Absolute has been a name synonymous with top-end seatboxes for years, but these latest versions have taken that to the next level with a masterpiece in design and engineering.
A key part of development was the main frame of the seatbox. Manufactured from lightweight aluminium, including the use of hydroforming technology, this frame is lightweight and super strong, with a flowing aesthetic design. All units can now be removed from the frame so you can fully customise and add units in a specific order to suit your own requirements.
Included in the package is a Mag-Lok Stacker Plate which engages with any Mag-Lok unit, making the stack system fully customisable right through to the choice of bottom tray. As with the previous Absolute, you can also remove the stacking unit from the front or rear of the box. The Mag-Lok Stacker Plate locates in its runners in multiple positions, making it easier than ever to clip back into place.
You can also leave the stacker plate in position and remove any Mag-Lok trays, leaving perfect under-box storage space, particularly useful when wading.
The footplate is locked in place with spring-loaded pins, where it can be locked into two different positions, each of which is clearly labelled on the footplate. The integrated spirit level also helps make setting up an easy and stress-free process. As with its predecessor, the Absolute Station features six non-marking leg blocks to ensure that your seatbox is securely fixed and stable in all conditions.
Re-designed leg block handwheels mean that adjusting your seatbox is now even easier than before, due to the new ergonomically designed handwheels. The Absolute Stations are compatible with all Absolute and Inception Mag-Lok trays and units, making the system fully customisable to the angler’s needs.
THE VERDICT
Owning the previous flagship seatbox, the Preston Absolute Carbon, I can confirm just how robust and comfortable the range is and the new Preston Absolute Station looks to have improved both aesthetically and technically on a seatbox design I thought Preston had already mastered.
The new Hydro formed frame is stunning, it gives a unique appearance that the seat is almost floating and helps reduce some of the weight. The other benefit of the frame not having a support to the rear and the new locking clips, means you can slide the stacker system out from the back whilst eliminating the chance of it getting stuck. The box isn't the lightest at 14kg, but something this strong never will be.
The Station comes with three drawer units, whilst the Mag-Lok system gives the ability to remove them completely from the frame really easily. This allows you the flexibility to build and adjust the height to suit whatever your requirement may be, great if you're a taller or shorter angler.
The Absolute Station comes with 36mm legs with a 30mm inner, all the legs are extendable and all come with screw caps as opposed to just the front legs that we are used to seeing. The box is ridiculously sturdy when the legs are fully extended, removing the need for a platform when sitting out in the water. If you do want to fish from a platform, the footplate fully removes in seconds via two clips, a real positive.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS PRODUCT AND OTHERS FROM PRESTON INNOVATIONS HERE.
TECH SPEC
- Two deep side drawers
- Shallow side drawer
- 26mm shallow tray
- Stacker lid
- Mag-Lok Stacker Plate
- 6x Telescopic legs featuring removable screw caps
- Deluxe padded shoulder strap
- Absolute Seatbox cover
www.anglingdirect.co.uk
Pros
- Aesthetically beautiful seatbox.
- Fully adjustable and customisable.
Cons
- It isn't the lightest on the market.
Our pick of the alternatives
www.total-fishing-tackle.com
Built on a strong Hydro formed frame, the Matrix XR36 Pro looks stunning and will accommodate any size angler. With 36mm legs, the box is structurally solid and the footplate is operated by a single hand release to make it much easier.
The hardwearing seat is both robust and incredibly comfortable and won't collapse or lose its shape even after prolonged usage.
Pros
- Very strong seatbox.
- Easy to operate and customise.
Cons
- At 18kg, it is one of the heavier options available.
www.total-fishing-tackle.com
The Daiwa 500 Seatbox is an ideal system for any modern day angler, with its 36mm fully adjustable legs you can take it anywhere, regardless of the terrain. A fully interchangeable stack system with easy click layers come as standard, with two winder trays and two shallow side drawer units the box has lots of storage, great for those who like to prep.
Pros
- Lots of storage.
- 180 degree, adjustable thumb screws.
Cons
- Drawers only pull out one way.
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The MAP Z36 Elite MK2 36mm is a striking box to look at, there aren't many better designed boxes on the market. This 36mm leg version makes for a very stable seatbox with the aluminium frame helping to keep the weight down. The fully waterproof seat is comfortable and features a solid metal plate to prevent you putting pressure on the drawers below, which has caused issues with them not opening with other manufacturers. The drawer units feature water-resistant seals to keep your tackle dry .
Pros
- Lightweight frame.
- Reinforced seat to prevent issues opening drawers.
Cons
- Seat might be a little firm for some.
Author Mark Sawyer holds the position of Tackle Editor at Angling Times, boasting more than thirty years of experience working within different fields of the angling industry.