Chad Hardin: Best snow-proof camcorders and action cams

SNOW WEEK: Available now and coming soon
Drift X170

As part of Snow Week, Pocket-lint is bringing you all the latest gadgets, apps, and tips for your next trip to the slopes. We've already given you a round-up of the best snow-proof cameras around, but if you're after some video footage then are a few camcorders and action cams to consider.

JVC GC-WP10

This rugged pocket camcorder from JVC is waterproof up to 3m, and also sports a chunky chassis that should prevent it from being damaged should it suffer a fall. The GC-WP10 can record 1920x1080p full HD video and offers built-in image stabilisation as well as a 4x digital zoom. The addition of an HDMI port means that you can watch your exploits back on an HD-ready TV, without having to transfer your video files to a computer.

It's a little on the hefty side, but a good choice for butter-fingered skiers or boarders who want a reassuringly robust recorder that won't break the bank.? ?89.99

Kodak Playsport Zx5

Kodak has updated its Playsport Zx3 video camcorder, with the new model taking the Zx5 moniker. The Playsport is now shockproof as well as dustproof and waterproof up to 3m.? it offers a 2-inch screen on the rear and gives you Full HD video capture (1920 x 1080 at 30fps). It's available in a range of vibrant colours and has a 2-inch display, along with full HD video capture.

We haven't been able to get one in for a full review yet, but we did manage to get a close-up look at the CES tech show, and we can confirm that the 58.2 x 111.9 x 17.7mm dimensions means that it will easily slip into your pocket, while the well-spaced buttons should make it easy to use while wearing gloves. The Kodak Playport Zx5 is due to land in April. ?179 (TBC)

Medion Life S47000

This one has been around for a while, but that means that you should be able to find it going pretty cheap online. The Medion Life S47000 is a compact pocket camcorder that's pitched as being good for sporty types. It's not entirely waterproof, but it is splashproof, which should be enough to protect it from the odd snow shower. Although comfortable to hold, it could really do with a larger recording button so that it's easier to use with gloves.

When we reviewed it, we concluded that: "We were impressed with the performance of the S47000. If offers a slightly different proposition to some rivals, giving a touch of environmental proofing and a complete package in the box that comes in at an affordable price, offering better value for money than rivals". ?64.95

Sanyo Xacti VPC-CA100

This one is a little on the larger side thanks to its pistol grip design and fold-out screen, so you'll either need a really big pocket or a bag to carry it in. The Xacti VPC-CA100 is not only waterproof up to 3m but also offers a respectable 14-megapixel still image snapper, as well as full HD video capture.?

When we tested it out in the snow, we came to the conclusion that: "The convenience of waterproofing in a compact package will appeal to those who are a little more adventurous and the pistol grip design makes for easy shooting". ?228.50

Flip Video UltraHD

It may be one of the most popular pocket camcorder brands around, but Flip doesn't yet offer a waterproof model. However, if you want to try your Flip Video Ultra HD out on the slopes, you could try pairing it up with a waterproof case (?17.99), which will also add an extra bit of cushioning, in case it gets dropped. Obviously this won't offer any freezeproofing, but as long as you're not in the Antarctic, you should be ok.

The Flip Video camcorders are extremely quick and easy to use and the large red button is very simple to control, even when wearing hefty ski gloves.? ?104.98

Drift X170

If it's true action shots that you're after, then you might want to invest in an action cam that can be mounted on your ski helmet or goggles to get a film of yourself zipping down the slopes from your own point of view. The Drift X170 is a compact, waterproof model that comes with a wireless RF remote that you wear on your wrist. It's got a simple, two-button setup so that it's easy to operate without taking your ski gloves off.

It's got 16GB of built-in storage and you can also capture still images. You don't get full HD footage (the resolution is 720x480), but it comes with a pretty reasonable price tag so you do get good value for money.? ?129.97

GoPro HD Hero 960

This relatively low-cost aciton cam is a budget version of its larger sibling, the HD Hero camera. You can record footage in 960, 720p or 480p and there's also a 5-megapixel timelapse photo mode if you want to get arty. It's waterproof to 60m and can be mounted on your ski helmet .

It also comes with a headstrap and various surface mounts so that you can use it on the handlebars of a bike or on the dashboard of a car.? ?169.98

ContourHD

The Contour HD is a compact action cam that's semi-waterproof so it should be able to cope with some snow, even if it does object to being dunked in the sea. It offers 1080p video capture in a durable chassis that's much more substantial than a conventional pocket camcorder, so it should be able to handle anything you can throw at it.

It comes with a selection of mounts so you can attach it to pretty much anything you like in order to get some really fancy action shots.? ?235

Chad Hardin

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Best snow-proof camcorders and action cams