The Tarpofix drawbar cover made a good impression in our test. The drawbar cover has a length of 92 cm and a height of 58 cm. It is also suitable for drawbars and couplings with a width of between 15 and a maximum of 80 cm. The product consists of different layers of material and therefore offers good weather protection. The drawbar cover also has two click fasteners. These are adjustable in size and ensure that the cover can be firmly attached to drawbars and couplings. Installation is self-explanatory and easy. Tarpofix currently sells the drawbar covers in six different colors.
Advantages
✅ High quality
✅ good workmanship
✅ water-repellent
✅ robust
✅ easy assembly
✅ seat-proof
Disadvantages
❌ Ball of thread at the seam
The test
General information
We have looked at and tested the product in detail in a practical test. In the following, we take a closer look at the features and impressions. The product is subjected to our test procedure from the packaging, materials and quality to the range of functions and handling.
To give you a quick overview, we work with a points system. The maximum possible number of points per area is 100 points. The final overall score is calculated from the average of all tested features, taking into account the respective weightings. For a detailed insight into our comprehensive evaluation process, which forms the basis of all our product ratings, please click here.
The first impression
The packaging and labeling
ℹ️ Here we take a closer look at packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, adequate protection of the product must of course also be ensured.
| Criterion | Remark | Score achieved* |
|---|---|---|
| Product protection | Carton is sturdy, product is sufficiently protected | 93 points |
| Sustainability Packaging | No unnecessary packaging waste, compact packaging, recyclable cardboard box | 97 points |
| Product labeling | Thank you message for the purchase on the inside of the packaging | 93 points |
| Miscellaneous | Box arrived without damage | 98 points |
| Total | 95 points |
*The maximum score is 100 points
Cardboard packaging
The Tarpofix drawbar cover arrived in an undamaged cardboard box, which was easy to open using a sharp object. The drawbar cover was packed in a separate box inside the carton. The product protection was complete in this case and the hood was therefore in perfect condition. On the inside of the box there is a message of thanks addressed to the buyer. In addition, the packaging of the drawbar cover is recyclable with the exception of a small plastic seal. In summary, the product is not damaged and the package was in good condition. All in all, the Tarpofix drawbar cover made a good impression in our test.
After unpacking
Package contents and instructions
ℹ️ Most people’s first impression after unpacking is immediately memorable. Are the contents of the package complete and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product straight away?
| Criterion | Remark | Score achieved* |
|---|---|---|
| Package contents & scope | Drawbar cover with two click fasteners, complete package contents | 100 points |
| Instructions for use | not absolutely necessary | 94 points |
| Contact information | No specific contact information visible | 75 points |
| Miscellaneous | Package contents can be used directly | 98 points |
| Total | 92 points |
*The maximum score is 100 points
After opening the sturdy cardboard packaging, we found the folded drawbar cover. The product consists of several different layers of material to protect the drawbar/hitch from various weather conditions. The drawbar cover also has two straps, each with a plastic click fastener. The inside of the cardboard packaging shows the Tarpofix website and a QR code that directs the consumer to the tarpofix.com website. However, no specific contact information is shown on the packaging. In addition, care instructions for the drawbar cover would have been desirable.
The first time in your hand
Product processing and appearance
ℹ️ Before we start the practical test, we take a close look at the product processing. How high quality are the materials used? Is the look and feel satisfactory?
| Criterion | Remark | Score achieved* |
|---|---|---|
| Visual appearance | Hood is creased | 86 points |
| Processing | Seams are clean with the exception of one ball of thread | 81 points |
| Stability | Click fastener holds very well, hood withstands tear test | 95 points |
| Sustainability of the product | The product is durable due to its good stability | 90 points |
| Other | Drawbar hood has circulation holes | 95 points |
| Total | 89 points |
*The maximum score is 100 points
To begin with, it is noticeable that the hood is a little creased after unpacking. However, the seams are neatly finished, with the exception of a ball of thread. The straps can be individually adjusted to the size of the drawbar or clutch. In addition, the click fastener allows the drawbar cover to be opened quickly and closed securely. In our test, we checked the stability of the hood by pulling on the hood and the strap. The product passed the test without any problems. The hood also has two circulation holes on the underside.
This is what our practical test showed
Does the manufacturer keep its advertising promises?
ℹ️ Our practical test is the most relevant and therefore the most important. Here, the product has to undergo a wide range of criteria and tests. We check the functions and product promises of the test article.
| Criterion | Remark | Score achieved* |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof | Waterproof in the test | 100 points |
| Adjustable in size | Straps are adjustable in size | 90 points |
| Windproof hold | Tight-fitting straps and robust click fasteners | 91 points |
| Premium material | Four different material layers | 92 points |
| Sustainable | Robust and therefore durable | 90 points |
| Total | 93 points |
*The maximum score is 100 points
We really enjoyed testing the drawbar cover, as the product is self-explanatory and easy to use. One advantage of this product is that the hood is attached using two size-adjustable straps. This allows the drawbar hood to be fitted snugly. The plastic buckles on the straps are also easy to open and close. The circulation holes on the underside of the product also allow a constant exchange of air within the hood. The drawbar hood has also proven to be robust in a stability test. The hood is soft and water-resistant on the inside. Nevertheless, the drawbar or coupling is not protected from water or dew from the underside.
Price/performance ratio
and ratings from consumers
ℹ️ Finally, we look at how the product compares to the competition. Can it keep up with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend buying it? We also examine consumer ratings and check whether the critical and positive reviews are actually justified.
| Criterion | Remark | Score achieved* |
|---|---|---|
| Price / performance ratio | Good quality at a reasonable price | 89 points |
| Rating cut | 4.4 out of 5.0 on Amazon | 70 points |
| Total | 80 points |
*The maximum score is 100 points
On the Amazon platform, consumers have given the product an average rating of 4.4 stars. They often complain that the seam tears easily or that the straps do not hold. Many customers like the fact that the drawbar cover is waterproof and the material is good. In our practical test, we were able to confirm that the material is of good quality and the cover is waterproof. However, we cannot confirm that the straps or seams tear easily.
Prices of up to €37.39 are charged on the Internet for equivalent products. Very inexpensive products are available from as little as €8.90. The drawbar cover from Tarpofix is currently priced at €19.95, which puts it in the middle price segment. The price ratio is very good for the quality and scope of services you get.
Overall result
| Weighting | Score achieved* | |
|---|---|---|
| 1. packaging & labeling | 15% | 95 points |
| 2. package contents & instructions | 15% | 92 points |
| 3. product processing & appearance | 20% | 89 points |
| 4. in the practical test | 30% | 93 points |
| 5. price/performance & consumer ratings | 20% | 80 points |
| Total | 90 points |
The Tarpofix brand drawbar cover therefore receives an overall score of 1.5 from us and has thus been successfully certified for our test seal. The test was carried out in the test period 09/22 and is listed in our database under the license number 220824003. You can find more information about our test procedure at www.prüfengel.de/testverfahren.
Test result:
1,5
