If you need a reliable waterproof case to keep your smartphone dry while paddleboarding, the Sea to Summit TPU Guide Case is a great option. Measuring 2.5″ x 4.7″ and weighing in at just .8 ounces, this case has a nice slim profile that feels great in the hand and it slips neatly and comfortably into your pocket…
Sea to Summit is well-known for their high-quality waterproof gear, and this smartphone case did not disappoint us. It’s well-constructed and has performed flawlessly during each and every use.
In this review, we’ll talk a bit about the construction materials used, features, impact on phone functionality, and waterproof performance.
Sea to Summit TPU Guide Review: Waterproof Case Overview
Available in black, yellow, blue, and lime green, this PVC-free waterproof case is the perfect size for the iPhone 3, 4, 5, and SE. It is durably constructed out of RF welded Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) and has a secure roll top closure system that is airtight and effectively locks water out.
On the top and bottom of the case are attachment point cut-outs that are perfect for attaching the phone to your PFD or dry bag with a carabiner.
How it Works
The Sea to Summit TPU Waterproof Case uses a simple but very effective roll top ziploc system. To use the case, just slide your smartphone into the plastic bag, carefully seal up the entire ziploc opening, roll the top down, and secure using the velcro closure system.
That’s all there is to it.
Phone Functionality While in the Case
While fully protected inside of the TPU Guide Case, our iPhone operated flawlessly. The touchscreen was totally responsive thanks to the .15mm optic grade screen, and there’s even a see-through back on the case which makes it possible to use the phone’s camera to take photos while you’re out paddling.
Waterproof Performance
Sea to Summit states that their TPU Guide Waterproof Smartphone Case meets IPX8 testing standards for up to an hour underwater at 10 meters. Our submersion testing consisted of brief dunks followed by a check to see if any leakage had occurred, and in all instances, Sea to Summit’s case kept our iPhone bone dry.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Sea to Summit TPU Guide Waterproof Smartphone Case is a top-quality case that definitely makes our list of must-have SUP accessories. This case would make a fantastic gift idea for the paddle boarder in your life, and we love the slim, pocketable design.
Unlike the many no-name cases being sold online these days, we have a lot of confidence in Sea to Summit products. Let’s face it — the last thing you want to experience with any dry bag or waterproof cell phone case is a leak, so settling on the cheapest case you find is not the best idea in our opinion.
When it comes to buying a waterproof phone case, we highly recommend the TPU Guide Case if reliability and quality is a top priority to you.
Thanks for the great review, unfortunately the iPhone 6 and up doesn’t fit into the case.
Thank you, Rasa. If you have an iPhone 6 or larger, this is the case you’ll need.
I now have 2 of these. I bought one and was so impressed I bought a second ‘just in case’.
Thanks for the review :o)
Nice, Andy. Thanks for the comment — glad to hear you are enjoying the cases!