Modifying Your Jeep Wrangler's Seats - Covers & Aftermarket Options

Jeep seat covers come in a variety of materials and options, generally ranging from cotton and neoprene to leather and leatherette material. In addition, considering a Jeep’s top can be removed, exposing the seats to the sun, most seat covers offer some level of UV protection and claim to prevent fading.

Cotton: Some seat covers are 100% cotton for a machine washable solution. These covers are also very easy to install and remove, often looking like more of a bib for the seat. They sometimes are presented as beach towels. Whether you need protection from mud/dirt while on the trail or prevent the seats from getting too wet while driving or returning from the beach/pool, Cotton covers are among the less expensive option available.

Leather: A comfortable and durable material that can protect against scratches, spills, and stains. Although, it's vulnerable to cracking and wear from UV rays.

Neoprene: A durable, waterproof material that is a favorite among off-roading enthusiasts. Generally, one of the most cost-effective seat cover materials and most commonly requested. These covers are made from the same material as wetsuits. As a result, they are designed to be waterproof and offer the same level of UV protection. The criticism with most neoprene covers is the lack of air flow, making them slightly uncomfortable during long drives or hot weather. Nonetheless neoprene covers stretch and can be installed/removed very easily, providing you with the option of only installing them while on the trail if needed.

Leatherette: If you’re looking to upgrade from a cloth interior to a leatherette finish, there are some leatherette vinyl seat covers available that can be installed over your existing cloth seats. This alternative to genuine leather provides the same look and protection, but at a much more affordable price. 

Storage: In addition to material, some seat covers offer the opportunity for more storage. Utilizing MOLLE strapping systems to attach bags and accessories, these types of seat covers provide great protection and the potential use of additional storage in an area otherwise underutilized area. They typically attach through loop Velcro straps, making the installation and removal very easy.

Suede: A comfortable and stylish material that is great against spills and scratches. Likewise, it is also susceptible to acute water and UV damage.

Tweed: A highly customizable fabric that is highly rated for water, stain, and UV protection.

Ballistic Nylon: A less comfortable material that is incredibly strong and resilient. Perfect for protecting your seats from rips, tears, and water leaks.

Storage: In addition to material, some seat covers offer the opportunity for more storage. Utilizing MOLLE strapping systems to attach bags and accessories, these types of seat covers provide great protection and the potential use of additional storage in an area otherwise underutilized area. They typically attach through loop Velcro straps, making the installation and removal very easy.

Each seat cover type is relatively cost-effective, but you will generally pay higher for a stronger and more durable materials – especially one that’s waterproof. In terms of monitoring budget, custom seat covers will also be cheaper than universal quilts.

If you’re considering changing the seat entirely, then aftermarket Jeep seats might be a good option. These seats can range in style and function from an ordinary factory replacement to a sportier design with bolstered sides and additional padding for a more supportive feel. In addition to the additional support, these seats often offer provisions for 5-point seatbelt harnesses. During off-road or trail use, the harness can be attached to the Jeep’s roll bar and provide an additional layer of restraint, in the unlucky event the Jeep rolls over while on the trail. Some aftermarket seats will require an optional seat bracket, increasing the overall expense. Another thing to consider when looking at aftermarket seats, are factory side airbags, if your Jeep comes equipped with the optional side airbags, a seat replacement might involve the help of a professional to ensure the airbag system isn’t compromised.

Aside from the aftermarket seat rails that might be required when replacing the seat itself, you might elect to replace the factory seat rails with a lighter and stronger aluminum alternative. These aftermarket rails also offer a high level of adjustment, while retaining the same factory mounting points.

In addition to aftermarket rails, there are a variety of other seat accessories available for the Jeep Wrangler. The Teraflex air compressor mount allows you to install an ARB twin air compressor under the front seat of a four-door Wrangler or a two-door wrangler without the flip/tilt seat bracket. This unique mounting solution uses space that would normally be underutilized to mount an air compressor, which can control air lockers or serve as an air source to fill your tires.

One other helpful accessory is the rear seat recline kit. This simple to install kit provides a slight angle to the back seats, in order to tilt them back for a more comfortable seated position during longer drives. The kit adds 2.5” of reclining space to the seat frame, while still retaining the seat’s ability to fold flat during cargo needs.