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A wearable camera is the best way for outdoorsmen to capture memories.
Body cameras offer hunters, hikers, and anglers a chance to capture experiences without the hassle of taking photos on their smartphones. We've seen hunters attach video cameras to shotguns, bows, hunting dogs, and more.
Anglers will fasten cameras to their chest to capture footage of themselves reeling in a big fish or on their kayak to get a more bird's eye view of the entire sequence of events.
Off-roaders often attach a camera to their helmet when on a dirt bike or an ATV, whereas overlanders might mount a dashboard camera in their truck or SUV.
Even backpackers and other backcountry adventurists like to wear a camera on their heads or chest to collect photos and videos they can look back on years later.
Some cameras are even waterproof, so the opportunities are endless. Having the opportunity to share your hunting, fishing, and hiking experiences with other enthusiasts is incredible. These high-quality cameras and compatible accessories are perfect for capturing a day out in the field.
Best Wearable Cameras
1. GoPro HERO8 Black Waterproof Action Camera
- 14 voice commands
- Hypersmooth 2.0 stabilization
- 3 mics and reduced wind noise
GoPro's HERO8 is one of the newest cameras available online. A spec that makes it worthy is the LiveBurst. This feature captures 1.5 seconds before and after you hit the shutter. It's perfect for capturing moving objects.
My favorite is the Night Lapse video. Stay outdoors all night and let your camera take breathtaking timelapse videos of your trek back to the campsite.
By the way, it's also waterproof. Down to 33 feet too. Take the plunge, and get some awesome footage while swimming.
2. GoPro MAX Waterproof 360 + Traditional Camera
- Under $380
- Distortion-free 270 degree panoramic shots
- 12 voice commands
The GoPro MAX is a top pick for outdoor enthusiasts who often share their content on their social media platforms. It's three cameras all in one. You'll be able to capture 360 footage in 6K1.
GoPro says the MAX has the smoothest video from their lineup. There are four lenses, so shoot narrow, distortion-free Linear, wide, or Max SuperView. With 360 audio, you have six mics capturing premier sound.
This camera is also waterproof.
3. GoPro HERO7 Black Waterproof Digital Action Camera
- 16 voice commands
- TimeWarp
- Waterproof
Another great option from GoPro is the HERO7 in black. It's an excellent option for snapping photos hands-free. The SuperPhoto spec is great for capturing pictures that adapt to the sun's exposure.
What makes this camera different from the newer version is that the HERO8 has a bunch of improved features. Otherwise, it's a great camera that's about $70 cheaper. (Although, you can shoot with a narrow lense with the HERO8.)
GoPro is great, and I think the compatible accessories and GoPro app make everything worth it. But if you're looking for wearable cameras with fewer specs, consider these.
4. FrontRow FR Wearable Lifestyle Camera
- Only weighs 1.6oz
- Rechargeable USB port
- Hands-free live steam
Front Row's lifestyle camera allows you to create first-person time lapses. You can also live stream via Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. Like GoPro, they also have a mobile app to view your content.
The LCD screen is how you use the camera for device control. There aren't any voice commands, but you won't have to find any compatible accessories. It comes with a clip mount, multi-wear connector, and lanyard for wearing on your person.
It is not water-resistant or waterproof, so be careful when video recording.
5. Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera
- Professional 4K/30FPS
- Under $50
- Mounting kit included
The Dragon Touch action camera is under $50, making it extremely budget-friendly. There aren't any voice commands like the GoPro cameras, but it does come with a remote control. This wearable video camera can be used underwater (below 30 meters) with the waterproof case.
A customer said they were able to attach the camera to their snorkel. So neat!
6. AKASO Brave 4 4K 20MP Wi-Fi Action Camera
- Built-in gyroscope for stabilization
- Rechargeable batteries included
- Under $80
AKASO's camera is under $90, and it's worth every penny. Many customers are impressed with the quality of their HD videos and photos. You can adjust the view angle, shooting at 170 degrees, 140 degrees, and more.
AKASO also has a mobile app you can use to share and edit videos from (compatible with Android and iPhones). The Wi-Fi signal reaches up to 10 meters. The battery life is also a win. Each battery records up to 90 minutes of video.
It also doubles as an underwater camcorder.
7. SereneLife Clip-on Wearable Camera
- 1.8 inch LCD display
- Under $40
- 1080p video
For under $40, you can opt for SereneLife's 1080p camera. This camera has built-in Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity, making it easy to transfer videos to your smartphone.
8. REMALI CaptureCam 4K Ultra HD
- 3 batteries and charger included
- Waterproof
- 1080p video
REMALI's camera is right under $100. Specs included are the wide-angle view, time-lapse, and burst photo option. The remote control and wrist strap are a plus! Be sure to buy a MicroSD card.
Customers love using it for water sports. Feel free to take it underwater and attach it to your snorkel.
9. Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition
- Color plus technology (for high-quality footage)
- Time flip and stop motion
- Under $480
Consider Insta360's body cam for all things outdoors. The camera has a 5.7K resolution and can achieve gimbal-like image stabilization without a gimbal! Impressive. If you like to vlog without gimbals or tripods, this is a fantastic option.
10. Binrrio Hidden Camera
- Under $80
- 256GB option available
- Charge before use
Consider this mini body camera if you're looking for something to wear in an emergency situation. As someone who would like a mini security camera for safety (for running at night), this could come in handy. There isn't a long battery life (2-3 hours), but it's not bad for a little camera under $80.
One customer said it could be useful as a dashcam. Another one said it's sly and inconspicuous! Now, it's not a fancy camera, so don't expect top-notch night vision.
This post was originally published on April 28, 2020.
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