If you’ve done any amount of research on fiberglass camper shells (aka truck toppers/truck caps), then you’re probably aware of the cost and know that they aren’t exactly cheap.
However, there are a variety of options that can add or reduce the cost of a particular shell. I like to refer to my LEER 100R as a “grandpa shell” – it’s nice, but not too fancy and thus far has suited my needs perfectly.
Coming from Toyota SUVs (FJ Cruiser & 4Runner specifically), I knew when I bought my Tacoma that I would want a camper shell for several reasons. The main reason being I wanted the extra space to keep things dry and secure. That’s probably the biggest downside to a truck bed, the lack of protection from the elements and potentially secure storage.
My truck is a daily driver so I haul things like groceries, equipment for work (photography), my dogs, and anything I may need for a project around the house.
Looking other camper shell options? Check out – camper shell and bed toppers for Tacoma.
Find It Online
- LEER 100R Truck Cap: Check Price
Table Of Contents
Pricing
It’s important to note that you will have to contact your local dealer for pricing as LEER doesn’t provide that information online.
In general, you can expect a base model to run about $1800 and a fully and completely outfitted shell to run around $3500.
Features
The features and available options of the LEER 100R (or any camper shell) are where your personal budget and/or needs come into play the most.
The LEER 100R might be considered the base model in the lineup of LEER options, but the cost can add up quickly when you start looking beyond the standard features.
If you are lucky enough to have a dealer near you, then I recommend paying them a visit to explore the different options you may be interested in and seeing them in person.
I didn’t have that luxury myself. I did a lot of my own research looking for opinions and photos of a variety of camper shells and made several calls to the dealer that I ultimately ended up ordering mine from.
Standard Features
These are all the features that each and every LEER 100R with come with at a minimum.
Standard Features
- Custom Fit Design
- Rear Framed Door with Double T-Handle Locks
- 50/50 Sliding Side Windows with Screens
- Skirted Sides
- Interior Dome Light
- Insulated Roof
- Dark-Tinted Glass
- Recessed LED Third Brake Light
- Frameless Fixed Front Window
- Fiberglass Base Rails for Structural Integrity
- J-Clamp Installation Pockets
- Installation Bulb Seal
- Axalta Color-Matched Paint (includes touch-up paint)
- Limited Lifetime Color & Structure Warranty
Remember, the features listed above come standard on the LEER 100R.
Additional features will add to the cost of the camper shell, but may also make the shell more desirable for yourself or a future owner if you ever decide to sell it.
Optional Features
There are a variety of additional features to choose from which I will list below. I will also breakdown the specific options I decided to go with for my personal needs.
Optional Features/Accessories
- Carpeted Interior
- Roof Rack Tracks
- Removable Front Sliding Window
- Removable Front Window (without slider)
- Pet Screens for 50/50 Sliding Side Windows
- Windoors
- Foldable Clothes Hanger
- Fishing Rod Holder
- Overhead Cargo Net (requires Roof Rack Tracks)
Breakdown
Carpeted Interior
I opted for the carpeted interior over the bare fiberglass because I think it makes the shell look more complete as a whole unit. It should also help a little bit with insulation for when me and the dogs sleep in it.
Roof Rack Tracks
The reason I went with roof rack tracks is basically that I would rather have them and not need them than vice versa. One important thing to note: opting for the roof rack tracks when you order your shell means having them installed at the factory, therefore your structural warranty isn’t negated and you don’t take the risk of damaging the shell by installing them yourself.
As you can imagine, there are almost unlimited possibilities of how you can outfit the roof of your camper shell. For example, you could install crossbars or a canopy rack for a rooftop tent or haul mountain bikes, kayaks, or additional gear for extended camping trips.
Removable Front Sliding Window
LEER was offering a coupon to upgrade the standard fixed front window to the removable front window (with a sliding center section) when I ordered my camper. This was a FREE upgrade, so of course, I had to get it.
The sliding portion of the window provides plenty of airflow especially when you have the side windows open as well. This is a huge bonus for my dogs (when I actually make them ride back there) and myself for camping. The other big benefit is being able to remove it for cleaning both the rear of the truck cab and windows along with the camper shell window itself. Do yourself a favor and make sure to ask your dealer if a promotional coupon is available when you order your LEER camper.
Pros & Cons
As with many aftermarket parts, there are always good and not-so-good features. Of course, these are subjective so your mileage may vary.
Pros
- Aesthetics/design
- Excellent color match
- Simplistic and useful
- Dry and secure cargo space
- Versatility
Cons
- Cost
- Wait time (8 weeks for mine)
- Limited hauling capability due to height
- Weather-sealed, not waterproof
- Fiberglass is subject to scratches/chips
- Side skirts slightly touch/cover the top of the bedside decals
Final Thoughts
Although there are some drawbacks to purchasing and owning a camper shell, I do believe that the positives outweigh the negatives. I didn’t want, nor could I afford, a “fancy” or more high-end camper shell.
I wanted an affordable option that would get the job done and look good doing it. Whether I’m camping out of it, hauling photography equipment for work, or just letting the dogs ride in it, the LEER 100R has been a great fit for me thus far.
As far as bed toppers go, there are several other options and opinions out there, like the SnugTop Super Sport Truck Cap and the Softopper Soft Top Canopy. You can also go down the rabbit hole of camper shells, bed racks and complete campers here. With all of those choices, it’s really important to find something that will suit your needs for the present time or the near future.
Hopefully, I was able to answer some questions you may have had about this particular setup, or at least give you a good starting point to help make your buying decision a bit easier!
They leak on tacomas
Where is shellcamper in Austin Texas 78747 ???
Thanks for this! I’m super excited to get mine installed in a couple days. Truck and topper look great!
Well the price is very incorrect, I called a place that sold theses and was told $2200 starting out, I just wanted the base model and when I got there the cheapest one was $3600
I wrote this article nearly 3 years ago dude. Learn to read.
Don’t have to be a prick about it, life is too short.
Hey Travis. Thanks for the info. Does it leak when it rains?
Some yeah, but you might do a better job sealing it than I did.
Did your shell cause any sag?
Negative. I did have SumoSpring bumps though.
Do you have gullwing Windows available on the camper shells for a ’21 Tacoma 6 ft bed
looking for a dessert sand 5.5′ hardshell cab cover. Used would be fine and like the leer 100 r shape.
I have that same shell being installed on my 2018 SR5. Do you find a need for bed stiffeners?
Thanks for the info. Just ordered one for my 2022 Tacoma. ?
I’m in the market for a camper shell like this, in white for my in near new condition, very low milage 2016 Toyota Tacoma with the 5.2 bed; money is not an option, yet everywhere I look, I see a note added saying “not for trucks with a factory installed bed? Any ideals where I can get one without removing the factory installed be? Going to do a lot of traveling and camping as soon as I get my rig decked out. Had to say goodbye (RIP) to my fully equipped Toyota Tundra, where I was rearend by a foolish woman… Read more »
Which model of the Tacoma Line is your truck ? Looks great in that color with those rims!
Hi will this camper shell fit on a 2018 Toyota Tacoma 5 foot bed?
It should!
I like your approach. When I decide I need it I get it. My Taco doesn’t have a tailgate lock does your Leer top help security?
Mark , your key fob has a spot you push in a tab and a key slides out ! This is used to lock your tailgate
Thanks Travis, Plan on doing pretty much this when I retire in about 3 years with my 19 tacoma……basically living out of it and traveling cross country….good to see the options. Thanks again for the write up.
-Ken
Thanks for review Travis, a local guy is selling a leer definitely has the roofrack option and thules. He asking $1300 wondering if thats a good price compared to new? Has a few scratches and looks like same color as mine. Thanks, Will
What is weight of the standard model
With my options, no more than 200lbs I’d guess.
Thanks Travis
Looks great! What size BFG tires are those?
Hey David, those are 265/75r16. Just a size up from factory, but they make a huge difference in appearance!
I had a feeling they were the +1. you were the inspiration for my Leer that I just had installed and loved the look of the tires as well. I am torn between the BFGs and the new Toys AT3. So the added size/ weight hasn’t had a negative impact?
I just got a quote for 100R from an Oregon dealer starting from $2300 without any option added. Just wondering where you bought yours?
Hey Fred – that is crazy high. I live in Arkansas. I would definitely shop around or maybe you’ll get lucky and find a used one.
Thanks Travis. Yeah that price is very high. Do you install by yourself? The quote I got seems including installation.
Really helpful info—thanks, Travis! Do you happen to have any pics of how the 100R touches or covers the top of the side decals? That might drive me crazy. Also, what’s your thinking on windoors? Your Taco looks great btw. Thanks again!
Hey Betsy, sorry for the delayed response! I don’t have any pics of the decals myself because I took mine off beforehand.
If you are in and out of your bed regularly, then I would recommend them. If it’s just occasional, I don’t think they’re worth the cost, personally. Thanks!
Travis,
Thank you very much for the 100R Review. It is very helpful!!
Thanks, Craig!
I’m glad it was helpful.
Travis