Ever dropped your GoPro while filming a kayaking adventure? The panic is real! Knowing whether your GoPro Shorty floats can save your precious footage and your expensive equipment. This guide will explore the flotation properties of the GoPro Shorty, offering practical advice and helping you avoid costly mishaps. You’ll learn how to keep your GoPro safe and your adventures documented, no matter the environment.
GoPro Shorty and Water: A Detailed Look
This section will delve into the material composition of the GoPro Shorty and its inherent buoyancy properties. We’ll explore different scenarios involving water contact to understand the risks and mitigation strategies.
The Shorty’s Construction
- The GoPro Shorty is primarily constructed from plastic and aluminum. This combination offers a lightweight and durable design but doesn’t inherently lend itself to floating. The plastic elements are generally denser than water, meaning they tend to sink.
- The aluminum part of the Shorty, while lightweight, is also denser than water, contributing to its overall tendency to sink. The design prioritizes stability and durability over buoyancy.
- The lack of any inherent flotation mechanisms in the Shorty’s design means it’s not designed for water activities where accidental drops are likely.
Factors Affecting Buoyancy
Several factors influence the GoPro Shorty’s ability to stay afloat, even in seemingly calm water. These can include the weight of the attached GoPro camera and any added accessories.
- GoPro Camera Weight: A heavier GoPro model (like the HERO11 Black) attached to the Shorty will significantly increase its overall density, making it more likely to sink.
- Accessories: Adding accessories like waterproof housings or lights will further reduce its chance of floating. The extra weight outweighs the minor additional volume.
- Water Conditions: The type of water (freshwater vs. saltwater) plays a minor role. Saltwater is slightly more buoyant, but the difference is negligible for the Shorty.
Testing the Floatation
Testing whether your specific setup floats is highly recommended before using your GoPro Shorty in any water-based activity. Simple experimentation can provide peace of mind.
- Fill a bucket or tub with water.
- Attach your GoPro to the Shorty with all the accessories you intend to use.
- Carefully place the Shorty in the water and observe whether it floats or sinks.
Does the GoPro Shorty Float? The Verdict
Based on the materials and design, the answer is generally no. The GoPro Shorty itself does not float. This section clarifies this point and offers alternative solutions.
Understanding Density and Buoyancy
An object floats if its average density is less than the density of the liquid it is placed in. Since the Shorty is primarily made from materials denser than water, it will sink unless additional buoyancy is added.
- Archimedes’ Principle: This principle states that the buoyant force on an object submerged in a fluid is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the object. The Shorty doesn’t displace enough water to overcome its own weight.
- Density of Materials: The density of the plastic and aluminum used in the Shorty’s construction is higher than the density of water. This means the gravitational force pulling the Shorty down is greater than the buoyant force pushing it up.
- Volume vs. Mass: The Shorty’s relatively small volume compared to its mass also contributes to its tendency to sink. A larger volume would be needed to displace enough water to achieve buoyancy.
Case Studies: GoPro Shorty and Water
- A user reported losing their GoPro and Shorty while filming a surfing session. The added weight of the waterproof housing contributed to the sinking.
- A kayaker experienced the same issue while attempting to use the Shorty to film rapids. The fast-moving water quickly pulled the setup beneath the surface.
Solutions for Water-Based GoPro Filming
While the GoPro Shorty itself doesn’t float, there are several reliable solutions to ensure you don’t lose your equipment in water. This section offers several alternative methods.
Using a Floatation Device
- GoPro Floaty: This officially licensed accessory is designed to keep your GoPro afloat, even with a housing attached. It provides sufficient buoyancy to counter the weight of the setup.
- Third-Party Floats: Several third-party companies offer similar flotation devices compatible with the GoPro Shorty. They often provide additional features, such as added protection or multiple mounting points.
- DIY Solutions: While not always recommended, some users have created DIY flotation devices using foam or other buoyant materials. However, ensuring proper waterproof sealing is crucial.
Alternative Mounting Options
If you frequently film in or around water, consider alternatives to the GoPro Shorty which might inherently offer more buoyancy or attachment points for flotation devices.
- GoPro Jaws Flex Clamp: This clamp allows you to securely attach your GoPro to a variety of surfaces, including kayaks or paddleboards. With careful positioning and a flotation device, you can minimize the risk of losing your GoPro.
- Chest Mounts or Head Straps: These offer a more secure way to film yourself in water activities, reducing the chance of dropping your GoPro. Combining this with a flotation device provides an added layer of safety.
Debunking Myths about GoPro Shorty Floatation
Myth 1: The GoPro Shorty is waterproof.
The GoPro Shorty is not inherently waterproof; only the GoPro camera itself and specific waterproof housings are waterproof. The Shorty can be damaged if submerged.
Myth 2: A waterproof housing will always make the Shorty float.
While a waterproof housing protects the GoPro from water damage, it does increase the overall weight and will not necessarily make the Shorty float. Additional buoyancy is still needed.
Myth 3: The Shorty will float if used in shallow water.
Even in shallow water, the Shorty’s inherent lack of buoyancy means it’s still likely to sink. The depth of the water doesn’t significantly impact its density.
FAQ
Does the GoPro Shorty sink?
Yes, the GoPro Shorty itself will sink because its materials are denser than water. It requires a flotation device to remain afloat.
Can I use the GoPro Shorty for underwater filming?
While you can technically attach a waterproof GoPro housing to the Shorty, it’s not recommended due to the risk of losing the equipment. Use a dedicated underwater housing and appropriate flotation devices.
What are the best flotation devices for a GoPro Shorty?
The official GoPro Floaty is a popular option. However, many third-party floats are also available and offer similar or even better features. Choose one that suits your needs and budget.
Is it possible to make the Shorty float without a dedicated device?
It’s theoretically possible using buoyant materials, but creating a reliable and waterproof solution can be challenging and potentially risky for your expensive equipment. It is far safer to utilize a purpose built float.
How much weight can a GoPro Floaty support?
The weight capacity varies depending on the specific model of the Floaty. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the precise weight limits. Using the Floaty beyond its capacity can cause it to fail.
Final Thoughts
While the GoPro Shorty is a versatile and useful accessory, its inherent lack of flotation makes it unsuitable for water-based activities without additional safeguards. Investing in a dedicated GoPro Floaty or other flotation device, or selecting alternative mounting options, is highly recommended to prevent equipment loss and keep your footage safe. Remember to always prioritize safety and choose the right equipment for your specific filming environment.