Camper shell for 2017 Taco Double Cab TRD OR short bed...what are the best choices?

Ok, I know this question has been asked many times before, but I'm a greenie to Tacomas. I just got mine. I've been driving a 4runner up until now. I'm looking to get a camper shell to keep my outdoor gear (mostly paddling) safe, locked up, and dry. Also I have dogs that may be muddy from time to time. What I've researched so far is that around here (Western North Carolina), the options appear to be Leer, A.R.E, and Century. I'm planning on having roof racks on whatever camper top I get. I'm just looking for feedback on what's good, what's not, etc. I've noticed Leer seems to want to market the 100XQ for the 2016/2017 Tacomas, but of course it's their premium top. Sure it looks like it fits nicely, but those windows don't open much. I've always been interested in the 100XR since it has sliding windows (good for dogs). A.R.E. has the X series, but their websites doesn't have options for 3rd gen Tacomas. I'm leaning towards to Leer 100XR, but I'm not sure about fit. Any ideas/suggestions? Thanks in advance.

 

Leer 100XR, they make em for 2016s/ 2017s shouldn't be any different. If you have a similar case like me theres a canopy store somewhere in the vicinity, call them tell them ur truck year and model and they can hook it up. About 1500?? i think for the xr depending on options. Also if you search 2016 tacoma canopy tacomaworld in google or in the search bar here theres a HUGE thread with plenty of pics of canopy options on various models. Ive used it to decide on my top and I'm doing the 100xr.. or a soft topper... not sure yet

 

I'm also interested in this but it seems you have to talk to human beings to get pricing. Hopefully that means they have a good bit of flexability. What I want to know is what is the difference between a canopy, cap, topper, shell etc.. Are they just different names for the same thing?

 

Yeah the manufacturer leaves pricing to dealers. There all the same, canopy, cap, topper, I call it a canopy but I'm not sure if that has something to do with geographical location or what. Go with a known brand, nothing cheap or theres a possibility of regret. Ive had ATC which is a bit more unknown and they were fine but if you got a nice truck put a nice cap on. Leer works great. everyone has there favs

 

I actually already ordered a bed rack, but it sure would be nice to be able to have all my stuff locked up and dry...and aparently these start at just around double what I paid for the rack. I'm assuming color matched paint is included in these prices?

 

I'd make a phone call and you can get a lot of information on pricing and stuff everything varies

 

I have the Leer 100XR on my 2016. Fits perfectly and the color match is almost 100%.
Screened windows make it nice inside.

 

I prefer the basic 100r with the t-handle locks. The glass/hardware on the higher end models looks nicer, but I find them to be more problematic. I like the simpler design. Get a sliding/removable front window - you'll be happy you did for cleaning. Not sure if I'm going ARE or LEER on the new truck.

Mike

 

Get quotes for all. My Century came in about $300 less than the equivalent Leer. Consider Windoors and removable front window.

 

Century/Leer come out of the same molds, the same paint shop and use the same windows/hardware (and the same factories). Right before they go out the door, the proper window decal and plastic brands are added depending on the order.

I saved $200 by going with Century.

SB