We do a lot of wild things to our seat covers and call them "torture tests." While it’s all about showing just how tough TigerTough seat covers are, we have to admit—it’s also pretty fun to try to destroy something nearly indestructible.
But real-life disasters are anything but fun. When tragedy strikes and leaves you with a totaled vehicle, no test can compare to that kind of loss.
Josh reached out to us to see how unconditional our unconditional warranty was after his truck caught fire and was deemed a total loss. Inside that truck? A set of TigerTough seat covers that didn’t make it through the flames.
Lucky for Josh, it doesn’t matter how your covers get destroyed—our warranty’s got your back.
In his own words:
To whom it may concern, I bought TigerTough seat covers for my 2021 Chevy 2500hd. They looked absolutely amazing. My dog Loki likes to go every[where] with me, and I wanted to protect my seats. TigerTough seat covers were the only way to go. My dog loves the water and to roll in the dirt. With that being said, the covers kept my seats dry and the sand easy to clean up.
Unfortunately, my truck started on fire, and my truck was a total loss. I called up TigerTough to ask about how good [their] 2 year unconditional warranty was, and to my surprise, it is everything they say it is. The wonderful staff is replacing them, and since I bought the same style of truck, my dog and I will be rolling again in style, and my seats will stay dry and sand-free.
Basically, I am saying TigerTough is the only seat cover I will ever buy, and they will have a customer for life. I will tell anyone and everyone that the seat covers may not be fireproof but they are dog-proof. Like I said before, I can't enough how amazing TigerTough is as a company, and [their] product is worth every penny.
Sincerely, Josh Hare
We’re thrilled that Josh and Loki are safe, and we hope they enjoy plenty more muddy, messy adventures in their new ride. As for the seat covers—no matter how they’re wrecked, we’ve got your back every time.
Construction truck (and heavy equipment) cabs see it all: dust, dirt, coffee, sandwich guts. No shortage of debris will find its way onto the seat. So, protecting those seats with a seat cover is smart. But which cover should you go with?
You’ll want something tough, waterproof, antimicrobial if there’s more than one butt in the driver’s seat, and doesn’t bunch up like a sock in a work boot. We could say you should choose TigerTough, but that’s not the only option out there.
We’ll share some of our favorite seat covers, and you can choose which is best for you.
Best Work Truck Seat Covers
We’ve spent many manhours testing out seat covers, trying them. Some have been competitive, others have been disappointing. We won’t waste your time with the seat covers we weren’t impressed with. But no matter what, try to look for these qualities in a truck seat cover:
Washable
Waterproof
Airbag safe
Separate seatback and bottom
Good warranty
Made in the U.S.
We’ll share prices with you based on a 2023 Ford F-150. With all that info in mind, let’s get into these seat covers for construction workers.
Marathon
On paper, Marathon is one of our biggest competitors. Their covers are made from 1000-denier CORDURA®️ in good ole Montana.
Disclaimer: Marathon recently got acquired by CoverCraft and a few things have changed since then. We just got our hands on a new Marahon by CoverCraft seat cover, and we'll be doing a side-by-side comparison soon. For now, this is based off the original Martahon seat covers.
Pros
Washable
Waterproof
Airbag safe
Separate seatback and bottom
Made in the U.S.
Price is on the lower end
They have a bunch of accessories you can add to the seat covers
Cons
Some recent negative reviews about quality on their Google listing
Camo is only 500-denier CORDURA®️
Production time is 4-5 weeks
No returns
Limited warranty
Price: $315 (with headrests)
Carhartt PrecisionFit
OK, we don’t normally suggest these because the price is steep. But they’re a great option if you’re loyal to Carhartt.
Pros
Washable
Water-resistant
Airbag safe
Separate seatback and bottom (their SeatSavers aren’t)
People love Wet Okole, despite that the name means “wet butt” in Hawaiian. They fit well and look good on. Raving fans have had Wet Okole on for years. They’re made in California and loved by surfers and construction workers alike.
Separate seatback and bottom (their SeatSavers aren’t)
Made in the U.S.
Cons
They’ll protect your seat from liquid, but the cover is designed to hold the liquid, so you’ll literally have a wet butt with spills. Think of it like a diaper--it's going protect your seat from spills, but it's also going to get a little squishy with any wetness.
Price: $374
TigerTough
Our covers are made in Minnesota from American-made materials by American men and women. We design exclusively for the blue-collar world, so you won’t see us offering covers for minivans or coupes anytime soon. Our covers made from 1000-denier CORDURA®️ are put through torture tests so we can confidently say they’re nearly indestructible.
The competition is slim when it comes to heavy equipment seat covers, but there are a few out there. You’re going to want to look for similar things in heavy equipment seat covers:
Washable
Waterproof
Separate seatback and bottom (if applicable)
Good warranty
Made in the U.S.
Ultra Seat
This is an aftermarket seat company that makes covers for its seats. It offers only three different kinds of covers: high back, medium back, and low back.
Pros
Washable
Separate seatback and bottom
They fit their seats like a dream, and should also fit Grammer seats well
The quality seems great
Made in Canda
Inexpesive
Cons
They won’t fit OEM seats well
Price: $168 (high back seat)
TigerTough
Our heavy equipment seat covers are super similar to our vehicle seat covers, except we offer an unlimited, unconditional warranty on them.
Pros
Washable
Separate seatback and bottom
They fit your heavy equipment seat extremely well
Made in America
Unconditional, unlimited warranty
Cons
Not every make/model of heavy equipment available
More expensive than the competition
Price: $247 (Cat 312 excavator seat)
Best Seat Covers for Construction
Every cover has its pros and cons. Determine which is best for you and your budget. And if you find a better option, let us know, we’d love to add it to the list!
We've seen people reviewing our seat covers (which are made for humans) and talking about how they love them for their dogs.
Whether you've got hunting dogs, service dogs, household pets, volunteer with a rescue, or work with a K9 unit, you will need a cover that protects from wetness, stains, scratching, and chewing.
Since we make our covers for humans, it's only fair that we look at seat covers that humans can use, so we won't review pet hammocks. And because we only make seat covers for trucks, SUVs, and vans, we'll look at those covers.
We're going to divide these into two types:
Seat protectors: Not a custom fit, have a boxier shape and will obviously be a cover in your truck
Seat covers: Custom fit and will blend in with your truck's interior
Here are some of the top-searched brands for backseat and how they hold up to dogs:
Seat protectors all have a very similar shape: a boxy apron that fits hundreds of different bench seats with a skirt that runs around the edge, so it will feel (and look) like a universal cover. But these top contenders all have strengths in different areas.
WeatherTech Seat Protector
Image source: WeatherTech website
We've reviewed WeatherTech before, and here's the bottom line: We love WeatherTech, but would stick to their floor liners and not their seat protectors.
We like that these are made in America, easy to install, and machine washable. We don't love that you won't be able to access the center seatbelt or use the features of a split seat.
Takeaways from the WeatherTech Seat Protector:
No center seatbelt access
Can't use the split seat
Water resistant, not waterproof
Made in America
Quick to install
Washable
Some people love this seat protector; some people don't. Overall, half of their customers wouldn't recommend it.
“The straps around the headrest did not provide a very tight fit, and my two labs consistently moved the seat cover off the seat while jumping in and out of the truck during our trip. It is well made but moves around too much.”
Orvis is known for quality gear that can brave the elements, so the Orvis Backseat Protector should be no exception.
This has a very similar fit to WeatherTech's version, but this is a new item from Orvis, so we'll need to wait for reviews to come in to see if it's a better investment.
Orvis stands behind their products with the Great Catch Guarantee. If you aren't happy with your item, you can return it for a small restocking fee online or for free at a local store.
We've also reviewed Canvasback before. They're known for their cargo liners but make seat protectors too. They were founded in the 1990s by a dog owner wanting to make interior vehicle protection durable enough for dogs.
Their rear bench covers are like the ones we mentioned above, with a few notable differences: they're waterproof, have more color options, and can fit smaller SUVs.
Takeaways from the Canvasback Bench Seat Cover:
No center seatbelt access
Can't use the split seat
Waterproof
Made in America
Woman-owned company
Quick to install
Machine washable
“I was delighted to find a car seat cover made in the USA and happy to support a woman-owned business! … The price is on par with what I've paid for other seat covers (namely Orvis). The quality appears to be good; I appreciate that the pieces velcro together for easy cleaning. Like most seat covers, it doesn't fit perfectly, but with so many car makes and models out there, I imagine it's hard to find a perfect fit.”
We hadn't heard of Kurgo before we started researching, but their site was really nice to use. We actually liked their No Slip Grip Bench Seat Cover better than this one, but the No Slip option was only 55" wide, not wide enough to work in most large SUVs and pickup trucks. So, we'll be reviewing the Kurgo Wander Bench Seat Cover Extended Width.
The cool thing about this cover is that it has additional pockets to store a leash, poop bags, etc. Kurgo also has a piped edge ( a slight raised edge around the seat) to help prevent liquidy messes from spilling into the floor. According to their customer service, their products are made in Vietnam, China, and Taiwan.
Takeaways from the Kurgo Wander Bench Seat Cover:
No center seatbelt access
Can't use the split seat
Waterproof
Made in Vietnam, China, or Taiwan
Quick to install
Not machine washable
“After having this seat cover in my SUV for several years, we bought the extended size for our 2020 F-150 back bench seat - it fits perfect. These products are awesome and wear like iron.”
Meadowlark really isn't any different than the other seat protectors here. But it is the most affordable. It has the same basic shape and won't let you use the 40/60 or 60/40 split seat features.
Takeaways from the Meadowlark
No center seatbelt access
Can't use the split seat
Waterproof
Made in China
Inexpensive
Quick to install
Washable
“Been looking around for a decent cover for my dog. He tends to drool after a fun day at the park. This did the trick, and it fit the rear bench perfectly.”
4Knines Multi-Function Crew Cab Truck Seat Cover with Hammock
Image source: 4Knines website
We added the 4Knines cover to this lineup because it had some unique options not available in the other brands mentioned.
Now, we said we weren't going to review hammocks, and we stand by that, but this protector has a foldaway hammock that you can tuck away, making this one an option for people to use. It also has a split design, so you can flip seats up or down as needed without removing the cover. We love that.
4Knines does warn that their cover isn't chew-proof. So keep that in mind if you've got a chewer.
Takeaways from the 4Knines Multi-Function Crew Cab Truck Seat Covers
Access to all seat belts
Split-seat design
Waterproof
Made in China
Optional hammock
Quick to install
Machine washable
Not chew-proof
“This is our second 4knines cover (the other goes to our smaller vehicle), and just as I suspected, this cover is the best one I've seen for a truck! Easy to install and fits just right! I love that it's easy to split if I have something big I need to put inside the cab or if I've got the kiddos with me. No need to worry about dog hair or drool all over everything, which is a big plus in my book (it's a legit worry when you've got a giant breed!). If it does get dirty, it's easy to take off and throw in the wash.”
It's tough to say. Your preferences will be different than ours. But if you want an American-made seat cover, go with Canvasback. They're a little cheaper than WeatherTech, a small business, and have more color and pattern options.
If you don't care where your seat protector is made, we like 4Knines. It's more attractive than the extended fit of the Kurgo, and you can use your split bench features. It's not the cheapest, but it's also not the most expensive.
Seat Covers for Dogs
These seat covers will be tailored to fit your truck's bench seat like a glove. It's a custom fit that will complement your vehicle's interior. These don't just have one or two sizes. They have dozens (if not hundreds) of sizes because they're made for your specific truck.
Covercraft Carhartt SeatSavers
We're no strangers to Covercraft's Carhartt seat covers. These are a fan favorite in the seat cover world. We love that these give you a custom fit and remind you of your favorite Carhartt jacket.
These covers, like TigerTough, are meant to withstand the conditions of hardworking men and women. Grease, dust, snow, mud, it can handle it all. Think about what a pair of Carhartt coveralls goes through, the seat covers can put up with the same.
They have two kinds of Carhartt covers. Both covers offer a custom fit, a three-year limited warranty, and two Carhart colors. Let's go over the differences.
Carhartt Seat Savers
Image source: Covercraft website
This is the more affordable of the two Carhartt options offered by Covercraft. The only thing that would make them better is if they were all made in America, had multiple pieces, and were waterproof (they're water resistant).
Being one piece, you need to tuck the cover into the crease where the seat back meets the seat bottom. If your dogs are rambunctious in the truck, you might find that these don't always stay in place.
Takeaways for the Covercraft Carhartt SeatSavers:
Access to all seatbelts
Split-seat design
One-piece cover
Water resistant (not waterproof)
Made in Mexico and the United States
Three-year warranty
Machine washable
“They look good, they fit great, and the dogs and wife love them. We do a lot of hunting and fishing, and they clean up great, and dog hair does not stick to them.”
These are the premium Carhartt seat covers from Covercraft. They're most similar to what we have at TigerTough because they are multiple pieces, so you'll get the best, most secure fit on your seats.
These offer a better fit than the SeatSavers, and they're made exclusively in the United States.
Takeaways from the CoverCraft Carhartt Precision Fit Seat Covers:
Access to all seatbelts
Split-seat design
Multi-piece cover
Water resistant (not waterproof)
Made in the United States
Limited three-year warranty
Machine washable
Most expensive option
“Outstanding product and protection of seats. I have [them] only on [the] rear seat for my dogs. Great product, but installation was a real challenge. Directions and tips on installation can be improved.”
Like Carhartt, our covers are made for hardworking men and women. Unlike Carhartt, all our seat covers are made in the United States from nearly indestructible CORDURA, are waterproof, and come in multiple pieces for a super custom fit.
With our unconditional warranty, your dog can do its worst to our seat covers, and we'll repair or replace them for free.
Based on the specs alone, we like the TigerTough covers best. OK, yes, we work for TigerTough so that feels biased. But they're the cheapest option, have an unconditional warranty (important when you have dogs), and are made on American soil. We like Carhartt and love the look of the covers and suggest them if there's ever a vehicle we don't make a seat cover for.
But there are many great seat covers for you and your pup. We like to say to look for these things you're considering seat covers:
Waterproof
Easy to clean
Come in multiple pieces for a great fit
Have a great warranty and return policy
Made in America
Depending on your activity level, size and number of dogs, and your budget, there's a seat cover out there that will meet your needs. And when it doubt, any protection is better than none, so go with what you can afford.
Popular among outdoor enthusiasts, pet owners, and anyone who’s ever spilled coffee during a bumpy commute, neoprene seat covers have carved out a niche in the automotive world.
So, are neoprene seat covers good? Yes, but they aren’t your run-of-mill seat cover, and you need to set your expectations.
Here at TigerTough, while we don’t sell neoprene covers, we appreciate that they’re favorites for people. So, let’s dive into what makes neoprene tick and talk about its pros and cons. Whether you’re considering outfitting your ride with these covers or just curious about them, we’re here to spill the beans (not the coffee!) and help you set the right expectations.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Alright, let’s talk shop about keeping those neoprene seat covers clean. These aren't your regular throw-in-the-wash-and-forget-about-it type of seat covers. Nope, neoprene needs a bit more elbow grease, but it's nothing you can't handle.
Here’s how you clean neoprene seat covers:
Pull 'Em Off: First up, yank those covers off the seats. It’s straightforward, but give it some muscle—it's good for the arms.
Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: Mix water with a small amount of wetsuit shampoo. This special shampoo is designed to clean neoprene while also conditioning it, which helps keep the material supple and the colors vibrant. This prevents the material from degrading.
Use the Right Tools: Grab a lint-free cloth for washing. Apply the soapy water mixture generously to the seat covers, paying extra attention to any spots with stains or heavy soiling.
Gentle Technique: Avoid using a brush or any harsh tools that could damage the neoprene. Similarly, stay away from harsh detergents, especially those containing bleach. These can degrade the neoprene material quickly.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse off all that soap. Make sure you get it all out, 'cause leftover suds pull dirt right back. Hang them up to dry but keep 'em out of direct sunlight to avoid fading.
Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the seat covers with fresh water to remove any soap residue, which can attract more dirt if left behind.
Dry Properly: Towel dry the seat covers to remove excess water. Allow them to air dry completely but keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and deterioration of the neoprene.
Yes, they’re a little high-maintenance. And if you've got a mud-magnet dog hopping in your tuck, have fun frequently washing these. But by following these steps, you can ensure that your neoprene seat covers stay clean and in great condition, ready to face whatever comes their way. Remember, the more you wash them using the correct methods, the longer they’ll last. But if you don’t want to take our word for it, Wet Okole’s care instructions literally say, “Washing your Wet Okole Hawaii seat covers will ultimately extend the life of your seat covers.”
Water Resistance vs. Water Retention
Neoprene seat covers are like a wetsuit. They’ll keep you dry, but they hold the water. They're stellar at making sure a spilled coffee or a bit of rain doesn't soak into your truck's seats, but there's a catch.
Here's the lowdown on neoprene:
Neoprene does a bang-up job at protecting your seats from spills and splashes. This means less worry about water damage on your seats.
Just like a wetsuit, neoprene hangs onto moisture. Spill something on it, and while your seat underneath stays dry, the cover itself might feel soggy. If you've ever sat back down in a wet swimsuit, you know the drill—it's not the best feeling. It’s a bit like a diaper for your seat.
Managing moist mishaps:
Spilled something? Grab a towel and dab at the spill quickly. The faster you soak up the liquid from the cover, the less soggy it’ll feel.
Let the covers air out a bit before you hit the road again if you can. If the weather’s good, crack a window or two to help dry things off faster.
When outfitting your truck with seat covers, not all materials play nice with the fancy features. Neoprene, for instance, can be a bit of a double-edged sword if your truck's got heated or cooled seats.
Here’s the scoop on neoprene and seat features:
Cooling features:Got cooled seats? Neoprene might just rain on your parade. Since it’s designed to insulate (think wetsuits), it can block those cool breezes from reaching you. That means during those hot summer days, you might not feel quite the relief you’re expecting from that fancy feature.
Heating features: And as for heated seats, while neoprene won’t stop the heat entirely, it can definitely take a bit longer for you to feel the warmth and you won't feel the full heat (we tested this). This can be a bit of a bummer when you’re trying to thaw out on a frosty morning before heading to the job site.
What to do:
If you're set on neoprene and have special seat features, look for covers specifically designed to be compatible. Some might have modifications that allow better functionality.
If functionality is a deal-breaker, you might consider other materials that won't interfere with your seat’s built-in comforts.
While neoprene covers have their strengths, it's good to know their limits, especially when it comes to high-tech seat features.
Enhancing Durability with Protectant Spray
Keeping your neoprene seat covers in top-notch condition isn’t just about cleaning off the dirt and grime; it’s also about giving them a bit of armor against the elements. Enter protectant spray—a handy ally in the battle against wear and tear.
Why use protectant spray?
Boost Longevity: Just like waxing a car, applying a protectant spray helps shield your neoprene covers from UV rays, spills, and stains that can make them age before their time.
Maintain Appearance: Not only does it help extend the life of your seat covers, but it also keeps them looking fresh and new. This means less fading and fewer signs of wear, so your truck's interior stays sharp.
Protectant Spray Tips
Make sure your spray is compatible with neoprene. Look for products that offer UV protection to prevent color fading caused by sunlight. We’d suggest Wet Okole’s UV Protectant Spray if you’re going to go with their covers.
How often should you spray? It depends on how hard you’re working your covers. A good rule of thumb is to apply protectant every few months or after you wash them.
Pro Tip: Always test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area of the cover first to ensure it doesn’t affect the color or texture.
Comfort and Heat Considerations
One of the first questions you might ask about neoprene seat covers is, "Are they comfortable?" The answer is yes. Neoprene covers are generally quite comfy. They provide a soft layer that molds to your seat for a snug fit.
Neoprene seat covers are a popular choice due to their protective qualities, but it’s important to consider how they interact with temperature. Known for their insulating properties, neoprene covers are excellent for retaining warmth. This makes them an attractive option for cooler climates where keeping warm is beneficial. However, neoprene might not always meet with your comfort needs during warmer months or in vehicles with temperature-regulating features like cooled seats.
Neoprene seat covers offer a solid mix of comfort and protection, but it’s important to consider how they interact with your vehicle’s features and the outside temperature. By understanding these aspects, you can ensure that you stay comfortable in your seat year-round, no matter the weather.
Conclusion: Weighing Your Options with Neoprene Seat Covers
Neoprene seat covers definitely offer a lot—comfort, significant water resistance, and a snug fit that can make any seat feel almost brand new. However, like any choice, they come with their own considerations. They aren’t machine washable (unless you buy from a company that says otherwise), they hold onto moisture a bit longer than some might like, and can affect how well your vehicle’s seat cooling or heating features perform.
So, are neoprene seat covers the right choice for you? It really boils down to your personal needs and what you value most for your vehicle’s interior. They might be the perfect fit if you prioritize water resistance and comfort over ease of maintenance and tech compatibility.
Curious about other options? Maybe you’re looking for something that fits a bit differently or works better with your truck’s built-in features. Check out our detailed blog on the best seat covers for trucks for more insights and recommendations. Whether you drive for work or fun, we’re here to help you find the best seat cover that meets all your needs.
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.
Over
at Ruff Tuff, they take pride in their work just like we do at TigerTough. They're family-owned and have been in
the custom seat cover game since 1976, crafting their products right here in the USA. They stand by creating
high-quality seat covers with precise patterns and durable fabrics, ensuring each cover fits snugly and lasts
long.
They’ve got a variety of different seat cover lines, but we ordered a set of
their Dura EZ-Care covers for 2023 Ford F-150
to compare them with TigerTough seat covers.
Let’s
see how they do.
The
Delivery
Ruff
Tuff Packaging
These
arrived in a branded big ole brown box. Inside, we found the seat covers protected with plastic, something that
looked like a plastic tongue depressor, and super detailed instructions. There are lots of words on those
instructions and not many photos, but we’re okay with reading.
A
really cool thing they do is put a QR code on the seat cover tag so that you can easily get to the installation
instructions and videos.
TigerTough Packaging
When
your TigerTough seat covers arrive, they come in a branded poly mailer. We don’t get fancy with boxes when
shipping is cheaper and easier with polymailers. You’ll also get a set of 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 for a smooth installation
process.
Design and material of the seat cover
Ruff
Tuff Design and Material
We
contacted Ruff Tuff’s customer service, and they say their Dura EZ-Care material is made of “a 600 Denier
polyester blend canvas material.” It’s a sturdy fabric and feels really durable. The site says they’re
water-resistant and great for kids and pets. There’s a foam backing on the portions you’d come in contact with,
like the seat back and bottom.
They
have decorative stitching along the back, which looks nice, but it’s something we don’t suggest because it makes
the seat cover weaker. If you’re going for looks over durability, then have at it!
TigerTough Design and Material
We
craft each cover in three separate parts for a complete fit, similar to Ruff Tuff's method, yet we stay true to
using 1000-Denier
CORDURA
throughout for unmatched durability.
The
fabric of our seat covers is rigorously
tested
to handle the harshest conditions. We avoid any fancy stitching that might compromise durability, opting only
for embroidery in low-wear zones, which won’t affect the cover's integrity.
Installation
Ruff
Tuff Installation
We
spent about 10 minutes installing the Ruff Tuff seat cover. And the tongue depressor stick it came with was
really handy! In fact, we’ll keep it around to install future covers and save some fingers in the process.
That’s a genius addition to the shipping box.
Here’s
how their seat covers are attached:
The seat back fits
snuggly and velcros to the seat itself
The seat bottom has
straps that run under the front and back that fasten under the seat
There’s also a string
that runs from side to side that you tie underneath the seat
TigerTough Installation
Getting TigerTough seat covers on your seats can be a pain. It takes us about
9 minutes for a complete installation, and we’ve been doing this for a while. Though we've got the process down,
even those new to our covers should find it a straightforward task with just a tad more time.
We
offer in-depth guides and installation videos customized for each vehicle model.
Here's
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 (that’s the generic term for
Velcro).
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.
Ruff
Tuff doesn’t include headrest covers as a standard feature. We didn’t realize this when ordering–whoops, so we
can’t review this portion of the seat cover. But we will say that we believe headrest covers should be standard.
If your vehicle’s interior needs seat covers, it’s in need of headrest covers, too.
Headrest covers are an additional $68 in the Ruff Tuff Dura EZ-Care
option.
Seatback
Ruff
Tuff Seatback
The
seatback cover fits really well, with detailed stitching and foam backing. We typically don’t recommend foam in
a seat cover because it degrades over time and can leave the cover baggy. It won't affect function, but it will
affect fit.
PSA
about foam: Just like the cushioning in your work boots, foam starts out supportive and snug, but over time, it
compresses and loses its oomph. When that happens, those boots don't fit the same, and you don't get the same
support. It's the same deal with foam in seat covers.
Ruff
Tuff has seatback pocket options available, which we love.
TigerTough Seatback
Our
seat covers hug the back of your seats tightly for a glove-like fit. For customization, you can add a seatback
pocket and embroidery.
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 tuck into the seat bottom's plastic trim, allowing access to the seat controls. You might think this is a
standard in seat covers, but we’ve met some that cover up your controls.
Airbag safety
Since
2014, vehicles have required side airbags, thanks to federal regulations. These lifesavers
are often tucked right into your seat. And they've been pulling their weight for a long while, with the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration tallying up over 2,000 lives
saved by
side airbags from '96 to '12. Back then, less than half the vehicles on the road had 'em, but now? They're
pretty much everywhere.
Any
seat cover company worth its salt knows how crucial safety is, whether it's just your own work truck or a whole
fleet you're running.
Ruff
Tuff Airbag Compatibility
Ruff
Tuff’s approach to airbag safety is interesting. The version we received has the entire side seam come apart
with velcro. So, in the event of a collision, the airbag will deploy and break through the velcro-secured side.
They have another version with simply a cutout for the airbag to deploy. The
version you get is based on your vehicle.
TigerTough Airbag Compatibility
Every
TigerTough cover's got a tearaway seam right down the side—so if your airbags need to bust out, they can do
their job with no problem. Independent labs have
tested our covers to ensure they’ll do what they need to do in a collision. Here's to hoping
you'll never need it, but you're good to go if you do.
Warranty and Returns
Ruff
Tuff Warranty and Returns
Ruff Tuff offers a limited one-year warranty against manufacturer’s
defects under normal use. Pretty standard, but not impressive.
Unfortunately, their covers aren’t returnable (except for
their Flex OPS line). So make sure you really want these covers before you confirm the order. Because once you
get them, they’re yours for life.
TigerTough Warranty and Returns
Our vehicle seat covers have a two-year, unconditional warranty. And we mean that.
If they somehow get damaged in whatever it is that you do in your vehicle, we’ll replace or repair them. We
stand by our covers.
If 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.
Price
This
is why you’re ultimately reading this, right? Seat covers can have a crazy range in prices. So, for comparison,
we used a 2023 Ford F-150 for spec.
How
much does Ruff Tuff cost?
We
ordered a set of their Dura EZ-Care seat covers for $367. But don’t forget–we didn’t get headrest covers with
our order, so we’d have to spend another $68 on those.
For
full-coverage with Ruff Tuff, you’re looking at about $435. We also had to pay $25 for shipping. We won’t add
that to the total price of these seat covers, but that’s something to consider.
How
much does TigerTough cost?
To
fully cover your two front seats with TigerTough, it will cost around $297. And we give you free shipping on any
$100+ order within the 48 contiguous states.
Overview
It all
comes down to what you want and what your budget allows. For what it’s worth, we think you’ll get everything you
need from TigerTough at a pretty good savings compared to Ruff Tuff. We’d say that even if ToughTough wasn’t
signing our paychecks.
Ruff
Tuff is a great option that will work hard for you. We wish they came with headrest covers, and maybe had a
better way to fasten the string underneath the seats. But they’ll absolutely get the job done.
If you
want something rugged and meant to withstand hard use, like construction environments or excited farm
dogs,
we’d encourage you to try TigerTough. Because hey, if you order them and hate ‘em, they’re returnable. And
bonus: 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 really work for you. That’s cool, but you should definitely check out the
best seat covers for work
trucks
and find something that meets your needs.
