made in the United States
Limited three-year warranty
Machine washable
Most expensive option
“Outstanding product and protection of seats. I have [them] only on [the] rear seat for my dogs. Great product, but installation was a real challenge. Directions and tips on installation can be improved.”
Like Carhartt, our covers are made for hardworking men and women. Unlike Carhartt, all our seat covers are made in the United States from nearly indestructible CORDURA, are waterproof, and come in multiple pieces for a super custom fit.
With our unconditional warranty, your dog can do its worst to our seat covers, and we'll repair or replace them for free.
Based on the specs alone, we like the TigerTough covers best. OK, yes, we work for TigerTough so that feels biased. But they're the cheapest option, have an unconditional warranty (important when you have dogs), and are made on American soil. We like Carhartt and love the look of the covers and suggest them if there's ever a vehicle we don't make a seat cover for.
But there are many great seat covers for you and your pup. We like to say to look for these things you're considering seat covers:
Waterproof
Easy to clean
Come in multiple pieces for a great fit
Have a great warranty and return policy
Made in America
Depending on your activity level, size and number of dogs, and your budget, there's a seat cover out there that will meet your needs. And when it doubt, any protection is better than none, so go with what you can afford.
Popular among outdoor enthusiasts, pet owners, and anyone who’s ever spilled coffee during a bumpy commute, neoprene seat covers have carved out a niche in the automotive world.
So, are neoprene seat covers good? Yes, but they aren’t your run-of-mill seat cover, and you need to set your expectations.
Here at TigerTough, while we don’t sell neoprene covers, we appreciate that they’re favorites for people. So, let’s dive into what makes neoprene tick and talk about its pros and cons. Whether you’re considering outfitting your ride with these covers or just curious about them, we’re here to spill the beans (not the coffee!) and help you set the right expectations.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Alright, let’s talk shop about keeping those neoprene seat covers clean. These aren't your regular throw-in-the-wash-and-forget-about-it type of seat covers. Nope, neoprene needs a bit more elbow grease, but it's nothing you can't handle.
Here’s how you clean neoprene seat covers:
Pull 'Em Off: First up, yank those covers off the seats. It’s straightforward, but give it some muscle—it's good for the arms.
Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: Mix water with a small amount of wetsuit shampoo. This special shampoo is designed to clean neoprene while also conditioning it, which helps keep the material supple and the colors vibrant. This prevents the material from degrading.
Use the Right Tools: Grab a lint-free cloth for washing. Apply the soapy water mixture generously to the seat covers, paying extra attention to any spots with stains or heavy soiling.
Gentle Technique: Avoid using a brush or any harsh tools that could damage the neoprene. Similarly, stay away from harsh detergents, especially those containing bleach. These can degrade the neoprene material quickly.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse off all that soap. Make sure you get it all out, 'cause leftover suds pull dirt right back. Hang them up to dry but keep 'em out of direct sunlight to avoid fading.
Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the seat covers with fresh water to remove any soap residue, which can attract more dirt if left behind.
Dry Properly: Towel dry the seat covers to remove excess water. Allow them to air dry completely but keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and deterioration of the neoprene.
Yes, they’re a little high-maintenance. And if you've got a mud-magnet dog hopping in your tuck, have fun frequently washing these. But by following these steps, you can ensure that your neoprene seat covers stay clean and in great condition, ready to face whatever comes their way. Remember, the more you wash them using the correct methods, the longer they’ll last. But if you don’t want to take our word for it, Wet Okole’s care instructions literally say, “Washing your Wet Okole Hawaii seat covers will ultimately extend the life of your seat covers.”
Water Resistance vs. Water Retention
Neoprene seat covers are like a wetsuit. They’ll keep you dry, but they hold the water. They're stellar at making sure a spilled coffee or a bit of rain doesn't soak into your truck's seats, but there's a catch.
Here's the lowdown on neoprene:
Neoprene does a bang-up job at protecting your seats from spills and splashes. This means less worry about water damage on your seats.
Just like a wetsuit, neoprene hangs onto moisture. Spill something on it, and while your seat underneath stays dry, the cover itself might feel soggy. If you've ever sat back down in a wet swimsuit, you know the drill—it's not the best feeling. It’s a bit like a diaper for your seat.
Managing moist mishaps:
Spilled something? Grab a towel and dab at the spill quickly. The faster you soak up the liquid from the cover, the less soggy it’ll feel.
Let the covers air out a bit before you hit the road again if you can. If the weather’s good, crack a window or two to help dry things off faster.
When outfitting your truck with seat covers, not all materials play nice with the fancy features. Neoprene, for instance, can be a bit of a double-edged sword if your truck's got heated or cooled seats.
Here’s the scoop on neoprene and seat features:
Cooling features:Got cooled seats? Neoprene might just rain on your parade. Since it’s designed to insulate (think wetsuits), it can block those cool breezes from reaching you. That means during those hot summer days, you might not feel quite the relief you’re expecting from that fancy feature.
Heating features: And as for heated seats, while neoprene won’t stop the heat entirely, it can definitely take a bit longer for you to feel the warmth and you won't feel the full heat (we tested this). This can be a bit of a bummer when you’re trying to thaw out on a frosty morning before heading to the job site.
What to do:
If you're set on neoprene and have special seat features, look for covers specifically designed to be compatible. Some might have modifications that allow better functionality.
If functionality is a deal-breaker, you might consider other materials that won't interfere with your seat’s built-in comforts.
While neoprene covers have their strengths, it's good to know their limits, especially when it comes to high-tech seat features.
Enhancing Durability with Protectant Spray
Keeping your neoprene seat covers in top-notch condition isn’t just about cleaning off the dirt and grime; it’s also about giving them a bit of armor against the elements. Enter protectant spray—a handy ally in the battle against wear and tear.
Why use protectant spray?
Boost Longevity: Just like waxing a car, applying a protectant spray helps shield your neoprene covers from UV rays, spills, and stains that can make them age before their time.
Maintain Appearance: Not only does it help extend the life of your seat covers, but it also keeps them looking fresh and new. This means less fading and fewer signs of wear, so your truck's interior stays sharp.
Protectant Spray Tips
Make sure your spray is compatible with neoprene. Look for products that offer UV protection to prevent color fading caused by sunlight. We’d suggest Wet Okole’s UV Protectant Spray if you’re going to go with their covers.
How often should you spray? It depends on how hard you’re working your covers. A good rule of thumb is to apply protectant every few months or after you wash them.
Pro Tip: Always test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area of the cover first to ensure it doesn’t affect the color or texture.
Comfort and Heat Considerations
One of the first questions you might ask about neoprene seat covers is, "Are they comfortable?" The answer is yes. Neoprene covers are generally quite comfy. They provide a soft layer that molds to your seat for a snug fit.
Neoprene seat covers are a popular choice due to their protective qualities, but it’s important to consider how they interact with temperature. Known for their insulating properties, neoprene covers are excellent for retaining warmth. This makes them an attractive option for cooler climates where keeping warm is beneficial. However, neoprene might not always meet with your comfort needs during warmer months or in vehicles with temperature-regulating features like cooled seats.
Neoprene seat covers offer a solid mix of comfort and protection, but it’s important to consider how they interact with your vehicle’s features and the outside temperature. By understanding these aspects, you can ensure that you stay comfortable in your seat year-round, no matter the weather.
Conclusion: Weighing Your Options with Neoprene Seat Covers
Neoprene seat covers definitely offer a lot—comfort, significant water resistance, and a snug fit that can make any seat feel almost brand new. However, like any choice, they come with their own considerations. They aren’t machine washable (unless you buy from a company that says otherwise), they hold onto moisture a bit longer than some might like, and can affect how well your vehicle’s seat cooling or heating features perform.
So, are neoprene seat covers the right choice for you? It really boils down to your personal needs and what you value most for your vehicle’s interior. They might be the perfect fit if you prioritize water resistance and comfort over ease of maintenance and tech compatibility.
Curious about other options? Maybe you’re looking for something that fits a bit differently or works better with your truck’s built-in features. Check out our detailed blog on the best seat covers for trucks for more insights and recommendations. Whether you drive for work or fun, we’re here to help you find the best seat cover that meets all your needs.
WeatherTech is famous in the world of vehicle interior protection. (We admit, that world is pretty tiny, but their presence in it is robust.) They've been in business for decades, are made in America, and offer a decent warranty. What's not to love?
We want to compare WeatherTech with TigerTough seat covers and share our in-the-trenches experience so that you can make an informed decision. We’ll be looking at this as objectively as possible by pointing out the facts, but we’ll be comparing the features and performance with TigerTough.
If you don’t want to read this all, the bottom line is, WeatherTech Seat Protectors are disappointing. Yep, we went there. We know they’re a great company, but their seat covers have many common problems seat covers can face. You can read our WeatherTech Seat Protector review if you'd like more in-depth information.
We ordered charcoal Seat Protectors to cover a 2023 Ford F150. We’ll start with the construction, then go into the individual parts, performance, and pricing.
Watch the video comparison
Installation
Installation was a breeze on the WeatherTech Seat Protectors. It took us under three minutes to get one cover installed. If you’ve ever put a bib on a kid, you’ll be a pro at these. Two straps connect behind the seat, one under the seat, and a stretchy strap around the headrest posts.
TigerTough takes longer. You’ll have to install all three pieces; getting a secure fit takes time.
Design and fit
WeatherTech’s Seat Protectors have a one-piece design and only lay on the front of the seat, and the back is wide open. Think hospital gown.
They offer six variations of their seat cover to fit thousands of makes and models of vehicles.
TigerTough seat covers come in three pieces and wrap the entire seat, more like coveralls. We customize seat covers to snugly fit thousands of trucks, vans, and SUVs.
Headrest
WeatherTech Seat Protectors don't cover the headrest.
Well, this section is weird since WeatherTech doesn’t cover headrests.
They have a strap that goes around the bars of the headrest, but they don’t cover the portion where your head will be. So, all the oils, dirt, grease, etc., will transfer from your head onto your headrest.
But ironically, you can’t install WeatherTech Seat Protectors unless you have a headrest, or the cover won’t be secure on your seat.
TigerTough’s seat covers have a separate headrest portion that secures with hook and loop so that your headrest remains unscathed.
Seatback
Appearance
TigerTough offers custom embroidery, and WeatherTech comes with a standard logo patch.
The front of the seat back (we know that sounds weird), the part where you rest your back, is where WeatherTech has a standard dog logo patch. Some reviewers didn’t love this logo (we suspect they’re cat people), but it’s harmless.
At TigerTough, you can have a blank seat cover or custom embroidery starting at $19 per seat. This is all about looks, so let’s move on to function.
Function
TigerTough covers the entire back of the seat with an option to add a pocket, and WeatherTech's Seat Cover is backless.
WeatherTech’s Seat Protectors cover the front of the upright portion of your seat, but they are bare on the backside. See what we mean about the hospital gown?
Two hook and loop straps connect on the back, but they dangle and feel awkward. It would be nice if there were a way to secure the extra length of unnecessary straps.
You can purchase an additional seat back protector from WeatherTech for $55 each if protecting the back of the seat is important to you. (We’re looking at you, parents.)
TigerTough seat covers wrap around the seat for complete protection and to keep the covers secure. We use the same material on the front as we do on the back. If you'd like to add seat back pockets, that's an option too.
Seat crease
TigerTough seat covers come in multiple pieces. WeatherTech Seat Protectors are one piece.
Since WeatherTech Seat Protectors are one piece, there’s no great way to make a clean crease in the seat. On the plus side, it will catch your crumbs and debris. On a back seat with kids, we could see the benefit of having a crumb-catcher.
The TigerTough seat cover comes in three pieces, so the seat bottom and back are separate, giving you a clean crease.
This is as functional as it is aesthetic. A good fit will keep the seat cover in place, but if you want it to look one way or the other, that’s your preference.
Seat bottom
TigerTough seat covers tuck into the plastic trim. The WeatherTech option hangs over the edge, covering the seat controls on our Ford F150.
WeatherTech has a skirt that goes around the base of the seat. This covered the seat controls on the 2023 F-150 we tried it on. No attachments run under the seat to secure this, so the cover tends to shift as you get in and out of your vehicle.
In comparison, TigerTough seat covers are meant to tuck into the plastic trim of the seat and secure under the seat with straps for a snug fit.
Airbag safety
TigerTough seat covers are independently tested to be airbag-compatible. WeatherTech Seat Protectors are not.
This isn’t an area to gloss over, and it’s the reason we wouldn’t put WeatherTech Seat Protectors in our own vehicles. Having airbag-compatible seat covers is necessary for your and your passengers' safety.
WeatherTech says not to install their Seat Protectors if the securing straps cover the side seat airbags.
💡 Quick history lesson: most cars made after 2014 will have side airbags due to federal regulation, many deploying from the seat.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that between 1996 and 2012, 2,252 lives were saved by side and curtain airbags–before regulations were even put into place. At that time, only 42% of vehicles on the road were equipped with side airbags. That percentage is much higher now.
We know you take safety seriously, whether it’s in your personal vehicle or if you’re managing a fleet. So if you’re considering WeatherTech Seat Protectors, look to see if the securing straps will cover any side airbags. If they do, find a better option.
Price
This area is perplexing. Each WeatherTech Seat Protector for a captain or bucket seat is $150 each. So protecting your front seats would be $300. Adding back protection to fully cover your front seats with WeatherTech would cost over $400. And you still don’t have your headrests protected.
To fully cover your two front seats with TigerTough, it will be $297 (we used a 2023 Ford F150 for spec). Plus, your headrests are covered.
WeatherTech: $410 (no headrest protection) TigerTough: $297
Overview
Even if we didn’t work for TigerTough, the facts all point to WeatherTech being inferior. They don’t cover as much, aren’t a custom fit, cost more money, and there’s a good chance they’ll prevent your airbag from deploying.
Even their customers have a hard time justifying the cost of these seat covers when you look at recent reviews:
"WeatherTech should stick to floor liners. Their advertising for this product is very misleading. Be advised the seat cover does not cover the back of the seat and head rest. They are simply velcro strapped in the back to hold it on. And they don't fit, just flapping around. They really look cheap, but cost a lot. They requested my vehicle make and model so the cover would be custom fit. Wrong! They don't fit and are downright ugly! You will be sorry if you buy it. Needless to say, I returned it."
George S., Arizona May 24, 2023 WeatherTech Seat Protector reviewer
There are many seat covers on the market, so if TigerTough isn’t right for you, there’s probably an option that’s safer and more affordable than WeatherTech.
WeatherTech Seat Protector and Seat Back Protector
WeatherTech Seat Protector (without backs)
TigerTough Seat Cover
Price
$410
$300
$297
Stars
3.2
3.2
4.9
Warranty
Limited Lifetime
Limited Lifetime
Unconditional two years
Material
Polycotton twill fabric
Polycotton twill fabric
1000 Denier CORDURA®️
Fit
Universal
Universal
Perfect Fit
Waterproof
Water-resistant
Water-resistant
Waterproof
Colors/Patterns
4
4
8
Airbag Safe
❌
❌
☑️
Made in the USA
☑️
☑️
☑️
Installation Time per Seat
5 minutes
3 minutes
9 minutes
Specs based on a 2023 Ford F150 regular cab. No add-ons are included in price comparisons.
People love their Wet Okole seat covers. There’s a loyal fanbase raving about these American-made, waterproof seat covers.
What's their claim? Seat covers that don't swelter in the summer or freeze in winter, waterproofed, and a fit that's tighter than a new pair of gloves.
They're a competitor we recognize. They're dedicated to enhancing vehicle interiors and protecting them from daily wear and tear. Wet Okole has a rabid following, and at TigerTough, we appreciate good competition.
But we need to take a quick pause to tell you that when we googled what Wet Okole means, we found out that in Hawaiian, it means wet butt. Nope, we didn’t make that up.
Anyway, we ordered a set for a 2023 Ford F-150 to compare them with TigerTough seat covers.
Let’s do this.
Watch the video review
Packaging
Now, we know this isn’t a factor people consider when ordering seat covers. But it’s still important to note since packaging can give you a glimpse of how a company treats their customers.
Wet Okole Packaging
Wet Okole covers arrived in the largest box we’ve ever received for a single set of seat covers. These covers are bulky on their own, so the box is understandable. It was branded well and came with information about the company and color instructions.
TigerTough Packaging
TigerTough seat covers ship in a branded poly mailer with full-color instructions specific to your exact vehicle. So, if you ordered covers for a 2018 Toyota Tacoma, you’ll get instructions on installing TigerTough seat covers on a 2018 Toyota Tacoma.
Design and fit of the seat cover
Wet Okole Design and Fit
Wet Okole’s seat covers have nylon-covered neoprene laminated on a half-inch of foam. It’s a thick cover and looks great installed.
The covers come in multiple pieces (we love that!) for the best fit. And thankfully, Wet Okole labels which seat cover goes on the driver’s seat. (They don’t label the passenger seat cover.) Does this matter? Absolutely. You need to make sure you have the correct covers on so that the airbag can deploy in the event of a collision.
And bonus: the set we received also included a center console cover.
We like the way the Wet Okole looks. It’s very attractive. However, it’s stiff with that ½” foam backing. If you press on the seat back, you’ll notice gapping between the cover and the seat. This is because the foam isn’t pliable. And after a while, that foam breaks down, and the cover won't fit as nicely.
Foam backing on a Wet Okole seat cover.
Wet Okole also does a lot of decorative stitching in the seat back. This looks nice, but it makes the fabric weaker.
TigerTough Design and Fit
TigerTough seat covers come in three pieces and wrap the entire seat, much like Wet Okole, but they are installed differently, which we’ll get into later.
Our covers are made from 1000-Denier CORDURA® and are proven to withstand intense abuse. There’s no foam backing on our covers, so it hugs the seat. We also don’t have any decorative stitching, except for embroidery, but because that’s in an area with minimal wear, it doesn’t weaken the seat cover like decorative stitching.
It took us approximately 17 minutes to install a Wet Okole cover. We rated these as medium difficulty. The instructions were pretty poor, but because we know seat covers, we knew what to do.
However, we had issues getting one of the straps through. The instructions said that you’d need to possibly remove the plastic molding on your seat to get the strap through. We didn’t want to do that on our boss’ truck, so it took a little longer for us to install.
Here’s how their seat covers are attached:
One strap running from side to side
Two straps running underneath from front to back
One loop around the seatbelt plug
TigerTough Installation
TigerTough took us 9 minutes to install on a seat. Yeah, we know our seat covers, so this probably took us a little faster than most people.
We try to be as specific with our instructions as possible and offer installation videos for every vehicle.
Here’s how TigerTough seat covers are attached:
The seat bottom runs all the way along the underside of the seat, attaching to itself with heavy-duty hook & loop.
We have our Stringlock that runs around the perimeter of the seat bottom and cinches it like a drawstring around and underneath the seat to ensure it doesn’t shift.
Both seat covers have headrest covers, so that’s a win! They also both tuck into the headrest mounts nicely. There’s not much more to say about that other than if you’re covering your seat, you need to cover the headrest.
Seat back
Both brands have a custom look for the seat back. They also both have options for custom embroidery and seat back pockets.
Wet Okole Seat Back
We’ve touched on this earlier, but the back of the Wet Okole seat covers have decorative stitching, which looks very attractive but isn’t great for durability. You'll also see the gapping here when you press on the seat cover.
TigerTough Seat Back
Our seat covers fit snuggly to the back without any gapping or unnecessary seems.
Seat Crease and Bottom
Since both seat covers are made from multiple pieces, they have clean-looking creases that fit the seats well.
They also both tuck into the plastic trim of the seat allowing access to the seat controls. We like the way TigerTough’s fit more snuggly on the bottom half, but if we removed the plastic trim to install the Wet Okole covers as they suggested, we might like that fit more than we do as is.
Airbag safety
Quick history lesson: most cars made after 2014 will have side airbags due to federal regulation, many deploying from the seat. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that between 1996 and 2012, 2,252 lives were saved by side and curtain airbags–before regulations were even put into place. At that time, only 42% of vehicles on the road were equipped with side airbags. That percentage is much higher now.
We know you take safety seriously, whether it’s in your personal vehicle or if you’re managing a fleet.
Wet Okole Airbag Compatibility
We don’t love the way Wet Okole does airbag compatibility with their covers. They have a slit on the side of their seats for the airbag to deploy. But, the slit isn’t as long as the tearaway seam on the factory seat, so we have concerns that an airbag could get stuck during deployment. However, Wet Okole says their seat covers are tested, so we’ll take their word for it.
TigerTough Airbag Compatibility
Our seat covers have a visible tearaway seam that goes the entire seat length. Our covers have been independently tested to ensure that an airbag will deploy in the event of a collision. We hope you never have to find out, but rest assured that our seat covers are deemed safe with airbags.
Waterproofness
Not all waterproofness (that’s a real word) works the same. This one is best shown in the video, but we’ll break it down here too.
Are Wet Okole seat covers waterproof?
Yes, they are, but they also soak up the water like a little sponge. The seat underneath stays dry. However, if you spill something, your cover will remain wet for a while. You’ll want to blot the seat cover and keep the windows open if you can so that they’ll dry out.
Otherwise, Wet Okole will live up to their name and leave you with a wet butt.
Are TigerTough seats waterproof?
They are, and they’re also hydrophobic. Does that mean they’re scared of water? Pretty much. They can’t even absorb liquid.
In the video, you’ll see that the water poured on the TigerTough seat cover beads up and rolls off. So yeah, your floor may get wet if you spill on your seats, but you can wipe up your seat cover and sit about it without worrying about wet pants. Do you want the portion of the video where we do that? Maybe as a gif?
Warranty and Returns
Wet Okole Warranty and Returns
This is one of our biggest disappointments with this brand. They have a 90-day limited warranty, and it only covers manufacturer defects. In terms of returns, they don’t accept returns if you aren’t happy with your purchase. So you get what you get.
TigerTough Warranty and Returns
Our vehicle seat covers have a two-year, unconditional warranty. If something happens to your TigerTough seat covers, we’ll replace or repair them. It doesn’t matter how they got damaged; we’ll happily make it right.
If, for some reason, you don’t like your TigerTough seat covers, we’ll accept returns within 30 days of you receiving them. You just need to be sure they’re in like-new condition still.
Price
Seat covers can range from $50 to hundreds of dollars. For comparison, we used a 2023 Ford F-150 covers.
How much does Wet Okole cost?
We ordered a set of their standard bucket seats for $374. This is a fair price for seat covers since they can get pretty expensive if you pay for something custom.
How much does TigerTough cost?
To cover your two front seats with TigerTough, it will cost around $297.
Overview
We like Wet Okole. Not enough to quit our jobs and go work for them, but they have a decent seat cover. But if we were sitting down with you over a beer, we’d probably say that we expected more from Wet Okole based on their cult following, but we don’t doubt that the covers will protect your seats for years.
It all comes down to preference in the end. Both covers are made in America and have great reviews.
If you want fun colors and that beach vibe, Wet Okole would be a great option. We still don’t love their warranty or return policy, though.
If you want something rugged and meant to withstand hard use, like construction equipment or excited farm dogs, we’d encourage you to try TigerTough. After all, if you don’t like our seat covers, you can return them.
Maybe after reading this comparison, neither of these brands appeal to you. Then you should definitely check out the best seat covers for work trucks and find something that meets your needs.
