"The OverBoard waterproof case for iPad is a must-have for everything from the bath to the beach, but can be a little tough to close if your hands are covered in suds or tanning lotion."
I absolutely love waterproof cases like the OverBoard for when I'm traveling. They work exceptionally well to keep your iPad or iPad 2 clean and dry, and can double as a handy place to store some cash and credit cards as well. They also work great at home, letting you enjoy a relaxing soak in the tub while reading, surfing the web, or playing your favorite iPad game.
The OverBoard waterproof case for iPad is exceptionally clear on one side and padded on the other. It might be nice to have it clear on both sides, so you could use the rear-facing camera for when you're out and about. However, when you realize beaches, bathtubs, hiking trips, rafting excursions, and pretty much any place you'd like to use it is also not a place you'd want to drop it, you start to appreciate the padding more.
To further protect against dropping your iPad, the OverBoard case has a hand strap conveniently located on the back. Not only does this let you easily use your iPad one handed, but if you are in the bathtub, it leaves the other hand free for a beverage as well. Decadent, but oh so worth it!
Now, the closures on this particular OverBoard case were more difficult to line up and seal than previous ones I've reviewed. Take your time, align everything carefully, apply sufficient force (use those guns, bikini chicks!), and you should be okay.
You can choose to use the OverBoard by itself, which is ideal for the bath, or you can use the included shoulder strap -- water-murse, anyone? -- or carabiner if you're traveling or hiking.
To see how well waterproof cases in general, and the OverBoard in specific hold up to everything from the deep end of the pool and a car wash to a dishwasher and RC boat race, check out these torture tests;
- TiPb TV 20: Bond boat bash
- Overboard vs Aquapac in iPhone 4 water torture test
Also, if you're joining us for mobile nations fitness month, and your exercise of choice involves walking or hiking in rainy, snowy, or wet regions, the OverBoard is perfect to help keep your iPad safe and protected. If Swimming or water sports are your thing, while I wouldn't suggest actually taking your iPad in with you, the OverBoard can keep your iPad from getting wet while your review or record your progress.
The good
- Crystal clear plastic on the front
- Protective padding on the rear
- Hand strap for one-handed use
- Shoulder strap and carabiner options
The bad
- Requires a little too much strength to close
- Padding covers up rear camera
The bottom line
The OverBoard waterproof case for iPad is a must-have for everything from the bath to the beach, but can be a little tough to close if your hands are covered in suds or tanning lotion.
$44.95 - Buy now
The giveaway
Simply leave a comment below telling us where you'd most like to use an OverBoard waterproof case for iPad of your very own! Giveaway starts now and ends Sunday, February 5 at midnight PT. (U.S. shipping address required for delivery. Sorry!)
