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.
The tractor or commercial mower seat cover selections are pretty slim. So let’s take a look at the few companies that make seat covers for your tractor.
Tractor Seats
They say it right there in the name! Tractor Seats specializes in…tractor seats. Hard to beat that! Tractor Seats is owned by K & M Manufacturing Co. (but please don’t ask us what the K or M stands for).
Founded in 1958, K & M Manufacturing Co. began by creating practical toolboxes and steps for farmers. It quickly expanded to include more products such as replacement tractor seats, suspensions, and floor mats. Today, it serves major agricultural brands with over 2,500 custom-built items, operating out of a 72,000-square-foot combined production and warehouse space.
Here’s what we can say about their tractor seat covers.
Pros
✅ Affordable ✅ In-stock inventory
Cons
❌ The seat covers only fit K & M seats ❌ Some are just a glorified bag that slides over the seat
Price: $50-$200
Ultra Seat
We looked at Ultra Seat when we reviewed heavy equipment seat covers, and we’re pretty familiar with them. Like Tractor Seats, they make aftermarket seats for heavy equipment, tractors, and semi-trucks. They also sell seat parts, such as foam and lumbar kits.
When a company makes seats, they will make a good seat cover…for that seat. The same goes for Ultra Seat. If you have one of their seats or a Grammer seat, one of the three Ultra Seat seat cover options will work well for you. But if you’re still rocking an OEM seat that isn’t made by Grammer, chances are you won’t find a great fit.
Pros
✅ Affordable ✅ CORDURA ® options
Cons
❌ Only three seat cover sizes ❌ Won’t fit OEM well
Price: $79-176
DuraFit
DuraFit actually makes some of Tractor Seat’s seat covers and we found them when we were looking for seat covers for lawn mowers. They have covers for Kubota, John Deere, Yanmar, New Holland, and universal covers.
Based in Arlington, TX, Durafit Seat Covers is a family-run shop that's been cranking out custom seat covers for over 30 years. They use a combo of CAD techniques and hand-sewn stitching to make their covers tough enough to take whatever you throw at them.
Pros
✅ Cheapest of the covers ✅ Different material options ✅ Fit a variety of OEM seats
Cons
❌ If we’re being picky, their covers are only made from 600-denier fabric ❌ Warranty info is unknown, but at $40, you’re not losing much ❌ Not all covers are made in the U.S.
Price: $40
Jay’s Equipment Seat Covers
Jay’s is another company we’re familiar with. However, they don’t say much about themselves, so it’s a little difficult to give any background info.
They make three sizes of seat covers for tractors in two material types–vinyl and canvas. Please don’t get the vinyl unless you’ve really got a thing for swamp@ss.
We don’t have too much to say about Jay’s except that they’re a decent cover for universal fit and we love that they’re made in the U.S.
Pros
✅ Affordable ✅ Made in the U.S.
Cons
❌ Limited styles and sizes
Price: $70-$75
TigerTough
We're honored to have made this list (even though we technically made this list). Think we're joking? We're not. Tractor seat covers have been months in the making so we're thrilled to finally have some skin in the game.
We think our covers are the best, but we're not foolish enough to think that they're the best for everyone. So you be the judge.
Pros
✅ Waterproof ✅ Made from CORDURA® ✅ Unconditional lifetime warranty ✅ Made in the U.S.
Cons
❌ Most expensive option in the lineup
Price: $247
The Pickin’s are Slim
Unfortunately, there aren’t many seat covers available for tractors. But over time, seat covers will save you money so they’re worth investing in.
If you’re going to purchase tractor seat covers, we suggest avoiding any universal-fit covers. Yes, they cover and protect, but they also fit like a bad suit and you’ll be cursing them after a few weeks.
And if you want to hold off on seat covers for your tractor until TigerTough releases some in June 2024, we’re okay with that too. Either way, we hope you find a cover you love.
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.
Fia is a popular seat cover company we find ourselves compared to, so it was worth an in-person look.
They’re a Canadian company founded over 40 years ago, so they know their stuff and have been in the market far longer than we have.
Fia has a variety of covers, from faux leather to saddle blanket style. We went with the SP80, the most comparable to TigerTough.
We ordered a 2023 Ford F-150 set to compare them with TigerTough seat covers.
Let’s see how they do.
Watch the video review:
Packaging
Packaging might not be top of mind when you're picking out seat covers, but it's still something we like to cover. It's more than just a box or a bag — it's a reflection of the brand itself.
Fia Packaging
Fia covers arrived in purple branded box, but we noticed that the box doesn’t really match their orange website. Not a big deal. Maybe they’re going through a rebrand, and we got old packaging stock.
Their covers were packaged with a black-and-white generic instruction sheet labeling a three-step installation process.
TigerTough Packaging
When your TigerTough seat covers arrive, they come neatly packaged in a branded poly mailer with full-color instructions tailored to your vehicle's make and model. Say you've got a 2019 Nissan Frontier — you'll receive a set of guidelines crafted precisely for fitting TigerTough covers to your Frontier's seats, ensuring a smooth installation process.
Design, material and fit of the seat cover
Fia Design, Material, and Fit
These covers are made of 100% polyester. But like Shear Comfort, Fia uses different materials for the seat bottoms and sides. The sides and headrest are made of a much thinner, stretchy polyester. This difference in quality can affect the longevity of the seat cover.
Fia doesn’t label the denier of their polyester, so we can’t give details on that.
There’s some decorative stitching on the seat back, which we don’t suggest because it makes the seat cover weaker.
TigerTough Design, Material and Fit
TigerTough seat covers come in three pieces and wrap the entire seat, much like Fia, but we use 1000-Denier CORDURA on the entire seat for consistent quality.
Our covers are made from 1000-Denier CORDURA and are proven to withstand intense abuse. We 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.
Installation
Fia Installation
It took us approximately 9 minutes to install a Fia cover. We rated these as fairly easy to install.The instructions weren’t awesome, but we made do.
TigerTough Installation
Installing TigerTough seat covers clocked in at just 9 minutes for a full seat setup too. Granted, we're pretty savvy with our products, so it might take a newcomer a bit longer, but not by much.
We try to go the extra mile by providing detailed instructions and step-by-step installation videos tailored for each specific vehicle model to ensure you get it right the first time.
Here's the lowdown on how TigerTough seat covers fit into place:
The cover for the seat bottom extends under the entire seat, firmly securing itself with robust hook & loop fasteners.
Our unique StringLock system encircles the base of the seat bottom, pulling everything snugly together under the seat just like a drawstring, making sure the cover stays put without any slip or slide.
Both seat covers come equipped with headrest protection — a definite plus! Covering the headrest is as essential as the seat itself for full coverage. That said, we noted that Fia's headrest cover is crafted from a thinner fabric. This might not offer the barrier you need on a dusty job site. Instead of acting as a solid shield, Fia's cover might behave more like a filter, allowing finer particles to pass through rather than providing a robust defense.
Seat back
Fia Seat Back
Fia’s seat backs have their heavy-duty polyester on the front and light polyester on the back and side. They do not offer a seatback pocket option or any custom embroidery.
TigerTough Seat Back
Our seat covers fit snuggly to the back. It’s fits like a glove. If you’d like to add a seatback pocket or custom embroidery, you can do that for an additional fee.
Seat crease and bottom
Since both seat covers are made from multiple pieces, they both have clean-looking creases that fit the seats well.
They also both tuck into the plastic trim of the seat bottom. We wish Fia had a way to secure the portion that tucks into the plastic trim, though, because this will pull out as you slide in the vehicle.
Fia only has their heavy-duty polyester on the bottom and outside of the seat bottom, though. They use their lighter-weight polyester on the other areas of the seat bottom.
Airbag safety
A bit of a history rundown: Post-2014, virtually all cars come equipped with side airbags, a mandate driven by federal safety regulations. These airbags, often integrated into the seats, have been life-savers even before becoming standard. To put it in perspective, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that from 1996 to 2012, side and curtain airbags saved over 2,000 lives. Back then, only 42% of cars had them – a number that's substantially higher today.
We understand the importance of safety in every vehicle, whether it's your work truck or an entire fleet under your watch.
Fia Airbag Compatibility
There are several ways to do airbag compatibility, but no matter how it’s done, the airbag just needs to be able to deploy in the event of a collision.
Fia does a flap technique. There’s a cutout covered by a thin fabric flap. We have no doubts that this would function as needed, but the flap is so floppy that we don’t know if it would actually stay tucked into the cutout.
TigerTough Airbag Compatibility
Our seat covers are designed with a clear tearaway seam that spans the length of the seat, ensuring they don't hinder airbag deployment during an accident. Tested by independent safety experts, our covers are confirmed to be compatible with airbags. While we hope it never comes to that, you can trust that our seat covers are safety-approved.
Warranty and Returns
Fia Warranty and Returns
Fia offers a limited two-year warranty against manufacturer’s defects under normal use.
And if you’re not happy with your purchase, you have 30 days to return your Fia products. Pretty fair, we’d say.
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. How they got damaged doesn’t matter; 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 for spec.
How much does Fia cost?
We ordered a set of their SP87-34 seat covers for $160. This is one of the lowest prices we’ve seen for seat covers.
How much does TigerTough cost?
To fully cover your two front seats with TigerTough, it will cost around $317.
Overview
It all comes down to what you want out of a seat cover and what your budget allows.
There are two things we’d love to see from Fia: a fully-wrapped seat cover that uses the same material all around, and reviews on their website.
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. You can’t destroy them (and even if you manage to, we’ll replace them in the first two years.)
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 and budget.
Both brands have earned their stripes, commanding respect in the market for their quality and durability. But brand reputation is just one piece of the puzzle when hunting for the right seat cover.
Your vehicle’s interior faces daily challenges, from accidental spills to the wear and tear of regular use. And while both Carhartt and WeatherTech promise top-tier protection, the real question is: which one truly delivers on that promise?
We've ordered both covers and tried them on a 2023 Ford F-150, and we’ll give you a head-to-head comparison to help you make an informed decision for your ride.
Installation
Installation might seem straightforward with seat covers, but it's more than just fitting a piece of fabric onto a seat. It's about ensuring the cover stays in place, doesn't interfere with the vehicle's functions, and looks aesthetically pleasing. Carhartt and WeatherTech have different installation methods, and we’ll take a detailed look into both processes.
Covercraft Carhartt Installation
You know Carhartt. Their seat covers promise the same rugged quality as their workwear.
The aesthetic is instantly recognizable, appealing to fans of the Carhartt brand. However, a slight hiccup emerges in differentiating the driver's seat cover from the passenger's, especially since these covers are airbag-safe, making correct installation crucial.
Installation is straightforward, with simple instructions typical of most seat cover brands (but not typical of TigerTough…just sayin’). The covers are one piece, excluding the headrest, which means less hassle in assembling multiple parts. However, this singular design can be tricky in ensuring a snug fit, especially over prolonged use.
WeatherTech Installation
WeatherTech is no newbie in the vehicle protection arena. Installation of their Seat Protectors promises speed, with our trial run clocking it at under three minutes for a single cover. Their one-piece design is reminiscent of a bib, using two straps behind the seat, one beneath, and a stretchy band around the headrest posts for a relatively secure fit. Simplicity is WeatherTech's motto here.
However, this simplistic approach has its drawbacks. The one-piece design exposes the back of the seat (cue a hospital gown analogy). The lack of snug fit will also lead to the cover shifting with regular movement in and out of the vehicle.
Design and Fit
Design and fit aren't just about making your truck’s interior look good. It's about protection and durability. Covercraft Carhartt and WeatherTech each have strengths and potential areas of improvement.
Covercraft Carhartt
Carhartt's design leans heavily into its brand identity—rugged, durable, and ready for work. The SeatSaver Custom Seat Covers, made of their signature "heavy-duty, firm-hand Carhartt® Duck Weave fabric," are an extension of this brand. This 100% cotton fabric feels familiar to anyone who's donned a Carhartt jacket or hat.
However, this commitment to tradition can be a double-edged sword. The material does wear out (we’ve seen it). A seat cover sees far more friction than a jacket, so it won’t last as long.
Each Carhartt cover is customized to your vehicle's specific make and model, making it a custom fit.
The seat covers are constructed as a single piece (aside from the headrest) unlike TigerTough seat covers. While this can simplify the design, it can compromise the fit. Over time, as users slide in and out of their vehicles, the SeatSavers might shimmy and shift, detracting from the snug fit you’d hope for.
“Will not stay in place. Have to fix the cover every time I get out, very frustrating for the price.”
- Timothy C.
WeatherTech
WeatherTech's design philosophy seems centered around simplicity. Their Seat Protectors adopt a minimalist, one-piece design approach.
However, the emphasis on simplicity also leads to compromises. The seat protectors only cover the front, exposing the back—a curious choice that might not appeal to those looking for full protection like a TigerTough seat cover. And the lack of a custom fit for specific vehicles means the covers won’t offer a snug, glove-like fit. This might lead to the seat covers shifting more than users like, especially with frequent use.
“Heavy duty, but not enough places to secure them so they don't slide up. Don't really fit right. Pretty expensive for the fit! As long I keep pulling them down the should protect from dirt etc.”
- Jericho
Headrest Protection
The headrest cover, while sometimes overlooked, plays a vital role. Protecting the headrest ensures not only the longevity of the material but also the cleanliness and appearance of your vehicle's interior.
Covercraft Carhartt and WeatherTech take different approaches to headrest protection, and understanding these can greatly influence one's buying decision.
Covercraft Carhartt: Integrating the Iconic Fabric
Covercraft Carhartt SeatSavers headrest cover
Carhartt continues its commitment to its signature Duck Weave fabric, even regarding the headrest. The headrest portion is a separate piece (like TigerTough) and offers a consistent look throughout the seat. This ensures that the iconic rugged appearance is uniform, making the interior look cohesive.
Functionally, the headrest cover protects against dirt, wear, and the elements. However, as it's designed as a separate piece, there might be concerns regarding its fit and potential to shift over time, especially if not secured properly.
WeatherTech: The Minimalist Approach
WeatherTech Seat Protectors don't cover the headrest.
WeatherTech's approach to the headrest is noticeably different. Their Seat Protectors do not cover the headrest, opting for a strap around the headrest bars. While this minimalist design ensures quick installation and removal, it leaves the headrest vulnerable to dirt, sweat, and other potential stains.
From an aesthetic standpoint, the lack of coverage can be seen as a design inconsistency, especially when the rest of the seat is protected. Functionally, for drivers in blue-collar jobs, the unprotected headrest might wear out or discolor faster than the rest of the seat.
Seat Back
Often, the back of the seat is a neglected aspect of protection. It’s not as visible as the seat front, but it's just as important when it comes to shielding against wear, tear, and potential damage. Let’s just say Carhartt and WeatherTech have different approaches to covering the seat back.
Covercraft Carhartt: Full Coverage with Character
Carhartt SeatSavers seat cover
Appearance
The Carhartt Duck Weave fabric extends to the back, ensuring a seamless look throughout the seat. Its rugged texture and signature style adds a touch of workmanship to the vehicle's interior, even in areas not immediately visible.
Fit
The Carhartt design snugly wraps around the seat back, with the material's firmness ensuring it stays in place. This tight fit minimizes the material's chances of sagging or becoming baggy.
Extra Features
Logo: Carhartt’s iconic patch sits between the shoulder blades, a subtle brand reminder.
Storage Pocket: A standard feature on their covers, the seat back pocket offers added functionality and storage, a win for those who like to keep things organized.
Seatback pocket on a Carhartt seat cover
WeatherTech: Simplified Protection
WeatherTech Seat Protector
Appearance
The Seat Protectors by WeatherTech sport a more minimalistic design. If you’re into bibs, you’ll be into these.
Fit
The design leaves the back exposed, resembling a shield rather than a full cover. This design choice might raise eyebrows among those who prefer complete coverage, but it allows quicker installation. But it also makes for a sloppy fit.
WeatherTech Seat Protectors leave the back of the seat exposed.
“When the dog is on the seat, the cover moves around every time she changes position. It should not be my job to re-engineer a WeatherTech product to make it work. I have always been pleased with WT products until now.”
- Doug S.
Extra Features:
Open Back: The lack of a full back cover is a drawback, but this can benefit those who need quick access to pockets or features on the original seat.
Optional Back Protector: For an additional $60, WeatherTech offers an additional seat back protector, acknowledging that a segment of their audience might prefer the extra layer of defense.
Seat Crease and Bottom
Let’s look closer at how Covercraft Carhartt and WeatherTech tackle the seat crease – that intersection where the seat bottom meets the back.
Covercraft Carhartt: Not the Neatest Crease
Seat Crease
Seat crease on the Carhartt SeatSaver
Carhartt’s one-piece design offers continuity at the crease. This translates to a smooth transition from the seat back to the bottom.
However, the single-piece construction means the crease may shift over time, especially as occupants slide in and out of the seat.
Seat Bottom
The Carhartt SeatSavers allow access to all seat controls.
Crafted with their signature Duck Weave fabric, the Carhartt seat bottom boasts both durability and a rustic aesthetic.
The design ensures that access to seat controls remains unobstructed, with the cover contouring neatly around the edge of the seat.
Multiple contact points ensure the seat bottom remains anchored, resisting movement and providing a firm seating experience.
WeatherTech: One-Piece Flaws
Seat Crease
Seat crease on a WeatherTech Seat Protector
With WeatherTech’s single-piece Seat Protectors, the seat crease design emphasizes functionality. Its design can act as a catcher for crumbs and debris – a practical touch for those with kids or frequent eaters on the go.
But, much like Carhartt, this single-piece approach may lead to the cover shifting over time, compromising the initial neat appearance.
Seat Bottom
The WeatherTech Seat Protectors cover the seat controls
WeatherTech’s focus on functional design shines through with its skirt-like approach to the seat bottom, wrapping around its base.
This skirt design may drape over some seat controls, potentially causing slight accessibility issues for some vehicle models.
The absence of anchoring points under the seat means the seat cover might shift slightly during use, which may be a point of consideration for some users.
Airbag Compatibility
⚠️ Spoiler alert: Not all seat covers are airbag-compatible.
Proper installation is paramount. Even with the best designs, incorrect fitting can pose risks. Adhering to the provided guidelines is crucial.
WeatherTech: A Questionable Oversight
WeatherTech Seat Protectors cover the side airbag.
WeatherTech, despite its reputation in vehicle protection, has a glaring oversight in their Seat Protector design concerning side airbag safety.
Their installation instructions say not to put the covers on vehicles with side airbags. Since most new vehicles have these airbags, the WeatherTech Seat Protectors shouldn’t be installed.
Their securing straps can potentially cover side seat airbags, making them a hazardous choice for most modern vehicles, especially those post-2014 where side airbags are prevalent.
This design flaw isn't a tiny hiccup; it's a major safety concern. There’s no room for nonchalance when it comes to life-saving features.
WeatherTech Seat Protector instructions
The Non-Negotiable Nature of Airbag Safety
The data doesn’t lie. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's findings underline the significance of side airbags in saving lives. So any seat cover that doesn't prioritize this essential safety feature should considered cautiously.
When choosing between brands, remember that safety isn't negotiable. Whether you lean toward Covercraft’s Carhartt or any other brand, ensuring the seat covers comply with the vehicle's safety features and are installed as directed is vital.
Price
Let's check out both brands' price points and analyze their value.
Covercraft Carhartt: A Premium Offering
Price Point
Priced at $428 (as of our last check for a 2023 Ford F150 model), Carhartt SeatSavers position themselves in the market's premium segment.
Value Proposition
The fabric's resilience, iconic Carhartt branding, and tailored fit justify the steeper price for many. As an integral safety feature, airbag compatibility adds to its value.
Their periodic sales and coupon codes offer some relief, making them more accessible during promotional periods.
WeatherTech: Surprisingly Steep for the Offering
Price Point
To cover the front and back of bucket seats (not the sides, as those are still exposed), WeatherTech Seat Protectors carry a price of $420. ($150 per seat protector and $60 for each seat back protector.) And your headrests are still naked in this scenario.
Value Proposition
At face value, WeatherTech demands a premium price. Given the safety concerns around airbag compatibility and the less-than-perfect fit, the value for the price could be better.
Their "universal" design philosophy might cut costs in production, but it might not always align with consumers' expectations for a tailored fit.
Price Overview
With Carhartt at $428 for a custom fit and WeatherTech at $410 for a universal fit, there's not enough cost savings for us to justify buying WeatherTech.
Customer Feedback and Reviews
Covercraft Carhartt seat covers earned a notable 4.5-star rating with over 2,000 reviews, showcasing their appeal and reliability. Many drivers admire the robustness and look of their signature Carhartt fabric.
On the other hand, WeatherTech's Seat Protectors aren’t as loved, averaging a 3.2-star rating. Customers often mention fit issues, coverage gaps, and concerns regarding airbag safety. While WeatherTech has mastered other vehicle protection, their seat protectors differ from their top-tier product.
Conclusion
Wrapping up our in-depth comparison of Covercraft Carhartt and WeatherTech seat protectors, here's a snapshot of what each brand brings to the table:
Covercraft Carhartt
Brand Legacy: Carhartt leverages its iconic Duck Weave fabric and its established reputation in durable workwear.
Design Philosophies: The seat covers offer a familiar feel, though there are areas, such as seat fit, where improvement is needed,
Price Point: Retailing at around $428 for their SeatSavers, Carhartt combines brand trust with a slightly premium price.
WeatherTech
Brand Strength: A well-established name in vehicle protection, WeatherTech is known for precision and craftsmanship.
Safety Concerns: The potential risk to airbag deployment is a major concern that users need to be wary of.
Design and Fit: Despite a more streamlined design, there are compromises, especially around seat crease and headrest protection.
Price Consideration: Priced at approximately $420 for complete front seat protection (including additional seat back protectors), WeatherTech's offering seems less compelling, especially when factoring in the safety reservations and lack of headrest cover.
No pressure, but when it comes to seat covers, your choices play an important role in determining your car's interior's safety, aesthetics, resale value, and durability. If you were to ask us, we’d choose Covercraft’s Carhartt over WeatherTech’s Seat Protector. When selecting seat covers, it's crucial to weigh aesthetics, comfort, safety, and functionality.
We’re dog people. I mean, we’re Americans, after all. At TigerTough, we have dogs who ride along in our trucks just like our customers do, so wondering if our seat covers are durable enough to withstand dogs is a valid concern.
If you’re bringing your pets along for the ride, first, you want to protect your seats. You paid good money for your vehicle and want to keep that resale value. We get that. So you need seat covers. Second, you want those covers to withstand what your pet dishes out.
Our covers aren’t made for dogs. And we don’t have any pet hammocks you see slung in the back seat of a Subaru near you. We make our covers for hardworking men and women, so let’s see how TigerTough holds up to pets.
Made for Messes
Dogs are gross. They run through mud, jump in swamps, and roll in...stuff. You need seat covers durable enough to handle the messiest scenario your dog finds itself in.
Customer's dog in a truck with TigerTough car seat covers.
“Tough as f###ing nails, my dog puked on them and didn’t even faze them. If they ever wear out, I’ll buy [them] again.”
-Gene
How well does dog hair clean up?
Sadly, our seat covers don’t repel dog hair. We’re actually not sure of any covers on the market that do.
But we’re happy to report that dog hair easily vacuums up off the seat covers. We tested three tools to remove dog hair from the seat covers a standard vacuum cleaner, a Lily Brush, and a Furz-Off Stone. Out of all of them, the vacuum performed the best, and the fur came right off. You won’t need special tools.
Worst case scenario, you can easily remove the seat covers and toss them in the washing machine for ultimate cleanup.
“The best thing about these for me is their resistance to dog hair and ease of cleaning when they get dirty. I've got two large labs that wreck everything they touch. [A] damp cloth and good to go. Dog hair doesn't porcupine quill into the fabric. It vacuums right up. One dog has coarse hair, and the other soft. So well worth the money. So much better than the Carhartt I've used for the last 20 years.”
- Mark
Durability
We have yet to find a dog who can dig or chew its way through one of our seat covers. We can’t say it won’t happen, but until (if) it does, we’re considering them scratch-proof. No matter how much your dog digs, it won’t be able to dig through the cover. Heck, if a screwdriver can’t stab through a cover, we don’t think your dog has a chance of destroying these.
“We bought these well over a year ago mainly for our three dogs, and they look just like the day we put them on, so easy to clean too. We love them."
- Dennis
Customer's dog in a truck that has TigerTough seat covers.
Safety
If your dog uses a dog seatbelt or harness, you can still clip it in. All connection points and seatbelts are still accessible with TigerTough.
Disclaimer: We’ve only tested our seat covers for human safety, not dog safety, so be sure to read any instructions that come with your dog's car seatbelt before using it with TigerTough seat covers.
Dog-Friendly Seat Covers
We don’t make our seat covers with dogs in mind. Our covers fit like a glove on your captain/bucket seats and bench seats. We don't make pet hammocks or cargo liners (but if you are looking for cargo liners, we recommend Canvasback.) We make our seat covers for people first, but our covers are great for pets too.
If our covers can withstand concrete, coffee, gypsum, chainsaws, and weed-eaters, they can withstand the wear and tear of dogs and whatever other animals you happen to have riding shotgun.
But suppose your dog manages to dig with the ferocity of a first-time excavator operator and actually causes some damage. In that case, we have a two-year unconditional warranty and will happily replace those covers. And yes, we mean unconditional.
“Absolutely fantastic product! Holds up great to a German Shepard Service Dog getting into and out of the truck multiple times a day now for months with no signs of wear. Cleans easily, including the famous “German Shedder” glitter! My wife loves it. She can access the storage compartments in the back seats with no problems and loves the fact that this seat cover even allows her to raise the one section of the back seat allowing the dog to get in and out easier. No other seat cover does that, well none that we found! It is just the best!”
- David
We've seen our seat covers in action with a range of dogs—hunting dogs, pets, police K9s, and service dogs. Not a single negative review about TigerTough seat covers for dogs has come our way. Even though our seat covers aren’t designed for dogs, they've proven to be as dog-friendly as the best of them.
