Hey there, fellow snow shredders and adventure enthusiasts! If you’re hitting the slopes with your trusty GoPro Hero 5, you know it’s a fantastic way to capture those epic ski runs, breathtaking mountain views, and hilarious wipeouts. But skiing isn’t exactly a gentle sport, is it? Your GoPro faces challenges like snow, ice, impacts, and even chilly temperatures. That’s why having the right protection and gear is absolutely essential.
You want to make sure your Hero 5 stays safe and keeps recording crystal-clear footage, even when you’re carving through powder or taking a tumble. So, what’s the best for GoPro Hero 5 skiing when it comes to keeping it secure and enhancing your shots? We’ve dug deep to find some top-notch options, ranging from rugged waterproof housings designed specifically for your Hero 5 Black to alternative GoPro cameras that might just tempt you. Let’s dive in and get your GoPro ready for the mountain!
OKFUN 60M/196FT Waterproof Housing Case for Go Pro Hero…
This OKFUN housing is a fortress for your GoPro Hero 5 Black, offering serious protection against the elements. If you’re worried about your camera surviving an unexpected dunk in slush, a deep powder face-plant, or just general moisture on the slopes, this case has got your back. What makes it stand out is its robust construction, allowing for extreme depth waterproof ratings (though you’ll likely stick to snow!). The double lock system ensures it won’t accidentally pop open, giving you peace of mind whether you’re tackling black diamonds or just cruising.
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Key Features:
- Custom design compatible with Go Pro Hero HD (2018)/Hero 7 Black/Hero 6 Black/Hero 5 Black. (Note: Not for Hero 7 Silver/White).
- Easy integrated design for quick installation and removal.
- Waterproof up to 60M/196FT with a double lock for security.
- Large flat glass lens for high-definition imaging and lens protection.
- 30-Day money-back guarantee, LIFE-TIME Warranty.
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Pros:
- Extremely high waterproof rating, excellent for wet snow conditions or accidental submersion.
- Robust double-lock design prevents accidental opening.
- Protects your GoPro lens from scratches and impacts.
- Easy to install and remove.
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Cons:
- Touchscreen is disabled when the housing is on.
- Adds bulk to the camera.
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User Impressions: Users love how secure and protective this case feels, often mentioning its reliability for various outdoor activities, not just water sports. Many appreciate the clarity of the lens, ensuring their footage isn’t compromised by the case. It’s seen as a solid investment for peace of mind.
FitStill 148FT/45M Waterproof Housing for Go Pro Hero…
The FitStill housing is another fantastic choice for keeping your GoPro Hero 5 Black safe from the rigors of skiing. It boasts a slightly larger and thicker design compared to standard housings, providing an extra layer of durability against impacts and cold. Its PMMA material is known for its strength and clarity, ensuring your vibrant ski footage remains crisp. This case is truly built for action, offering reliable protection that’s vital when you’re out in unpredictable mountain conditions. It’s a great piece of GoPro Hero 5 skiing protection.
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Key Features:
- Designed for Go Pro Hero 7 Black/Hero 6 Black/Hero 5 Black/Hero HD (2018). (Note: Not for Hero 7 Silver/White Edition).
- 0.4″ Bigger and 35% Thicker than standard housings for enhanced strength.
- Large Flat Glass Lens delivers maximum image sharpness above and below water.
- Made from excellent PMMA material.
- Waterproof up to 148FT/45M with upgraded sealing ring and tight buckle.
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Pros:
- Enhanced thickness provides superior protection against impacts.
- Excellent waterproof sealing, perfect for wet and snowy environments.
- Flat lens ensures uncompromised image quality.
- Durable PMMA material built to last.
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Cons:
- Also disables touchscreen functionality.
- Adds noticeable bulk to the camera.
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User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight the snug fit and robust feel of the FitStill case. They find it reliable for everything from snorkeling to protecting their camera during adventure sports, with many praising its ability to keep water out effectively, making it a solid choice for winter sports.
Compatible for Go Pro Hero 7 6 5 Black Waterproof…
This isn’t just a waterproof housing; it’s a complete protection kit for your GoPro Hero 5 Black! What makes this option stand out for skiing (and other adventures) is the inclusion of a floating hand grip. While skiing, this grip might not seem essential, but it adds versatility for any other water-based activities you might do, and gives you a secure way to hold your camera for POV shots. The housing itself offers excellent protection from snow, scratches, and impacts, with a 12H tempered glass protector for your lens ensuring your shots stay sharp and vibrant.
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Key Features:
- Package includes Waterproof Housing Case + Waterproof Floating Hand Grip.
- Compatible with Go Pro Hero 7 Black/Hero 6 Black/Hero 5 Black.
- 147FT/45M Waterproof with upgraded seals and fasteners.
- Made from high-quality PMMA hard plastic for full protection against dust, scratches, mud, and debris.
- High-definition 12H tempered glass protector for the camera lens.
- Extra Textured EVA Non-Slip Floating Grip with anti-lost rope.
- LIFE-TIME Warranty and 30-Day money-back guarantee.
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Pros:
- Comprehensive kit with housing and floating grip for versatile use.
- High-quality tempered glass lens protector maintains image clarity.
- Robust construction protects against a wide range of elements and impacts.
- Floating grip adds peace of mind near water or for comfortable handling.
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Cons:
- The floating grip might be less useful directly for skiing compared to other sports.
- Like other housings, it adds bulk and disables the touchscreen.
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User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the value of getting both the housing and the grip in one package. They often commend the case’s protective qualities and the clarity it maintains for photos and videos. The floating grip is a bonus for those who also engage in water sports.
GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition – Waterproof Action…
Okay, let’s be clear: the GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition isn’t an accessory for your Hero 5. It’s an entirely new, much more advanced camera! But if you’re looking to upgrade from your Hero 5 Black and want the absolute best for GoPro skiing footage, this is a serious contender. What makes it phenomenal for skiing is its built-in Ultra Wide Lens Mod, delivering incredibly immersive POV footage that makes viewers feel like they’re right there with you. Combined with industry-leading HyperSmooth stabilization, your ski videos will look unbelievably smooth and professional, no matter how bumpy the ride.
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Key Features:
- Comes with Ultra Wide Lens Mod attached for a 177° field of view (36% wider, 48% taller than standard FOV).
- Pro-Quality 4K60 Video with five digital lenses (Linear, Wide, Ultra Wide, Ultra SuperView, Ultra HyperView).
- Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization in every resolution with AutoBoost.
- Easy Vertical Capture for social media platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok.
- Includes Enduro Battery, Curved Adhesive Mount, Mounting Buckle, USB-C Cable, and Camera Case.
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Pros:
- Stunning, super-wide immersive footage perfect for POV skiing.
- Unmatched in-camera video stabilization for buttery-smooth clips.
- High-quality 4K60 video capture.
- Built-in ruggedness and water resistance (without extra housing).
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Cons:
- Significantly more expensive than just buying a case for your Hero 5.
- Requires learning a new camera system if upgrading from Hero 5.
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User Impressions: This camera consistently receives rave reviews for its groundbreaking stabilization and incredibly wide field of view. Users are blown away by the cinematic quality of their footage, even in extreme action scenarios. The easy vertical capture is also a big hit for content creators.
GoPro Hero5 Session (Renewed)
Here’s another camera, not an accessory, but one that’s a direct cousin to your Hero 5 Black: the GoPro Hero5 Session. This renewed version offers a compact, cube-like design that’s incredibly easy to mount in tight spots, making it a discrete choice for capturing your ski adventures. Its built-in waterproofing means you don’t need an extra housing for basic snow and slush protection (though for heavy impacts or deep dives, a case is still recommended). If you’re looking for a more streamlined, hands-off approach to capturing 4K ski footage without the bulk of the Hero 5 Black, this could be a great fit.
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Key Features:
- Stunning 4K video and 10MP photos (single, burst, time lapse modes).
- Durable design, waterproof to 33ft (10M) without a housing.
- Compact, cube-like form factor.
- One-button control: press shutter to power on and start recording automatically.
- (Note: This model does not feature an LCD screen for real-time video viewing).
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Pros:
- Extremely compact and lightweight, ideal for minimalist mounting.
- Built-in waterproofing for snow and light water exposure.
- Simple one-button operation.
- Affordable option for 4K video capture.
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Cons:
- No LCD screen for framing shots or reviewing footage on the go.
- Battery is non-removable, meaning you can’t swap out depleted batteries easily.
- Less robust for extreme impacts without an additional case.
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User Impressions: Users love the Hero5 Session’s tiny footprint and ease of use. It’s often praised as a perfect “set it and forget it” camera for POV shots, especially when space is limited. The built-in waterproofing is a major convenience, though some wish for a replaceable battery.
Frequently Asked Questions about GoPro Hero 5 Skiing Gear
Q1: Why do I need a waterproof case for my GoPro Hero 5 when skiing?
A1: While your GoPro Hero 5 Black is water-resistant, a dedicated waterproof case provides an extra layer of protection against direct snow exposure, slush, unexpected falls into icy puddles, and high-impact tumbles. It also keeps moisture from freezing inside the camera and helps protect against scratches and impacts from poles, branches, or other gear.
Q2: How can I protect my GoPro Hero 5 from cold weather?
A2: Cold weather can drain your GoPro’s battery quickly. A good waterproof housing can offer some insulation, but also consider carrying spare batteries in a warm pocket (close to your body). Some users also use hand warmers placed in the camera housing (but not directly touching the camera) to prolong battery life in extreme cold.
Q3: What’s the best way to mount my GoPro Hero 5 for skiing?
A3: For immersive POV shots, chest mounts are popular. Helmet mounts offer a true first-person perspective. Pole mounts (like a ski pole mount or a selfie stick) are great for following shots or capturing your surroundings. Experiment to see what gives you the best for GoPro Hero 5 skiing footage for your style!
Q4: Is the GoPro Hero 5 Black still a good camera for skiing in [current year]?
A4: Absolutely! While newer models boast advanced features like HyperSmooth stabilization, the Hero 5 Black still captures excellent 4K video and 12MP photos. With the right accessories, like the protective housings reviewed here, it remains a very capable and cost-effective option for high-quality ski footage.
Q5: Will these waterproof housings fit my GoPro Hero 5 Session?
A5: No, the waterproof housings reviewed (OKFUN, FitStill, etc.) are specifically designed for the rectangular GoPro Hero 5 Black, Hero 6 Black, Hero 7 Black, and Hero (2018) models. The GoPro Hero 5 Session is a smaller, cube-shaped camera and requires its own specific accessories and cases.
Q6: Does using a protective case affect the audio quality of my GoPro Hero 5?
A6: Yes, a waterproof case will significantly muffle audio, as it fully encloses the camera. For situations where clear audio is important (e.g., vlogging while skiing), you might consider using an external microphone if your setup allows, or relying on music or voiceovers in post-production. For most action-packed skiing footage, the visuals are usually the main focus.
Q7: How can I prevent my GoPro lens from fogging up inside the case while skiing?
A7: Lens fogging can be annoying. It’s usually caused by temperature differences. To prevent this, place anti-fog inserts (often called “anti-fog strips”) inside the waterproof housing. You can also try to equalize the temperature of your camera and case before heading out into the cold, by letting them sit together for a bit.
