Learning Center

Image of a man about to install TigerTough seat covers in a vehicle
Sheldon Zitzmann

How to Install TigerTough Seat Covers and What to Expect

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 2017 Toyota Tacoma, you’ll get instructions on how to install those covers in a 2017 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 in case you toss your instructions 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, installing 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

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.

Best Work Truck Seat Covers of 2024

When we researched top seat covers for work trucks, we didn’t just pick the ones at the top of Google. We asked blue collar men and women what kinds of covers they’ve tried in their trucks, and this is the list they came up with:

Covercraft Endura PrecisionFit
Covercraft Carhartt SeatSavers
Wet Okole
Marathon
Canvasback
ShearComfort CORDURA®
VERTEX OFF-ROAD
TigerTough

Since we’re comparing covers for work trucks, we used a 2023 Ford F150 regular cab for pricing and research. Let’s get right into highlighting these seat-savers.

Covercraft Endura PrecisionFit

Covercraft Endura PrecisionFit seat covers in black
Covercraft Endura PrecisionFit seat covers. Source: Covercraft

It’s nearly impossible to Google truck seat covers without Covercraft popping up. We give them credit. They’ve been in the business for over 50 years and have a great product with a stellar reputation. 

They make seat covers and covers for cars, boats, RVs, airplanes, and patio furniture. First, let's take a look at the Endura PrecisionFit

The fabric for the Endura PrecisionFit is vague. According to the description, it’s a canvas-nylon-polyester blend. But what does that mean? We contacted customer service to learn more, and they didn’t elaborate beyond the product description. It’s tough to know how durable their covers are without knowing more about the fabric. 

Price: $514

Pros

✅ Waterproof

✅ Airbag-safe

✅ Works with heated and cooled seats

✅ Fits factory seats perfectly 

Cons

❌ Fabric is uncertain

❌ Only a limited warranty available

Verdict

This is a great seat cover, and we don’t think you’ll be disappointed. But it’s at the top of the price range for a set of bucket seat covers for a 2023 Ford F150 Regular Cab. If you can get them on sale, they might be a worthwhile investment, but we can’t say for how long without knowing more about their material.

Covercraft Carhartt SeatSavers

Covercraft Carhartt car seat covers
Covercraft Carhartt Seat Savers. Source: Covercraft

Everyone loves Carhartt. We get it. Their reputation is undeniable. They've got that classic look of your grandpa's favorite jacket; overall, we feel nostalgic about them. The brand has been around since 1889 even though Covercraft Carhartt SeatSavers are newer to the market, so let's look at how these cover stand up to some others.

Price: $422

Pros

✅ Great reputation

✅ You know exactly what you're going to get

✅ Air-bag safe

Cons

❌ Limited colors

❌ Not waterproof

❌ They don't stay in place

Not as durable as other seat covers

Verdict

While we have a lot of respect for Carhartt, when it comes to choosing seat covers, we’d actually lean towards Covercraft’s Endura PrecisionFit over the Carhartt SeatSavers. It's not just about the price; the PrecisionFit covers just seem to fit better and provide more value. If you’re into a variety of colors, you might find the two-color options of these covers a bit limiting. And the two-piece design? It tends to slide around on the seat because of how it's fastened. Since these are an expensive choice, we really hoped for a bit more from them.

Read Covercraft Carhartt vs. TigerTough Seat Covers

Wet Okole

Wet Okole seat covers in gray and black
Wet Okole seat covers. Source: Wet Okole

Okay, we know what you’re thinking…this is about work truck seat covers, and most of us aren’t driving around Baywatch trucks. Yep, this is a wet suit in seat cover form. We didn’t think it would be a fair comparison either, but after hearing from multiple people in the construction industry who love their Wet Okole seat covers, we decided to give these a fair shake.

Since they’re made from wetsuit neoprene and bonded with nylon, they’re waterproof and totally safe on vehicle seats. 

Ashley DeCurtis, VP of Sales for BuildWitt, bought a used Nissan Xterra and considered the leather seats' condition, “I didn’t want to make it worse,” she says. What attracted her to Wet Okole was that the covers were pliable and waterproof, “they’re great for anything in wet environments.” 

What ultimately sold her was the complete customization from colors to piping to embroidered headrests. Wet Okole has dozens of add-ons, like seatback pockets, front lower pockets, lumbar support, carbon fiber seat heaters, and sunglass pouches.

DeCurtis is no stranger to the blue collar world, being a former police officer and now speaking to contractors daily in her role at BuildWitt, so she knows what kind of abuse work trucks see. Although she’s had the seat covers in her Xterra for four years; she questions whether they’d withstand the use they’d see in a work truck.

However, Brent Fox, a contractor in the Nashville area, can speak to the durability. "I had Wet Okole in the truck I just retired. Rode on them for 12 years and, at some point, sent them back for a refurb. They were a great product and easy company to work with."

Price: $374

Pros

✅ Easily washable

✅ Self-extinguishing 

✅ Air-bag safe

Cons

❌ Only a 90-day warranty

❌ No returns accepted

Verdict

These seat covers really do a solid job of protecting the seats in your work truck, almost like a wetsuit, and you can even clean them with wetsuit shampoo. They’re self-extinguishing, which is a big plus if you ever find yourself dealing with flames inside your truck. Plus, they're designed to be airbag safe as they don’t cover the side of the seat where the airbag is located. Airbag safety is a must for us.

At first, we were a bit skeptical, but these covers have received great reviews. We really appreciate the custom fit and how easy they are to clean. However, at $374 a pair, they’re not exactly budget-friendly, and the very limited warranty makes us a bit hesitant to give them our full endorsement.

Read Wet Okole vs. TigerTough Seat Covers

Marathon

Marathon Seat Cover

We'll just come out and say it: Marathon makes a darn good seat cover. They're another U.S. company helping protect American seats. 

We don't personally know anyone who uses them and the most recent review we saw was from 2022. But this is what John has to say:

Absolutely love the seat covers. They are super tight and can be difficult to get on, but once they are on they are on. I've been rough on my seat covers and they are holding up great. I'll add these to my other trucks for sure.

Their covers are made from 1000-denier CORDURA®. The cool thing is, you can add all sorts of extras like map pockets, gear pockets, gun loops, bow holders, etc. The downside of that is that they don't include headrest covers as standard, you'll need to pay for those.

Price: $315 (with headrest covers)

Pros

✅ Lots of colors

✅ Made from CORDURA®

✅ Waterproof

✅ Airbag safe

✅ Many customizable options

Cons

❌ Headrest covers aren't included

❌ 5-6 week turnaround time

❌ No returns

Verdict

As we say, if we didn't work for TigerTough, we'd probably buy these. Just know that you can't return them, so if you hate them when you get them, they're still yours. We like that they're on the affordable end of the seat cover price spectrum, and they're made from CORDURA®. If there's a vehicle we don't have a cover for, we'd suggest going for Marathon.

Canvasback

Canvasback Universal Fit seat covers. Source: Canvasback

We won’t lie; we hadn’t heard of this brand until Ambre Schaffer, Marketing Director at Aggtrans, pointed them out. These seat covers are a one-size-fits-most style, so consider that when ordering. You won’t be getting a custom fit for your seats.

Canvasback seems to be best known for their cargo liners. Liners are custom fit for your vehicle’s cargo space and attach with hook and loop.

Ambre confirms the durability and easy installation, “[the cargo liner] is custom fit to your specific vehicle and velcros right in place. They've been installed for three years without budging or showing any signs of wear. If I needed to remove them, they'd pull right up.

"In addition to carrying around all of my photography/videography gear and field gear for construction, I'm a search and rescue handler with a k9. We're usually covered in mud and debris.” 

With a review like that, we had to include this option.

Price: $150

Pros

Durable cargo liners customized to fit most vehicles. Despite not having custom-fit seat covers, the covers are at the bottom of our price range at $140 for a pair of bucket seat covers. On top of all this, Canvasback is woman-owned, and we think that’s pretty cool.

✅ Inexpensive

✅ Fits most vehicles

✅ Woman-owned company

Cons

❌ Not custom fit

❌ Limited six-month warranty

Verdict

We probably wouldn’t put these in a work truck to protect the seats, but we like the cargo liner options. If you’ve got a dog or use your cargo space a good deal, we’d suggest looking into Canvasback. Plus, we can’t help but love that they’re made in Minnesota.

ShearComfort CORDURA® 

ShearComfort CORDURA® seat covers in black and gra
ShearComfort CORDURA® seat covers. Source: ShearComfort

Like TigerTough, these covers are made from CORDURA®. It’s a slightly different kind though. ShearComfort uses a heavy duty 500 Denier CORDURA® fabric, which isn’t as durable as the 1000 Denier CORDURA® we use. But this is still going to be a durable seat cover.

Price: $405

Pros

These airbag-safe seat covers are waterproof, durable, and guaranteed to fit perfectly. There’s a lot to love about them, and they’d perform well in a work truck.

✅ Waterproof

✅ Guaranteed perfect fit

✅ Airbag safe

Cons

❌ They don't use CORDURA® on their entire seat cover

❌ Price is a little high

❌ Limited Warranty

Verdict

They’re tough and built for hard work, but we don't love that ShearComfort doesn't use CORDURA® on the entire seat cover. They only use it on the portions you'd touch when sitting in the seat. The rest is made of a thin, stretchy material which will give out over time. They have great reviews from their customers. ShearComfort is a good option for your work truck, but not the best.

Read ShearComfort CORDURA® 1000 Denier Xtra-Duty vs. TigerTough Seat Covers

VERTEX OFF-ROAD

VERTEX OFF-ROAD is a newer company, started in 2021, and they specialize in truck seat covers. They consider themselves "American craftsman and enthusiasts committed to building top-quality products that help you upgrade and protect your truck for everywhere the road ahead takes you.

Well, what's not to love about that? Let's look at their 1000-Denier CORDURA® Canvas seat covers.

Price: $400

Pros

✅ Use CORDURA® nylon on their colvers

✅ Automatically include a center console cover

✅ Lifetime warranty, albeit limited

✅ Airbag safe

 

Cons

❌ Foam-backed seat covers (foam breaks down over time)

❌ Limited vehicle line

Verdict

We love that they're using CORDURA® nylon canvas for this particular cover. They also automatically include a center console cover and pockets for the seatbacks. They also have a lifetime warranty and seem pretty flexible, but it does exclude everyday wear and tear. 

This is the first time we've run across another brand that uses a string to cinch around the seat for a secure fit. It's just too bad they don't use StringLock.

This seems like a great cover. These are going to be a durable option for your truck. And given that they come with a center console cover and seatback pockets, the price is fair for what you get.

TigerTough

TigerTough seat covers in gray
TigerTough seat covers

TigerTough seat covers are designed for hardworking men and women. They’re extremely tough (hence the name), so tough, in fact, we’ve extended our seat cover line to heavy equipment because we’re that confident they can withstand what you throw at them.

We put our seat covers through torture tests. Do we do these tests for fun? Yes. Do we love proving how resilient these covers are with each test? Also yes. 

Need more proof that we believe in our products? We have an unconditional warranty for at least two years on our products. They’ll get gross, they’ll get stained, but they won’t fail you, and neither will we.

Price: $297

Pros

✅ Unconditional warranty

✅ Custom fit

✅ Two-week turnaround

✅ Waterproof

✅ Airbag safe

Cons

❌ Limited colors

Verdict 

These are some of the lowest-priced seat covers in this lineup, with an average 4.9 star rating from users. Everyone from parents to first responders uses TigerTough seat covers, and they’ve always risen to the occasion. 

Of course we love our own seat covers (or we wouldn’t work here). But that doesn’t mean they’re best for you and your work truck. Look at all the options and choose the covers that fit you best. 

Summary

Not all seat covers are created equally. Some will be better for you than others. We think you should have ones that:

  • Are waterproof
  • Easy to clean
  • Have a great warranty and return policy
  • Made in America

You don’t want to be stuck with seat covers that aren’t getting the job done. You want something that will last for years and ultimately save you money in the long run.

Look at the features of all these work truck seat covers and decide which one is best for you based on your needs and budget.

Covercraft Endura PrecisionFit Covercraft Carhartt SeatSavers Wet Okole Marathon Canvasback ShearComfort CORDURA® VERTEX OFF-ROAD TigerTough
Cost $514 $422 $374 $315 $150 $405 $400 $297
Star Rating 4.4 4.6 N/A N/A 4.9 4.6 4.6 4.9
Warranty 3 year limited 3 year limited 90 days 4 year limited 6 months limited 2 years Lifetime Limited Unconditional 2 years
Material Canvas-nylon-polyester blend Duck Weave Fabric Neoprene CORDURA (unknown denier) 600 X 300 poly denier 500 Denier CORDURA® 1000 Denier CORDURA® nylon canvas  1000 Denier CORDURA®️
Fit Custom Custom Custom Custom Universal Fit Perfect Fit Perfect Fit Perfect Fit
Waterproof ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️
Airbag Safe ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️
Made in the USA USA and Mexico USA and Mexico ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ North America ☑️ ☑️
Colors and Patterns 32 2 40+ 14 11 10 3 8
Seatback Pockets Yes Yes Optional Optional No Yes Yes Optional
All specs based on 2023 Ford F150 Regular Cab Bucket Seats

Update on 07/06/2023: We Initially had WeatherTech Seat Protectors as part of this list but removed them when we found out they weren't considered airbag-compatible in all vehicles. Take a look at WeatherTech Seat Protector Review for more information.

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Will seat covers ruin leather seats?

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. 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.

Choosing the right type of seat cover is crucial to ensure that you’re enhancing, not hindering, the longevity and appearance of your leather seats. In this article, we'll get into the details, helping you make an informed choice about seat covers for your leather seats.

Understanding Leather Seats and Seat Covers

While those leather seats are pretty sturdy on their own, they can 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 darn well.

Leather Seats – Tough But Tender

Leather’s tough, but let's be real – leather seats aren’t tough as nails. Constant sun exposure, the daily in-and-out, and the odd coffee spill can leave them rough around the edges. Leather's like a sponge for spills and smells, so it needs some TLC to stay sharp.

Seat Covers – Your Leather's Best Bud

Seat covers come in like a reliable sidekick for your leather seats. Think of them as a shield, keeping the bad stuff – UV rays, spills, dirt, grease, dog slobber – off your seats. 

The right seat cover keeps your leather safe from everyday messes and wear while letting it breathe and live its best life. By blocking out the stuff that can age your leather and decrease your resale value, seat covers help keep your seats fresh, clean, and ready for the long haul.

Potential Issues with Foam-Backed Seat Covers

Got leather seats fresh off a conditioning session? Hold off on those foam-backed seat covers like Wet Okole's. Foam and conditioner can clash, potentially harming the seat cover…and your leather. They're at odds; that mix-up can spoil your leather's look and feel. Our advice? If your leather's just been treated, skip the foam-backed options or hold off on installing them for a few days.

Best Practices for Using Seat Covers on Leather

Before you cover those leather seats, make sure they're clean. Dirt or moisture trapped under the cover? That's a recipe for damage. Give your leather a good clean and ensure it's bone dry

Choose seat covers that are known to play well with leather. Compatibility isn’t just about size and fit; it’s about ensuring the cover doesn’t chemically react with your leather or cause it to wear prematurely. We suggest using a tough, breathable fabric

Seat Covers on Heated Leather Seats

While we’re talking about leather seats and covers, let’s shift gears and talk about heated seats. Does the heat get along with the cover, or is it a no-go?

Typically, it’s safe to use seat covers with heated seats.

Curious about how to use seat covers safely with heated leather seats? Check out our detailed blog post on using seat covers on heated leather seats for all the ins and outs you need to know.

Wrapping it Up

When it comes to decking out your leather seats with covers, the green light is generally on. But it's not just about picking any cover off the shelf. It's about choosing covers that respect the leather’s quality and respond well to its nature. 

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ShieldTech vs. Ironweave: What's the difference?

They are made from the same base fabric, but ShieldTech is infused with odor and microbe-killing superpowers.

What They're Made Of

Let’s start with what’s the same. They’re both built from 1000-Denier CORDURA because:

👍🏻 Grown, woven, and dyed in the USA (super important)
👍🏻 It’s nearly impossible to tear.
👍🏻 It’s crazy abrasion-resistant. You’ll find versions of Cordura in products from motorcycle clothing to backpacks.

Ironweave Properties

The Ironweave fabric receives a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment. This treatment allows the fabric to stay breathable, but liquids bead up and run off. 1 point for the covers, 0 points for the spilled coffee.

ShieldTech Properties

ShieldTech doesn’t get the DWR treatment. Its treatment is leveled up and it’s infused with silver and copper ions and waterproof properties.

✅ Waterproof
✅ Anti-Microbial
✅ Anti-Odor

Back to the example from the beginning – if you’re part of a team that shares vehicles, ShieldTech is a great choice. If your vehicle is your own, Ironweave will give you the protection you need without the anti-microbial properties.

Is ShieldTech right for me?

We won't tell you how to leave your life, but ShieldTech is specifically engineered for:

👮‍♂️ Police, Fire, and EMS
👷‍♀️ Blue-collar workers in hot climates
🚚 Delivery drivers
🤹‍♂️Fleets with crew vehicles or hot-seat vehicles

For example: if you are a one-man-band landscaper, Ironweave is a perfect option. It’s going to give you all the protection you need at a slightly lower price.

However, if you are part of a landscaping crew that all piles into the same vehicle at the end of the day when you’re hot, sweaty, and dirty, ShieldTech is going to be the prime choice. It’s going to go to work killing the odors and microbes that come along with the shared vehicle environment. 

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What is ShieldTech?

ShieldTech is made from the same crazy tough fabric as our Ironweave line of covers, but it’s infused with silver and copper which give it microbe and odor-killing powers.

What Exactly Are ShieldTech Seat Covers?

They’re a germ-killing version of the crazy strong seat covers we already make for work trucks and law enforcement vehicles.

ShieldTech seat covers are made from the same base fabric as all of our seat covers (except Sportweave)  We use 1000-denier CORDURA for the following reasons:

👍 It’s all-American made
👍 It’s highly abrasion resistant
👍 It’s nearly impossible to tear
👍 It’s supple and not scratchy or irritating

While the CORDURA for our Ironweave seat covers gets a custom DWR waterproof treatment, ShieldTech is treated with a different solution. It’s infused with a waterproofing treatment and copper and silver ions in a zeolite carrier are bonded to the fabric, which gives the seat covers anti-odor and antimicrobial properties. 

It is very durable, too – the fabric was washed 20 times before testing (tbh we’ve never heard of anyone washing their covers that many times.)

Who is ShieldTech right for?

ShieldTech is going to be a win for these people looking for heavy-duty seat covers:     

👉 Laborers in hot climates
👉 Police, fire and EMS
👉 Last-mile delivery companies
👉 Dog owners who have their pups in the truck more often than not
👉 Any organization that uses crews/shared vehicles, or hot seating (when the vehicle is passed off from driver to driver)

The Scientific Stuff (how it actually works):

The coating utilizes silver and copper ions (which have been used since 4000 BC to kill bacteria) in a zeolite carrier to starve, sterilize, and suffocate microbes.

A zeolite carrier is a microporous, three-dimensional crystalline solid of aluminum silicate that’s been charged with ions of the active ingredient (silver and copper, in this case) Zeolites are naturally occurring and born of volcanic ash.

The antimicrobial effects are only released when needed in order to have the longest-lasting effects.

Here’s the lab testing results:

chart showing the benefits of shieldtech
All samples were tested with K. pneumoniae, an organism that causes Pneumonia. All samples had the same organism count at zero contact time. “Washes” signifies the number of times the sample was washed to simulate real-world use. Wet tests were performed in a wet environment, dry tests were performed in a dry environment. Test results have been simplified for ease of understanding, full lab results are available upon request.

 

Organism Count (zero contact time) Organism Count (24-hr contact time) % Reduction from Control at 24 Hours
Untreated Control Fabric 140,000 530,000,000 No Reduction
Treated Fabric Test 1 (20 washes, dry) - 1,500 99.999%
Treated Fabric Test 2 (40 washes, dry) - 600 99.9999%
Treated Fabric Test 3 (20 washes, wet) - 11,900 99.99%
Treated Fabric Test 4 (40 washes, wet) - <100 99.9999%
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Can you put seat covers on heated seats?

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.

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

Material Matters

Not all seat cover materials are suitable for 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?

Thinking about boosting your ride's comfort with aftermarket seat heaters? It's worth considering how they might play along with seat covers. 

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.

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Best Hunting Seat Covers for Your Truck

Let’s just get this out of the way: Camo alone doesn't make a seat cover suitable for hunting

What do we mean? 

Adding camo to a standard seat cover doesn't prepare it for hunting. That’s like painting your truck like a police cruiser and saying it’s ready to patrol the streets. It's about the right features and build, not just the appearance.

So we’ll sift through the best hunting seat covers for trucks. We'll look beyond the camouflage and assess what really matters: durability, functionality, and whether they can stand up to the challenges of hunting life. Whether you’ve got a budget to stick to or you're ready to splurge, we've got you covered. By the end of this, you’ll have all the info you need to choose a seat cover that’s not just a pretty face in the woods but a real workhorse, just like you.

So, buckle up, and let’s get into it.

Carhartt 

Covercraft camo covers

We all love Carhartt. Their RealTree Camo Seat Covers are just their SeatSavers with a different pattern on the fabric. We can give a pretty accurate overview since we’ve had our hands on these and installed them in a vehicle.

Price: $466

Pros

You know exactly what these seat covers will feel like. They’re made of the same Carhartt duck cotton you know and love. There’s nothing unexpected or surprising about these covers.

Cons

We’ve done a lot of homework on Carhartt’s seat covers, so we’re pretty familiar with them. 

These covers don’t have a separate back and bottom, so they shimmy a lot. They’re not waterproof (which is pretty important for hunting seat cover). They’re not made exclusively in America and are not as durable as CORDURA®️.

Verdict

If you’re brand loyal and love what Carhartt stands for–go for it! But you might not be getting the most durable cover on the market, and you’ll be buying the most expensive one we’re reviewing. Over $400 to match your jacket to your seat covers seems a little extreme, but who are we to judge?

Carhartt

Cost

$466

Material

Cotton Duck

Waterproof

Airbag Safe

☑️

Camo Patterns

2

Where are they made?

U.S. and Mexico

Seatback Pockets

Warranty

Limited two-year

Return Info

30 days to return with 20% restocking fee

  

Saddleman

Saddleman camo covers

The name Saddleman conjures up the image of a cowboy emerging from a hazy fog after vanquishing villains from a nearby town, so naturally, we’re drawn to these seat covers.

Price: $228

Pros

These are made in America, which we love (and we’d expect nothing less of a cowboy). Saddleman stands by their products and offers lifetime support. This means that you can send your covers to them for repairs for the product's lifetime for a small fee. There were only six reviews, but all of those customers seem thrilled with their covers.

Cons

Saddleman doesn’t say what their covers are made from (beyond polyester), so you can’t determine their durability. They’re also not waterproof. And like the Carhartt, they don’t have separate pieces, so the fit won’t be as secure as it could be.

Verdict

We’re not sold either way on these. Since they’re American-made and at the bottom of the price point, they’re probably worth trying.

Saddleman

Cost

$228

Material

Polyester

Waterproof

Airbag Safe

☑️

Camo Patterns

11

Where are they made?

U.S.

Seatback Pockets

Warranty

Limited two-year

Return Info

30 days with restocking fee

 

Northwest Seat Covers

Northwest camo covers

We weren’t super familiar with Northwest, so we were intrigued when it popped up in our Search. Northwest has been making seat covers since 1997, and we enjoyed reviewing what they offer.

Although they don’t specifically state it, these are made in Canada. We contacted their customer service team, and they confirmed that the covers are made in Vancouver, BC.

Price: $395

Pros

Northwest uses 600-Denier fabric for their hunting seat covers. Knowing the fabric's denier is so helpful because it will tell you how strong it is. 600 is decent, but we’d prefer to see something in the 800-1000 range.

Northwest also provides a two-year warranty that’s more generous than most–they’ll fix or replace a seat cover that experiences wear due to normal use. And bonus: they have videos showing that their seat covers are airbag compatible. 

Cons

Ok…we were on #teamnorthwest until we read the website section that says you need to CUT YOUR OWN HOLES in the seat cover for things like headrest posts and latch holes. That’s a big no-no for seat covers because it compromises the seat cover's integrity. 

Verdict

As Grandpa always said: never buy a seat cover you need to stab.

Northwest is a pretty expensive seat cover, but their fit does look good. We also love their generous warranty, but we’re not sure we’d recommend them without knowing a little more.

Northwest

Cost

$395

Material

600-Denier Polyester

Waterproof

☑️

Airbag Safe

☑️

Camo Patterns

4

Where are they made?

Canada

Seatback Pockets

Warranty

Generous two-year

Return Info

20% restocking fee

Sportsman Camo Covers

Sportsman Seat Covers

We’re always happy to find another U.S.-based seat cover company using CORDURA®️. Sportsman has been in business since 1999, making their covers in good ole Mississippi.

Price: $295

Pros

As mentioned, we love that these are made in America. We also appreciate that they’re made from CORDURA®️. These covers look great! 

Cons

Even though these are CORDURA®️, they’re only made with 500-denier. That’s not the best it could be. Sportsman also says that their seat covers are padded and quilted. While padding might be great, it degrades over time and can make the seat cover baggy. Quilting looks great, but every seam makes the seat cover less durable. 

And if you go with a solid color from Sportsman, know that they are nonrefundable and nonreturnable. 

Verdict

It’s hard for us not to like this company. They’re doing great things. We’d love to see a better return policy and a stronger denier without padding and quilting…but then they’d just be a Mississippi version of TigerTough. Since their price point is lower than most, we’d give them a try.

Sportsman

Cost

$295

Material

500-Denier CORDURA

Waterproof

☑️

Airbag Safe

☑️

Camo Patterns

11

Where are they made?

U.S.

Seatback Pockets

Warranty

Unknown time manufacturer's warranty

Return Info

90 days and $10 restocking fees. Solid colors are nonrefundable.

Kryptek by Coverking  

Kryptek by Coverking

Kryptek camo seat covers

The Kryptek seat covers are made by Coverking, but specifically for hunters. According to a Coverking customer service rep, these are the same covers as Coverkings’s Neosupreme covers. Since Kryptek’s website info is…cryptic…we’ll use the Coverking’s site info.

Price: $320

Pros

The design on the Kryptek seat covers is unique, and there’s a variety of colors to choose from. They also include a back seat pocket on their covers, typically an additional fee. 

Cons

You’re paying $100+ more for the Kryptek pattern on your seats. (Coverking’s Neosupreme covers cost around $220 when this was published.)

Since these are not made of neoprene, they’re not totally waterproof.

Verdict

If you can get them on sale, go for it. Otherwise, we suggest going with the Coverking version in color you can live with. It might not be camo, but it’s literally the same otherwise.

Kryptek by Coverking

Cost

$320

Material

Unknown

Waterproof

Airbag Safe

☑️

Camo Patterns

10

Where are they made?

U.S. and Mexico

Seatback Pockets

☑️

Warranty

Limited two-year

Return Info

30 days with a 15% restocking fee

 

ShearComfort

ShearComfort camo covers

We’re also no strangers to ShearComfort. We did a side-by-side comparison of the 1000-Denier ShearComfort vs. TigerTough. The ShearComfort Realtree Camo seat covers are super similar in specs to Northwest’s seat covers: 600-Denier, DWR top coat, PU undercoat, etc. We asked, and although they are similar, ShearComfort and Northwest each make their own covers. There’s no manufacturing overlap that we could find.

Price: $395

Pros

They are pretty easy to install, and they come with a seatback pocket. These look great in the stock photos, but we haven’t had our hand on these particular covers. However, reviewers love them.

Cons

ShearComfort uses different fabrics on the front of the seat covers than the backs. When we asked customer service about this, they said their solid camo seat covers use the same material around the whole seat. So if you don’t want varying materials, order the solid camo versions. The one thing we don’t love is that these are close to $400 for a set. 

Verdict

We don’t love ‘em or hate ‘em. If you end up buying them, let us know what you think. We’d love to hear you out.

ShearComfort

Cost

$395

Material

600-Denier Polyester

Waterproof

☑️

Airbag Safe

☑️

Camo Patterns

4

Where are they made?

North America

Seatback Pockets

☑️

Warranty

Limited two-year

Return Info

30 days

 

Marathon Seat Covers

Marathon camo covers

Why are we nervous writing about Marathon seat covers? Because Marathon is an intimidating brand and a division of Covercraft. They’ve got a heck of a reputation, are made in Montana, and people love them. They also have customizations that you can add, like a bow holder.

Price: $315 (price include adding headrest covers)

Pros

They’re made in America (can you tell that we’re into that?), and from CORDURA®️. They’re a small company of around 30 people, so you feel good supporting them. They also have a 4-year limited warranty on seat covers. Limited means that the warranty is at Marathon’s discretion. However, this is still the longest warranty we’ve seen.

Cons

We had to search for something negative to say about Marathon, but if we had to be one thing, they don’t offer returns. Once the fabric is cut, it’s yours. They will possibly accept returns with a 50% restocking fee.

Verdict

If we didn’t work for TigerTough, we’d buy these. That return policy is intense, though, so be prepared to keep them.

Marathon

Cost

$270

Material

CORDURA (unknown denier)

Waterproof

☑️

Airbag Safe

☑️

Camo Patterns

14

Where are they made?

U.S.

Seatback Pockets

Warranty

Limited four-year

Return Info

50% restocking fee

TigerTough

TigerTough camo seat covers

We’re based in Minnesota and all of our seat covers are made on U.S. soil by American men and women. We strive to make seat covers the blue-collar world can be proud of. Since we focus on trucks and heavy equipment, we design every seat cover to withstand major abuse.

Price: $319

Pros

Our camo seat covers are made of 900-denier polyester and can withstand tools, pets, and spills. We offer an unconditional two-year warranty–it doesn’t matter how you ruin them. We’ll repair or replace them. 

Cons

The camo version of our seat covers isn’t made of CORDURA®️ like our solid-color options. So they’ll still be durable as heck and offer the same great warranty. 

Verdict

Not the cheapest seat covers, but still on the lower end of the pricing scale. We offer the best warranty out of all these hunting covers–that’s not an opinion, it’s just fact. If you’d like a third-party review, check out what HuntTested had to say about TigerTough.

TigerTough

Cost

$319

Material

900-Denier Polyester

Waterproof

☑️

Airbag Safe

☑️

Camo Patterns

5

Where are they made?

U.S.

Seatback Pockets

Optional

Warranty

Unconditional two-year

Return Info

30 days, no restock fee

Summary

In the hunt for the perfect seat covers, remember, they're not all built for the same game. The ideal choice for your hunting adventures should tick these boxes:

  • Totally waterproof for those unexpected elements
  • Easy to clean after a day in the wild
  • Supported by a robust warranty and a fair return policy
  • Proudly crafted in the USA

Don't get trapped with seat covers that can't keep up with your hunting lifestyle. You need resilient, cost-effective options to endure years of outdoor excursions, ultimately saving you money in the long run. And for those who hunt with a four-legged friend, be sure to check out our review of the best backseat bench covers for dogs – they're a game-changer.

So, as you scout the options for truck seat covers, tailor your choice to fit your hunting needs and budget. Make a choice that’s not just good for now but one that stands as your reliable partner in every hunting journey. 

 

Carhartt Saddleman Northwest Sportsman Kryptek by Coverking ShearComfort Marathon TigerTough
Cost $466 $22 $395 $295 $320 $395 $315 $319
Material Cotton Duck Polyester 600-Denier Polyester 500-Denier Polyester Unknown 600-Denier Polyester CORDURA (unknown denier) 900-Denier Polyester
Waterproof ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️
Airbag Safe ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️ ☑️
Camo Patterns 2 11 4 11 10 4 14 5
Where are they made? U.S. and Mexico U.S. Canada U.S. U.S. and Mexico North America U.S. U.S.
Seatback Pockets ☑️ ☑️ Optional
Warranty Limited two-year Limited two-year Generous two-year Unknown Limited two-year Limited two-year Limited four-year Unconditional two-year
Return Info 30 days with 20% restock fee 30 days with restock fee 20% restock fee 90 days and $10 restock fee (solid colors are nonrefundable) 30 days with 15% restock fee 30 days 50% restock fee 30 days
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Fia vs. TigerTough Seat Covers Review

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.

Fia seat cover instructions

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.

Check out our full installation expectations to learn more.

Headrest

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.

Fia and TigerTough side by side

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. 

Comparing the backs of TigerTough and Fia seat covers

Seat crease and bottom

Since both seat covers are made from multiple pieces, they both have clean-looking creases that fit the seats well.

Fia and TigerTough seat covers showing the crease in the seats.

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.

TigerTough and Fia seat covers showing how they both tuck into the plastic trim

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 vs TigerTough seat covers air bag compliant portion

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 $297.

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.

Fia TigerTough
Cost $160 $297
Stars N/A 4.9
Warranty Limited 2 years Unconditional 2 years
Material Polyester 1000-Denier CORDURA
Fit Custom Perfect Fit
Waterproof ☑️ ☑️
Airbag Safe ☑️ ☑️
Colors/Patterns 3 8
Made in the USA Canada ☑️
Seatback Pockets No Optional
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