Best Waterproof Map Case for Paddling

Wet paper maps equal a bad day when paddling. That means if you use paper maps for canoeing or kayaking that you should use a map case. Map cases also protect waterproof maps from blowing away or sticking together when they dry together. Instead of an article that lists every single waterproof map case that you could use for paddling, like all the affiliate marketing sites do, we’re going to tell you the BEST waterproof map case for paddling. This is part of Best Series articles (as an example see: Best Pump for Kayaking) in which we tell you what the best currently available piece of gear is.

Best Waterproof Map Case Criteria

The criteria for the best waterproof map case is simple:

• Must be Waterproof
• Must be easy to seal
• Must last a long time
• Must have attachment points at each corner

The Winner of the Best Waterproof Map Case

The best case is the NRS HydroLock Mapcessory Map Case. It’s waterproof and easy to seal. The protective black edge keeps the seams safer than those without protection. It conforms to the curves of decks easier and resists bunching up. It’s easy to fold if needed. It has attachment points at each corner.

It comes in four different sizes. For charts and maps for paddling, I’d suggest going with the largest size if you use large scale maps. For smaller scales, consider the medium. The large has a 18- x 15-inch window and the medium has a 15- x 12-inch window. The other consideration is the width of your kayak deck. It’s not an issue on a canoe. With the large, the outside dimension are 21 5/8 x 16 7/8 inches. The medium measures 18 7/8 x 13 7/8 inches. While the small and extra small might have good uses, for me the size limits the usefulness for charts and maps.

Over the long haul, I’ve used cases from Sea to Summit, SealLine and a handmade case made by a kayaker in England. Between all the cases, I like the NRS case the best. It’s the best.

Runner Ups

For paddlers with less than ideal vision who need readers to see close, consider the Seattle Sports Dry Doc MagniMap. This case works well and comes with a magnifier so you don’t have to hang your readers around your neck. Or, you could pick up a magnifier from Amazon and punch a hole in the corner to attach a lanyard. The Sea to Summit TPU Guide Map Case is PVC free and uses welded construction and a ZipLock closure. It’s a close second to the NRS HydroLock. I like the sizing of the NRS case better.

Helpful Accessories

• 303 Aerospace Protectant: Because map cases are exposed to sunlight day in and day out, they can degrade and cloud. Spray your case before each trip with 303 to help protect it. Also apply this on the lock to make it easy to seal and open when needed.
• Small Craft Nav-Aid, by Dr. Charles Sutherland. This is a navigation tool that works well in kayak navigation. It allows you to easily determine bearings from charts and do other navigational chores. I’m not sure if they are still being made. If you can find one, get it.

Get it

Get the NRS HydroLock Mapcessory Map Case: OutdoorPlay, Amazon

NRS Video about the HydroLock Mapcessory Map Case