Matrix Compact Single Pole Roller

How well is it built?

The rollers are extruded soft EVA, which is kind to carbon, and the main rollers turn on stainless steel sealed bearings.

Sealed bearings make a real difference on a roller, as they keep grit, rain and groundbait out of the moving parts, and stainless steel shouldn't rust if the roller goes back in the car damp after a wet match.

The uprights fold down for storage and are topped with EVA caps, so a section that swings against them is protected.

Oversized leg extrusions stiffen the frame, and everything goes into a durable carry case that keeps it tidy in the boot and stops it snagging on the rest of your kit.

Is anything missing for the money? Not really, as the materials are a step up from most rollers at this level, and the case is a welcome extra. I think 8.5 is a fair score for a well-made roller that should last for years.

Performance & Handling

So, what does that mean when you're shipping back? Free-running sealed bearings and soft EVA are a strong pairing, as the bearings let the roller spin easily and the EVA cushions each section as it runs over.

That should make shipping smooth and quiet, and it's gentle on top kits and the thinner middle sections of an expensive pole.

The 740mm overall width gives the pole a sensible length of roller to travel across without making the frame bulky, and the uprights at each end stop it rolling off the side.

With a maximum leg height of 670mm, it should suit most seat box heights on commercial pegs, and it takes Matrix roller leg extensions if you need to go higher.

At 2.6kg it's light to carry and quick to set up, which counts for a lot when the car park is a long way from your peg. It's a very easy roller to live with, and the 8.5 is well deserved.

Stability & Footing

The oversized leg extrusions are there for stability, and a chunkier leg is less likely to flex when a long pole is resting on the roller. On a flat commercial peg or a level platform it should stand firm and keep the pole running true.

The 8.0 reflects the compact design rather than any real weakness.

A 740mm single roller is a smaller, lighter frame than a big flagship such as the six-leg Daiwa Rockin Roller, and the legs top out at 670mm, so on a steep or very uneven bank you may need the Matrix roller leg extensions to get it level and at the right height.

The Preston Innovations Inception Flat Roller, with its integrated spirit level and fold-flat low setting, is a touch better suited to awkward ground. On the commercial pegs it's designed for, though, the Matrix should be pretty much as stable as you'll need.

Is it good value for money?

Is it worth the money? For a mid-priced roller you get sealed stainless bearings, soft EVA rollers, a 2.6kg frame and a carry case, which is a strong package.

It costs about the same as the Preston Innovations Inception Flat Roller, so the choice between them comes down to whether you value the Matrix's small pack size and case or the Inception's fold-flat low setting and spirit level more.

The Maver MV-R X2 Flat Bed Roller costs a little more and adds a second horizontal roller, a weigh-down hook and spirit levels, so it's worth a look if you fish exposed, windy venues.

I'd recommend the Matrix Compact Single Pole Roller to commercial anglers who want a light, tidy roller that packs small and protects the pole well. If you mainly fish steep river banks, though, a roller with a bigger height range will be easier to live with.