JRC Stealth X-Lite Bivvy
If you’re looking for a lightweight bivvy then you can’t go wrong with the JRC Stealth X-Lite Bivvy. Weighing in at only 6.9kg, this bivvy is exceptionally light and it is a great option for the carp angler who wants to consolidate their setup. However, it isn’t by loosing out on space that the bivvy has been able to achieve this exceptionally light weight. The footprint of the bivvy, whilst small enough to fit into the most compact swims, is also more than spacious enough to accommodate a bedchair and a generous amount of luggage. With a width of 260cm and a depth of 220cm, you won’t have any problems fitting in all your gear for a long bankside session. What’s more, the bivvy is 130cm high, too. Although this isn’t tall enough for the average adult to stand in (it translates to a little over 4ft), it is more than enough room for you to sit up all on your bedchair. You won’t have to hunch over in order to risk catching your head in this bivvy!
The quality of the bivvy materials haven’t been sacrificed, either. The JRC Stealth X-Lite Bivvy is manufactured from JRC’s dedicated Hydratex material. This has been purposed designed to withstand the rigours of angling and it boasts a hydrostatic head rating of 10,000mm – which means that it can withstand 10m worth of water pressure before it begins to leak. All the seams of the bivvy have been tape-sealed, too. This is because the seams are often the weakest part of the bivvy, allowing water through the minute holes left by the stitching. By taping the seams it ensures that they are just as waterproof as every other part of the bivvy, so you’ll stay dry no matter how extreme the weather is.
The ribs of the bivvy are where the real weight saving can be found. This is because they are manufactured in a hybrid manner. The ribs are split into two distinct sections. The first of these is a highly rigid aluminium pole, which fits vertically from the ground up. The second of these is a flexible aluminium pole, which fits horizontally and joins the two vertical sides. By simply changing this element of the bivvy construction, JRC has been able to save masses of weight. The bivvy has a two rib structure, with integrated frame supports. This means that, on the bank, you can enjoy all the structural integrity whilst experiencing a lighter load as you barrow to and from your swim.
The JRC Stealth X-Lite Bivvy features a completely removable front panel. This can transform the bivvy from a year round shelter for long sessions to an open-fronted day shelter. This ensures that you can remain versatile on the bank and you don’t have to invest in multiple shelter options in order to enjoy your full range of angling. The front panel features two infill panels, for which you have the option of either solid green or mozzie mesh. The door also has solid or mozzie options, as well as a clear PVC option for when the weather is really awful but you still want to let light into your bivvy. Dual zips also give you the option of using the door in a letter box manner, for when you want to enjoy a panoramic view over you swim whilst staying sheltered.
Rod retainers on either side of the door give you somewhere to store your rod whilst your rigging up, to ensure that they don’t fall and damage your bivvy or you. As a fibnal touch, JRC has fitted pockets on the inside of the bivvy, which are perfect for the storage of your bite alarm receiver, mobile phone, and car keys.