Hydrophobia 70-200: It's A Rain Coat For Your DSLR

Point and shoot cameras have come in waterproof versions for years now, enabling owners to shoot images in the rain, beneath the seas and everywhere in between. Unfortunately, that hasn't been as easy for DSLR owners. Full waterproof kits can be insanely expensive, and those are generally only sensible for pro shooters who make their living by shooting near waves.

Think Tank Photo has an affordable solution, and while it may look wacky, it's actually perfect for those who only need rain protection for their DSLR every now and then. The Hydrophobia 70-200 is designed to completely cover a DSLR as well as a 70-200mm (or smaller) lens, and essentially it's just a huge canopy/bag that engulfs your entire shooting rig. Which is really the only way to ensure that no water leaks in, odd as it may sound and look.

The best (ugliest?) part is the arm holes on both sides, which enable users to even cover up their shooting fingers while getting poured on. Thankfully, the rain cover includes a clear window for viewing the LCD and controls, and there's a fabric cover at the end of the lens. It's also just $139, so it's well within reason for most amateur photographers who fight the elements on occasion. Just be sure to check your humility at the door.

A key feature is that the camera can be carried two ways. It can be carried by the strap attached to the camera as it does not have to be removed. And, there is a camera strap attached to the Hydrophobia 70-200 that, combined with a strap that buckles under the lens, allows the camera to be carried by the rain cover.

“The problem with other covers is that holes have to be cut into the top of the cover, and then using a special camera strap, the user has to unclip the camera strap from the camera, feeding it through the top of the cover,” said Doug Murdoch, Think Tank Photo’s CEO and lead designer. “With the Hydrophobia 70-200, we eliminated this problem by creating a system that automatically transfers the weight to the rain cover itself, while still keeping it water resistant.”

The fabric used on the Hydrophobia is ten times as water resistant as normal fabric. Instead of a “spray” coating, a “film” is applied to the underside of the fabric, as well as a
tricot mesh to protect it, making it a far more impenetrable three-layer fabric. In addition a waterproof tape is applied to all seams, providing an even more water resistant barrier.

The rain covers have the following key features:

• A clear window for viewing LCD and controls

• A fabric cover for the end of the lens.

• An eyepiece storage pocket (eyepieces sold separately)

• A breathable mesh bag for transportation and storage

For professionals and amateur SLR shooters with smaller lenses who can’t afford to lose a shot or to have their gear damaged, the Hydrophobia™ 70-200 and the Hydrophobia™ Flash 70-200 are powerful new tools for getting the shot in even the harshest conditions.

Specifications
Hydrophobia 70-200
Dimensions: 7.5” W x 17” L x 5.5” D (19 x 43 x 14 cm)
Weight (rain cover only): 9.6 oz. (272 g)

Price: $139.00

Hydrophobia 70-200 Flash
Dimensions: 7.5” W x 17” L x 5.5” D (19 x 43 x 14 cm)
Weight (rain cover only): 13 oz. (367 g)
Price: $145.00