Bed Topper - ARE vs Leer

[AdiosCali]

Hi folks - New member here. My question about toppers has probably already been answered numerous times, but here goes. I like the AL and lighter steel units, but can't get my head around their price tags. I also can't seem to find either with the features I'm looking for (slider front window, slider side windows with pet screens that open upwards ("windoors"), so ARE and Leer have bubbled up (in spite of their stupid high prices also!). Usage: Mainly security, but also having a dry place to sleep if me and my pup get stranded somewhere, and I may - or may not - put a rack on top. Having been in tech manufacturing forever (QA/QC) I've noted others discuss quality problems with ARE after RealTruck started tightening the belt. Question: Have you had any with your ARE or Leer toppers (reliability / durability, weather resistance, creeks & rattles, general manufacturing, issues, etc.). Also, would you buy the same unit again? Many thanks for your take and experiences!

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[MattK]

I have an ARE CX Classic ordered and installed in 2021.

Mine has sliders all around and the win doors. The screens on mine aren’t “pet screens” and I’m not sure ARE had that option when I got mine.

It’s been bounced around and flexed off-roading and I haven’t had any issues from that. The sliders on the windoor version do not open completely. The sliders are limited by the t-handles.

The only finish issues I see are just time. The black frame around the windows is fading and maybe a slight corrosion?

I would buy it again given what I knew then and what I thought I wanted then. I’ve been looking at tent camper shells after doing three big around the country trips in a ground tent. The 5’ bed is not big to sleep in comfortably at 6’ 1” I’ve tried.

I have had no major issues on mine. Good luck with your decision.

 

[Sigz]

I know you asked about LEER vs ARE - but if you are interested and your dealer sells them - check out Venturous Ozark brand with their polyfuse technology: https://venturoustrucktops.com/products/ozark-truck-cap/

Thread here: https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/forum/threads/venturous-topper-installed.79782/page-2

 

[BennieD]

ARE is what I have and love it

 

[BCB]

I had a Leer with a rear "step up" cap on my Chevy and loved it. Solid, quiet, well built. I have considered one for my Gladiator but, at least for now, will keep my Mopar tonneu.

 

[Alpine Warthog]

ARE here as well. Mine's from '21. The rear glass hatch does allow some water to get in. I've got side sliders w/ screens but they don't open upward. Solid front window. Carpeted.
No issues with it. I've added roof rails from a donor car. No real complaints here

 

[AdiosCali]

I found a dealer in my area and will check them out. Thanks. Sigz!

I know you asked about LEER vs ARE - but if you are interested and your dealer sells them - check out Venturous Ozark brand with their polyfuse technology: https://venturoustrucktops.com/products/ozark-truck-cap/

Thread here: https://www.jeepgladiatorforum.com/forum/threads/venturous-topper-installed.79782/page-2

 

[AdiosCali]

The CX Classic is what I was looking at, also. Thanks for your detailed response, MattK!

I have an ARE CX Classic ordered and installed in 2021.

Mine has sliders all around and the win doors. The screens on mine aren’t “pet screens” and I’m not sure AEE had that option when I got mine.

It’s been bounced around and flexed off-roading and I haven’t had any issues from that. The sliders on the windoor version do not open completely. The sliders are limited by the t-handles.

The only finish issues I see are just time. The black frame around the windows is fading and maybe a slight corrosion?

I would buy it again given what I knew then and what I thought I wanted then. I’ve been looking at tent camper shells after doing three big around the country trips in a ground tent. The 5’ bed is not big to sleep in comfortably at 6’ 1” I’ve tried.

I have had no major issues on mine. Good luck with tkur

 

[AdiosCali]

I had a Leer with a rear "step up" cap on my Chevy and loved it. Solid, quiet, well built. I have considered one for my Gladiator but, at least for now, will keep my Mopar tonneu.

Thanks, BCB. Yeah, I have a.BakFlip tonneau on it now, which I had on a Ram also. I really like those covers, just looking for a topper at this point.

 

[GoHack]

There are these guys out of Reno, Nevada:

Caravan Camper Shells

caravancampershells.com

 

[RenegadeBI]

I have the Westin aluminum cap & am very happy with it & the price was "reasonable". I like the fact that the side panels open completely giving great access to my gear.

 

[AdiosCali]

There are these guys out of Reno, Nevada:

Caravan Camper Shells

caravancampershells.com

Thanks, GoHack ... I'll check them

I have the Westin aluminum cap & am very happy with it & the price was "reasonable". I like the fact that the side panels open completely giving great access to my gear.

Sounds good .. I’ll check that out, also. As I pretty much expected, this forum group is tight and very supportive!

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