Thule Foothill 2 review

Quick verdict: Ideal for couples and compact vehicle owners who want a highly space-efficient rooftop tent that doesn’t sacrifice sleeping comfort. Its half-width folded design preserves valuable roof space for other gear like bikes or kayaks.

• Our rating: 4.3 / 5
• Best for: Compact SUV owners, weekend couples, and active adventurers
• Capacity: 2 people
• Type: soft-shell rooftop tent
• Price range: ~$2,100
• Where to buy: Thule

At a glance: pros & cons

Pros

• Ultra-compact folded width (25 in) leaves half the roof free for other gear
• Generous 37-inch internal height and panoramic windows for an airy feel
• Quick, one-person setup thanks to telescopic aluminum poles and integrated mounting rails
• Recycled 600D ripstop fabric with 1500mm waterproof rating and all-season versatility

Cons

• Telescopic poles and soft-shell design require slightly more handling than hard-shell clamshells
• Thule mounting brackets sold separately (~$200 add-on)
• 6cm foam mattress is decent but thinner than premium 3-inch+ RTT options

Key specs overview

Check latest price

Comfort and interior space

Sleeping comfort

• Mattress feel: Medium-firm camping density.
• Support: no noticeable pressure points for side sleepers up to 180 cm / 85 kg.
• Condensation handling: Good, dual skylights + mesh vents minimize moisture (vents, airflow, real-world observations).

Interior volume and ergonomics

• Headroom: enough to sit upright for adults up to 110 cm.
• Layout: wide side entry, panoramic windows, 4 interior pockets, exterior gear hooks.
• Family use: ideal for two adults, cramped for any more than two people.

If comfort is your top priority, you may also want to compare it with Dometic Hyke 2 and iKamper Skycamp Mini.

Setup, installation, and everyday use

Installation on the car

• Compatibility: Works with aero/through-style crossbars supporting up to 60 kg dynamic load.
• Installation difficulty: 2 people recommended, ~15 minutes for first install.
• Instructions and hardware: Clear step-by-step PDF guides with torque specs, though the aluminum mounting brackets must be purchased separately.

Daily setup and pack-down

• Setup time: From parked to ready-to-sleep in ~5 minutes.
• Pack-down time: About 5 minutes with practice.

Consider whether you often arrive at camp in the dark or bad weather; quicker tents can make a big difference on the road.

Weather resistance and durability

Performance in wind and rain

• Wind stability: Wind-tunnel tested, stable during normal highway speeds, minor fabric resonance expected above 90 km/h.
• Waterproofing: Fabric rated at 1500mm waterproof ripstop.
• Snow and cold: Capable in light snow and cold nights, but not designed for heavy accumulations without additional insulation.

Materials and long-term durability

• Shell and hinges: Aluminum cap sheet and welded frame offer excellent torsional rigidity against road vibration.
• Fabric, zippers, and stitching: 600D recycled polyester is highly tear-resistant and UV-stable, paired with heavy-duty YKK zippers.
• Ladder: Standard aluminum ladder provides confident footing with minimal flex, rated safely for dynamic climbing.

If you plan extended trips or leave the tent permanently on your roof, durability is critical; this model is built for reliable long-term road trips.

Aerodynamics, noise, and fuel consumption

• On-road noise: Low wind whistle, noticeable but acceptable above 100 km/h.
• Impact on fuel consumption: Approximate increase of 1.0 to 1.5 L/100 km to expect on your vehicle.
• Height and clearance: Adds 28 cm to vehicle height (without counting the bars).
• Max speed: It is recommended not to drive faster than 110km/h with the roof tent installed.

Storage, packing, and living with it

• Interior storage when closed: Zero; bedding must be removed or stored outside the tent for travel.
• Covers and straps: Heavy-duty integrated PVC/vinyl cover with secure strap-and-buckle closure.
• Off-season storage: Unroll fully to air out, then store loosely folded in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Who is the Thule Foothill 2 best for?

The Thule Foothill 2 rooftop tent is ideal if:

• You are a couple doing weekend overlanding trips or active road trippers.
• You value maximizing roof cargo space, quick solo setup, and year-round reliability.
• Your vehicle is a mid-size SUV, wagon, or pickup equipped with compatible roof crossbars.

You should probably look elsewhere if:

• You require a full-width sleeping platform for families (e.g. you need a true 4-person family tent).
• You have strict vehicle roof load limits (e.g. your car’s roof load rating is limited to under 60 kg dynamic).

Alternatives to consider

If the Thule Foothill 2 is not a perfect fit, here are solid alternatives:

Use these alternatives to cross-compare weight, price, and features, and choose the tent that fits your trips and your vehicle.

Frequently asked questions

Will the Thule Foothill 2 fit my car?

In general, it fits vehicles with:

• A roof load rating of at least 60 kg (check your manufacturer’s manual).
• Compatible roof racks (aero/through-style crossbars or Thule longitudinal systems).

When in doubt, ask the retailer with your exact vehicle model.

Can I leave the tent on my car all year?

Technically yes, but consider:

• Increased fuel consumption and wind noise.
• UV and weather exposure reducing fabric lifespan.
• Local regulations and insurance conditions.

How long does it take to learn setup and pack-down?

Most users are comfortable after 2-3 practice trips; expect setup in under 5 minutes with practice.

Final verdict: should you buy the Thule Foothill 2?

If you are looking for compact, versatile rooftop camping and your vehicle can support it, the Thule Foothill 2 is a highly versatile space-saver rooftop tent.

• Strong points: exceptional roof space savings, all-season weather resistance, and straightforward one-person deployment.
• Weak points: basic mattress thickness and mandatory crossbar brackets increase overall investment.

👉 Ready to hit the road?
Check the latest price and availability for the Thule Foothill 2 here.

Internal links

• Best rooftop tents for compact vehicles
• Rooftop tent buying guide
• How to choose a roof rack for your tent

Review videos

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