11
Aug
Utes have come a long way from the rugged, bare-bones beginnings, both inside and out. They still retain that go-anywhere readiness, but step inside, and it’s a whole different story from what was usually there just a decade ago. Double cabs in particular have stepped up comfort to a whole new level. And there’s the convenience of new tech to make longer journeys more pleasurable. Some utes even outclass more upscale sedans and hatches, not to mention the available space.
These are cars that are no longer reserved just for tradies. There’s more of them in the CBD and inner city than most of us like to admit. Keeping that shiny interior to showroom quality comes down to a few inexpensive accessories. High on anyone’s shopping list should be car seat covers.
With models like the Hilux and Ranger topping vehicle sales, there’s a healthy aftermarket that covers all buyers’ needs. If you’re looking for Ford Ranger seat covers, in particular, your work’s cut out for you. There are hundreds of brands out there, and some are produced locally to very high standards. Tailor-made to just the right fit, they should last years to come.
Utes take a beating. Keeping that to a minimum on the inside is one of the jobs of seat covers. These will prevent stains and spills from the quick lunches from the drive-in, and mud, dust, debris and bad weather from spoiling the cloth (or leather) of your rig. Besides keeping your car looking new, seat covers make cleaning any resulting mess easier and quicker. Just take them off and throw them in the washing machine. Some variants are even dryer-ready. To keep that level of cleanliness, you can combine covers with matching floor mats. For tradies, this combo is a must. And let’s not forget that there are covers in different materials and designs, so you’ll definitely find a set that is also comfy and looks good.
There’s a general divide between universal seat covers that can fit just about any car, and custom covers that are made to the dimensions and shape of particular seats. Universal covers are often cheaper, but still good quality, with decent stain and water resistance. They can also hold up to the hot Aussie sun. One major issue is fit. Here you’ll have more fuss getting them on and off, and they can clump if too big, or tear when optioned too small. Custom Ranger seat covers won’t have any of this. They offer superior safety with a tight, snug fit, so there’s no moving around or slipping. Custom covers take into account head and armrests, which most universal covers just get wrong. as well as centre consoles. There’s a cleaner look to them, and one that’s been well thought out. Both can have some added features like rear pockets or mesh in the front seats to fit fiddly necessities.
When getting seat covers for your ute, materials and fit should be what to determine first. You’ll want something that’s both comfortable and durable. And suits how you use your car. Tradies should go for more hard-wearing materials, but if you use your Ranger as a daily runabout, softer materials have a bit more coziness to them. Also consider style, and how designs and colour sit with the rest of the interior.
Here you’ll generally be looking at either neoprene or canvas. Neoprene covers are in the same synthetic rubber as quality wetsuits, so offer superior protection against liquids, mud and damaging UV rays. If you use your Ranger for off-roading, then this is the material to go for. Neoprene seats are also stain-resistant and easy to clean. If they do get dirty, they are also machine-washable. Comfort isn’t forgotten either, and most covers have a soft-touch lining for those longer rides.
Canvas is the material for active lifestyles. It’s incredibly tough, stain and bacteria-proof, and still doesn’t miss out on comfort. Canvas is breathable, so ideal for hotter weather, and won’t pick up stains, spills, or liquids. Easy to clean and wash. Just don’t throw canvas seat covers in the dryer. In addition, they have a tight fit and won’t wrinkle.
Other options for utes include cheaper polyester covers with decent levels of durability, comfort and breathability. They’re easy to pick up stains though. More upscale looks can be had with leatherette and real leather seats, though not ideal for hotter Aussie summers, and cracking can be an issue with heavier use. Vinyl covers are good all-rounders, especially if you have pets in the back seat. They’re easier to maintain and keep clean than most materials.
Custom and tailored Ranger seat covers, or any other ute for that matter, offer the best fit. Additions like head and armrests, cutouts for DVDs and screens, and airbag compatibility mean they also cover safety, adjustability and convenience as well. Universal seats however are usually one-piece affairs, and won’t feel quite right. Sizes differ for both front bucket and rear bench seats, with separate cutouts for rear push-down armrests and split seat designs.
