R.M. Williams Seat Covers: Are They Waterproof & Worth It?

If you’ve ever tried to keep your ute’s interior looking sharp while hauling gear, you know the struggle. R.M. Williams seat covers promise a blend of heritage style and tough protection, but do they deliver? We dug into the specs, retailer claims, and real user feedback to find out if these covers are worth the investment.

Available from: Supercheap Auto, Autobarn, Repco, mycustomcar.com.au ·
Key materials: canvas, velour suede, neoprene, mesh ·
Waterproof backing: included on some models (e.g. Longhorns Canvas) ·
MSRP range (approx.): $80–$200 AUD per pair

Six key specs, one pattern: the covers offer a range of materials and features, but waterproofing and fit consistency remain hit-or-miss across models.

The implication: R.M. Williams covers pack solid basics, but buyers must verify specific features like waterproofing for each model rather than assuming all covers are equal.

Are R.M. Williams seat covers waterproof?

• Some models, such as the Longhorns Canvas, are described as having a waterproof backing – YouTube product review (user demonstration)
• Canvas material alone is water-resistant but not fully waterproof without that backing – Got Ya Covered (Australian seat cover blog)
• Retailer listings on Autopro (Australian auto parts chain) and My Custom Car (custom seat cover retailer) claim the fabric is waterproof and easy to clean

Which models have waterproof backing?

The Longhorns Canvas variant is said to include a waterproof backing. Other models may or may not; always check the product description for the words “waterproof backing” before purchase.

How to confirm water resistance before purchase

Cross-reference the product SKU on at least two retailer sites. If both mention waterproofing, you’re safer. If only one does, treat it as unconfirmed.

The catch: without a standardized waterproof rating, buyers rely on vague marketing claims. If absolute dryness is critical, consider dedicated waterproof brands like neoprene covers that guarantee sealing.

Are R.M. Williams canvas seat covers any good?

• Made from 12-ounce heavy-duty canvas with a foam lining for comfort – YouTube product review (user demonstration)
• The covers use expander/stretch side panels to improve fit – same review
• On ProductReview.com.au (Australian consumer feedback platform), some users call the quality and fit “poor”

Material quality and durability

The heavy-duty canvas and foam backing suggest durability, but user reviews on ProductReview.com.au tell a different story. One reviewer said they paid $189 for a front set and found the fit lacking – ProductReview.com.au.

Customer satisfaction from third-party reviews

No independent expert reviews exist. The only feedback is from retailer descriptions and a handful of user posts. That’s a thin evidence base for a $150+ product.

The trade-off: the canvas is tough and stylish, but inconsistent fit may leave some owners disappointed. Try before you buy if possible, or choose a custom-made option from My Custom Car (made-to-measure seat cover retailer).

Is it worth putting seat covers on leather seats?

• Covers protect leather from UV damage, wear, and spills
• Ill-fitting covers can trap moisture and cause mold – common caution from auto upholstery guides
• R.M. Williams offers covers in specific sizes (e.g. Size 30) to reduce shifting – Autopro listing

Pros of covering leather seats

Leather seats are expensive to replace. A good cover prolongs their life by blocking UV rays and hiding daily wear. The foam backing on R.M. Williams covers adds comfort too.

Cons: potential damage or reduced breathability

Covering leather can trap heat and moisture, especially in Australia’s climate. If the cover doesn’t breathe, you might find mould under the fabric. R.M. Williams uses mesh and canvas options that allow some airflow, but solid neoprene may not.

Why this matters: for daily drivers in humid Queensland or hot Western Australia, breathability is as important as water resistance. Canvas or mesh covers are better suited than rubber-backed ones.

What type of seat cover is best?

• Canvas: durable, water-resistant if backed, classic look like the R.M. Williams Stockyard
• Neoprene: fully waterproof, great for wet conditions, sporty feel
• Velour suede: soft touch, premium appearance, but less durable
• Mesh: breathable, ideal for hot climates, minimal protection against spills

Three material types, one pattern: no single material excels at everything. Your choice depends on your climate and how you use the car.

The trade-off: canvas gives you heritage looks and toughness, but neoprene wins for all-weather protection. Mesh is best for tropical heat but offers zero spill defense.

Which color seat cover is best for a car?

• Dark colors like black and grey hide stains but absorb more heat – useful in cooler climates
• Light colors stay cooler but show dirt and grime quickly
• R.M. Williams currently offers grey and black options based on retailer inventories

What this means: if you park in the sun often, black covers can make seats uncomfortably hot. Grey is a safer middle ground – it hides dust and doesn’t scorch as much as black.

What is the best brand of car seat covers?

• R.M. Williams covers are sold by major Australian retailers alongside brands like Covercraft and A-Line – Motoquipe (auto accessories specialist)
• Brand recognition from R.M. Williams boots extends to auto accessories, but comparative quality data is limited
• For custom fit, My Custom Car (made-to-measure retailer) offers made-to-measure R.M. Williams covers

R.M. Williams vs. other brands sold at Autobarn and Supercheap

Without independent lab tests, it’s hard to declare any brand “best”. R.M. Williams leans on its heritage image. Covercraft has a broader range of materials. A-Line is often cheaper. Your choice should prioritise fit and material over brand name alone.

The implication: R.M. Williams is a solid option if you value the style, but don’t assume it outranks competitors. Check return policies (e.g., Supercheap Auto (leading auto retailer) offers easy returns).

What are the best car seat covers for leather seats?

• Choose covers with a soft backing to avoid scratching leather – R.M. Williams includes foam backing on some models
• Fit must be snug to prevent shifting; size 30 is a common universal fit – Autopro listing
• Airbag compatibility is critical for safety – R.M. Williams covers are designed with side airbag cutouts – Autopro and My Custom Car

Features that protect leather without scratching

Foam or felt backing is essential. R.M. Williams uses thick foam, which cushions the seat and prevents the canvas from rubbing against the leather.

R.M. Williams leather-compatible options

The canvas and velour suede models are best for leather seats because they’re less likely to trap moisture than neoprene. Always check the backing material description.

The pattern: for leather seats, soft-backed, snug-fitting covers with airbag cutouts are non-negotiable. R.M. Williams covers meet these criteria, but only on models that specify “foam backing” – don’t assume all do. For those interested in maintaining a pristine interior, you can explore Bissell carpet cleaner NZ prices for more details on R.M. Williams seat covers.

Quotes from retailers and reviewers

“The thick foam backing provides superior comfort and support. Fabric is waterproof and easy to clean.”

Autopro (Australian auto parts chain)

“Made from 12-ounce heavy-duty canvas with a waterproof backing and expander sides for a better fit.”

YouTube product review (user demonstration)

“Custom made to measure, airbag compatible, and waterproof – ideal for utes and 4WDs.”

My Custom Car (custom seat cover retailer)

“I bought a set of front seat RM Williams seat covers, size 30 Air, from Supercheap Autos for $189. Poor quality and poor fit.”

ProductReview.com.au (Australian consumer feedback platform)

Summary

R.M. Williams seat covers bring a heritage look that many ute and 4WD owners appreciate, but the evidence suggests you’re paying for style as much as substance. If you want a set, go for custom-made canvas with waterproof backing from My Custom Car (custom seat cover retailer) or verify fit and waterproof claims with the retailer before handing over your cash. For Australian buyers in hot or wet climates, the choice is clear: canvas for toughness with a breathable backing, or neoprene for full waterproofing – just don’t expect a single cover to do both perfectly.

Frequently asked questions