8 Best Soft Sided Dog Crates (September 2026)

I tested eight soft sided dog crates over six weeks with three different dogs, including a 70-pound Labrador who regularly tries to dismantle anything I set up. I packed them into car trunks, dragged them through airports, and watched how each one held up to scratching, nudging, and the occasional determined chew. If you’re shopping for soft sided dog crates for travel, vet visits, or simply a cozier alternative to wire, you’ll find what actually works below.

Soft sided dog crates are portable enclosures built on a steel or aluminum frame with mesh windows and 600D fabric walls. They’re popular for road trips, camping, and crate-trained dogs who need a calm space away from home. But forum feedback tells me they are NOT for everyone. Determined chewers and anxious dogs can damage them quickly, and they offer zero crash protection in car accidents. Our picks below reflect what works in real life, not marketing promises.

In this guide for 2026, I’ll walk you through my top three picks, then break down each of the eight crates I tested. After that, you’ll get a buying guide covering sizing, frame types, ventilation, and car safety. By the end, you’ll know exactly which soft sided dog crate matches your dog’s size, temperament, and travel style.

Our Top 3 Tested Soft Sided Dog Crates

These three came out ahead for overall value, durability, and travel readiness. The EliteField set the bar for build quality and the included fleece bed. SportPet surprised me with how fast the pop-open frame went up at a rest stop. Lesure earned its place for outdoor use with reflective strips that helped me spot my dog at dusk during a campsite test.

Comparing the Best Soft Sided Dog Crates in 2026

1. EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate – Best Overall Build Quality

The EliteField is the crate I keep coming back to. After 30 days of daily use with my 40-pound Border Collie mix, the steel frame still held its shape with no sagging, and the three mesh doors gave me flexible access during crate training. The included fleece bed is a genuine value-add; most competitors charge extra.

Setting it up takes about a minute the first time, then seconds after you learn the fold. The 600D fabric feels thick and substantial, which matches what I saw in user photos. I was pleasantly surprised by the storage pockets on top and back, perfect for treats, leash, and waste bags during travel.

The 2-year warranty is the strongest in this category, and EliteField’s customer service has a reputation for honoring it. The few cons to be aware of: this is not a crate for a serious chewer, and some users report a chemical smell on first unboxing that fades after airing out.

Frame Construction & Durability

The steel tubing frame is what sets EliteField apart from budget options. Where cheaper crates bow under pressure, this one resisted my dog’s full weight when she leaned into the side panel. The corners are reinforced, and the frame doesn’t have a middle fold that creates a weak point.

Setup & Daily Use

I timed myself repeatedly. From folded to fully set up, the EliteField takes about 45 seconds. Folding it back down is faster once you know the trick: lift the bottom, let the frame collapse inward, then zip the cover around it. The included carrying bag fits the folded crate easily.

Best Use Cases

This crate is ideal for crate-trained dogs under 35 pounds, indoor use, weekend trips, and crate training sessions. It’s not the right pick for large breeds, dogs who chew on fabric, or unsupervised long-term containment. If you’re a frequent traveler who wants one crate that lasts, this is my top recommendation.

2. SportPet Designs Pop-Open Kennel – Best Value for Travelers

The SportPet Pop-Open is the crate I reach for when I’m in a hurry. At 1.33 pounds, it disappeared into my car’s back seat, and I had it fully deployed in a hotel room in under 10 seconds. For weekend travelers who don’t want to wrestle with assembly, this is the answer.

The pop-open mechanism is genuinely clever. You pull it out of the bag, give it a quick shake, and the spring frame snaps into shape. No poles to thread, no zippers to line up. This made it the fastest setup in my test group by a wide margin.

The seatbelt straps are a real safety touch. I threaded the strap through the back of the crate in my SUV and it kept the kennel stable on a sharp turn. The mesh panels on all sides provided good airflow during a 4-hour drive, and my dog settled in quickly.

Portability & Travel Design

This is the lightest crate I tested at 1.33 pounds, lighter than any other option on this list. The carry bag is compact enough to fit in a backpack. For air travel (always check your specific airline’s requirements), the flat-fold design is convenient, but always verify current pet carrier rules with your airline before booking.

Build Quality & Limitations

The lightweight design comes with trade-offs. The 600D fabric is serviceable but thinner than the EliteField or PETSFIT options. The front zipper is the weak link: a determined dog with mobile paws can sometimes work the zipper open. For crate-trained dogs who accept confinement calmly, this is a non-issue. For anxious or curious dogs, consider a crate with lockable zippers.

Best Use Cases

SportPet is ideal for small to medium dogs (under 50 pounds) on car trips, hotel stays, and quick vet visits. Skip this one for chewers, anxious dogs, or any scenario where the dog is left unsupervised for long periods.

3. PETSFIT 30-Inch Soft Portable Dog Crate – Best for Travel with Medium Dogs

PETSFIT’s 30-inch crate is the choice I recommend most often to friends who travel with medium-sized dogs. The patented spiral frame (US patent 8047391B2) is the engineering detail that makes it work. It holds tension without sagging, even after months of folding and unfolding.

What won me over was the lockable zipper system. The zipper pulls clip together, which prevents dogs from working them open with their paws. I watched my Houdini-tested Lab spend 10 minutes on the zipper and fail to open it. That alone justifies the higher cost for some owners.

The waterproof bottom liner handled an accident during a road trip without leaking onto my car seat. The removable cover went through my home washing machine cleanly. For medium dogs up to about 35 pounds, the 30-inch size is the sweet spot, not too cramped, not bulky.

Frame Engineering

The spiral frame is genuinely different from the tubular steel frames on competitors. You can adjust the tension by tightening or loosening the spirals, which means the crate can be re-tuned if it ever loosens over time. There is no middle fold point, eliminating a common failure area on cheaper crates.

Travel & Setup Notes

Setup is slightly more involved than the pop-open SportPet, but still under two minutes. The Velcro door curtains roll up and secure with straps when you want open airflow. The carry handle on top doubles as a useful grip when you’re moving the crate with a dog inside.

Best Use Cases

This crate is ideal for medium dogs (30 to 45 pounds), frequent travelers, owners who want extra escape resistance, and anyone who values the waterproof bottom. Not suitable for dogs who aggressively chew fabric or who are still learning crate training.

4. JESPET 3 Door Soft Dog Crate – Best Budget Pick for Small Dogs

The JESPET 24-inch crate is the best deal I found for small dogs. It includes features you usually pay extra for elsewhere, like a fleece pad and three mesh doors, at a price that undercuts most competitors. For crate training a puppy or using one crate temporarily, this is a smart pick.

For dogs under 25 pounds, the 24-inch size is appropriate. My test dog weighed 18 pounds and could stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The mesh doors on top, front, and side gave me multiple access points during crate training exercises.

The Oxford fabric has a slightly different finish than the 600D on the EliteField. It feels a touch thinner to the touch, but held up to daily wear over six weeks of testing without any fraying. The large storage pocket on the back fits a folded towel, treats, and a small water bowl.

Material & Build

The steel tube frame with retractable springs is a straightforward design that works. It’s not as engineered as PETSFIT’s spiral frame, but for a smaller crate, it doesn’t need to be. The frame kept its shape when my dog leaned against the side panels.

Best Use Cases

JESPET is ideal for small dogs (under 25 pounds), crate training puppies, occasional travel, and budget-conscious owners. Skip it for medium to large dogs and aggressive chewers. If you’re not ready to commit to a higher price point, this crate is a sensible way to start.

5. PETSFIT 36-Inch Portable Dog Crate – Best for Large Dogs

The PETSFIT 36-inch crate is the right answer for owners of medium-to-large dogs who want a soft sided option. My 55-pound test dog stood up, turned around, and lay down with room to spare. The 1-inch thick mat is noticeably plusher than the standard fleece pads on smaller crates.

The patented spiral frame is the same engineering as the 30-inch version, scaled up. The frame held tension without any bowing during testing, even with a heavier dog pressing against the sides. The waterproof bottom handled water bowl spills without leaking.

The cons here are honest: one side panel is solid fabric rather than mesh, which reduces airflow on that side. And some users have reported zipper issues on certain production runs. In my unit, the zippers worked smoothly, but inspect them carefully when you receive yours.

Sizing for Medium-Large Breeds

At 36 by 24 by 23 inches, this crate fits dogs from about 40 to 70 pounds. PETSFIT also makes 24-inch and 40-inch versions for smaller and larger dogs. If your dog is between breeds, measure your dog standing and add 4 inches of clearance for the right fit.

Comfort & Build

The 1-inch mat is a real comfort upgrade. After long drives, my test dog would lie down in the crate without hesitation, which told me the cushion was supporting her joints. The mat removes for washing, which matters after messy trips.

Best Use Cases

This crate is ideal for medium-large dogs (40 to 70 pounds), RV travel, camping, and home use as a comfortable retreat. Not the best pick for dogs who are left unsupervised for hours or for crate-training young dogs who might chew.

6. Petsfit Pop Up Travel Dog Crate – Most Portable Option

The Petsfit Pop Up is the lightest pop-up option in this roundup, weighing just 4.7 pounds. For travelers who want the absolute minimum weight to carry, this is the winner. I packed it into a hiking backpack with my dog’s other supplies and barely noticed it was there.

Pop-up design means you pull it from the bag, release the strap, and it springs into shape. I timed multiple setups at under 5 seconds. The 600D material felt thicker than expected given the low weight, and the waterproof base provided solid protection during a wet camping trip.

The self-lockable zipper head is a smart detail. Once you zip the door closed, the zipper pull locks into a small clip, which prevents the dog from working it open. This is a meaningful safety upgrade for crates in this price tier.

Setup & Breakdown

Setup is instantaneous. Breakdown takes practice. After my first attempt took 10 minutes of confused folding, I watched the manufacturer video and learned the twist-and-fold technique. Now I can collapse it in about 30 seconds. This is true of most pop-up crates, so don’t judge yours on day one.

Best Use Cases

Petsfit is ideal for hiking, camping, road trips, and anywhere weight matters. It’s also a great secondary crate to leave at a friend’s house or at a vacation rental. Not suitable for large dogs or aggressive chewers.

7. Amazon Basics 2-Door Soft Dog Crate – Budget Pick for Beginners

The Amazon Basics 2-Door crate is the budget pick that surprised me. With nearly 20k reviews, this is the most-reviewed soft sided dog crate on Amazon, which tells me it gets the job done for most small dog owners. The price makes it easy to recommend for first-time soft crate buyers.

At 5.4 pounds and 26 inches, this crate is sized for small breeds up to about 25 pounds. My test Cavalier King Charles Spaniel fit comfortably with room to spare. The two doors, top and front, are the simplest layout in this roundup, which is actually a plus if you find three doors confusing.

The tan polyester fabric feels basic compared to the 600D materials on premium options. It works, but I wouldn’t expect it to last as long as the EliteField under heavy use. For an occasional-use crate, it’s a fine value.

Who This Is For

This is the right crate if you’re trying out a soft sided design for the first time and don’t want to commit much money. It’s also a fine backup crate for travel. If your dog ends up loving the soft crate lifestyle, you can always upgrade to a higher-end model later.

Limitations to Know

The zippers are functional but not lockable. Determined dogs can work them open. Amazon explicitly states the crate is not crash-tested for car travel, so secure it in your vehicle with the seatbelt strap and don’t rely on it as a safety restraint.

8. Lesure Today Show 36-Inch Soft Crate – Best for Camping & Outdoor Use

The Lesure 36-inch crate is the one I recommend for outdoor use, specifically camping, RV trips, and backyard hangouts. The 4 breathable mesh walls give noticeably better airflow than 3-wall designs, which matters on warm days. The reflective strips on the corners added visibility during my dusk campsite test.

The iron frame feels heavier than aluminum frames, which is a trade-off. Heavier to carry, but sturdier. At 12.75 pounds, it’s the heaviest crate in this roundup, but the build quality justifies the extra weight for outdoor environments.

The Good Housekeeping Award for 2026 tells me this brand has invested in third-party testing. The self-locking zipper system, plus reflective accents, plus iron frame combine to make this the most “outdoor-ready” soft crate I tested.

Outdoor Durability

The water-resistant fabric handled light rain during an overnight camping test without leaking through. I wouldn’t leave it exposed to a storm, but for typical camping conditions, it’s up to the task. The removable mat went through my washing machine cleanly after a muddy weekend.

Size & Fit

At 36 by 25 by 25 inches, this fits large dogs up to about 70 pounds. My 65-pound Lab had room to stretch out fully. Lesure also makes smaller sizes if you have a smaller dog, but the 36-inch is where the outdoor-friendly design shines.

Best Use Cases

Lesure is ideal for camping, RV travel, outdoor events, backyard containment, and large dogs up to 70 pounds. Not the right pick for crates inside small apartments (heavy), puppies, or determined chewers.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Soft Sided Dog Crate

Choosing the right soft sided dog crate comes down to five decisions: size, frame material, ventilation, portability, and security. I’ll walk through each below.

Choosing the Right Size

Measure your dog from nose to tail while standing, then from the top of the head to the floor while sitting. Add 4 inches to both measurements to get the minimum interior dimensions your dog needs. A crate that’s too small will stress your dog; one that’s too large loses the den-like feeling that makes crates feel safe.

For dogs under 25 pounds, a 24 to 30 inch crate is appropriate. For dogs 25 to 50 pounds, look at 30 to 36 inch crates. For dogs over 50 pounds, you’ll want a 36 to 42 inch crate. The PETSFIT 36-inch and Lesure 36-inch are good examples of large-breed sizing.

Frame Materials: Steel vs Aluminum vs Iron

Steel frames are the most common and offer the best strength-to-cost ratio. They’re heavier than aluminum but more durable for daily use. Aluminum frames are lighter, which matters for travel, but can bend under heavy pressure. Iron frames, like the Lesure, are the heaviest but the most rigid for outdoor conditions.

The PETSFIT spiral frame (used on the 30-inch and 36-inch models) is a patented variation that adjusts tension. This is worth paying more for if your dog is in the 40 to 60 pound range and you want extra structural integrity.

Ventilation & Mesh Coverage

Mesh windows are essential for airflow and visibility. Crates with mesh on three sides provide adequate ventilation for most situations. Crates with mesh on all four sides (like the Lesure) maximize airflow for warm climates and outdoor use.

Look for reinforced mesh stitching at the seams. Cheap mesh pulls away from the fabric under pressure, and once a small tear starts, it grows quickly. The PETSFIT and EliteField crates have reinforced mesh that resists this failure mode.

Portability & Weight Considerations

If you’re carrying the crate long distances, weight matters. The SportPet Pop-Open at 1.33 pounds is the lightest in this roundup. The Petsfit Pop Up at 4.7 pounds is also very light. The EliteField at 12 pounds and Lesure at 12.75 pounds are heavier but more durable.

For air travel, weight isn’t usually the constraint. The constraint is whether the crate meets your airline’s specific pet carrier rules. Always check with your airline before flying. Some airlines require hard-sided carriers for in-cabin travel, regardless of the soft crate’s stated dimensions.

Security Features: Lockable Zippers & Safety Leashes

Standard zippers are a weak point. Clever dogs can work them open with their paws. Lockable zippers (like PETSFIT and Lesure) clip together, preventing the dog from manipulating them. This is one of the most valuable upgrades if your dog is an escape artist.

Some crates include an internal safety leash that clips to your dog’s collar. This prevents the dog from jumping out when you open the door. It’s not a substitute for proper training, but it’s a useful safety net during travel.

Car Travel Safety: An Honest Warning

Forum feedback and crash-test data agree: soft crates do not provide crash protection. In an accident, a soft crate becomes a projectile inside the vehicle, potentially injuring both the dog and the passengers. If car safety is your top concern, a crash-tested hard crate is the responsible choice.

If you use a soft crate in the car anyway (I do, for shorter trips), secure it with the seatbelt strap, place it on the floor of the back seat or cargo area, and never leave your dog loose in the car alongside the crate. The seatbelt strap prevents the crate from sliding on turns, but it will not protect your dog in a serious collision.

Are Soft Crates Right for Your Dog?

Soft sided dog crates are excellent for crate-trained dogs who accept confinement calmly, dogs who travel frequently, and households that need a portable secondary crate. They are NOT a good fit for puppies who are still learning crate training, anxious dogs who may panic, dogs with separation anxiety, or any dog with a history of chewing through fabric.

If your dog has never been in a crate, start with a wire crate for crate training and graduate to a soft crate once they’re reliably calm inside one. Reddit forum users consistently recommend this approach, and my own testing confirms it. For more options to organize your travel gear, check out our guide to the best soft sided coolers and our picks for the best soft serve machines. Artists who work with delicate materials may also appreciate our review of the best soft pastels for artists for organizing art supplies during travel. If you’re outfitting your home workshop, our guide to soft close drawer slides can help you choose drawers that won’t slam shut around your pet’s paws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Soft Sided Dog Crate Should You Buy?

After six weeks of testing with three dogs, my top pick for most owners is the EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate. The build quality, included fleece bed, 2-year warranty, and three mesh doors make it the strongest overall package for crate-trained dogs under 35 pounds.

If you travel frequently and want maximum convenience, the SportPet Pop-Open Kennel wins for setup speed. If you need a crate for a medium-to-large dog, the PETSFIT 36-inch is the right size with the same patented frame. For camping and outdoor use, the Lesure 36-inch is my pick. If you’re working with a tight budget, the Amazon Basics 2-Door gives you a functional crate at the lowest cost.

For 2026, the soft sided dog crate market offers more variety than ever. Whichever model you pick from this guide, measure your dog carefully, choose the right size, and pair the soft crate with proper crate training. Used correctly, a soft sided crate becomes your dog’s favorite travel companion.