Hard Top or Folding Top...Pros & Cons?

[gacpro]

As I continue learning more about Pontoon Boats I've noticed the two types of tops. I'm curious as to the benefits or drawbacks of each. The hardtops appear to be non collapsable which would prevent passing under some bridges. Are there any benefits to the Hard top also? Thanks for any input!

[Ron Burgundy]

Most of the hardtops I have seen are on older boats. I think the soft top bimini is the best way to go. If it is too windy you can lower it. Also since we live in Florida you can lower it in the winter. That way you will get some sunlight to warm you up. I use my 'toon mostly north of all the bridges and passes, but if you will be using yours in the Clearwater/St. Pete area there are probably some low clearence passes to worry about.

[ROLAND]

well I have the "soft" bimini top on my boat and I like it fine. Dosn't take anything to remove it from the cover / boot and open it up. Alittle bit of a pain in the ass to put it back in the boot, but not bad... Funny thing I actually saw a guy with a hard top on his pontoon at the launch last weekend and I watched him lower it down. Looked like it lowered right down to the rails, which of course you couldn't do while you were out on the lake... Pretty sure soft / bimini top is the best way to go.

[margaritaman]

I have seen older toons with a collapsing hard top. The advantage is in storage because you do not need a canvas cover and also it lasts longer than the canvas type and do not need replacement.

[dockholiday]

I once thought, I would like to have a hard top but that idea has passed now. Too many down sides for me, unless this was my permanent residence. With the soft you can have it up down or even remove the entire thing in minutes with much less storage space needed.
doc

[playcat]

6 in one hand, half dozen in the other. I love my upper sundeck/hardtop. pretty tough to sit on top of a bimini or jump off of it into the water, especially when 3 teen boys do it at the same time! I store my kayak up ther between fishing holes. My GPS and VHF antennas are mounted up there and my stereo speakers are on the underside. It does add a LOT of weight, hurting performance somewhat. Bridge clearance is not so bad, as I can go pretty much anywhere a medium straight truck can fit, about 12 feet.
It depends on how you intend to use your boat. if I had a go-fast toon, the hard top would not be a consideration at all.