The invention comprises a retractable cover system comprising: a flexible cover. A plurality of supporting bows support the cover. A semi-rigid member having first and second ends is secured to the cover section. The semi-rigid member is capable of flexing laterally outward if the system is retracted. This outward action allows the cover or cover sections to consistently fold in the same way and prevents the cover or cover sections from getting caught in the load or in the cover system componentry. The invention also comprises a segmented tube secured to the bottom portion of the cover between the bows.