I suppose it’s somewhat ironic that this nature girl fell for a total techie boy, but I did. Lucky me, he loves his outdoor adventures as much as I do. Even better, he leaves most of his tech toys behind when it’s time to go exploring with the family.
What gear makes the cut? Usually just a camera and cell phone. But it’s never as simple as that, is it? Here are a few of the techie extras we’ve put to the test recently. If you’ve got a techie outdoor dad in your life, pull up a chair and see if he might be interested in any of these goodies as well.
Waterproof iPhone Case
During a recent weekend of kayaking in Channel Islands National Park, my hubby tried out a waterproof case for his iPhone 4S. He chose this particular waterproof case based on price, but there are plenty of others to choose from if you prefer a different style or are willing to spend a little more.
Features: Clear front and back pouch allows you to use all touch screen functions, including all camera functions. Pouch is 100 percent waterproof and can be used for iPhones and similar sized or smaller gadgets.
Price: $12.50
The verdict: For the price, it can’t be beat. Overall, it worked really well (even with cumbersome kayak gloves on). The touch screen works fine through the plastic. And the picture quality was surprisingly good. Just be sure to either wipe down or dunk the case if it gets a few drops of water on it; otherwise your images might be clouded.
Black Rapid RS-7 Camera Strap
Before I discovered this handy item, the hubby was carrying around a backpack for his fancy DSLR camera – or worse – the strap that came with the camera. Enter the Black Rapid RS-7 camera strap, which is worn diagonally across the torso from shoulder to hip. When you’re ready to shoot, simply pull the camera into position and go.
Features: Made of extremely durable ballistic nylon, adjusts to fit most people. Includes a stainless steel fastener that fits into the tripod socket on the camera body or lens. Once fastened the camera hangs upside down, resting securely at the hip, stomach or small of the back.
Price: $58.95
The verdict: Pricey, but worth it. Most camera straps offer an uncomfortable and unwieldy fit at best. This strap fits comfortably on your hip and holds the camera securely in place as you move. Plus, it allows you to easily access your camera in one fluid motion.
Motorola Talkabout MT350 2-Way Radios
A family with three boys is incomplete without a set of walkie talkies, don’t you think? My guys were psyched to be able to put the Motorola Talkabout MT350 2-Way Radios to the test. So far, we’ve used them on the trail and around the backyard. They performed well enough to make the short list of items we’ll take with us on some more wild nature adventures this summer.
Features: Range of up to 35 miles, weatherproof in snow and rain splashes, enhanced sound quality and a ton of other features we didn’t even know we needed.
Price: $89.99 per pair
The verdict: Great for staying connected in wilderness settings. Sometimes the hubby and I need to “divide and conquer” on the trail with The Explorers; the 2-way radios allowed us to easily check in with each other when we separated. The radios were simple enough for all four of us to use and the sound quality was superb. Families who spend time in the backcountry and camping will want ’em.
Note: I received a complimentary pair of Motorola Talkabout MT350 2-Way Radios in exchange for providing my honest review with you here. We purchased both the waterproof iPhone case and Black Rapid camera strap for personal use. All opinions expressed are my own. Check out my disclosure policy for more information.
I love the idea of having the kids use the walkie talkies at crowded events. That'll come in handy as the kids continue to want more freedoms, too.
We have an older version of those walkie-talkies and they were great when our kids were younger. We have 2 sets, we put one set on lanyards and gave one to each kid. This enabled them to run around a bit without us being worried about them since we could stay in communication. Great for camping and large events like music festivals.