Hitting the snowy slopes is an exhilarating experience, and what better way to relive those epic runs and thrilling jumps than with crisp, clear footage? While newer models are out there, many skiers still swear by the classic GoPro Hero 4 Silver. It’s a fantastic action camera that balances performance with affordability, making it a top contender if you’re looking for the best GoPro Hero 4 Silver for skiing.
This trusty camera offers a superb way to capture your winter sports escapades. But getting the most out of your ski sessions means pairing your Hero 4 Silver with the right accessories. From ensuring your battery lasts in the cold to protecting your valuable gear from tumbles, the right setup makes all the difference. Let’s dive into some of the top products and bundles that will help you record unforgettable skiing moments.
Our Top Picks: The Best GoPro Hero 4 Silver for Skiing & Essential Accessories
When it comes to the best GoPro Hero 4 Silver for skiing, it’s not just about the camera itself, but also the ecosystem of accessories that enhance its performance and durability on the mountain. Here are our top picks, including the camera and crucial add-ons.
1. GoPro Hero4 Silver
This is the core of your skiing adventure capture kit. The GoPro Hero4 Silver redefined what a consumer action camera could do, especially with its game-changing built-in touch display. This feature alone makes it incredibly user-friendly on the slopes, allowing you to easily frame your shots, adjust settings, and review footage right there on your wrist or helmet, without needing a separate app or remote. It’s robust enough to handle the elements, delivering professional-grade video that truly brings your skiing memories to life.
- Built-in Touch Display: Effortless camera control, shot framing, and playback.
- Professional Video & Photos: 1080P60 and 720P120 video with 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second.
- Wireless Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for GoPro app, Smart Remote, and more.
- In-Camera Editing: Improved controls and built-in video trimming for quick clips.
- ProTune with SuperView: Cinema-quality capture with advanced manual control and immersive wide-angle field of view.
Pros:
– Intuitive touch screen is a huge convenience.
– Excellent video and photo quality for its generation.
– Durable design suitable for action sports.
– Wide array of compatible accessories.
Cons:
– Battery life can be limited in cold weather without spares.
– Lacks 4K at higher frame rates (though 1080p60 is usually sufficient for skiing).
User Impressions: Users frequently praise the Hero4 Silver for its ease of use, especially the touch screen, which makes it a standout. They often highlight its reliable performance and impressive video quality, even years after its release, making it a beloved choice for adventurers.
2. GoPro Hero 4 Silver Edition 12MP Waterproof Sports &…
This bundle offers the fantastic GoPro Hero 4 Silver camera alongside some essential accessories that are incredibly handy for any action sports enthusiast, especially skiers. The included extra battery and dual battery charger are absolute lifesavers when you’re spending all day out in the cold. Plus, a 16GB Micro SD card means you’re ready to start recording your epic runs right out of the box. This package provides everything you need to hit the slopes with confidence, knowing you have power and storage to spare.
- Built-in Touch Display: Easy camera control, shot-framing, and playback.
- Protune with SuperView: Cinema-quality capture and advanced manual control with an immersive wide-angle field of view.
- Professional Video & Photos: 1080p60 and 720p120 video with 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second; also supports 4K15 / 2.7K30 for various recording needs.
- Wireless Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support for GoPro App, Smart Remote, and more.
- Improved Camera Control: Built-in video trimming to create and save short clips on the camera.
- Essential Bundle: Includes an extra battery, dual battery charger, and a 16GB Micro SD card.
Pros:
– Complete starter kit with crucial accessories.
– Extra battery and dual charger are invaluable for cold weather skiing.
– High-quality video and photo capabilities.
– Ready to use right away with included SD card.
Cons:
– 4K video is limited to 15fps, which isn’t ideal for fast-moving action.
– Still the Hero 4 Silver, so it lacks some modern features of newer GoPros.
User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of this bundle, particularly appreciating the extra battery and charger, which are often cited as necessities for extended use, especially in cold environments. The camera’s quality is consistently praised.
3. Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger for Gopro Hero…
Cold weather is notorious for draining battery life quickly, which can cut your skiing adventures short. That’s where the Suptig Battery (2 Pack) and Dual Charger come in as an absolute game-changer. This set ensures you’re never caught without power, allowing you to capture every single carve and jump from dawn till dusk. The dual charger is incredibly convenient, letting you juice up two batteries simultaneously, so you’re always ready for your next run. It’s a must-have for any serious skier using a Hero 4.
- High-Tech Lithium Battery: 1160mAh capacity for extended battery life.
- Dual Battery Charger: Charges two batteries simultaneously with a unique PCB safety circuit design.
- Wide Compatibility: Works with HERO4 Black and HERO4 Silver models, including GoPro and Suptig AHDBT-401 batteries.
- Incredibly Compact: Portable charger size (2.1×1.7×0.78 in).
- Fast Charging: Two batteries fully charged in about 2:30-3 hours with a 1A adapter.
- Complete Package: Includes 1x Suptig dual battery charger, 2x batteries, and 1x MINI USB Cable.
Pros:
– Essential for extending recording time in cold weather.
– Dual charger saves time and hassle.
– Compact and easy to carry in your gear bag.
– Affordable way to ensure continuous power.
Cons:
– Requires a separate 1A adapter (not included) for optimal charging speed.
– Third-party batteries may not always perform exactly like official GoPro ones, though often close.
User Impressions: Users rave about the excellent value and performance of these batteries and charger. They frequently mention how crucial extra batteries are for cold weather activities like skiing, and this pack provides reliable power at a fraction of the cost of official GoPro accessories.
4. YALLSAME Frame Mount Protective BacPac Housing Case with…
Protecting your GoPro Hero 4 Silver while skiing is paramount, and the YALLSAME Frame Mount offers an excellent balance of protection and accessibility. Unlike fully enclosed waterproof housings, this frame keeps your camera snug while still providing full access to ports for charging or live-feed video—a huge plus for longer sessions or when you’re vlogging from the slopes. It also allows for optimal audio capture, which is often muffled by waterproof cases, ensuring your excited shouts or the whoosh of your skis are heard clearly.
- High Compatibility: Perfectly fits GoPro Hero4 Black / Hero4 Silver / Hero3+ / Hero3 action cameras.
- Lightweight Protection: Offers sufficient protection for your GoPro while remaining light and easy to mount.
- Full Port Access: Open-side design provides full-time charging hole without removing the frame.
- Optimal Audio Capture: Exposed recording holes ensure clear audio during activities.
- Durable Quality: Made of resilient and durable polymer plastics.
- Added Protection: Soft silicone lens cap included for lens against scratches and impact.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for vlogging, live-feed video, hiking, climbing, skiing, traveling, and biking.
- Package: Includes Frame case, Standard 1/4″ socket, Thumb screw, Quick release buckle, Lens cap, USB side door.
Pros:
– Excellent for capturing clear audio, unlike waterproof cases.
– Allows for continuous charging during use (e.g., with a power bank in your jacket).
– Lightweight and compact, adding minimal bulk.
– Provides good basic protection against bumps and scratches.
Cons:
– Not waterproof, so unsuitable for wet conditions or deep snow without additional protection.
– Offers less impact protection than a full hard case.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate this frame for its open design, which significantly improves audio quality and allows for external power. It’s highly recommended for activities where full waterproofing isn’t needed, but good audio and continuous power are vital, like vlogging on the ski slopes.
5. GoPro HERO4 SILVER Surf Bundle
While labeled as a “Surf Bundle,” the GoPro HERO4 SILVER here offers incredible value that translates beautifully to skiing. Beyond the fantastic Hero 4 Silver camera itself, this kit provides a range of genuine GoPro mounts and accessories that are surprisingly useful for winter sports. The included Camera Tether gives you peace of mind, preventing your precious camera from disappearing into a snowdrift if a mount fails. The quick-release buckles and 3-Way Pivot Arm offer versatile mounting options for capturing dynamic POV footage from your helmet, chest, or ski pole, making this an excellent, comprehensive package to capture your skiing prowess.
- GoPro HERO4 Silver Camera: Features built-in touch display for ease of use.
- Standard Housing: Waterproof up to 131’ (40m) for protection in various conditions.
- Skeleton + Touch Backdoors: Allows for touch screen use or improved audio/port access.
- Rechargeable Battery: Standard GoPro battery included.
- More Accessories: Surfboard Mount, FCS Plug Mount (can be adapted for other uses), Camera Tether, Quick Release Buckles, 3-Way, Pivot Arm, USB Cable.
Pros:
– Genuine GoPro camera and accessories ensure quality and compatibility.
– Waterproof housing is crucial for snow protection.
– Camera tether provides excellent security against loss.
– Versatile mounting options suitable for skiing (helmet, pole, chest).
Cons:
– Some mounts are surf-specific and might not be directly useful for skiing without adaptation.
– May seem pricy compared to camera-only options, but the included genuine accessories add significant value.
User Impressions: Buyers of this bundle appreciate the genuine GoPro quality and the included accessories, even if they’re primarily using it for activities other than surfing. The camera’s performance is consistently praised, and the extra mounts are seen as a bonus for versatility.
6. GEPULY Frame Mount Protective Housing Case with Bracket…
The GEPULY Frame Mount is another excellent choice for skiers who prioritize audio quality and continuous power while keeping their GoPro Hero 4 Silver protected. Its standout feature is the ultra-big side opening design, which makes installing and removing the USB side door a breeze without having to take the entire frame off. This means you can keep your camera charged via a power bank in your jacket or easily offload data, even mid-run (if you stop, of course!). Plus, the included lens cap and tripod adapter add even more value and utility for capturing your snowy adventures.
- Full Port Accessibility: Reserved holes for all buttons and slots, allowing full-time access to USB and HDMI ports for charging, data offload, and live-feed video.
- Ultra-big Side Opening Design: Easily install/uninstall USB side door without removing the frame; enables optimal audio capture.
- Compact & Lightweight: Specially designed for standard size GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, HERO4 Black/Silver cameras.
- Included Accessories: Silicone lens cap to protect the lens from dirt/scratches, and a tripod adapter for versatile mounting.
- Wide Compatibility: Compatible with GoPro Hero3, Hero 3+, Hero4 Black/Silver cameras.
Pros:
– Excellent for improving audio compared to fully enclosed cases.
– Convenient side opening for charging and data transfer on the go.
– Lightweight and minimalistic design.
– Includes useful lens cap and tripod adapter.
Cons:
– Not suitable for fully waterproof situations like heavy snow falling directly on the camera, or submersion.
– Does not accommodate the GoPro BacPac LCD screen or Battery extension.
User Impressions: Users consistently highlight the improved audio capture and ease of access to ports as major benefits of this frame mount. The lightweight design is also a popular feature, making it comfortable for helmet or body mounting during long ski days.
7. YALLSAME Skeleton Case for GoPro Hero 4/3+/3 with Tripod…
If you’re looking for robust protection that still allows for easy access and great audio, the YALLSAME Skeleton Case is a strong contender for your GoPro Hero 4 Silver. This case completely encases your camera, shielding it from dust, scratches, and impacts – a common concern when you’re pushing your limits on the slopes. The clever side opening design provides a dedicated Type-C hole, making charging or connecting accessories incredibly simple, which is perfect for vlogging or extended recording sessions without interruption. It’s a fantastic blend of protection and functionality for active users.
- High Compatibility: Fits GoPro Hero4 Black / Hero4 Silver / Hero3+ / Hero3 action cameras perfectly.
- Full Protection: Shields your Action Camera from dust, scratch, and impact completely.
- Unique Side Opening: Provides a Type-C hole for easier charging or device connection; ensures internal microphone and alert alarm are unshaded.
- Durable Material: Made of transparent specialized polymer material – compact yet light.
- Functional Expansion: Easy to install; allows touch screen control after installation (no need to remove cover lens).
- Package Includes: 1x Side open housing case, 1x Standard IN adapter, 1x Long thumb screw, 1x Quick release buckle.
Pros:
– Offers more comprehensive protection than simple frame mounts.
– Smart side opening for convenient charging and accessory connection.
– Preserves audio quality better than sealed waterproof cases.
– Easy to install and use.
Cons:
– While protective, it’s not fully waterproof.
– May add a bit more bulk than minimalist frame options.
User Impressions: Reviewers are generally impressed with the protective qualities of this case while still appreciating the thoughtful design for port access and sound. It’s frequently recommended for vlogging and other activities where the camera needs a bit more safeguarding than just a frame.
FAQs About Using Your GoPro Hero 4 Silver for Skiing
Q1: Is the GoPro Hero 4 Silver still a good choice for skiing in 2024?
A: Absolutely! While newer models offer 4K at higher frame rates and advanced stabilization, the Hero 4 Silver still delivers excellent 1080p60 video, which is more than sufficient for stunning skiing footage. Its built-in touch screen and robust design make it a very capable and user-friendly camera for action sports. Plus, its affordability now makes it a great value.
Q2: What essential accessories do I need for skiing with my GoPro Hero 4 Silver?
A: Beyond the camera itself, you’ll want extra batteries (cold drains them fast!), a dual charger, a protective case (frame or waterproof, depending on conditions), a good mount (helmet, chest, or pole), and a reliable high-speed Micro SD card. A camera tether is also highly recommended for peace of mind against losing your camera on a fall.
Q3: How can I protect my GoPro Hero 4 Silver from the cold and snow?
A: For snow, a waterproof housing is essential to keep moisture out. For the cold, keep extra batteries in an inner pocket close to your body heat. You can also place hand warmers near your GoPro (but not directly touching it) in a protective case to extend battery life. Avoid drastic temperature changes, which can cause condensation.
Q4: Which mount is best for capturing skiing footage with a Hero 4 Silver?
A: It depends on the perspective you want! A helmet mount (like a sticky mount or vented strap) gives a great POV. A chest mount provides a more stable, body-level view that shows your skis. A pole mount (like a GoPro El Grande) is excellent for self-shots or following friends. Many skiers use a combination for diverse footage.
Q5: How can I maximize my GoPro Hero 4 Silver’s battery life while skiing?
A: Beyond having extra warm batteries, you can turn off Wi-Fi/Bluetooth when not actively using it, reduce video resolution/frame rate if top quality isn’t needed, disable the touch screen during recording, and turn the camera off between runs rather than leaving it in standby. Keep the camera warm in a pocket when not recording.
Q6: Does the GoPro Hero 4 Silver handle impacts and falls well on the ski slopes?
A: The Hero 4 Silver is built to be durable, especially when used with its standard waterproof housing or a robust frame case. While it’s tough, extreme impacts can still damage it. Always use a protective case, and consider a tether for added security against loss during a heavy fall.
Q7: What are the best video settings for skiing on my Hero 4 Silver?
A: For most skiing, 1080p at 60 frames per second (1080p60) is ideal, providing smooth motion and allowing for slow-motion effects. If you want super slow-mo, try 720p at 120 frames per second (720p120). Use SuperView mode for a wide, immersive perspective of your surroundings. Protune allows for more manual control over settings like white balance, which can be useful in varying snow conditions.
Ready to Carve and Capture?
The GoPro Hero 4 Silver remains a solid contender for capturing your winter adventures, and with the right accessories, it transforms into an incredibly powerful tool for documenting your time on the slopes. Whether you’re upgrading your existing setup with crucial accessories or looking for a reliable camera package to start with, there’s a perfect option out there. So, gear up, hit those snowy peaks, and let your GoPro Hero 4 Silver immortalize your epic skiing memories!
