All bases covered

We don’t really need to introduce you to the D-Ploy. You’ve already met. For the last month it’s filled your Facebook feed, appeared on your Instagram page and been retweeted a hundred times. And, if you somehow missed all of that, last month Wychwood ran a double page spread ad for it. It would appear the D-Ploy has had more hype built around it than any other bivvy to ever come to market, but why? Well, there could be a number of reasons but we’re guessing it has something to do with the price: a whopping £699.99. Now that’s a helleva lot of money in anyone’s language, but is it worth it? Whilst everyone’s been focusing on that, they’ve not actually been looking at why Wychwood have slapped such a hefty fee on it. So here’s why...

Let’s start with its credentials. Back in 2011 the D-Ploy was awarded ‘Best Bivvy Of The Year’ at the Efftex (The European Fishing Tackle Trade Association) awards, which is very big news within the commercial angling world. And yes, you did read that right: “back in 2011”. That’s how long Wychwood have been modifying, tinkering and developing this product. But there’s good reason for this three-year wait. Whilst the concept was sound and the design unique, there was one major issue and it revolved around the central hub of the bivvy; the heart of this shelter, and that was the delicious looking spreader block.

Whilst Wychwood trialled and developed a number of samples from their Chinese factories, it soon became apparent that this detailed spreader block system, one of the key features on the D-Ploy, needed to be produced right here in the UK by men who were experts in aluminium. Cue: JAG Products. Yes, those guys who make the lush buzzer bars, sticks and hook sharpening tools – meaning that spreader block is as British as real ale and bad weather, but it did come at a price, which all adds to that top-end price tag. However, with this key area now signed off as “perfect”, it meant Wychwood could hit the ‘Go’ button to finally get the D-Ploy rolling off the production line.

That’s not the only premium material/build on the D-Ploy. Wrapped around its lightweight yet reinforced aluminium ribs is their brand-new HD ripstop material. This super thick material encapsulates all of the hydrophobic qualities (10,000mm – which in English means “it’s bloody waterproof”) of their previous material but comes with the added benefit of a ripstop membrane and a lighter mass weight – by ‘lighter’ we mean just 5kgs – and remember this is an out-and-out hardcore bankside home so that’s not just good, that’s exceptional.

The D-Ploy isn’t just special for having the world’s most expensive (and most beautiful) spreader block – it also has a rear door, which plays a key role in the way the D-Ploy is erected (see below right) and this door, along with Wychwood’s multi-door front system means you can set the shelter up to the style of session or time of year. In the summer, whilst on short sessions, lose the front panel and use it as an oversized oval brolly system; need protection from the mozzies, then go all-out mesh; baking hot and need a through-draught then open the back door! It is certainly multi-functional.

Along with the multi-door system, Wychwood have also thrown in a three-quarters heavy-duty groundsheet, pegs and their unique 5-year manufacturer’s warranty, meaning whilst this may cost you a month’s rent, it does give you some ammo to fire at the missus when she sees the credit card statement the following month.

The D-Ploy has a unique look; a unique style; and a unique price tag – it’s clearly the new maverick of the bivvy world, and certainly one that won’t appeal to everyone. But if standing out from the crowd is your thing; being the “have you seen his bivvy” guy; when it comes to offering you a premium, top-end, outstandingly built shelter, then it doesn’t get better than the D-Ploy.