Nov. 04--Name: Catalyst Waterproof iPhone 5 Case
What it is: A shockproof, waterproof case that turns your iPhone into an underwater camera. The case supposedly will protect the phone from drops of 6 1/2 feet; I didn't try that. It also is waterproof to about 16 1/2 feet; I did try that to about 4 feet in a freezing Florida saltwater pool. The case also is available for iPhone 4 and 4S, and one for iPhone 6 and 6s is in development.
The good: Taking your company phone underwater requires a very big leap of faith, because I would have had to reimburse my employer hundreds of dollars if the case had failed. But wonder of wonders, inside the case it stayed perfectly dry and took very sharp video -- documentary quality -- that makes me want to try it while snorkeling. The manufacturer really did create a good seal, though it is suggested that you test the case underwater before you use it with your phone. I enclosed a piece of paper towel in the case, then kept it submerged for 15 minutes just to be sure no water seeped in. I might be inclined to save the case specifically to use underwater rather than take a chance on degrading its seal with daily wear and tear, but that's just me.
The bad: Unless you're wearing a swim mask, trying to work your iPhone underwater can be tricky. It seemed to work better if I started the video, then submerged the phone. Also, trying to hit the iPhone shutter button to shoot stills underwater took persistence. As for phone function, two people I called said the phone sounded a bit tinny until I pulled off the water-tight seal covering the microphone.
Cost: $64.99
Available from: catalystlifestyle.com
