The official kit supplier to the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) launched this waterproof smartphone case a few months ago. The plastic sleeve, available in black or aquamarine, can accommodate the likes of iPhones and Blackerrys, and has clips that side across the top to seal it shut. (I found these were quite stiff though and a little hard to open at first.) I found the Overboard useful when on the beach as, even if you aren’t near the water, it keeps sand away from your phone.
According to the marketing blurb, you an submerge a device in the sleeve up to six metres – I didn’t want to risk testing this but did leave it in a sink of water for 30 minutes and, when I opened it, it was dry inside. The Overboard also floats so if you do drop it in a swimming pool or lake, it will be easy to retrieve.
A handy touch is still being able to use the touchscreen on your phone through the plastic so you don’t need to take it in and out to make calls, send texts or even take pictures through the transparent back window. The Overboard also comes with a desiccant sachet, and a lanyard and carabiner clip so you can wear it around you neck when on a boat or doing watersports. A handy piece of kit for any traveller.
Click here for a video demo.
PROS Good protection from the elements for smartphones, and it floats.
CONS Slide and seal lock can feel a bit stiff and cheaply made.
PRICE £15.99
CONTACT overboard.co.uk
