A.R.E. Z series shell. Opinions please

I'm torn between the Snug Top, Super Sport & the A.R.E. Z series shells.

Any takes on these two models specifically?

I know there are threads generally on ARE vx Snug, but they seem too general since both makers have shells of differing quality levels depending on your market niche (aka what you can afford).

I could have a shell from both for a little over $1000, but both offer shells nearing $2000 with all the options.

 

I'm very happy with the quality in workmanship with my A.R.E. The locking mechanism locks with steel bars. Even though I just have their fiberglass tonneau cover. I have had mine for 3 years; paint still looks nice, no chips. Locking mechanism still works like it did when it was new.

 

I narrowed things down to the Snugtop XV and the ARE Z Series. The closest Snugtop dealer is 6 miles from my house, while the closest ARE dealer is about 130 miles away. The quote for the Snugtop shell with options came in about $400 more than the ARE shell, so I took that to the local guy and got him to bring his price down by $350, and that pretty much sealed the deal for me. I don't think you can go wrong with either, but it helps to shop around. I tried all the Snugtop and ARE dealers in the state, and the prices were all over the place, so they definitely have some flexibility in price. I should be getting my Snugtop next week, so I'll post some pictures once it's in.

 

I can't speak specifically to the models your talking about. But I have had an ARE Rocky Mountian Edition cap on my Chevy for close to 15 years now. About a year ago the paint began to crack on the topper, so I sent a picture to ARE. That day they called me back, and told me to drop it off at a dealer of my choice, and they would order me a brand new shell. No hastle no BS they truly stand behind their stuff for life.

 

WOW! Glad to hear good stories.

Thanks so much, I ordered the Z, and it should be here in 3 weeks. I'll get a camera by then and finally post pics of my mods and shell.

Thanks to this forum b.t.w.