GoPro Floaty: Your Ultimate Guide to Keeping Your Action Camera Afloat
Losing your GoPro in the water is a nightmare scenario for any action camera enthusiast. Whether you’re surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, or just enjoying a day at the beach, the risk of your valuable camera sinking to the depths is always present. That’s where the GoPro Floaty comes in – a simple yet essential accessory designed to keep your GoPro afloat. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about the GoPro Floaty, from its purpose and benefits to different types and usage tips.
What is a GoPro Floaty and Why Do You Need One?
A GoPro Floaty is a buoyant accessory specifically designed to attach to your GoPro camera, preventing it from sinking if it’s dropped in water. It’s typically made from lightweight, high-density foam that provides ample buoyancy to keep the camera and its housing afloat. The primary purpose of a GoPro Floaty is simple: to safeguard your investment and ensure you don’t lose your precious footage to the watery abyss.
The need for a GoPro Floaty becomes evident when you consider the environments where GoPros are commonly used. Action cameras are frequently employed in and around water, capturing thrilling moments of surfing, diving, and other water sports. Without a GoPro Floaty, a simple slip or wave could result in the camera sinking rapidly, often irretrievably. Even in shallow water, the current can carry the camera away before you have a chance to recover it.
Different Types of GoPro Floaties
The market offers various types of GoPro Floaties, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common types:
- Backdoor Floaties: These attach directly to the back of your GoPro’s waterproof housing. They’re typically adhesive-backed and provide a low-profile solution for keeping your camera afloat. Backdoor GoPro Floaties are ideal for general water activities where you want to maintain a sleek and unobtrusive setup.
- Handheld Floaties: These are buoyant handles that you grip while filming. They offer a more secure and comfortable way to hold your GoPro in the water and provide added stability for your shots. Handheld GoPro Floaties are particularly useful for surfing, snorkeling, and diving.
- Floating Straps: These are straps that attach to your GoPro and float on the surface of the water. They’re a simple and versatile option that can be used with various GoPro models and housings. Floating straps are a good choice for activities where you want to keep your hands free.
- Floaty Cases: These are complete housings that are designed to float. They offer the best protection for your GoPro and provide maximum buoyancy. Floaty cases are ideal for extreme water sports and activities where you want to ensure your camera is completely safe.
Choosing the Right GoPro Floaty for Your Needs
Selecting the appropriate GoPro Floaty depends on several factors, including the type of activities you’ll be engaging in, your budget, and your personal preferences. Consider these points when making your decision:
- Activity Type: For casual water activities like swimming or snorkeling, a backdoor GoPro Floaty or floating strap might suffice. If you’re into more extreme sports like surfing or diving, a handheld GoPro Floaty or floaty case would be a better choice.
- Buoyancy: Ensure the GoPro Floaty you choose provides enough buoyancy to keep your camera and housing afloat. Some floaties are designed for specific GoPro models and housings, so check the compatibility before purchasing.
- Durability: Opt for a GoPro Floaty made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of water sports. Look for floaties that are resistant to saltwater, UV rays, and abrasion.
- Comfort and Grip: If you’re choosing a handheld GoPro Floaty, consider the comfort and grip of the handle. A comfortable and secure grip will help you maintain control of your camera and capture stable footage.
- Visibility: Choose a GoPro Floaty with a bright color that is easy to spot in the water. This will make it easier to locate your camera if you accidentally drop it.
How to Attach and Use a GoPro Floaty
The attachment method for a GoPro Floaty varies depending on the type you choose. Here are general guidelines for attaching and using different types of floaties:
Backdoor Floaties
- Clean the back of your GoPro’s waterproof housing with alcohol to remove any dirt or grease.
- Peel off the adhesive backing from the GoPro Floaty.
- Carefully align the GoPro Floaty with the back of the housing and press it firmly into place.
- Allow the adhesive to cure for at least 24 hours before using the camera in water.
Handheld Floaties
- Attach your GoPro to the handheld GoPro Floaty using the appropriate mounting hardware.
- Ensure the camera is securely attached before entering the water.
- Grip the handle firmly and maintain control of the camera while filming.
Floating Straps
- Attach the floating strap to your GoPro using the lanyard loop or mounting hardware.
- Ensure the strap is securely attached before entering the water.
- Keep the strap within reach while filming to prevent the camera from drifting away.
Floaty Cases
- Open the floaty case and insert your GoPro camera.
- Close the case securely, ensuring it is properly sealed.
- Test the buoyancy of the case in shallow water before using it in deeper water.
Tips for Using Your GoPro Floaty Effectively
To maximize the effectiveness of your GoPro Floaty and ensure your camera stays safe, consider these tips:
- Test Before Use: Before heading out for your adventure, test your GoPro Floaty in a controlled environment like a pool or bathtub. This will allow you to verify its buoyancy and ensure it can support the weight of your camera and housing.
- Inspect Regularly: Check your GoPro Floaty regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Replace it if you notice any cracks, tears, or weakening of the adhesive.
- Rinse After Use: After using your GoPro Floaty in saltwater, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water to remove any salt residue. This will help prevent corrosion and prolong the life of the floaty.
- Store Properly: Store your GoPro Floaty in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent the foam from deteriorating and maintain its buoyancy.
- Use a Tether: Even with a GoPro Floaty, it’s a good idea to use a tether to secure your camera to your body or equipment. This will provide an extra layer of security and prevent the camera from drifting away if the floaty fails.
Maintaining Your GoPro Floaty
Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure your GoPro Floaty continues to perform effectively. Here are some tips for keeping your floaty in top condition:
- Cleaning: Clean your GoPro Floaty with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the foam.
- Drying: Allow your GoPro Floaty to air dry completely before storing it. This will prevent mold and mildew from growing.
- Storage: Store your GoPro Floaty in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in a humid environment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best GoPro Floaty, mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using an Incompatible Floaty: Ensure your GoPro Floaty is compatible with your specific GoPro model and housing. Using an incompatible floaty can reduce its effectiveness and put your camera at risk.
- Ignoring Buoyancy Limits: Be aware of the buoyancy limits of your GoPro Floaty. Adding extra accessories or weight to your camera can exceed the floaty’s capacity and cause it to sink.
- Neglecting to Test: Always test your GoPro Floaty before using it in a real-world scenario. This will help you identify any potential issues and ensure the floaty is working properly.
- Overlooking Regular Inspections: Don’t neglect to inspect your GoPro Floaty regularly for signs of wear and tear. A damaged floaty can fail unexpectedly and put your camera at risk.
The Future of GoPro Floaties
As GoPro cameras continue to evolve, so too will the accessories designed to protect them. We can expect to see future GoPro Floaties incorporate advanced materials, improved buoyancy, and more integrated designs. Some potential developments include:
- Smart Floaties: Floaties with built-in sensors that can detect when the camera is submerged and automatically activate a distress signal.
- Modular Floaties: Customizable floaties that can be configured to meet the specific needs of different activities.
- Eco-Friendly Floaties: Floaties made from sustainable and biodegradable materials.
Conclusion
A GoPro Floaty is an indispensable accessory for anyone who uses their GoPro in or around water. It provides a simple yet effective way to protect your camera from sinking and losing valuable footage. By understanding the different types of GoPro Floaties available, choosing the right one for your needs, and following proper usage and maintenance tips, you can ensure your GoPro stays afloat and capture all your aquatic adventures. Don’t leave home without your GoPro Floaty – it could save you a lot of heartache (and money!).
Consider purchasing a GoPro Floaty today to protect your investment. Remember to always test your equipment before use and follow all safety guidelines. Happy filming! [See also: GoPro Underwater Housing] [See also: Best GoPro Accessories for Surfing]
