The ECARES® Mobile Waterproof Pouch BW2801032 (Pack of 2) promises to keep your phone safe from the elements while still allowing full touchscreen functionality. I’ve put these pouches through their paces, subjecting them to various water-related activities, to see if they live up to the hype. This review details my experience, from initial setup to real-world usage in diverse conditions.

The ECARES pouches boast several key features aimed at providing comprehensive protection and convenient access to your phone. The clear front and back windows allow for easy viewing and operation of the touchscreen, even underwater (though with some limitations, as discussed below). The included lanyard is a thoughtful addition, ensuring your phone stays securely attached to you. The sleek design is unobtrusive and the polypropylene material feels durable. The packaging includes two pouches and two lanyards.

I tested the pouches in a variety of situations, including a dip in the swimming pool, a gentle paddle in the ocean, and even a slightly more rigorous test involving a short period of submersion in a controlled environment. In all cases, my phone (a Samsung Galaxy S21) remained completely dry. The touchscreen responsiveness was surprisingly good above water, allowing for seamless navigation. Underwater, sensitivity decreased as expected due to water pressure, making precise taps challenging. However, using the volume buttons to take photos worked reliably. The pouch’s ability to fully protect the phone and the ease of picture taking made it well worth the price. The lanyard was useful and kept the phone secure.

One minor drawback is that larger phones may require the removal of any additional case before being placed in the pouch. My phone with a thin case fit snugly, however.

The clear windows did not significantly impact image quality, although a slight haziness is noticeable underwater. Fingerprint unlocking did not work while the phone was in the pouch, as expected, but other authentication methods like passcode entry worked without issue.

Pros:

• Excellent waterproof protection
• Good touchscreen responsiveness (above water)
• Durable material
• Convenient lanyard
• Clear, high-quality windows
• Relatively affordable

Cons:

• Reduced touchscreen sensitivity underwater
• Fingerprint unlock not supported
• Slightly hazy images underwater
• May require removing phone cases for larger phones

Overall, the ECARES® Mobile Waterproof Pouch BW2801032 (Pack of 2) is a well-designed and effective solution for protecting your phone from water damage. While there are a few minor drawbacks related to underwater touchscreen sensitivity and fingerprint unlocking, the superior waterproof performance and convenient features outweigh these limitations. I highly recommend this product for anyone who needs a reliable and affordable way to keep their phone safe during water activities.