Bedchair Covers: The Essential Shield for Year-Round Comfort
In the unpredictable world of angling, your sleep system is your sanctuary. While a high-quality sleeping bag provides the warmth, a Bedchair Cover provides the protection. Designed to be the ultimate outer layer, a bedchair cover acts as a versatile shield against condensation, dampness, and extreme temperature drops. Whether you are looking to boost the thermal rating of your summer bag or need a lightweight standalone option for “under the stars” sessions in the warmer months, a dedicated cover is a non-negotiable addition to your kit.
At Gerry’s Fishing, we understand that a damp bed is the quickest way to ruin a session. Our range of bedchair covers features the latest in breathable, waterproof fabrics and thermal linings, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable regardless of the weather outside your bivvy.
Technical Specifications & Material Performance
Not all covers are created equal. Understanding the technical aspects of the fabric and lining will help you choose the right model for your style of fishing.
| Feature |
Lightweight Summer Cover |
4-Season Thermal Cover |
All-Season Waterproof Shield |
| Outer Fabric |
2,000mm Hydrostatic Head |
5,000mm – 10,000mm HH |
20,000mm+ High-Performance |
| Lining Material |
Smooth Polyester / Peachskin |
Deep-Pile Fleece |
Thermal Micro-Fleece |
| Filling |
None / Thin Hollow-Fill |
Grade-A Silicone Treated Fiber |
Layered Thermal Insulation |
| Typical Weight |
0.8kg – 1.2kg |
1.5kg – 2.5kg |
1.8kg – 3.0kg |
| Attachment System |
Elasticated Loops |
Side Buckles & Bedchair Snaps |
Full Bedchair Skirt & Toggles |
Pro Tip: The Condensation Combatant
Many anglers struggle with condensation dripping from the bivvy roof onto their sleeping bag. A waterproof bedchair cover is the perfect solution. To maximize performance during the winter, don’t tuck the cover too tightly under your mattress. Allow a small amount of airflow between the sleeping bag and the cover; this creates an insulating “air pocket” that traps heat and allows moisture to wick away, preventing that “clammy” feeling in the morning.
Applications: Where to Use Your Bedchair Cover
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Summer Nights Under the Stars: When a full bivvy feels too restrictive, a high-hydrostatic-head cover allows you to sleep on your bedchair in the open air. It protects you from heavy dew and light rain while keeping insects at bay.
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The Winter Boost: If your 3-season sleeping bag isn’t quite cutting it in sub-zero temperatures, adding a fleece-lined thermal cover can increase the thermal rating by up to 2 “seasons,” effectively turning your setup into a 5-season system.
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Day Session Lounging: If you are using your bedchair as a seat during a rainy day session, a cover protects your expensive sleeping bag from muddy boots, wet waterproofs, and spilled bait or coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will a “Wide” cover fit a standard-sized bedchair?
A: Yes, a wide cover will fit a standard bedchair and actually provides extra “drape” down the sides, which is excellent for blocking drafts. However, a standard cover will often be too tight for “Wideboy” or “King-size” bedchairs, potentially pulling at the seams.
Q: Is it better to have a fleece-lined or smooth-lined cover?
A: This depends on personal preference. Fleece lining offers instant warmth and comfort, which is great for cold nights. Smooth polyester linings are better if you tend to move around a lot in your sleep, as they won’t “grab” your clothes or sleeping bag.
Q: How do I clean my bedchair cover without ruining the waterproofing?
A: Never use standard biological detergents, as they break down the waterproof coating. We recommend wiping down with a damp cloth for minor dirt. For a deep clean, use a dedicated technical wash (like those used for GORE-TEX) and always air dry—never tumble dry or place directly on a radiator.
Q: Can I leave the cover attached when I fold my bedchair?
A: Most modern covers are designed to be thin enough to stay attached. However, if you are using a heavy, fleece-lined 5-season cover, it may add significant bulk, making it harder to lock the bedchair’s tension straps. For the most compact pack-down, we recommend storing the cover in its dedicated stuff sack.