OBJECT OF DESIRE
Solar SP Pro Brolly System RRP: £359.99 www.solartackle.com
MENTION the name Solar Tackle and most carpers will automatically think of finely-honed stainless, top-end landing nets and, more recently, reassuringly solid and luxurious bedchairs.
Obviously, the company makes far more than that, and has a rich history spanning more than three decades in the manufacture of both bait and tackle, but in recent years it has also been ramping up its presence in the megacompetitive carp shelter market.
This latest launch is proof, yet again, that Solar simply doesn’t release products until they have been tested, tweaked, and fully tuned up.
After last year’s launch of the SP range of shelters, the Kent-based company has now released its all-singing, all-dancing top-of-the-range full SP Pro Brolly System.
Let’s start with the all-important material. Shrouding the lightweight yet strong frame – which is based upon 8.5mm HD fibreglass poles and boasts an aluminium bell cap – is the company’s ‘Solartex+’, a breathable, coated fabric that will withstand years of abuse and scrapes with rogue brambles.
Internal space – such a priceless commodity when the weather takes a turn – is maximised by the company’s clever (patented) block system, and the flat-back profile further increases this, allowing the easy storage of holdalls and other luggage at the rear of the shelter.
Staying at the rear, the new PermaVent air-flow system keeps the breeze moving through the shelter during the warm nights of summer, and the supplied heavy-duty groundsheet and front panel can be removed to create a fully stripped-back oval brolly for increased mobility on short sessions or those trips when frequent moves are needed to stay on the fish.
On the subject of the front panel, the SP Pro comes with the option of a full door, PVC door, mozzi-mesh door and mozzi-mesh windows (included in the package), all of which, along with the supplied storm poles and heavy-duty pegs, fit easily in the oversized bag.
In conclusion, Solar’s touch of class is evident in every inch of this full brolly system and, considering the comprehensive package, it represents excellent value.