Gear Review: LifeProof LifeJacket

We're constantly amazed at how different technologies have converged into one little handy device we know as a phone. One feature that we use on a daily basis is the camera. Having a wide aperture lens that can take beautiful photos, panoramas, or video is just an excuse to go for an adventure to see what you can capture. To protect your phone from accidental bumps, drops and scrapes, it is worth while investing in a case. Check out our review of the LifeProof Nüüd Case for iPhone which creates a waterproof barrier to shield your phone, but what do you do when you head out in your canoe, kayak or SUP? Check out the LifeProof LifeJacket.

Just stick your phone (LifeProof case and all) into this high-visibility floater for the perfect solution. The well shaped wedge fits in your hand without being too cumbersome and is texturized so that it doesn't easily slip out of your hands, even when wet.

The case allows for full visibility with the camera and LifeProof were even smart enough to paint the cutout around the lens black to cut down on errant light bouncing into your camera's lens (especially considering you are on the reflective water). All of your buttons are still fully accessible allowing you to take photos, adjust the volume and use the microphone while fully protected. The only downfall of the LifeJacket is that the Lightning port is blocked which means you won't be able to charge it via a Solar power device while you paddle.

Going for an urban paddle? You now have full use of the GPS without worry of accidentally loosing your phone. Awkwardly reaching to try and snap a nature photo or capture a shot of the fish you just caught? Have no fear of dropping your phone and it sinking to the bottom of the lake. It will happily float there in the water until you can paddle over and scoop it up.

Although you might not be able to stuff your phone in your pocket quite as easily when portaging, it does include both a wrist-strap and a quick-release lanyard that you can attach to any of the four corners. The LifeJacket offers added protection on land as well. I feel as though I could drop my phone off a cliff, watch it bounce all the way down the rock face, and it would still be ok when it drops onto the lake at the bottom.

The LifeProof LifeJacket is $39.99 U.S. and fits a LifeJacket iPhone 5/5s/5c case.