That's Not How You Use That: Camouflage Cases

Camouflage has many uses. It's worn by paintball enthusiasts. It's the preferred fashion of backwoods militias. And of course, it's used by the military. All of these valid uses, especially for military applications. But wrapping your smartphone (or knife or flashlight) in camouflage before heading outdoors is just asking for an afternoon of crawling on your hands and knees.
Image may contain Plant Leaf and Ground
Peek-a-boo!Photo: Ariel Zambelich/WIRED

All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

In my twenties, I was in a band and I insisted on buying black guitar picks. After telling the bass player this, he took my pick and dropped it on the ground while we were onstage. I never found that pick. That's what happens when you drop your camouflage-encased smartphone in the forest or park.

Camouflage has many uses. It's worn by paintball enthusiasts. It's the preferred fashion of backwoods militias. And of course, it's used by the military. All of these valid uses, especially for military applications. But wrapping your smartphone (or knife or flashlight) in camouflage before heading outdoors is just asking for an afternoon of crawling on your hands and knees.

It's the worst kind of hide and seek. If you're with a friend, at least they can call the phone. But if you decide to venture out solo, good luck finding a needlessly camo'd smartphone. The fact is, plenty of color schemes will do a fine job highlighting your penchant for the outdoors. LifeProof, for instance, makes rugged cases in eminently visible hunter's orange. Trust us: Losing a 25-cent pick is one thing. Losing a $600 smartphone is another.