So, you’ve got a GoPro Hero 5, and you’re ready to capture some epic adventures, right? Whether you’re hitting the trails, diving into the ocean, or just vlogging your daily life, a steady shot makes all the difference. That’s where a great flexible tripod comes in! It’s not just about setting your camera down; it’s about wrapping it, bending it, and securing it to almost anything for those unique, hands-free perspectives.
Finding the best flexible tripod for GoPro Hero 5 can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options out there. But don’t sweat it! We’ve done the legwork to bring you a curated list of top contenders that will help you unleash your inner Spielberg. These versatile tools are perfect for content creators, adventurers, and anyone who loves capturing life’s moments without the shakes. Let’s dive in!
Why a Flexible Tripod is a Game-Changer for Your GoPro Hero 5
Forget bulky, rigid tripods that limit your creativity. A flexible or “octopus-style” tripod offers unparalleled versatility. Its bendable legs mean you can secure your GoPro Hero 5 to railings, tree branches, handlebars, or even use it as a comfortable handgrip for vlogging on the go. This adaptability is crucial for capturing dynamic action shots or achieving unique angles that a traditional tripod just can’t manage. Plus, they’re often lightweight and compact, making them ideal GoPro accessories for travel and spontaneous adventures.
Our Top 5 Picks for the Best Flexible Tripod for GoPro Hero 5
Let’s break down the best options available to help you choose the perfect match for your filming needs.
Digicharge 10‘’ Octopus Flexible Tripod Camera + Action Cam…
This Digicharge flexible tripod is a true chameleon in the world of action camera accessories. Its standout feature is its incredible versatility, allowing you to not only use it as a standard mini tripod on flat surfaces but also to wrap its strong, durable legs around virtually anything – from lampposts to tree branches – for incredibly stable and creative shots. When you’re on the move, it easily folds down to become a comfortable hand grip, perfect for vlogging or handheld action.
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Key Features:
- Adjustable, flexible, and wrappable legs for diverse mounting options.
- Can be used as a hand grip when folded.
- 10” folded height, making it compact for travel.
- High-quality ABS plastic construction with rubber grips and feet for stability.
- 360-degree rotation ball head for versatile shooting angles.
- Quick Release Plate for easy camera attachment/removal.
- Universal 1/4″ screw adapter, compatible with a wide range of cameras.
- Broad compatibility with GoPro Hero (including Hero 5) and many other action cameras.
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Pros:
- Extremely versatile for various shooting scenarios.
- Durable and high-quality build.
- Excellent for vlogging and creative perspectives.
- Wide compatibility with multiple camera brands.
- Easy to set up and adjust.
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Cons:
- At 10 inches, might be a bit larger than some ultra-compact flexible tripods.
- Quick release plate might not be preferred by all users.
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User Impressions: Users love this tripod for its robust build and the sheer number of places they can mount their GoPro. Many highlight its usefulness for capturing stable footage in tricky environments and appreciate the added hand grip functionality. It’s often praised as a reliable and affordable alternative to more expensive brands.
Hocoder Flexible Camera Tripod Compatible with GoPro Hero…
The Hocoder Flexible Camera Tripod truly shines in its ability to adapt to uneven terrain and creative angles, making it a fantastic choice for your GoPro Hero 5. Its three bendable rubber legs are designed to help your camera stay perfectly horizontal even on the most rugged surfaces, and the clamping ability means you can secure it to almost anything you can imagine – think tree trunks or shelves – for unique, immersive perspectives. This compact tripod is a superb companion for any adventure.
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Key Features:
- 3 bendable rubber legs that wrap around objects and adjust to uneven surfaces.
- 360° rotation ball mount with a 1/4″ screw for wide angle adjustment.
- Well-made with non-slip rubber legs for secure grip.
- Multifunctional: acts as a tripod, stand, clamp, and even a selfie stick.
- Lightweight and portable, ideal for travel.
- Comes with an action camera mount for direct GoPro attachment.
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Pros:
- Excellent for stable shots on irregular surfaces.
- Highly adaptable for creative angles.
- Good build quality with non-slip features.
- Versatile in its use cases (tripod, clamp, selfie stick).
- Very portable and easy to carry.
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Cons:
- May not support heavier DSLR cameras as reliably as lighter action cameras.
- The rubber legs, while flexible, might eventually show wear with extreme bending.
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User Impressions: Reviewers frequently commend the Hocoder tripod for its sturdy build and how well it grips various surfaces. Its portability is a major plus for travelers and vloggers. Users also appreciate the included action camera mount, making it ready to use with their GoPro right out of the box.
Acuvar 6.5″ Flexible Tripod for GoPro Hero Cameras –…
If you’re looking for a compact yet incredibly sturdy option, the Acuvar 6.5″ Flexible Tripod is a brilliant choice for your GoPro Hero 5. Crafted with bendable metal wrapped in a soft, foamy exterior, this tripod offers an exceptional non-slip grip on various objects, truly embodying the “gorilla pod camera tripod” functionality. Its smaller size makes it incredibly portable, fitting easily into any bag without adding bulk, while still providing reliable stability for all your shots.
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Key Features:
- 6.5″ bendable tripod with durable metal core and foamy exterior for grip.
- GorillaPod-style design allows wrapping around poles, branches, and uneven surfaces.
- Universal tripod mount adapter specifically compatible with all GoPro Hero models (including Hero 5).
- Also supports small point-and-shoot digital cameras.
- Lightweight and portable, ideal for travel.
- Designed to capture steady photos and videos anywhere, indoors or outdoors.
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Pros:
- Very compact and highly portable.
- Strong and durable construction with a comfortable grip.
- Excellent compatibility with all GoPro Hero models.
- Versatile for various mounting situations.
- Great for achieving stable footage on the go.
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Cons:
- Shorter length might limit some high-angle shots compared to longer models.
- Foamy exterior could potentially wear over time with heavy use.
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User Impressions: Customers love the Acuvar 6.5″ for its small footprint and surprising durability. It’s frequently praised for being the perfect size for backpacks and for its ability to securely hold a GoPro in diverse environments. Many find it to be a reliable and affordable alternative to more expensive flexible tripod options.
Acuvar 12″ Flexible Tripod for GoPro Hero Cameras –…
The Acuvar 12″ Flexible Tripod takes everything great about its 6.5″ sibling and offers more length, giving you extra reach and flexibility for your GoPro Hero 5. Just like the smaller version, it’s built with a strong bendable metal core wrapped in a soft, foamy exterior, ensuring a secure, non-slip grip. This “tall go pro tripod” is perfect for those times when you need a bit more height to get over an obstacle or wrap around a wider object, providing enhanced versatility for your action camera setup.
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Key Features:
- 12″ bendable tripod with durable metal core and foamy exterior for grip.
- GorillaPod-style design allows wrapping around poles, branches, and uneven surfaces.
- Universal tripod mount adapter specifically compatible with all GoPro Hero models (including Hero 5).
- Also supports small point-and-shoot digital cameras.
- Lightweight and portable for easy travel, despite its longer length.
- Designed to capture steady photos and videos from more elevated or distanced angles.
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Pros:
- Longer length offers greater reach and wrapping capability.
- Strong and durable construction with a comfortable grip.
- Excellent compatibility with all GoPro Hero models.
- Versatile for various mounting situations and creative angles.
- Still very portable despite the increased size.
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Cons:
- Larger footprint than the 6.5″ version, making it slightly less compact.
- Foamy exterior could potentially wear over time with heavy use.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the added length of the 12″ Acuvar, finding it ideal for capturing shots from higher vantage points or securing to thicker objects. It receives similar praise to the 6.5″ model for its robust build and dependable grip, solidifying its reputation as a reliable and affordable flexible tripod for action cameras.
K&F Concept 33.5cm/13.2″ Selfie Stick Tripod, Portable Vlog…
The K&F Concept Selfie Stick Tripod is a versatile two-in-one solution, perfect for those who need both a flexible tripod and a selfie stick for their GoPro Hero 5. Its standout feature is the adjustable height, allowing it to extend up to 32cm, transforming from a stable tripod into a handy vlogging stick. It’s designed with enhanced stability in mind, thanks to a shock-absorbing ring in the telescopic tube and a wider, non-slip silicone pad base, ensuring your shots remain steady whether you’re taking a selfie or setting up a time-lapse.
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Key Features:
- Adjustable height up to 32cm with 5 section leg adjustments (selfie stick functionality).
- Multi-device compatibility (supports up to 2kg), ideal for GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, Insta360.
- Enhanced stability with a shock-absorbing ring in the telescopic tube.
- Wider non-slip base with silicone pad for stability on uneven surfaces.
- Ultra-lightweight (just 67g), making it incredibly portable.
- Portable Vlog tripod design.
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Pros:
- Dual functionality as both a tripod and a selfie stick.
- Extremely lightweight, perfect for travel.
- Good stability features for its size.
- Wide compatibility with various action cameras.
- Adjustable height offers more shot flexibility.
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Cons:
- Not a true “flexible” or “octopus” style tripod; legs do not bend or wrap independently.
- Maximum height might not be sufficient for all selfie stick needs.
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User Impressions: Users frequently highlight the K&F Concept’s impressive portability and its convenient dual function. It’s often recommended for travelers and vloggers who prioritize a lightweight, compact solution that can do double duty. The stability for such a light device also gets high marks.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flexible Tripods for GoPro Hero 5
Still got questions about choosing the best flexible tripod for GoPro Hero 5? We’ve got answers!
Q1: Why should I choose a flexible tripod over a regular mini tripod for my GoPro Hero 5?
A: Flexible tripods offer unmatched versatility. Unlike rigid mini tripods, their bendable legs allow you to wrap them around objects (like poles, branches, or railings) for unique angles and secure mounting in places where a regular tripod wouldn’t work. They can also double as hand grips for vlogging!
Q2: Are these flexible tripods durable enough for adventure sports?
A: Most high-quality flexible tripods are designed with durable materials like strong plastic, rubber, or metal cores to withstand outdoor conditions. While they are resilient, extreme impacts or constant, harsh bending beyond their design limits can cause wear. Always check reviews for specific product durability.
Q3: Can I use these flexible tripods with other cameras besides my GoPro Hero 5?
A: Yes, many flexible tripods come with a standard 1/4″ screw mount, which is universal for most digital cameras, small mirrorless cameras, and even some smartphones (with an additional adapter). Products often specify their maximum weight capacity, so ensure your other camera doesn’t exceed that limit.
Q4: What’s the main difference between the Acuvar 6.5″ and 12″ flexible tripods?
A: The primary difference is their length. The 12″ version offers greater reach, allowing you to wrap it around larger objects or achieve higher vantage points. The 6.5″ version is more compact and easier to stash in smaller bags, making it ideal for ultra-light travel. Both offer similar build quality and flexibility.
Q5: How do I ensure my GoPro Hero 5 stays secure on a flexible tripod?
A: First, make sure your GoPro is properly attached to the tripod’s mount (usually via a GoPro-specific adapter that connects to the 1/4″ screw). When wrapping the legs, ensure they are tightly coiled and stable around the object. The rubberized grips on the legs also help prevent slipping. Always double-check stability before letting go!
Q6: Can flexible tripods be used as a selfie stick?
A: Some flexible tripods, like the K&F Concept reviewed, are designed with telescopic capabilities that allow them to extend and function as a selfie stick. Others, while not extending, can be held by the bundled legs and used for close-up vlogging or handheld shots, similar to a grip.
Q7: What should I look for when choosing the best flexible tripod for my GoPro Hero 5?
A: Consider size and portability (do you want compact or more reach?), material quality (durability and grip), compatibility (ensuring it works with your Hero 5 and possibly other cameras), and features like a 360-degree ball head or quick-release plate for ease of use. Also, check user reviews for real-world performance insights.