RSI’s Smartcap is a functional product for storage and utility on vehicle-based and overland adventures
When I purchased a Toyota Tundra TRD Pro in 2019, I immediately began researching camper shells. I didn’t like the look or build of a traditional fiberglass topper, and I didn’t want to go full-on overlanding setup on my daily driver. But since my days often include backcountry photoshoots, leading groups of students on adventures, and family camping trips, I still wanted a camper that I could tailor toward my professional and personal lifestyle. The unique-looking, ultra-rugged RSI Smartcap EVO is my solution for wanting maximum versatility and quality.
All Smartcap EVO models (mine’s the Sport) ship as five stainless steel panels that you or a dealer can assemble. It took all of two hours to put the Sport topper together between three of us one morning. The short-bed Tundra model cap fits like a glove on my bed and attaches using simple but rock-solid C-clamps. It weighs in close to 200 pounds and is not going anywhere. It also has a 330-pound dynamic load rating on top which translates to 770-pounds when the vehicle isn’t moving, perfect for a roof-top tent and family.
Everything about this cap is solid. The stainless steel panels don’t flex; the keyed latches are metal and confidence-inspiring; the struts on the spacious gullwing doors and rear hatch work flawlessly, and the flush-bonded slider windows on the Sport model operate with ease and haven’t goofed up any during the time I’ve owned it. This is an extremely well-engineered and constructed product. If we’re spending a lot of money on our vehicles, shouldn’t we expect our accessories to be just as well made?
It’s not lightweight like some fiberglass alternatives, and it will likely take three or four people to install/remove it. Combined with a full Decked system and the Tundra’s lower payload, I had a noticeable rear squat until I installed Icon’s Multi Rate leaf springs (otherwise, my TRD Pro has stock suspension). Likewise, I wish the window slider facing the cab was larger, but that’s only because the Tundra has a rear window that fully opens. It’s a minor issue that’s hardly worth mentioning.
What is worth mentioning, though, is the ability to expand the Smartcap’s functionality. The option to install a gullwing kitchen component to the topper was the thing that sold me on it. The kitchen comes stocked with plate and glassware, all the utensils you really need, and a foldout, two-burner gas stove. This is the most-used part of my cap, and I have cooked approximately a hundred meals on it for groups as small as two and upwards of 25. I’ve used it so much in the last eight months that the foam holding the utensils and mocha pot in place is beginning to come slightly unglued. I love the kitchen on the cap, even if it takes up a bit of space in the bed. I also included the stainless steel table component which attaches to the cap’s ceiling and is easily accessed and deployed. The table rounds out the kitchen setup nicely. Likewise, I added RSI’s platform rack to the top for extra storage and a way to secure my rooftop tent when it’s needed. I like when things work in ideal and challenging conditions, and the entire Smartcap package excels.
The Smartcap EVO Sport ranges in price from $3,995 – $4,295 on RSI’s North American website, while the Adventure model (no windows in the gullwing doors) ranges a couple hundred less depending on your bed length. Each model comes with a three-year warranty on parts and workmanship.
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