The Rhino-Rack Soft Shell Roof Top Tent is the better tent overall, rated 3.0 to 2.8. The Rhino-Rack Soft Shell Roof Top Tent leads on value and weight. The Thule Approach 2 S wins on comfort. The Rhino-Rack Soft Shell Roof Top Tent costs $699.96 less ($1,799.99 vs $2,499.95).
A light, low profile two person soft shell for smaller SUVs and racks with modest load ratings. The thin mattress and short floor make it better for one or two shorter sleepers.
Northridge4x4 $1,799.99A light, quick to mount two person soft shell for couples or solo campers with a smaller vehicle. The bed is narrow for the price.
Amazon $2,499.95Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every soft shell tent; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Rhino-Rack Soft Shell Roof Top Tent | Thule Approach 2 S |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.0/5 | 2.8/5 |
| Value 30% | 47 $62.73 per sq ft of bed ($1,799.99, 28.7 sq ft) | 12 $102.10 per sq ft of bed ($2,499.95, 24.5 sq ft) |
| Weight 20% | 73 99 lb for 28.7 sq ft of bed (3.5 lb per sq ft) | 43 110 lb for 24.5 sq ft of bed (4.5 lb per sq ft) |
| Weather 20% | 50 waterproof rating not published (neutral score used) | 62 waterproof rating not published, 4 season |
| Comfort 15% | 20 1.6 in mattress, anti-condensation mat not stated | 32 2.4 in mattress, anti-condensation mat not stated |
| Warranty 15% | 0 1-year warranty | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) |
| Rhino-Rack Soft Shell Roof Top Tent | Thule Approach 2 S | |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeping | ||
| Shell | Soft shell | Soft shell |
| Opens | Folds out | Folds out |
| Sleeps | 2 | 2 |
| Mattress | 51.2 x 80.7 in | 43 x 82 in |
| Bed area | 28.7 sq ft | 24.5 sq ft |
| Mattress thickness | 1.6 in | 2.4 in |
| Built-in lights | Yes | - |
| Weather | ||
| Fabric | 600D ripstop polyoxford, PU coated (CPAI-84) | 100% recycled 600D polyester ripstop |
| Season rating | - | 4 season |
| On the vehicle | ||
| Weight | 99 lb | 110 lb |
| Closed size | 49 x 53.5 x 8.3 in | 43 x 48 x 11 in |
| Open size | - | 84 x 48 x 35 in |
| Closed height | 8.3 in | 11 in |
| Static load | - | 660 lb |
| Ladder | - | 102.4 in |
| Setup time (maker) | - | 3 min |
| Warranty | 1 year | - |
