Learning Center

A lot of seat covers suck.

They fall short on fit, installation, warranty, and wear. We've reviewed some of the top seat cover brands on the market, and even some of those have struggles.

So here are eight roadblocks we hear when it comes to buying seat covers. We've addressed them to eliminate the suckage.

Problem 1: Seat Covers Suck to Install

First off, any seat cover that fits well will take a little time to install. If it just slips on, it will slip right off the first time you sit on it. 

TigerTough Solution:

We’ve worked our tails off to ensure that TigerTough seat covers don’t suck to install. It won’t be a breeze, but we'll make it as easy as possible.

• Everything is held on the seat with hook and loop fasteners (you may call this VELCRO, but that's a brand name, and we aren't allowed to call it that) except a string that runs under the seat. That’s held together with our patented Stringlock. More on that later.
• When designing a new seat cover, we also shoot a detailed install video and write up an install guide for that seat. We don’t do generic instructions because vehicles aren’t generic. 
• TigerTough seat covers aren’t one-piece covers. The back, bottom, and headrest of your seat are all covered with separate covers, so you can work on one section at a time and end up with something that fits properly.
• There’s a very fine line between seat covers that fit well and feeling like you’re putting five pounds of potatoes in a four-pound sack. We tip-toe right down that line. Johnny Cash would be proud.  
  

Problem 2: Seat Covers Never Stay In Place

We're with you. Seat covers that shimmy and shift are as bad as a bunched-up sock in your work boot. Ain't nobody got time (or tolerance) for that.

TigerTough Solution:

• Everything is held on with hook and loop, string, and the Stringlock. None of these have any “give.” Your cover is secure once you’ve snugged everything up, pulled it tight, and slammed it into place. We don’t secure anything with elastic or adjustable clips because elastic stretches as soon as you put pressure on it, and adjustable clips tend to self-adjust over time.
• This is another reason for the three-piece cover. When you can completely wrap the seat back, bottom, and headrest separately, the seat cover conforms to the seat's shape and has no room to move.
• Everything is fully wrapped. Rather than run straps under the seat where you can’t see them, we run the cover all the way under the seat and connect it together in the back. Some seat covers are like aprons. Ours is like a pair of trusty coveralls. Which would you prefer on the job?
• Stretchy fabric is notorious for moving around. Since TigerTough seat covers are made from tough, tightly woven fabric, there is no stretch at all.  

Problem 3: Seat Covers Never Fit Right

An ill-fitting seat cover doesn't do anyone any favors. And one-size-fits-most usually means one-size-fits-none. There's no reason to settle for a bad seat cover.

TigerTough Solution:

Every TigerTough seat cover is designed specifically for one seat style or one vehicle.

Here’s how the process works:

1. We get the seat into our factory for the most accurate measurements.
2. Our design team spends 2-3 days designing a cover that matches the seat exactly.
3. We install the cover, taking detailed install photos and videos so you can see precisely how it goes when installing it.
   

If you’re hesitant to use seat covers based on past experiences with covers that fit like socks on a rooster, you have every right to be!  

No seat cover we make is designed from pictures or manufacturer specs. It’s all done the hard way, by hand, using the seats they'll cover.

Problem 4: They’re Unsafe

Okay, some seat covers aren't safe. Or hey, maybe safety never even crossed your mind. We actually reviewed a very popular seat cover brand that isn't considered safe when it comes to airbag deployment. You might also be think it's not safe to use them with heated seats.

TigerTough Solution:

Any TigerTough seat cover designed for seats with airbags built into them is designed to tear open exactly as the factory seat does if the airbag deploys.

A third-party lab independently tests our designs to ensure they work just as they should.

As for the whole heated seat thing, most covers are safe for heated seats. There will be some that perform better than others though.

Problem 5: They’re Ugly

Well, this is pretty subjective. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, right?

Seat covers have come a long way, though, and you can likely find a cover in a style that suits you. Whether you want something tough, floral, camo, or fluffy. Heck, even Carhartt has covers.

TigerTough Solution:

We design for performance first, not looks. You won’t find bright colors, elaborate patterns, or luxury quilting on any of our seat covers. 

The fanciest we get is camo covers and custom embroidery.

We skip the decorative stitching so the covers are as tough as possible and look a little plainer than the factory seats.

If you want something that looks like a custom interior, you may not love our covers. If you’re looking for something that’ll keep your seats in good shape for as long as you own the truck, you’ll think they’re perfect.

Problem 6: They Wear Out

Remember the cheap parts store ones that we talked about? Those do wear out. We've even seen Carhartt wear out.

If you’re going to spend good money on seat covers to keep your seats looking good, you’re kinda getting the short straw if they’re made from cheap, stretchy fabric that wears out in a few months. Leave that material for yoga pants, not your truck.

TigerTough Solution:

You can be confident that your TigerTough covers aren’t going to give up on you. Since they’re designed for work, they’re made from military-grade fabric. The solid colors are made from the strongest fabric, a 1000-denier CORDURA, and the camos are made from almost-as-tough 900-denier polyester.

They’ve got a two-year unconditional warranty and we really mean unconditional.  If anything wears out or breaks for any reason, we’ll fix or replace it. (But we want to hear how it happened because we know there's a good story behind it.)

Here’s how a set looks after eight years and 235,000+ miles in a heavy equipment service truck:    

Problem 7: They’re Sweaty

You had pleather seat covers once, didn’t you? Or did you buy some cheap vinyl ones once that gave you flashbacks of your days on a school bus?

Gross. We don't blame you for wanting to steer clear.

TigerTough Solution:

Both of our fabrics are breathable so you won’t have to deal with swamp@** or peeling any bare skin off your seats. These won’t feel any different than your factory seat as far as being breathable or making you sweaty.

When spending hard-earned cash on your truck, ensure you get breathable seat covers.

Problem 8: They're expensive

No one wants to spend extra money on their vehicle. But seat covers aren't a frivolous expense, they're actually an investment. Don't roll your eyes —we'll show you the numbers.

A pair of TigerTough seat covers costs $317 with our standard fabric. By using seat covers as a preventative maintenance tool, you're get your initial investment back...and then some. 

See how we came up with these numbers.

Problem 9: They don't work with my heated or cooled seats

Not all seat covers get along with heated or cooled seats. If you're planning to fire up the heat or blast the AC in your seats, steer clear of pleather or neoprene covers (unless the manufacturer confirms they won't compromise your temperature controls).

TigerTough Solution:

While our covers aren't specifically designed for temperature-controlled seats, they're safe to use with heated seats. And sure, you can use them with air-conditioned seats, but don’t expect to feel that cool breeze with the same gusto on your backside like you would on a bare seat. We’re all about protecting your seats, so that's where we put our focus.

Problem 10: You're Not Sure What to Get

This is tough. First, we recommended finding the best brand for what you need. 

TigerTough Solution:

We’ve designed the lookup on our website to make it easy to find the covers for your vehicle. All you need to know are the following details.

• The year (2020)
• The Make (Ford)
• The Model (F150)
• The Trim Package (XLT)
• The Cab Type (SuperCrew)

Once you punch in all that info, we’ll show you only the seat covers that will fit your truck!  If there could be a couple of different seat configurations in your vehicle, we’ll show you the different options and explain the differences between the two.

Find the best seat covers for your truck

If you're still not sold on seat covers, that's okay. But here's our list of things you should consider when shopping around:

• Multiple-piece covers
• Waterproof
• Custom-fit
• Made in the U.S.A.
• Airbag-compatible
• A strong warranty

Seat covers are an investment, and you want to be sure you're making the smartest choice for your needs.

Yes, you can put seat covers on heated seats, but with caution. You need to choose the right type of seat cover that allows heat to pass through without causing damage to both the seat and the cover.

Heated seats in your truck are nearly a must-have in chilly weather (just ask us; we’re from Minnesota). Some of our customers ask us: is it safe to put seat covers on heated seats? 

Let’s clear the air and get down to the facts about protecting your heated seats without losing their warming benefits.

What kind of material is safe on heated seats?

Thin, breathable materials like polyester, CORDURA®, or certain blends are typically safe as they allow efficient heat transfer. Avoid materials that are too thick, foam-backed, or insulated, as they can block the heat and potentially cause damage to the heating elements. We’d also suggest avoiding faux leather or anything furry…for more reason than one.

Are seat covers safe with aftermarket seat heaters?. 

Generally, seat covers are compatible with both factory-installed and aftermarket heating systems. However, aftermarket heaters can add extra bulk to your seats. Properly install heaters so that they're smooth under the covers. You can enjoy the added warmth and protect your seats with the right approach, but if your seat heaters are too bulky under the covers, you may want to consider a thinner option.

Safety and efficiency

When using seat covers on heated seats, consider the following:

• Ensure the seat cover is properly fitted and doesn’t bunch up, as uneven distribution can lead to overheating in certain spots.
• Be aware that seat covers may slightly reduce the heat intensity you feel.
• Regularly check the seat covers and seats for any signs of heat damage.

How do TigerTough seat covers work with heated and cooled seats?

They work great, if we do say so ourselves.

“The covers work great with heated seats. They'll warm up just like the factory seats, and you won't notice a difference. If you use them with cooled seats, they'll work, but you'll notice less of a breeze. That's because the factory-cooled seats are perforated, but the covers are not. The covers will still cool and let some air through because the fabric is breathable, but it'll just be less than you're used to with the factory seats.” 

-Sheldon Zitzmann, Marketing Director 

Ready?

Planning to outfit your heated seats with covers? No problem, but let's do it right. Choose materials that play nice with the heat, and you're all set. It's about striking that perfect balance – enjoying the cozy warmth while keeping your seats rugged and ready. Go the right route, and your heated seats stay snug and secure, season after season.

CORDURA® sets the standard for fabric durability, known for its unmatched resilience against abrasions, tears, and scuffs. This robust woven fabric is made of nylon material and is favored for high-stakes applications from military gear to adventure equipment. 

It’s the Hercules of fabrics.

CORDURA® seat covers are designed to withstand rigorous daily use, unforgiving weather, and incidental spills, ensuring your seats are well-protected for years.

The history of CORDURA®

Crafted over half a century ago and trademarked by DuPont, CORDURA® began its journey, toughening up tires and military attire. Fast forward to the 1970s: that’s when CORDURA® really showed up, becoming the fabric of choice for military apparel because of its unparalleled resistance to wear and tear.

It didn’t stop there. CORDURA® broke through military confines, transforming the consumer market with its rugged essence, revolutionizing everything from outdoor equipment to durable luggage. Remember lugging around a Jansport or Eastpak backpack in the 80s or 90s? That was (and still is) made out of CORDURA®.

What makes CORDURA® unique?

When it comes to durable fabrics, CORDURA® stands out from the crowd. But what exactly sets it apart? The answer lies in its composition and the varying deniers it offers.

What is CORDURA® made of?

At its core, CORDURA® is a type of nylon made by spinning together fibers of various lengths to create an exceptionally sturdy yarn. However, it's not just any nylon. CORDURA®'s fibers are specially engineered and treated in many steps that enhance their natural durability. The result is a fabric that boasts resistance to abrasions, tears, and scuffs far beyond that of ordinary nylon.

Understanding denier

Denier refers to the weight of the yarn used in the fabric. Specifically, it indicates the weight in grams of a 9,000-meter length of the yarn. The higher the denier, the thicker, sturdier, and more durable the fabric. This makes the denier an important factor when selecting a fabric for specific applications — the right denier for the right job ensures both efficiency and longevity.

The spectrum of CORDURA® deniers

CORDURA®'s versatility is reflected in its range of deniers, each suited to different tasks:

• Lightweight applications (30 to 210 denier): Used for clothing and light bags where flexibility and breathability are needed alongside durability.
• Intermediate applications (500 denier): Strikes a balance between strength and weight, ideal for more demanding travel gear and backpacks.
• Heavy-duty applications (1000 denier and above): The choice for situations where maximum durability is non-negotiable, such as in seat covers for heavy machinery, military gear, and workwear.

Focusing on 1000 denier for seat covers

This high-denier armors your seats. Choosing CORDURA® means choosing unbeatable resilience and a commitment to long-lasting protection, keeping your seats in top form against the toughest challenges.

Benefits of CORDURA® for seat covers

1. Exceptional Abrasion Resistance: The tightly woven fabric of CORDURA® stands up to continuous rubbing and friction without showing signs of wear. This is particularly crucial for seat covers, which are subject to constant use and movement.
2. Enhanced Longevity: CORDURA® is synonymous with longevity. Seat covers crafted from this material are less likely to need replacement, which means less waste and more savings over time.
3. Adaptability: CORDURA®'s versatility allows it to be treated for additional properties, such as water resistance.

CORDURA® in the real world

CORDURA®'s reputation for toughness is built on real-world grit—it's the fabric that's been put through its paces in the most grueling conditions imaginable. It's the go-to material for professionals who need performance they can count on, day in and day out, no matter the job site's demands.

CORDURA® across industries

Military: In the military, gear failure is not an option. CORDURA® is extensively used to create equipment that soldiers rely on, from bulletproof vests to heavy-duty rucksacks, due to its high tensile strength and exceptional durability.

Outdoor Gear: Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts turn to CORDURA® for backpacks, camping gear, and apparel that can endure the elements and rugged terrain without faltering.

Workwear: The fabric's resistance to abrasions and tears makes it ideal for workwear in industries like construction and forestry, where clothing and gear face constant abuse.

Caring for your CORDURA® seat covers

Like any other high-performance equipment, CORDURA® seat covers require proper maintenance to ensure they continue functioning at their best. However, taking care of them is not as daunting as one might think. Here are some straightforward tips and dispelled myths to help you maintain your CORDURA® seat covers effectively.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

• Simple soap and water are often enough to clean CORDURA® seat covers. For tougher stains, a soft brush and mild fabric cleaner will do the trick.
• Steer clear of bleach and other abrasive cleaners, as they can degrade the fabric's protective coatings over time.

Choosing the right CORDURA® seat covers for your vehicle

Selecting the perfect CORDURA® seat cover for your vehicle doesn't have to be a challenge. With the right information and key points in mind, you can make an informed choice that provides maximum protection and longevity.

• Understanding the make, model, and year of your vehicle is crucial. CORDURA® seat covers come in designs tailored to specific vehicle layouts, ensuring every contour is covered.
• Different deniers of CORDURA® cater to varying degrees of wear. Determine the conditions your vehicle's interior faces and choose a denier that stands up to those challenges.
• Many vehicles have unique features, such as side airbags or integrated seatbelts. Ensure the CORDURA® seat covers you choose accommodate these specifications.
• Full coverage is key. Opt for seat covers that cover the entire seat, reducing the risk of unprotected areas that can accumulate wear.
• Look for additional protective features such as water resistance, UV protection, antimicrobial options, and reinforcement in high-stress areas.

Here a few brands that make CORDURA® seat covers:

• Northwest

• TigerTough

• Covercraft

• ShearComfort

• CalTrend

• Headwaters

Why does TigerTough use CORDURA®?

By now, you’ve seen how tough it is. We make seat covers for work trucks, semi-trucks, and heavy equipment, so our covers need to be able to stand up to the same harsh conditions as you do.

It’s also made in the U.S., like our seat covers, which is important to us as a company.

“1000 Denier is the perfect blend of strength and workability. It's tough enough to be almost indestructible, but it's still flexible enough to be easy to work with. Any heavier gets stiff, and any lighter loses strength. It's highly customizable. It can be dyed and printed with a range of colors, and we can add a ton of different technologies to it to make it waterproof, antimicrobial, etc.”

Sheldon Zitzmann, Marketing Director

Compare CORDURA vs. Carhartt

Curious to see how CORDURA® seat covers measure up to Carhartt? Take a look at the lab results, where a third-party laboratory independently tests each material. 

To be direct, yes, airbag-compatible seat covers are considered safe if they allow the airbag to deploy in third-party testing.

But for those who want to know more details, this article is for you.

Airbags are relatively new in automobile history. They were heavily considered for passenger vehicles in the 1950s, according to The Rough Road to Airbags. The concept was brought to Chrystler, but they weren't interested. Ford and General Motors experimented with prototypes but couldn't mass-produce them. 

However, they didn't become common until decades later. NHTSA now estimates that frontal airbags have saved more than 70,000 lives in the U.S. through 2019, and they reduce driver fatalities in frontal crashes by 29% and front-seat passenger fatalities by 32%

So what are airbag-compatible seat covers, and why are they important?

What are airbag-compatible seat covers?

Seat covers are considered compatible with airbags when holes or flaps allow the seat airbag to deploy. They're considered safe for installation.

When you install seat covers on a newer (2012+) vehicle, you're almost guaranteed to cover up an airbag in the side of your seat. If your seat cover doesn't allow the airbag to deploy, you will likely be smashing your head and upper body into the side of the vehicle in the event of a crash. That's not something fun to think about, but it's true.

Watch this video and see how the torso airbag in the seat works with the ceiling airbag to protect the driver from hitting the side of the vehicle:

That doesn't mean you shouldn't install seat covers on your vehicle. Just don't install cheap, universal-fit covers. But watch out; even well-known manufacturers don't always have airbag-safe covers.

If the seat cover doesn't mention anything about compatibility, and you see straps or anything covering the side airbag, it's probably best not to install it in your car, truck, van, or SUV.

Which brands of seat covers are compatible with airbags?

In our research, we've found the following top brands to be considered safe:

• Covercraft
• Wet Okole
• Canvasback
• ShearComfort
• TigerTough

We haven't looked to see if these brands (other than TigerTough) have been independently tested, but according to their websites, they're considered safe with airbags. We suggest you only install seat covers that are independently tested and verified for airbag compatibility by a qualified third-party laboratory.

So TigerTough seat covers are airbag-safe?

Yes.

TigerTough seat covers have been independently tested and verified by MGA Research Corporation in Troy, MI. Watch the airbag deploy in under 30 milliseconds in the testing video below:

Whether you're installing truck seat covers or installing them on your car or van, check that the cover will allow your airbag to deploy. You owe it to yourself and your passengers.

Why are they important?

When adding aftermarket parts to your vehicle, you need to make sure you're not hindering any of the safety features of your truck, van, car, police vehicle, etc.

All vehicles today have airbags in the steering wheel and passenger side dash. Most vehicles come with them in the side of the seat back. Some cars have airbags in the A-pillar (by the dash), the B-pillar (by your head when you're in the seat), the ceiling, and other locations in the vehicle.

We HIGHLY recommend checking your owner's manual before modifying your vehicle's interior to ensure you aren't compromising your and your passengers' safety. And when you're ready to install seat covers, be sure they're compatible with your airbags.

Imagine this: It's mid-July, you're coming off a roofing job, and the sun has been relentless. But the moment you climb into your truck, that sweltering heat fades away, all thanks to your air-conditioned seats. 

But what happens when you want to protect these high-tech seats? The question pops up often: 'Can you put seat covers on air-conditioned seats?' Yes, you can certainly outfit your ventilated seats with covers, but the seat cover you choose makes a difference.

Seat covers on air-conditioned seats? Absolutely doable. However, not all seat covers are up to the task, especially when it comes to accommodating the sophisticated functionality of ventilated seats. The trick is finding the right kind that complements the seat's built-in cooling features.

How Air-Conditioned Seats Work and Why Cover Them

Quick lesson time. A/C seats are more than just a cool feature (see what we did there?); they're a sophisticated system.

At their core, these seats use small fans within the seat itself to circulate air. This system draws air through the seat's fabric, often through a mesh layer, and across your body to provide a cooling sensation. For some higher-end models, this technology goes a step further by incorporating temperature-controlled air that can either cool or warm you, depending on the setting.

Why would anyone want to cover up such an innovative feature? Protection is the primary motivator. Like any other part of your vehicle, seats are prone to wear and tear, but they see the brunt of it. Spills, stains, and constant wear. Seat covers provide a protective barrier to keep your investment in top condition. And ultimately, they improve your resale value.

But the wrong cover can block airflow, making the seat's cooling function useless. By choosing wisely, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—enhanced durability and maintained comfort, all without sacrificing the cooling feature.

Choosing the Right Seat Covers for Air-Conditioned Seats

Selecting the right seat covers for your air-conditioned seats isn't just about aesthetics; it's about preserving the functionality that makes these seats a coveted feature in the first place. The goal is to add protection without sacrificing cool comfort. 

Compatibility Is Important

First and foremost, make sure the seat covers you're considering are compatible with air-conditioned seats. Manufacturers often specify if their covers allow for air to circulate.

Breathable Materials Make a Difference

The magic word here is "breathability." You need cotton, nylon, or polyester that allows the seat to breathe. Avoid leather and pleather options (for more than just one reason).

Features That Enhance Airflow

Some seat covers go the extra mile by incorporating features that enhance airflow. Look for covers with integrated perforations or vented sections that align with your seat's ventilation points. These design choices can make a significant difference in maintaining the effectiveness of your seat's cooling feature. And yes, you’ll pay more for them.

BUT…since they have perforations to help the air go out, they’ll also let all the dirt/sweat/spills in. So, they’re protection score plummets.

Things to Avoid with Seat Covers on AC Seats

When outfitting air-conditioned seats with covers, a common trap is picking materials that work against you. While upscale in appearance, leather, and faux leather are prime examples of what to steer clear of. These materials may look sleek but tend to insulate rather than ventilate, smothering the seat's ability to breathe and cool you down.

Here's another thing to avoid: foam-backed seat covers. It’s just one more layer between you and sweet, cooling relief.

Choosing the wrong seat cover can cancel out the benefits of your AC seats, leaving you warmer than you'd like, regardless of the settings. So get seat covers that promote airflow and are compatible with your vehicle's specific cooling technology.

Recommended Types of Seat Covers for Air-Conditioned Seats

 You'll want something that complements the system rather than compromises it. 

Breathable fabrics designed to allow air to circulate freely are important for maintaining the cooling effect of your seats. But keep in mind that even with these seat covers, you may not feel that breeze on your behind like you can without seat covers because the covers will act like a bit of blocker. Like if you cover your air vents with a piece of fabric, you’ll still feel the cool air, but it just won’t be so gusty. 

Specific brands that get our nod for doing it right with air-conditioned seats include:

Choosing the right seat cover means you won't have to sacrifice comfort for protection.

Compared to Heated Seats

So here’s the secret: if seat covers are okay with heated seats, they’re probably just fine with cooled seats, too. Heated and cooled seats work differently, but if you’re allowing your seats to breathe with the seat cover, you’ll get the benefits of heated and cooled seats. 

When in doubt, contact the manufacturer and ask.

So, yeah…

You can absolutely team up seat covers with your air-conditioned seats—just make sure you're picking the right partners. Remember, the goal is to pair up without compromising those cool breezes. Think about what you need from a seat cover and the features that matter most to you, then choose accordingly.

Each TigerTough custom seat cover is shipped with step-by-step color instructions on installing them on the exact vehicle they were specifically designed for. 

So if you ordered seat covers for your 2022 Toyota Tacoma, you’ll get instructions on how to install those covers in a 2022 Toyota Tacoma. Pretty nice, right?

There are covers in the seat cover world that look awful because the installation process is confusing or inadequate. It’s a common problem with seat covers. We addressed this head-on by making installation as straightforward as possible.

And if you toss your instructions aside in a moment of confidence and need a few pointers along the way, you’re in luck, because we record installation videos for every vehicle. 

Since each vehicle is different, each seat cover install will be different. 

We’ll walk you through what a typical installation looks like.

Watch the video version

Before you start 

1. Lift and remove the headrest.
2. Lean the seat back.
3. Remove any straps on the underside that hold the carpet up.
4. If you have a Ford, unclip the plastic connectors under the seat–they might feel like they’re going to break, but they will come off.

Installing the seat bottom cover

1. Make sure you start with the correct seat cover–passenger and driver’s seats are different, so just look for the tag.
2. Line the seams up.
3. Push the top flap of the seat cover between the seat back and the seat bottom.
4. Take the strings and put one between the seat and the center console and cover and one between the seat cushion and plastic on the door side. These need to go down and under the seat, not straight back and behind the seat.
5. Tuck the cover between the cushion and the plastic trim around the seat.
6. Go behind the seat and find the strings you ran through the sides of the seat.
7. Run them under the seat. Look at your specific instructions to see if you need to run them behind or in front of the seat mounts. 
8. Pull them as tight as you can.
9. Find the StringLock.
10. Run the strings through each side of the StringLock as tight as possible and clamp it (the tighter, the better!).
11. Run the front seat flaps over any seat-adjusting bar and under the seat.
12. Pull tight on the front and back flaps and fasten them underneath the seat.

Installing the seatback cover

1. Make sure the airbag tag is on the door side of the seat.
2. Slide the cover over the seat.
3. Press the cover down around the plastic headrest mounts.
4. Go to the back and tuck the carpet flap up into the seat cover.
5. Push the front flaps through the seat crease and fasten them on the backside.

Lastly, install the headrest cover

1. Put the headrest back in, but don’t put it all the way down.
2. Take the cover and make sure the long flap is in front.
3. Tuck the flap to the back and secure it.
4. You can put the headrest down now if you’d like.

How easy was it?

We’ve installed other seat covers (check out this Carhartt install we did) and must admit that ours take longer. Since our covers come in multiple pieces, you’ll get a better fit, but it will take a little while to get those pieces where you want.

We say to expect to spend up to 45 minutes per seat on installation. 

According to Hunt Tested:

“If you’re looking for a seat cover that you can throw on for the weekends and then take off during the week, this cover is likely not the best choice. While you certainly can remove and reinstall these covers, the process is involved enough that I wouldn’t want to do it frequently. To get a precision fit, you give up being able to quickly and easily take the covers on and off.”

Wrapping it up (see what we did there?)

These aren’t the easiest to install, but they’re also not rocket science. If you’ve ever stepped foot on a job site, you can install these. And we can assure you that every installation step helps give you the best-looking fit on your new seat covers. 

Every vehicle installation is going to vary a bit. But we won’t leave you in the dark. You’ll get detailed instructions, an install video, and you’re always welcome to contact us if you’re stumped. And if you want to skip the installation altogether, check out one of our 850+ dealers.

Considering seat covers for your vehicle's leather seats? It's a decision many drivers think about. Leather is a premium material that demands thoughtful care, and the pressing question is whether seat covers help or harm leather seats.

For the most part, no, seat covers won't ruin your leather seats.

They're generally seen as a protective layer, guarding against daily wear and tear, spills, and sun damage. However, not every seat cover is suitable for leather. Some may negatively impact the material over time, like the ones that can trap moisture and adhere to the leather.

Understanding Leather Seats and Seat Covers

While those leather seats are pretty sturdy on their own, they can absolutely benefit from the extra protection that seat covers bring. It's all about keeping them in prime condition for as long as possible, and that's a job seat covers do pretty well, if we say so ourselves.

Leather seats are tough yet tender

Leather's durable, but it's not invincible. Constant sun exposure, the daily in-and-out, and the occasional coffee spill can leave leather looking worn and faded. Leather is also porous, so it absorbs spills, odors, and oils over time and needs some regular care to stay in tip-top shape.

Seat covers are your leather seat’s BFF

Think of seat covers as a shield for your leather: they keep the bad stuff (UV rays, spills, dirt, grease, pet hair) off your seats while still allowing the leather to breathe. The right seat cover protects your leather from the everyday abuse that ages it fastest, helping you preserve both the look and the resale value of your vehicle.

Do Seat Covers Protect Leather?

Yes, the right ones do. Seat covers are one of the best ways to protect leather seats. Here's what they guard against:

• UV damage: Prolonged sun exposure causes leather to dry out, crack, and fade. A quality seat cover blocks UV rays entirely.

• Spills and stains: Leather is porous and difficult to deep-clean. A seat cover takes the hit so your leather doesn't have to.

• Wear and friction: Daily in-and-out causes surface abrasion over time. Seat covers absorb that friction instead.

• Pet scratches: Claws and nails can quickly scratch or puncture leather. A tough fabric cover is a much cheaper fix than reupholstering.

You need to choose a cover that doesn't trap moisture, doesn't chemically react with your leather's finish, and fits well enough that it doesn't shift and create friction underneath.

How to Protect Leather Car Seats

Here are the best practices to maintain your leather seats:

1. Clean your seats before installing covers. Dirt or moisture trapped under a seat cover can cause mold, mildew, and accelerated wear. Give your leather a thorough clean and let it dry completely first.

2. Choose breathable materials. Seat covers made from breathable fabrics (like high-quality canvas or CORDURA) allow air circulation so moisture doesn't get trapped against the leather.

3. Avoid foam-backed covers on freshly conditioned leather. If your leather was recently conditioned, wait a few days before installing foam-backed seat covers. The conditioner and foam can react in ways that damage both the cover and the leather's surface finish.

4. Ensure a proper fit. A loose seat cover shifts around and creates friction which is exactly what you're trying to avoid. Choose covers designed for your specific make and model.

What are the best seat cover materials for leather seats?

The best overall choice for leather seats is heavy-duty canvas or woven fabric. Tough woven fabrics like TigerTough's seat covers are breathable, durable, and won't chemically react with leather. They sit against the seat without trapping heat or moisture, and they're machine washable, which makes them easy to maintain. If you're using your vehicle for work or hauling gear regularly, this is the go-to.

Our favorite seat cover brands for leather seats are:

• TigerTough (obviously)

• Carhartt

• Marathon

• Northwest

Materials to avoid on leather seats

These are our opinions, backed by a few facts. We absolutely suggest doing your own research to determine what you’re comfortable with. 

Neoprene Seat Covers

A solid option for active or outdoor use. Neoprene is waterproof and easy to wipe down, which makes it popular for off-roaders and water sports enthusiasts. The tradeoff: Neoprene is less breathable than woven fabric, so it can trap more heat in hot climates. It's generally safe for leather as long as it's installed on clean, dry seats, but if you’re not one to baby your truck or your seats, maybe avoid neoprene.

Faux leather or leatherette seat covers

A lot of people like the way these look, and they’re easy to wipe clean, but they're not the best choice for protecting genuine leather underneath. Leatherette doesn't breathe, so over time it can trap heat and humidity against your leather seats. Better for aesthetic upgrades on cloth seats than for protecting premium leather.

Cheap Foam-Backed Covers

Low-cost foam-backed covers are the most likely to cause problems on leather. The foam backing can interact with leather conditioners and UV-protectant treatments, potentially degrading both materials. If you're going foam-backed, make sure your leather hasn't been recently treated.

Seat Covers on Heated Leather Seats

One of the most common questions we get with leather seats: can you put seat covers on heated leather seats?

Yes, in most cases, seat covers are safe to use with heated leather seats. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Check the seat cover material. Thinner, more breathable fabrics transfer heat more efficiently. Very thick or insulating materials may reduce how well you feel the heat, but they won't damage the heating element.

• Never use seat covers that aren't designed for heated seats on seats you regularly heat. The repeated heat cycles can cause ill-fitting covers to shift, bunch, or wear unevenly.

• Avoid covers with metal hardware near the seat surface. Metal components like rivets can become uncomfortably hot and potentially scratch leather when the seat heats up.

We put various materials to the test in the dead of winter to see which ones worked best with heated seats. Check out the test results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will seat covers damage leather seats?

No. Quality seat covers protect leather seats rather than damaging them. The risk comes from using the wrong type of cover (like foam-backed covers on freshly conditioned leather) or installing them over dirty, damp seats.

Do seat covers protect leather from cracking?

Yes. UV exposure is one of the leading causes of leather cracking and fading. A seat cover blocks sunlight entirely, dramatically slowing the aging process.

Can you put seat covers on leather heated seats?

Yes, seat covers are generally safe for heated leather seats. Choose breathable, properly fitting covers and avoid thick insulating materials that block heat transfer.

What type of seat covers are best for leather seats?

Breathable, woven fabric seat covers are the best choice for leather. They protect against spills, UV, and wear without trapping moisture or heat against the leather surface.

Protect your leather seats

Seat covers and leather seats are a great combination, as long as you choose the right cover. Look for breathability, a proper fit, and clean installation. Skip the cheap foam-backed options, and you'll find that seat covers are one of the best investments you can make in protecting your leather's long-term condition and your vehicle's resale value.

Ready to protect your leather seats?