With its ProGear line, Pelican has been branching steadily outward from its well known protective electronics hard cases. It released a full line of hard/soft backpacks earlier this summer, and now it's trying to put a hard case in your pants. The Pelican Smart Wallet is a mini Pelican case for your cash, cards and ID.
On the one hand, your cash, ID and credit cards are arguably the most important belongings you have to carry around. So, why not offer the best protection you can find? On the other hand, outside of theft, what could possibly happen to them? Maybe a bill slides out and gets a bit of dirt on it? Maybe a business card gets dog ears and a couple of creases?
Whatever the case, Pelican feels that consumers might appreciate a sturdier wallet. At the very least, the Smart Wallet's water-resistant plastic build should save you from strolling up to the cash register with the embarrassing soggy bill after a day at the beach. It's not built for diving or swimming, however, so we suppose it would be most useful for sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, where you're on, but not necessarily in, the water. The wallet is also crush-proof.
Inside, dual mesh sleeves provide a place for all your usual wallet items. The wallet is secured by a latch closure. It's designed to fit comfortably in your pocket, measuring in at 5.55 x 3.27 x 0.85 inches (14.1 x 8.3 x 2.2 cm).
We'd love to see the Smart Wallet morph into a protective waterproof phone case/wallet. Its crush-proof build would have a purpose, and it'd give you a convenient place to store most of the staples of your pants pocket. If it had your phone in it, it wouldn't seem quite so bulky and over-engineered.
If you're itching to carry a wallet that makes Costanza's look sleek and comfy, you can pick up a Smart Wallet for US$29.95.
Source: Pelican ProGear
