Tough As Shell vs Cerakote – Which One Protects in Real Conditions?
Forget lab tests—this is about how these ceramic sprays hold up in the real world: sun, rain, and road grime.
Durability in Harsh Weather
We applied Tough As Shell and Cerakote Rapid Ceramic Sealant to two black hoods and exposed them to everyday SoCal and Midwest weather: direct sun, night dew, and regular washing.
- Day 1–14: Both looked slick and hydrophobic.
- Day 15–30: Cerakote started fading, especially on edges and trim.
- Day 30–45: Tough As Shell still showed solid beading and slickness. Cerakote was flat.
UV Resistance and Oxidation
UV protection matters, especially for darker paint. After just a few weeks, Cerakote’s side showed signs of fading and surface dryness—indicating the coating had worn down. Tough As Shell held its gloss longer and prevented oxidation from setting in.
Grime and Rinse-Off Performance
We hit both panels with dirt, dust, and hard water to mimic real-life weekend use. Tough As Shell rinsed cleaner every time. Cerakote let more dirt cling, requiring a contact wash to fully remove grime.
Designed for Real Conditions
Cerakote may sound great in ads, but in the real world, the protection fades fast. Tough As Shell is formulated to survive regular driving, washing, and weather cycles.
