Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam Review

Let’s Talk About Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam

The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam is Pelican’s answer to the demand for a lighter, yet equally durable, protective case. For over a decade, I’ve trusted Pelican cases to safeguard everything from sensitive camera equipment during extreme expeditions to mission-critical communication devices in austere environments. This case promises the legendary Pelican protection in a significantly lighter package.

My search for the Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam stemmed from a need to reduce the overall weight of my deployment gear. I was prepping for a month-long photojournalism assignment covering high-altitude mountaineering in the Himalayas. Every ounce counts when you’re hauling gear up a mountain.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was just how light the Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam felt. The design is classic Pelican, with the familiar robust latches and a sturdy handle. The foam inserts were neatly cut and ready for customization.

I considered other cases, including the Nanuk 935 and SKB iSeries 2217-12, but the weight savings and reputation of Pelican ultimately won me over. While the Nanuk offered similar customization options and the SKB boasted impressive waterproof capabilities, neither could match the weight advantage of the Pelican Air series. This made my decision to go with Pelican an easy one.

My initial impression was excitement mixed with a bit of skepticism. Could something this light truly withstand the rigors of a high-altitude expedition? Only time, and rigorous testing, would tell.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam to the Test

First Use Experience

My primary testing ground for the Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam was, indeed, the Himalayas. I used it to transport and protect my primary camera body, lenses, and sensitive audio recording equipment. The case endured everything from jostling in the back of a Land Cruiser over bumpy terrain to being strapped to a yak traversing narrow mountain passes.

The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam performed admirably, even in freezing temperatures and occasional snow flurries. The case remained watertight, and the contents were completely protected from the elements. The latches were easy to operate even with thick gloves, which was a huge plus.

Initially, I was concerned about the lighter weight impacting the case’s structural integrity, but those concerns quickly faded. The case felt incredibly solid.

Extended Use & Reliability

After months of use, the Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam continues to impress. I’ve used it on several subsequent assignments, including a desert survival course and a whitewater rafting trip. The case has proven to be incredibly reliable across a wide range of environmental conditions.

The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The exterior has a few minor scuffs, but the latches, hinges, and handle are all still in perfect working order. The foam inserts have held their shape well, even after repeated customization.

Maintaining the Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. Compared to some of the older, heavier Pelican cases I’ve used, the 1637 Air is significantly easier to handle and transport without sacrificing any of the protection. It’s simply a better product for my line of work.

Breaking Down the Features of Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam

Specifications

The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam boasts impressive specifications:

• The case is constructed from HPX2 resin, a proprietary formula that is both incredibly lightweight and incredibly strong. This is the key to the Air series’ weight reduction.
• The Interior dimensions are 29.6″ x 15.5″ x 9.4″ and the Exterior dimensions are 32.1″ x 18.4″ x 11″. These dimensions offer a significant amount of usable space for a variety of equipment.
• The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam weighs in at just 16.17 lbs with the foam inserts. This is significantly lighter than comparable Pelican models.
• It is waterproof to IP67 standards. This means it can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
• Features include automatic purge valve, rubber over-molded handles, and stainless steel padlock protectors. Each contributes to its durability and functionality.

These specifications are important because they directly translate to real-world performance. The lightweight design makes it easier to carry heavy equipment over long distances. The waterproof rating ensures that your gear stays dry even in the most challenging conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam performs its job exceptionally well. The primary function of any protective case is, of course, to protect its contents.

The case’s robust construction and customizable foam inserts provide excellent shock absorption. The waterproof seal keeps out moisture, dust, and other contaminants. It is truly a fortress for your gear.

The only minor weakness I’ve identified is that the lighter weight can make the case more susceptible to being blown around in high winds. However, this is a negligible issue compared to the overall benefits. It vastly exceeds my expectations and is a true step up from older Pelican cases.

Design & Ergonomics

The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam features a classic, functional design. The materials used are top-notch, and the build quality is excellent. The case feels solid and well-constructed.

The handle is comfortable to grip, even when the case is fully loaded. The latches are easy to operate, and the automatic purge valve ensures that the case is easy to open at any altitude. There’s a slight learning curve to customizing the foam, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a straightforward process.

Durability & Maintenance

The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam is built to last. The HPX2 resin is incredibly impact-resistant, and the stainless steel hardware is corrosion-resistant.

With proper care, this case should provide years of reliable service. As I mentioned earlier, maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down is all that’s usually needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam comes standard with customizable foam inserts. These inserts can be easily cut and shaped to fit your specific equipment.

Pelican also offers a variety of other accessories, including padded dividers, lid organizers, and desiccant packs. The case is compatible with most standard-sized padlocks, allowing you to secure your gear against theft. The customization options are endless; you can truly tailor the Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam to your specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam

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Who Should Buy Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam?

The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam is perfect for professional photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs to transport sensitive equipment in challenging environments. It’s also a great choice for hunters, survivalists, and outdoor enthusiasts who demand the highest level of protection for their gear.

Anyone on a tight budget might want to consider other options. Also, if weight is not a major concern, a traditional Pelican case might be a more cost-effective choice.

A must-have accessory is a set of high-quality padlocks for added security. Consider also investing in padded dividers if you need more organization than the foam inserts provide.

Conclusion on Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam

The Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam is an outstanding protective case. It offers a winning combination of lightweight design, exceptional durability, and reliable performance.

The price is justified by the quality of materials and the level of protection it provides. This case is an investment in the safety and longevity of your valuable equipment.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Pelican 1637 Air w/ Foam. If you need a rugged, lightweight, and waterproof case, look no further. Buy it, customize it, and trust it to protect your gear on your next adventure.