Rhino UK Car Bootliner test and review
Rhino UK specialises in customised boot liners and seat covers for anglers, cyclists and dog walkers so when I purchased a new estate car for fishing recently, there was only one place to turn.
I've made a complete mess of the boot and back seat area of previous cars by using a large sheet of tarpaulin as a cover to my fishing gear on. Cheap but only partly effective, as mud and even bait always found its way down the sides and ends of the sheet and onto the interior.
Determined not to let that happen this time, after a little research I went for Rhino's Extended Liner, which is one complete piece for the whole boot and back seat area (with the seats dropped). My first concern was would this fit my car? No worries on that front as you can choose your exact model on Rhino's website and an exact fit is custom made.
You get a choice of 13 different colours and a number of different optional add ons, many of which are tailored for anglers. For example I chose a rod/ski flap, to enable my holdalls to fit through the gap between the front seat, as they are slightly longer than the distance from here back to the boot.
I also went for a side opening to access via the drivers side back seat door. This is because I put tackle such as groundbait buckets in via this door. All these customised flaps and openings are secured up with quality velcro.
Fitting the liner was easily done with velcro strips running alongside the entire length of the outside of the liner. If you have areas of fabric interior then these will stick on to that, or if you have plastic then you get a number of separate velcro strips to exactly match those on the liner.
The strips have an adhesive backing to stick to the plastic interior. My bootliner held itself up fine as it was on the fabric interior in the boot liner so I chose not to make use of the adhesives.
Another useful feature is the elasticated loops at the back of the liner which fit over the headrests of the front seats. These hold the liner up at the driver's end. At the front of the liner as you open the boot, a large flap extends out to protect the body and paintwork here.
The first proper test for the Rhino UK Bootliner was a week's stay at White Acres holiday complex during an autumn festival. Save for my rod holdalls, most of my tackle stayed in the car all week, getting caked in mud and soaked with rain a few times. With the liner in place I was happy to throw it in the boot and not worry about it.
My lovely red liner soon turned brown with mud and spilt pellets and I'd hate to have thought what state the interior would have looked like without it in place. Held up by the velcro and elasticated loops, it retained its shape all week.
When I eventually arrived home, put my kit away and removed the liner, the extent of its effectiveness began to become clear. No mud or damp had managed to get through to the seats or interior below.
The following day I decided to give the liner a good once over with a pressure washer. It wouldn't let any water through so I had to lift the liner and pour the excess surface water onto the garden. Impressive.
THE VERDICT
If, like me, you're out with a full set of fishing gear in all elements, something like this is invaluable. A wide variety of versions are available, including boot-only liners, two part versions for both the boot or boot and back seat area. I say this is money well spent for anybody who uses a car for fishing!
PAY AROUND
£95 for the standard extending liner, with add ons available
For more information visit www.rhinouk.co.uk
Ben Fisk
Eiger Active thermal underwear set
With winter just round the corner, it’s time to start thinking about the clothes we need to wear to keep the elements out. So if you’re looking for a smart new set of super warm thermals then this latest Eiger Active underwear set could be the answer.
Tailored from soft knitted polyester, it has been designed with a longer back, making it ideal for seated matchmen. Other features include wide comfy sleeves and leg-end cuffs, a rounded collar for a perfect fit underneath a high collar mid-layer fleece top, and it’s said to be ideal for temperatures ranging from as low as minus 12 to plus 15.
Matrix Beanie
Not sure if it will catch you any more fish, but it will keep your head warm while you’re thinking about it. This fleece-lined, ribbed beanie features a contrasting blue on black edging and a striking white Matrix Logo.
As hats go it’s quite a nice one. One size fits all.
Price: £11.99
Fox Chunk Mid Layer Comfort Set
In addition to the Chunk Base Layer set there’s this ultra-comfortable two-piece Mid Layer Comfort set, designed to be worn as the second skin of any layering system but great for sleeping in on really cold nights. It can also be worn as a lightweight outer garment. Other features include a hidden zipped security pocket, branded chest zip, and quick moisture-wicking performance.
Sizes: S /M/L/XL/XXL/XXXL.
Fox Chunk Base Layer Set
The best way to keep warm on the bank is with a layering system, and the Chunk range offers the ultimate in two-piece undergarment sets.
Worn beneath mid and outer layer garments, they offer great thermal protection. Made from quick-drying and fully breathable material, they help wick away unwanted moisture and are said to be perfect for sleeping in.
Sizes: S/M/L/XL/XXL/XXXL.
Navitas Bobble Hot
Navitas continues to deliver fashionable items with its latest offerings.
The bobble hat is a well-executed classic that’s genuinely warm.
RRP £12.99
Nash Scope All in One Suit
This modern version of the legendary Force 10 one-piece, introduced by Kevin Nash in the early 1980s, will prove hugely popular with the cold weather stalwart. Ideal when worn as an under-suit as part of a layering system in the coldest weather, it can also be worn by itself as an over-suit on cold but dry days.
Made from a quilted nylon with hollow fibre filling, the Scope features a warm-touch collar, hand warmer pockets, front-facing twin zipped cargo pockets, and a rather handy two way convenience zip, something that many suits of this type have frustratingly lacked. In sizes Small to XXXL.
Price: £89.99
TF Gear Chill Out Onesie
Sorry to remind you but it’s October next month and, if you intend fishing through the cold weather, you should be looking at investing in some warm clothing now.
This zip-up garment is like a baby romper suit crossed with a hoody but it’s seriously warm and comfortable when worn as a mid thermal layer.
Available in sizes M-XXL.
RRP £34.99
Sonubaits Beanie Hat
I am sure I felt a slight chill in the air last weekend- so it already feels like time to start digging out the warm wear gear. If your after new headwear this autumn than this smart black, super-warm, SonuBaits branded beanie will keep your ears toasty at all times.
Price £6.99
Nash Cap
Made from a soft, comfortable cotton, the latest Nash cap has a one-size-fits-all design, with an adjustable head strap.
Price: £9.95
E-S-P Floppy Hat
This wide brimmed classic specimen hunter’s floppy hat will help keep glare out of your eyes, perfect for summer stalking sessions.
Price: £6.95
E-S-P Beanie Hat
This heavy knitted green beanie features a subtle contrasting orange company logo.
Price: £6.95
Nash Flat Peak Cap
A modern carp fashion accessory from Nash, this is perfect for when you pose with your latest capture. The five-panel flat peaked cap, tailored from a dark green wool/polyester mix, features a stitched leather Nash logo and a rear adjustment strap to fit the biggest heads.
Price: £16.99
Fox FFF Limited Edition Bobble Hat
This latest Fox Limited Edition one size fits all Bobble Hat features the famous Find ’Em, Feed ’Em, Fox ’Em strap line and is finished in black with striking orange detailing. The super comfy all wool knitted design is warm to wear and a must have for winter fishing.
Price £10.99
