Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod with Mount for GoPro Camera Review

Let me paint you a picture: You’re hiking up a rocky trail at sunrise, GoPro in hand, chasing that perfect golden-hour shot. The wind is picking up, your hands are cold, and every time you try to stabilize your camera, it wobbles just enough to ruin the frame. Sound familiar? I’ve been there—more times than I’d like to admit. That’s when I decided to stop relying on rocks, tree branches, or my shaky hands and invest in something designed specifically for action cameras: the Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod with Mount for GoPro Camera.

This isn’t just another tripod. It’s a flexible, portable, and surprisingly sturdy companion that’s changed the way I shoot outdoor adventures. Whether I’m mountain biking, skiing, or filming a family beach day, the Gorillapod has become my go-to gear. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—what it is, how it performs, where it shines, and even a few quirks to keep in mind. My goal? To help you decide if this little bendable buddy is worth adding to your kit. No fluff, no hype—just real talk from someone who’s used it in the wild.

What Is the Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod?

The Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod is a compact, flexible tripod designed specifically for action cameras like the GoPro Hero series. Unlike traditional rigid tripods, the Gorillapod features bendable legs made of reinforced rubber and stainless steel, allowing you to wrap it around poles, grip it like a selfie stick, or stand it on uneven surfaces. It comes with a compatible mount that securely attaches to most GoPro models, including the Hero 5 through Hero 12, and even some older versions with adapters.

Visual guide about joby gorillapod action tripod with mount for gopro camera

Image source: gmcamera.com

Key Features at a Glance

Flexible Legs: 360-degree bendable joints for creative positioning
Lightweight Design: Weighs just 7.8 ounces (221 grams)
Compact Size: Folds down to 11.5 inches (29 cm) for easy packing
GoPro Mount Included: Standard thumbscrew mount compatible with most GoPro models
Durable Build: Weather-resistant materials for outdoor use
Versatile Use: Works as a tripod, grip, or mount on uneven terrain

What sets the Gorillapod apart is its adaptability. I’ve used it wrapped around a fence post at a football game, perched on a rocky riverbank while fly fishing, and even dangling from a tree branch to capture a time-lapse of a sunset. It’s not the most stable option for long-exposure photography, but for action shots, vlogging, and quick stabilization, it’s surprisingly effective.

Design and Build Quality: Built for the Wild

Let’s talk build quality—because when you’re out in the elements, your gear needs to hold up. The Gorillapod Action Tripod feels solid in hand, with a rubberized coating that provides a secure grip even when wet. The legs are made of a combination of flexible polymer and internal metal coils, which give them that signature “bend and hold” ability. Each joint is tight enough to maintain position but flexible enough to twist into creative shapes.

Visual guide about joby gorillapod action tripod with mount for gopro camera

Image source: camera2u.com.my

Materials and Durability

The outer layer is a soft-touch rubber that resists scratches and provides grip. Underneath, the metal skeleton ensures the legs don’t snap under pressure. I’ve dropped mine on rocky trails, stepped on it (accidentally, I swear!), and left it in the rain—and it’s still going strong after over a year of use. Joby doesn’t claim it’s indestructible, but it’s definitely built to handle the occasional mishap.

Portability and Weight

At just under 8 ounces, the Gorillapod is light enough to toss in a backpack, camera bag, or even a large jacket pocket. When folded, it’s about the length of a standard water bottle, making it ideal for travel. I’ve taken it on backpacking trips, beach vacations, and even international flights—it’s never been an issue at airport security, and it doesn’t add noticeable weight to my load.

Mount Compatibility

The included GoPro mount uses the standard thumbscrew design, which means it’s compatible with most GoPro models. I’ve used it with a Hero 9, Hero 10, and even an older Hero 4 with an adapter. The mount locks securely, and I’ve never had my camera come loose—even during high-motion activities like mountain biking or snowboarding. That said, if you’re using a heavier setup (like a GoPro with a media mod or external microphone), you might notice a slight wobble. It’s not a dealbreaker, but worth noting.

Performance in Real-World Scenarios

Now for the real test: how does it actually perform when you’re out shooting? I’ve used the Gorillapod in a variety of environments—mountains, beaches, forests, and urban settings—and here’s what I’ve learned.

Stability on Uneven Surfaces

One of the biggest advantages of the Gorillapod is its ability to stabilize your camera on uneven terrain. On a recent hike, I set up a time-lapse of a waterfall. The ground was rocky and sloped, but by bending the legs and anchoring them between stones, I got a perfectly level shot. Traditional tripods would’ve struggled here, but the Gorillapod adapted effortlessly.

Wrapping Around Objects

This is where the Gorillapod truly shines. I’ve wrapped it around fence posts, tree branches, bike handlebars, and even a streetlight during a city vlog. The grip is strong enough to hold the camera steady, and the flexibility allows for unique angles. One of my favorite shots was a low-angle POV of me skiing—by wrapping the legs around my ski pole, I got a smooth, dynamic perspective that would’ve been impossible with a rigid tripod.

Use as a Handheld Grip

When you’re not mounting it, the Gorillapod doubles as a comfortable handheld grip. The bendable legs let you adjust the angle for better ergonomics, reducing hand fatigue during long shooting sessions. I’ve filmed entire hiking vlogs using it this way, and the added stability makes a noticeable difference in video smoothness.

Limitations in Windy Conditions

No product is perfect, and the Gorillapod has its limits. In strong winds, especially when extended to full height, the flexible legs can wobble. I learned this the hard way during a coastal shoot where gusts were hitting 25 mph. The camera stayed secure, but the footage had a slight shake. The fix? Either shorten the legs or anchor it to something solid. For most conditions, though, it’s stable enough.

Practical Tips and Creative Uses

After using the Gorillapod for over a year, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make it even more useful. Here are some practical tips and creative ways to get the most out of it.

Tip 1: Use It for Hands-Free Vlogging

Set the Gorillapod on a table, wrap it around a chair back, or stand it on a flat surface. The flexible legs let you angle the camera perfectly for face shots. I’ve filmed dozens of vlogs this way—no need for a selfie stick or a second person to hold the camera.

Tip 2: Create Unique POV Shots

Wrap it around your backpack strap, a bike frame, or even your wrist (with caution!) for immersive POV footage. I once wrapped it around my snowboard binding to capture a first-person view of a downhill run—it was shaky, but the perspective was epic.

Tip 3: Use It for Time-Lapses and Long Exposures

While not ideal for super-long exposures, the Gorillapod works well for time-lapses of 30 seconds to a few minutes. Just make sure it’s on a stable surface or anchored to something solid. I’ve used it to capture sunset transitions and cloud movements with great results.

Tip 4: Combine with a Weight for Extra Stability

If you’re shooting in windy conditions, try attaching a small weight (like a carabiner or water bottle) to the bottom of the tripod. This lowers the center of gravity and reduces wobble. I keep a small carabiner in my kit just for this purpose.

Tip 5: Clean the Joints Regularly

Sand, dirt, and moisture can build up in the flexible joints over time. Every few months, I wipe them down with a damp cloth and let them dry completely. This keeps the legs moving smoothly and prevents stiffness.

Comparison with Other Tripods and Mounts

So how does the Gorillapod stack up against other options? Let’s compare it to a few common alternatives.

Gorillapod vs. Traditional Tripods

Traditional tripods offer better stability and height, but they’re bulkier and less adaptable. The Gorillapod wins on portability and flexibility, but if you need a rock-solid platform for long exposures or heavy cameras, a full-sized tripod is still the better choice.

Gorillapod vs. Selfie Sticks

Selfie sticks are great for extending your reach, but they don’t offer the same stability or mounting options. The Gorillapod can function as a grip, but it also doubles as a tripod and mount—making it more versatile for action shooting.

Gorillapod vs. Other Flexible Tripods

There are cheaper flexible tripods on the market, but most lack the build quality and secure mounting of the Gorillapod. I tried a $20 alternative once—the legs loosened after a few uses, and the mount felt flimsy. Joby’s version is pricier, but the durability and reliability justify the cost.

Data Table: Gorillapod vs. Competitors

Feature	Joby Gorillapod Action	Generic Flex Tripod	Traditional Mini Tripod
Weight	7.8 oz (221 g)	6.5 oz (184 g)	9.2 oz (261 g)
Max Height	11.5 in (29 cm)	10 in (25 cm)	12 in (30 cm)
Flexible Legs	Yes	Yes	No
GoPro Mount Included	Yes	Sometimes	Rarely
Weather Resistance	Yes	Limited	Yes
Price Range	$35–$45	$15–$25	$20–$40

Who Is This Tripod For?

The Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod isn’t for everyone—but for the right person, it’s a game-changer. Here’s who I’d recommend it to:

Adventure Enthusiasts

If you’re into hiking, climbing, skiing, or any outdoor activity where space and weight matter, this tripod is a perfect fit. It’s lightweight, durable, and adapts to almost any environment.

Vloggers and Content Creators

Whether you’re filming travel vlogs, fitness routines, or behind-the-scenes clips, the Gorillapod gives you hands-free stability without the bulk of a full tripod.

Travelers

Its compact size makes it ideal for travelers who want to capture high-quality footage without lugging around heavy gear. I’ve taken it on every trip for the past two years—it’s never let me down.

GoPro Users

If you own a GoPro (or similar action camera), this tripod is designed with you in mind. The included mount is secure, and the flexibility complements the camera’s rugged nature.

Who might want to skip it? If you’re shooting professional photography, need extreme height, or work in very windy conditions, a sturdier tripod might be a better investment. But for most casual and adventure shooters, the Gorillapod hits the sweet spot.

Final Verdict: Is the Joby Gorillapod Worth It?

After months of real-world use, my answer is a resounding yes—with a few caveats. The Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod with Mount for GoPro Camera is not the most stable tripod on the market, nor is it the cheapest. But it’s one of the most versatile, portable, and reliable tools I’ve added to my kit.

It’s not perfect. It wobbles in high winds. It’s not ideal for long-exposure photography. And if you’re using a heavy camera setup, you might notice some flex. But for everything else—hiking, vlogging, travel, action shots—it’s been a reliable companion. The build quality is excellent, the design is clever, and the included GoPro mount works seamlessly.

If you’re someone who values creativity, portability, and adaptability over absolute rigidity, this tripod is worth every penny. It’s not just a piece of gear—it’s a tool that expands what your camera can do. I can’t count how many shots I’ve gotten because the Gorillapod let me position my GoPro in a way no traditional tripod could.

So, should you buy it? If you’re serious about capturing your adventures—whether you’re scaling a mountain, surfing a wave, or just filming your dog at the park—then yes. The Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod isn’t just a tripod. It’s a creative partner. And for that, I’m a fan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod with Mount for GoPro Camera?

The Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod is a flexible, lightweight tripod designed specifically for action cameras like the GoPro. It features a durable ball head mount and bendable legs that can grip uneven surfaces, making it ideal for hands-free shooting in dynamic environments.

Is the Joby Gorillapod compatible with all GoPro models?

Yes, the Gorillapod Action Tripod includes a standard GoPro mount that fits all GoPro cameras, including the Hero 12, Hero 11, Hero 10, and older models. The secure attachment ensures your camera stays in place during active use.

Can the Gorillapod Action Tripod be used underwater?

The tripod itself is not waterproof, but it can be used near water or in light rain. However, avoid submerging it, as water damage can affect its flexibility and durability over time.

How stable is the Joby Gorillapod on uneven surfaces?

The Gorillapod excels on uneven terrain thanks to its flexible, grippy legs that can wrap around poles, rocks, or branches. This design provides excellent stability for time-lapses, selfies, and action shots in rugged conditions.

What are the key features of the Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod?

Key features include a 360-degree ball head for precise angle adjustments, a quick-release plate for fast camera swaps, and durable, flexible legs made from high-quality materials. It’s compact, portable, and perfect for adventurers and content creators.

Where can I buy the Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod with Mount for GoPro?

You can purchase the Joby Gorillapod Action Tripod from major online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and the official Joby website. It’s widely available and often comes with bundle deals for added value.

Key Takeaways

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