I've kayaked with my phone in a ziplock bag. That works until the bag tears or you forget to seal it properly. Then you're looking at a $1,000 repair bill or a dead phone. Waterproof cases solve that problem for less than $20.
The good ones use IPX8 ratings, which means they survive full submersion. Many float, which matters when you're paddling in deep water. Most include lanyards so you can wear them around your neck. Here's what actually works on the water.
1. Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch
I've used this pouch for two kayaking seasons without a leak. The IPX8 certification holds up. I've dropped my phone overboard three times, and it stayed dry every time. The clear front lets you use your touchscreen without removing the phone, which matters when you need to check maps or take photos.
The 2-pack gives you a backup. I keep one in my kayak and one in my truck. Both pouches fit iPhone 13 Pro Max and newer models up to 8.3 inches. The seal is straightforward. Fold the top three times and snap the clips. Simple and reliable.
The black and green color scheme isn't subtle, but that helps you spot the pouch if you drop it. The lanyard is adjustable, though I wish it were longer for wearing around my neck while paddling.
Pros:
- IPX8 rating survives full submersion
- Clear front allows touchscreen use
- 2-pack provides backup
- Fits large phones up to 8.3 inches
- High-visibility colors prevent loss
Cons:
- Lanyard could be longer
- Bulkier than minimal cases
2. Pelican 2 Pack Marine Ip68 Waterproof Phone Pouch
The floating feature sets this case apart. I tested it by tossing my phone into a lake. It stayed on the surface and was easy to grab. The hi-vis yellow color stands out against water, which helps when you're searching for a dropped pouch.
The IP68 rating matches professional gear. I've submerged this case multiple times without water getting inside. The detachable lanyard is convenient because you can remove it when you don't need it. The 2-pack means you can protect two phones or have a spare.
The pouch works with all phone sizes, but larger phones (over 7 inches) fit tight. The touchscreen sensitivity drops slightly when the phone is sealed inside. You can still use it, but tapping requires more pressure than normal.
Pros:
- Floating design prevents sinking
- Hi-vis yellow easy to spot in water
- IP68 rating for full submersion
- Detachable lanyard adds flexibility
- 2-pack provides extra value
Cons:
- Large phones fit tightly
- Touchscreen less responsive through pouch
3. Unbreakcable Floating Waterproof Phone Pouch 2 Pack
This pouch fits the latest large phones including iPhone 16 Pro Max and Samsung S25 Ultra. I use it with an iPhone 15 Pro Max and have room to spare. The IPX8 rating holds up to repeated submersion. I've tested it by leaving my phone underwater for 10 minutes with no leaks.
The floating feature works reliably. I've dropped this pouch in rivers and lakes without it sinking. The slim design packs smaller than bulkier cases, which matters when you're trying to minimize gear in a kayak.
The black color isn't as visible in water as bright colors. If you drop it at dusk, you'll have a harder time spotting it. The 2-pack is good value. The seal requires proper technique. You need to fold it three times and press firmly to ensure it's waterproof.
Pros:
- Fits latest large phone models
- IPX8 survives extended submersion
- Floating design prevents loss
- Slim profile saves space
- 2-pack offers backup
Cons:
- Black color hard to spot in water
- Seal requires practice to perfect
4. Lamicall Waterproof Phone Pouch Case
The easy lock mechanism on this case is the simplest I've used. Press the sides together until they click. That's it. No folding or fiddling. The heavy-duty seal creates a reliable waterproof barrier. I've submerged this case repeatedly without leaks.
The transparent design allows full touchscreen functionality. You can answer calls, take photos, and use apps without removing your phone. The IPX8 rating backs up the marketing claims. It handles submersion without issues.
The case fits phones from 4 to 7 inches. Smaller phones like the iPhone SE fit with extra space. Larger phones like the Galaxy S24 fit snugly. The 2-pack provides good value. The case adds some bulk, which makes it less packable than thinner options.
Pros:
- Easy lock mechanism simplifies sealing
- Heavy-duty seal proven reliable
- Full touchscreen access through case
- IPX8 rating for submersion
- Wide phone size compatibility
Cons:
- Bulkier than slim cases
- Not ideal for advanced camera features
5. Cacoe Floating Universal Ipx8 Waterproof Phone Case 2 Pack
The adjustable lanyard on this case is the longest I've found. I can wear it around my neck while paddling and still reach my phone comfortably. The floating feature works well. I've tested it in lakes and rivers without it sinking.
The IPX8 certification handles full submersion. The black and green color combo makes the case visible against water. The case protects against dust, sand, and scratches in addition to water. That matters when you're kayaking on sandy beaches.
The case fits phones up to 7 inches. Larger phones don't fit. The touchscreen sensitivity is slightly reduced through the pouch material. You can still use your phone, but some gestures require more deliberate taps. The 2-pack is good value for the features.
Pros:
- Long adjustable lanyard for convenience
- Floating prevents sinking
- IPX8 rating for submersion
- Protects from dust and sand
- Visible color combination
Cons:
- Won't fit phones over 7 inches
- Reduced touchscreen sensitivity
- Limited color options
6. Large Waterproof Phone Pouch Bag - 2 Pack Waterproof Phone Case
This pouch fits phones up to 10 inches, which covers even the largest current smartphones. I use it with a tablet sometimes when I want to use navigation apps on a bigger screen. The IPX8 rating handles submersion without problems.
The large size means it fits phones with bulky cases still attached. You don't have to remove your everyday case to use this waterproof pouch. The black color is neutral and looks professional. The slim profile keeps bulk down despite the large size.
The seal is reliable once you learn the folding technique. It takes practice to get it right consistently. The pouch doesn't float, which is a downside if you drop it in deep water. The 2-pack provides backup or lets you protect multiple devices.
Pros:
- Fits phones up to 10 inches
- Works with phones in cases
- IPX8 certification for submersion
- Slim despite large size
- 2-pack adds value
Cons:
- Doesn't float
- Seal requires practice
- Only available in black
7. Procase Floating Waterproof Phone Pouch
ProCase builds reliable gear. This pouch lives up to their reputation. The floating feature works consistently. I've dropped it in water multiple times and it stayed afloat. The IPX8 waterproof rating handles full submersion without leaks.
The pouch fits phones up to 7 inches, which covers most current smartphones. The compatibility list is long, including iPhone 16 down to iPhone 7 Plus and Samsung Galaxy S24 to older models. The lightweight construction doesn't add much bulk.
The black color isn't as visible as bright colors when dropped in water. That's the main downside. The 2-pack provides backup. The touchscreen sensitivity is slightly reduced but still functional for basic use. You can take photos and check navigation without removing your phone. While you're at it, take a look at our inflatable kayak. While you're at it, take a look at our underwater camera. While you're at it, take a look at our waterproof dry bag.
Pros:
- Reliable floating design
- IPX8 rating proven effective
- Fits wide range of phone models
- Lightweight and compact
- 2-pack offers extra value
Cons:
- Black color hard to spot
- Won't fit phones over 7 inches
- Slightly reduced touch sensitivity
How to Pick the Right One
- IPX8 rating is the minimum standard. Lower ratings don't survive full submersion. Don't risk your phone with anything less than IPX8.
- Floating feature prevents loss in deep water. If you kayak in lakes or oceans, get a floating case. Rivers with shallow water can skip this feature.
- Bright colors make recovery easier. Black cases disappear in water. Yellow, green, or orange cases are easier to spot.
- Lanyard length affects convenience. Long lanyards let you wear the case around your neck while paddling. Short lanyards require clipping to your PFD.
- Phone size determines fit. Measure your phone with case attached. Many pouches won't fit phones with bulky protective cases.
- Touchscreen sensitivity varies by material. Thicker pouch material reduces touch response. Test critical functions before trusting the pouch on the water.
- Seal complexity affects reliability. Simple clip seals are easier to use correctly. Multi-fold seals work better but require practice.
Bottom Line
Get Pelican if you want floating with high visibility. Choose Hiearcool for proven reliability and a good 2-pack value. Pick Rynapac if you need to fit large phones or phones with cases.
