Stop the Slide: Why You Need a Bed Mat and Swing Cases in Your Aluminum Bed
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You bought a 2015–2020 Ford F-150 to haul things. But the moment you put groceries, golf clubs, or power tools in the bed, you realize the problem: They are exposed.
Exposed to the rain. Exposed to thieves. Exposed to the wind blowing them out on the highway.
You need a Tonneau Cover. But browsing the options can be overwhelming. Do you save money with a Soft Roll-Up cover (like the TruXedo Lo Pro), or do you invest in a Hard Folding cover (like the BakFlip MX4)?
The Soft Roll-Up is lightweight, gives you full bed access, and costs less.
The Hard Folding cover turns your bed into a secure vault that locks with your tailgate, but it's heavier and more expensive.
In this guide, we compare the security, weatherproofing, and ease of use of both styles to help you pick the one that fits your lifestyle.
Compare Bed Cover Styles
Security, Access, or Speed?
|
Cover Style |
Security |
Bed Access |
Best For |
|
Hard Folding (BakFlip) |
High. Aluminum panels lock. |
Full. Folds up against cab. |
Security. Protecting expensive tools/gear. |
|
Soft Roll-Up (TruXedo) |
Low. Vinyl cuts easily. |
Full. Rolls tight to cab. |
Budget. Keeping rain/leaves out efficiently. |
|
Retractable (Retrax) |
High. Locks in any position. |
Partial. Canister takes up 12" space. |
Convenience. Smooth, one-handed operation. |
|
Painted One-Piece |
Max. Overlaps tailgate. |
Limited. Clamshell opening. |
Style. Matching the paint for a sport look. |
Frequently Asked Questions (Bed Accessories)
Is a tonneau cover 100% waterproof?
No. While covers like the BakFlip MX4 or Retrax are highly weather-resistant and feature drain tubes to route water away, no folding cover is submersible. You may see a few drops near the tailgate or bulkhead during a high-pressure car wash. However, for rain and snow, they keep cargo dry enough for luggage and cardboard boxes.
Will a bed mat fit if I have a spray-in liner?
Yes. A rubber bed mat (like DeeZee) is actually a great addition on top of a spray-in liner. While the spray-in protects against scratches, it is hard on your knees and allows cargo to slide. A heavy rubber mat prevents things from sliding around and is much softer to kneel on.
What is a "Swing Case"?
The UnderCover Swing Case is a storage box that mounts to the side of your bed (over the wheel well). It utilizes the "dead space" behind the wheel arch. It swings out 180° so you can access your tools without climbing into the bed, and it lifts off the hinge if you need full bed width.
Secure your load.
Keep your gear dry and safe from theft. Shop our verified collection of [2015–2020 F-150 Bed Covers & Accessories].