One of the most critical aspects of a successful session is undoubtedly a good night’s sleep.
Enter the Fox Duralite Bedchair, a bed that has genuinely transformed my sleep quality on the banks of the UK’s finest fisheries.
Lightweight & Robust Construction
The first thing that struck me about the Duralite Bedchair is its impressive construction.
Made from Duralite magnesium alloy, it is Fox’s lightest bedchair to date, weighing in at a mere 8.6kg.
This is a game-changer for those of us who often lug heavy gear across muddy car parks and gravel swims. First impressions are that the lightweight design does not compromise strength; it feels incredibly sturdy and reliable.
Unmatched Comfort with Lumbar Support
One of the standout features of this bedchair is the innovative lumbar support system, which is borrowed from the popular Flatliner series.
The fold-over lumbar support cradles your back comfortably, ensuring that you wake up refreshed rather than sore. This is particularly vital after long sessions where rest is paramount.
The One-Touch Spring-Lock leg mechanisms are another impressive addition. They allow for easy adjustments while ensuring even weight distribution. This feature is particularly useful when navigating uneven ground, providing stability that I have come to rely on during my fishing trips.
Advanced Mattress Design
The 3D mesh upper mattress and polyester base are designed for optimal airflow, which is a blessing during those humid summer nights.
The high-density foam, topped with Hollowfill, strikes a perfect balance between firmness and softness, offering support without sacrificing comfort. This means you can drift off to sleep without worrying about waking up with aches and pains.
The unique Fox camo fabric adds a touch of style, while the firmer foam perimeter effectively reduces compression on the frame. This attention to detail is indicative of Fox’s commitment to quality and functionality, and I truly appreciate it.
Versatility for Every Season
The Duralite Bedchair boasts a 5-season rating, making it suitable for year-round use.
The combination of the microfleece base layer and Sherpa fleece top layer ensures warmth even in the chilliest conditions. The oversized internal fleece baffles, and the pillow retainer is thoughtful touches that keep you snug, making it feel like you’re nestled in a cocoon of comfort.
The sleeping bag connection zip is a clever feature that allows you to swap sleeping bags as the seasons change, making it incredibly versatile. Pair this with the two side tension straps, and you can pack down the bedchair with your sleeping bag still attached, saving valuable space in your van or bivvy.
Dimensions & Portability
The Duralite Bedchair accommodates various sleeping preferences. The compact design enables easy transportation, and I find it fits perfectly in my van alongside my other tackle.
Pros
- Great for anglers who are seeking a light but strong bedchair.
- Provides a firm yet soft sleeping surface.
- A completely flat profile frame for compact packdown.
Cons
- Limited movement. The range could benefit from a wider model.
- Adjustable legs may not always remain securely extended under weight.
- Positioned at the higher end of the market.
Features & Specifications
- Our lightest ever bed!
- Duralite magnesium alloy construction makes bed ultra-lightweight yet very strong
- Benefits from the same ‘fold over’ lumbar support system as the Flatliner 6 and 8 leg bedchairs
- One-touch Spring-Lok leg mechanisms (patent pending)
- 3D mesh upper mattress and polyester base to reduce weight and aid airflow
- Mattress benefits from high-density foam topped with hollow fill, which gives you a firm mattress with a soft touch
- The outer perimeter of the mattress is styled in unique Fox Camo and uses a firmer foam to reduce the compression on the bed frame
- Six leg design – 2 x double legs on central section plus single legs in the centre of the frame at both the foot and head sections
- Completely flat profile frame with double hinges
- Velcro Strips on the central underside of the mattress for use with all Fox Bedchair covers. Sleeping bag connection zip on the underside of the mattress to allow the Duralite Sleeping Bags to be swapped between seasons
- Two side tension straps for compact pack down even with a sleeping bag attached
- Type: Professional LED head torch
- Operating Modes: Floodlight Modes / Spotlight Modes / Red Light
- Luminous Flux: Up to 1600 lumens
- Lamp Type: Luminus SST40 LED / Cree XP-G3 S4 LED / Everlight 2835 Red LED
- Beam Range: Up to 290 m
- Batteries Required: 1 x 21700 lithium-ion (included) or 1 x 18650 lithium-ion with adaptor (not included)
- Lamp Measurements: 60 x 47 x 33 mm
- Battery Case Measurements: 99 x 41 x 39.5 mm
- Weight: 238 grams (including battery)
- Body Colour: Grey
- Body Material: High-grade durable aluminium alloy
- Strap: Adjustable
- Switch Type: Dual switch for separate operation
- Impact Resistance: 2 m
- Environmental: Dust and waterproof to IP66 standard
- Warranty: 5 years (battery 1 year)
Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Serious Anglers
After testing the Fox Duralite 5 Season Sleep System on multiple trips, I can confidently say it’s an essential piece of kit for any serious carp angler. It combines lightweight portability with exceptional comfort and durability, making it ideal for both short sessions and extended stays.
Whether you’re fishing in the depths of winter or the height of summer, this bedchair will keep you comfortable and well-rested.
If you’re serious about your carp fishing and want to enhance your time on the bank, I highly recommend investing in the Fox Duralite Bedchair.
It’s more than just a bed; it’s a gateway to better fishing experiences and well-deserved rest.
