Think Tank Photo has released the Hydrophobia 70-200 rain cover for DSLRs with smaller lenses attached than the previously released 300-600 version. The new Hydrophobia 70-200 comes in two models, one with the flash tower and one without the flash tower.
The version with the flash tower runs $145, while the one without the flash tower is $139.
The Hydrophobia 70-200 is one of the items that Photography Bay readers can purchase and qualify for a free bag from Think Tank Photo. Essentially, spend $50 or more on gear from Think Tank Photo, and during checkout, their system will automatically let you select a free camera bag (e.g., Lens Changer 50) along with your order. Go to Think Tank Photo using this link and follow the on-screen instructions to get a free bag.
Full details are in the press release below.
Think Tank Photo Press Release
Santa Rosa, Calif. –Think Tank Photo announces the release of two water-resistant, seam-sealed rain covers for 70-200 and smaller lenses: the Hydrophobia® 70-200 and the Hydrophobia® Flash 70-200 with built-in flash protector. Featuring side arm holes for focusing and accessing switches, they allow DSLRs to be turned vertically. And now, without exposing their expensive bodies and lenses to the elements, photographers can change memory cards and batteries without taking off the rain covers.
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
Neat, of course my clear plastic bag and rubber bands does this for $143 less and you can see the controls, but you know.