The Best Waterproof Gear of 2019
Packs, cases, and other stuff that survive a good soaking
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Seattle Sports Octo Print Roll Top 20 Drybag ($45)
This is one of those pieces that screams, “I’m heading out onto the water!” And we love it for that. The burly material is radio-frequency welded at the seams to ensure the bag doesn’t spring a leak.
LifeProof Fre Phone Case ($90)
Phone-case evaluation is pass-fail—the device either stays dry or it doesn’t. After several soakings both intentional and accidental, the Fre passed. Bonus points for being the sleekest fully waterproof case out there.
OtterBox Yampa Dry 70 Duffel ($299)
OtterBox fortified the TPU-coated nylon Yampa with ultralow-density open-cell foam, which adds a layer of protection. We never had to think twice before tossing the gear-loaded duffel into the truck bed. It’s also airtight, so it floats.
Pelican Go-Case G40 Phone Case ($40)
This is the most apocalypse-defying phone protection we tested. You can’t use your device once it’s inside, but the Go-Case is crushproof and watertight. A ’biner loop makes it easy to clip to a rope or raft.
Chums Storms Series Sling ($60)
Slings are great for watersports, because they keep essentials close without getting in the way of the action. We liked the waterproof, 20-liter Storm for its mesh exterior pocket that’s good for storing soggy gear away from everything else.
House of Marley No Bounds Bluetooth Speaker ($60)
There’s a time and a place to play music outside (like when you’re alone or at the beach), and when we found it, we were happy to have the No Bounds. The palm-size speaker is waterproof, dustproof, and buoyant, and it plays for ten hours on a charge.
Mustang Bluewater 30 Pack ($160)
This waterproof pack has a roll-top compartment, exterior storage for soggy sandals, and internal straps to keep things from bouncing around. The secure sternum strap, foam backing, and waist belt made it comfortable enough for all-day wear.