Description
Garbolino Solid Elastic Hybrid Ultra Soft (3m)
The Garbolino Solid Elastic Hybrid Ultra Soft represents the next generation of pole elastics, successfully bridging the gap between traditional solid and hollow designs. It offers the high stretch factor and forgiveness typically associated with hollow elastics, combined with the rapid retraction and “non-stick” reliability of a solid.
Manufactured from high-grade, ultra-soft rubber with a 100% solid colored latex core, this elastic boasts a remarkable 800% stretch factor. This extreme flexibility is a game-changer for playing fish, as it absorbs the initial aggressive “bolt” or rush of a hooked fish, significantly reducing the risk of hook pulls or line breakages—especially when using fine-wire hooks.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Details |
| Length | 3 Meters (Skein) |
| Material | Ultra-Soft Hybrid Solid Latex |
| Stretch Factor | Up to 800% |
| Coating | Silicone Lubed for Low Friction |
| Retraction | Ultra-Fast / Lightning Speed |
| Compatibility | All Pole Types (Silverfish to Carp) |
Diameter & Usage Chart
The range is categorized into two primary series to help you choose the correct power for your target species:
| Diameter (mm) | Color | Recommended Use | Rating |
| 1.0 mm | Yellow | Silverfish / Small Roach | Size 6 |
| 1.2 mm | Green | General Silverfish / Skimmers | Size 8 |
| 1.4 mm | Orange | Big Roach / Hybrids | Size 10 |
| 1.6 mm | Yellow | Large Skimmers / F1s | Size 12 |
| 1.8 mm | Lime Green | F1s / Small Carp | Size 14 |
| 2.0 mm | Orange | Standard Match Carp | Size 16 |
| 2.2 mm | Yellow | Big Carp / Margins | Size 18 |
| 2.4 mm | Green | Large Carp / Specimen | Size 20 |
| 2.6 mm | Orange | Heavy Duty Carp | Size 20+ |
| 3.0 mm | Green | Specimen Carp / Snags | Specimen |
| 3.5 mm | Yellow | XXL Specimen / Power Margins | Extreme |
Key Performance Features
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Hybrid Performance: It provides the “softness” of a hollow elastic to prevent small fish from “bumping” off, while maintaining the slim diameter and dense power of a solid elastic for better control over large fish.
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Silicone Lubed Finish: The elastic is pre-treated with a silicone lubricant. This ensures it runs silky-smooth through your PTFE bush and kit, even when it’s under extreme tension or when the weather is bone-dry.
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Extreme Retraction: One of the main benefits of this hybrid is how quickly it returns to its original length. This prevents “drooping” elastics at the netting stage, a common issue with some standard hollows.
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All-Season Durability: Unlike some elastics that stiffen in the cold, the Ultra Soft rubber remains pliable in winter, making it a truly versatile year-round choice.
Ideal Usage Scenarios
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Winter League Silverfish: The 1.0mm to 1.4mm sizes are perfect for picking up wary roach and skimmers on light rigs where a soft “give” is required to avoid breaking fine hooklengths.
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Commercial F1 Fishing: The 1.6mm and 1.8mm sizes offer the perfect balance of finesse for shy-biting F1s and the power needed to steer them away from obstacles.
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Specimen Margin Work: The 2.8mm to 3.5mm diameters are built for “bagging” scenarios in the margins, where you need to stop double-figure carp from reaching reeds or platform legs.
Gerry’s Tip: When fitting these hybrid elastics, I recommend using a Garbolino PTFE internal bush. Because the elastic is so soft and has such a high stretch factor, a smooth exit point is vital to prevent any “shuddering” when a big fish is taking line. Also, since it’s a 3m length, it’s perfect for most modern two-piece top kits with plenty left over for your tension adjustments
