JRC Contact Zip Brolly System review
A brolly that zips up into a basic shelter - simple, flexible, and fine for overnighters.
A brolly that zips up into a basic shelter - simple, flexible, and fine for overnighters.
Best for: Day-session and single-overnight anglers who want quick setup and an open view of the rods.
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Where this kit fits in
Brolly systems sit between a fishing umbrella and a full bivvy. They pitch quickly and cost less than a two-man bivvy, at the cost of space and insulation. For day sessions and single overnighters they are often all an angler needs.
How it actually works on the bank
The zip-out front panel is the key feature: closed, it keeps wind and rain out overnight; removed, it gives a full open view of the rods in the day. A 3000 mm hydrostatic head is fine for normal UK rain but is a single skin, so expect condensation inside on cold, still nights. The storm poles brace the brolly against wind, which matters on exposed banks.
The full picture
The Contact Zip is a brolly system made from 210D Oxford nylon with a 3000 mm hydrostatic head. It comes with storm poles (24" and 36" cam lock), a lightweight PE groundsheet, side vents, a three-door option and a full zip-out front panel, so you can fish it closed like a small shelter or open like an umbrella.
What we like
- Converts between open brolly and closed shelter
- Storm poles and PE groundsheet included
- Three-door option and side vents
- Quick to pitch for short sessions
What we don't
- Single skin - condensation on cold nights
- Space for one angler and a bedchair, not more
- Less wind-stable than a full bivvy
- 3000 mm HH is adequate rather than generous
Key specifications
| Fabric | 210D Oxford nylon |
| Hydrostatic head | 3000 mm |
| Storm poles | 24" and 36" cam lock |
| Groundsheet | PE, included |
| Front | Full zip-out panel, three-door option |
| Vents | Side vents |
Long-term ownership notes
Brolly systems last for years if they are packed dry. The parts that wear are the zip, the rib joints and the waterproof coating, which can be refreshed with a reproofing spray.
Care & maintenance schedule
The routine that keeps the JRC platform running for its expected lifespan.
- Dry fully before storing, even if you have to unpack it at home
- Reproof the canopy when water stops beading
- Check rib joints and storm pole cam locks each season
- Keep the zip clean of grit
Common issues owners report
Problems reported by long-term users, plus the practical fixes.
- Condensation inside - fix: open the side vents
- Stiff zip - fix: clean and lubricate
- Water beading less over time - fix: reproofing spray
If you'd rather spend more or less
Upgrade
Fox Frontier XD - £600
The Fox Frontier XD is a proper bivvy with more room and better insulation for longer sessions.
See on Amazon UKDowngrade
Common questions
Is the JRC Contact Zip Brolly System worth the price?
We score it 4.1/5 from its specs and published owner reviews, because a brolly that zips up into a basic shelter - simple, flexible, and fine for overnighters. Whether that is worth the money depends on how the strengths above line up with your session type and venue.
How does it compare to other bivvies in this bracket?
See our full bivvies & shelters comparison for direct alternatives at higher and lower price points.
Where should I buy it in the UK?
Amazon UK is usually the fastest route with the strongest return policy on kit over £100. Tackle-specific retailers (Angling Direct, Nash Direct, Trakker UK) sometimes match on price and add extras like matched accessories. Check both before committing.
Others in the same category
Trakker Tempest 100 Bivvy (2025)
A quick-erect one-man shelter that goes up in seconds - the pick for anglers who move swims.
Read reviewFox Frontier XD
A big, high-backed shelter for long sessions - space and headroom first, carrying weight second.
Read review