Stepping more than a bit out of character, I recently purchased iPhones (4s model) for the wife and myself. I must say that, in my humble opinion, these things are among the best things to hit the shelves since sliced bread. At $199/device (yes, after subjecting myself to a two-year contract), I'd say these things have been one of my better purchases in recent memory. Of course, I'll be questioning my decision to buy these things if one of us drops one/gets it wet and I am staring down a replacement cost of more than $600 (no, I can't tolerate a cost of $20/month to insure them). With that, it's time to get some good, shock-resistant cases to protect my investment.

I've seen solid reviews of the Otter Box Defender Series case, and so far, I think that's the route I'm leaning toward. I have also seen the Lifeproof case, which claims to be waterproof (to modest depths), and therefore seems like a good choice for someone who spends a lot of time around water. The trouble with the Lifeproof case is the $80 price tag, but I could be convinced to nut up and pay it if I see enough positive reviews.

So what do you other iPhone users out there have to say? Should I buy one of those? Something else? Anything I should avoid?

Thanks in advance....

I have the otter box and it seems to work well. I am sure there are better ones out there but I was thinking cheap and figured that with the replacement cost of the phone I shouldn't be swimming with it. I bought a plastic box thing at West Marine for like 1.99 that I put the phone in while I am in the boat and only remove it to make or recieve a call.

Otter Box

Otter Box

Looking like Otter Box so far. I have one of their actual waterproof boxes, too, so I can put the phone in there for extra protection while on the water.

Thanks, Dudes.

I have an Otter Box commuter series i think... It is a great case for $40 but the other day I was In Tactical Supply in Lakewwod and they had one by Magpull that looked just as good for $10.


I might try it after I crack this one.

The basic Mag-pull case is just a thin rubber cover, compared to the three part defender Otter Box case. I had the commuter case, and that offered minimal protection.

I have a standard rubber surround on my iPhone for everyday use. I also have an Aquapac that I put it in when I fish... except the time I didn't and killed my first iPhone when I did an unintended spawning survey. Strap goes around the neck and you can still take/make calls and hear everything fine through the case. Highly recommended.

http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product_list.asp?deptid=1631

Good luck,
AP

Seems too spendy. Almost makes me glad I can barely operate my cell phone and am therefore unqualified to own an IPhone.

Sg

Bought an Otter Box Commuter for my Samsung Charge. I was looking at the Defender and it seemed awful bulky. Been happy with the Commuter and I put a tough skin over the face of the phone. I bought mine on Amazon. They had the best price. I insured my phone, but it only cost $9.99 a month. I have been known to drop a phone in the water once and awhile.

Outside the city proper, 4G is worthless....3G has coverage most everywhere.

OtterBox!

Bought the Otter Box Defender. Seems pretty sturdy. No question it makes the phone a LOT bulkier, but I actually like the way it feels in hand better now. I also have a (likely false) sense of security now, so kudos to the otters who made it so far....

Otter boxes are too bulky, stick when removing from pockets, aren't waterproof, and are generally ugly.

Life proof is the way to go. You sprang for the nicest phone, so protect it. You fish, after all...