There are more than a few of us who bring our iPhone nearly everywhere. I’m not proud; I’ll admit it. But when I’m on the water, the last thing I want to do is drop my phone. After I spied a friend’s waterproof case, I bought the LifeProof iPhone Case, and found the solution to my problem.

One of the best things about the phone case is that it’s the same size as many iPhone cases, so adding the waterproof factor isn’t causing bulk. That’s important when you carry your phone around in your pocket.

The polycarbonate frame weighs less than an ounce and has waterproof and dirt-proof seals, allowing you to feel less freaked-out by bringing your phone along on a hike, kayak voyage, or ski trip. The waterproof screen protector is scratch-resistant and easy to use. A double AR-coated optical glass lens covers the camera lens, offering protection without adversely affecting the quality of your photos.

The waterproof protection covers up to 6.6 feet (2 meters), so you still can’t bring your phone scuba diving with you, but you can do nearly everything else. The case also has shock and impact protection for your iPhone. It’s been tested to military specifications, and has been dropped on all edges and surfaces onto concrete from a height of 6.6 feet.

The only issue I had with the case is that the cover for the earbud/headphone jack is a screw-off cap. Misplace that, and your case is no longer waterproof. It would be a great idea if each case came with a few of those caps, just in case.

I alternate between a regular iPhone case and the LifeProof case, for those times when I will be out and about around water, sand, snow and dirt.

The LifeProof iPhone Case is available for iPhones 4 and 4S, and lists for $79.99 on the LifeProof website. On Amazon, it’s priced at $60.06.