6 Best Submersible Phone Cases For Paddleboarding That Do Double Duty

You’re out on the water, the sun is perfect, and you want to snap a photo, but your phone is tucked away in a dry bag somewhere below deck. Or worse, it’s in your pocket, one clumsy move away from a watery grave. The right phone case isn’t just an accessory; it’s a critical piece of gear that bridges the gap between staying connected and staying afloat.

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Dual-Purpose SUP Phone Cases: Why You Need One

When you live in a small space, every piece of gear has to earn its keep. A simple waterproof bag is fine, but a dual-purpose case does more. It protects your phone from water while also floating, storing your keys, or turning into an underwater camera.

Think of it as risk management. A standard "water-resistant" phone might survive a quick splash, but it won’t survive a 10-minute submersion at the bottom of a lake. A good submersible case eliminates that anxiety. The best ones float, turning a potential disaster into a minor inconvenience. You’re not just buying a case; you’re buying peace of mind and functionality.

This isn’t about finding a single case that does everything perfectly. It’s about identifying your primary need and finding a case that meets it while offering a valuable secondary benefit. Do you need rugged drop protection that also works on the water? Or do you need a simple floating pouch that can also hold your ID and a key? Your answer dictates which tool is right for the job.

JOTO Universal Pouch: The Classic Floating Case

The JOTO pouch is the go-to for a reason. It’s simple, affordable, and it works. Its main job is to keep your phone dry, and its crucial secondary function is the air-filled border that makes it float.

This is the case for the casual paddleboarder. You want to bring your phone for safety, music, or a few photos, but you aren’t planning an epic, multi-day expedition. The clear window allows you to use your touchscreen, and the simple snap-and-lock seal is surprisingly effective. Just be sure to test it with a paper towel at home first—a classic trick that never fails.

The tradeoff is durability. This isn’t a case you want to scrape against rocks or trust for deep dives. But for keeping your phone safe from splashes and accidental drops overboard on a calm lake, it’s the undisputed, budget-friendly champion. It does its two jobs—waterproofing and floating—without any fuss.

CaliCase Universal: Heavy-Duty Floating Pouch

If the JOTO is a reliable sedan, the CaliCase is the all-terrain SUV. It takes the basic floating pouch concept and reinforces it for more demanding situations. The dual-layer PVC is noticeably thicker, and the built-in foam padding adds serious buoyancy and a bit of impact protection.

This case is for the paddler who ventures further from shore or into choppier waters. It floats higher and is more visible than many basic pouches, which is a huge advantage in wavy conditions. If you take a spill, you want to spot your bright-colored case immediately, not squint for a semi-submerged pouch.

The extra bulk is the compromise. It’s a bit heavier and takes up more space than a minimalist pouch. However, that bulk is what provides the superior protection and flotation. For anyone who sees their phone as a critical navigation or safety tool on the water, the added security of the CaliCase is well worth it.

Aquapac Keymaster: Secure Storage on the Water

Sometimes, the "double duty" you need isn’t about the phone itself, but about everything else you’re forced to carry. The Aquapac Keymaster excels here. While it fits smaller phones, its real secondary purpose is acting as a secure, floating wallet for your essentials.

This case is perfect for the paddler who launches from a public beach or needs to carry a car key, ID, and a credit card. The patented Aquaclip sealing system is one of the most reliable I’ve ever used. It provides a confident, solid seal that feels much more secure than a typical press-and-snap closure. You can trust it with an expensive electronic key fob.

The focus here is security over screen usability. While you can still operate your phone through the plastic, the material isn’t optimized for photography. The Keymaster is for the person whose priority is keeping small, vital items completely dry and safe. It protects your phone, but it really protects your ability to get home.

ProCase Pouch: Crystal-Clear Underwater Photos

For many, the point of bringing a phone is to capture the experience. The ProCase pouch is designed with this in mind. Its dual-duty function is providing solid waterproof protection while serving as a functional housing for your phone’s camera.

What sets it apart is the material. It features large, crystal-clear windows on both the front and back, specifically designed to minimize distortion and glare for photos and videos. Cheaper pouches can create a hazy or blurry effect, especially underwater. The ProCase delivers surprisingly sharp images, turning your phone into a capable adventure camera.

This is the ideal choice for content creators or anyone who loves documenting their time on the water. It floats and keeps water out, but its primary advantage is optical clarity. The tradeoff? The material might feel slightly less rugged than a CaliCase, so it’s best for those who prioritize photo quality over extreme durability.

Catalyst Case: Rugged Drop and Water Protection

Moving from pouches to hard cases changes the game entirely. The Catalyst case isn’t just for paddleboarding; it’s for life. Its dual purpose is providing elite waterproofing for the water and rugged drop protection for the land. This is a full-time solution, not a temporary sleeve.

Unlike a pouch, a Catalyst case is device-specific, fitting your phone like a glove. This allows for direct access to your screen and buttons with no plastic film in the way. It meets military standards for drop protection (MIL-STD 810G) and has an IP68 rating that allows for deep, prolonged submersion. You could drop it on the pavement at the boat launch and then drop it in the water, and the phone would be fine.

The investment is the major consideration. These cases are significantly more expensive than any pouch. They also add permanent bulk to your phone. But if you have an active lifestyle and need constant, no-compromise protection, a Catalyst case eliminates the need for a separate "water" case and "everyday" case. It does both jobs at a premium level.

Vansky Case with Armband: Hands-Free Security

Sometimes, the most important feature is accessibility. The Vansky case provides the standard floating pouch protection, but its key secondary feature is the included armband. This delivers a hands-free experience that other lanyard-based cases can’t match.

This setup is perfect for the active paddler who is also swimming, fishing, or doing SUP yoga. When you’re constantly moving, a lanyard can swing around and get in the way. Strapping your phone to your arm or bicep keeps it secure and immediately accessible without occupying your hands or dangling from your neck.

The comfort factor is the main tradeoff. An armband can feel restrictive or chafe during a long-distance paddle. But for shorter outings or activities where you’re frequently in and out of the water, the convenience is undeniable. It’s about keeping your phone safe and out of the way, a dual purpose that prioritizes secure, on-body access.

Choosing Your Ideal Paddleboarding Phone Case

There’s no single "best" case, only the best case for your specific needs. Start by answering one question: is this case just for the water, or for everyday life?

If it’s just for water activities, a pouch is your answer.

• For casual use: The JOTO is cheap and effective.
• For rougher water or better visibility: The CaliCase offers superior buoyancy and durability.
• For photography: The ProCase provides the best optical clarity.
• For keys and cards: The Aquapac offers the most secure seal for valuables.

If you need a single case for 24/7 protection, on land and sea, a hard case is the better investment. The Catalyst Case offers best-in-class drop and water protection, but it comes at a premium price and is specific to your phone model. It’s a commitment, but one that provides total peace of mind.

Finally, consider how you’ll carry it. A lanyard is standard, but if you need your hands completely free for activities like fishing or yoga, the armband on a case like the Vansky is a game-changer. Your choice comes down to balancing budget, durability, and how you actually plan to use your phone on the water.

Ultimately, the right case is the one you’ll actually use. Don’t overbuy for epic adventures you don’t take, but don’t skimp on protection if your phone is your lifeline. Choose the one that fits your reality, and you can paddle on without a single worry.