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Are Violin Cases Waterproof? Everything You Need To Know
Violin cases protect our instruments from impact when traveling or storing them. However, are all violin cases waterproof? If not, which brands or specific products are waterproof? What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant violin cases? How can you identify waterproof violin cases? These are questions mostly asked by new violin case buyers or anyone looking for waterproof violin cases.
This guide addresses each question and mentions a few violin case products that are waterproof. After reading this article, you’ll be able to identify waterproof cases and make an informed decision. Let’s start by addressing the elephant in the room.
Key Takeaways
- Most cases are water-resistant garbage - they leak in real rain and destroy your violin when you need protection most.
- Only fiberglass, carbon fiber, and polycarbonate with airtight seals actually keep water out completely.
- Bam Ice Supreme and St. Germain cost more but use real waterproof materials and sealed construction that works.
- Seamless construction and rubberized zippers separate real waterproof cases from marketing lies.
- Bam Submarine cover costs $55 and makes any case waterproof - buy this instead of gambling with cheap cases.
Are All Violin Cases Waterproof?
Most violin cases are water-resistant but not fully waterproof, meaning they can protect your instrument from splashes and light rain but not from submersion or heavy rain. We’ll talk more about water-resistant violin instrument cases later.
The material type used determines if the case is completely waterproof. Let’s look at some waterproof violin case materials.
Waterproof Materials Used in Violin Cases
Waterproof violin cases come in four materials specialized to keep water away from your instrument, even under heavy rainfall. They include:
Fiberglass - Best for Durability
Fiberglass is the most common violin case material known for its durability and ability to withstand impact. It’s also non-porous, ensuring no water can penetrate through the surface. This way, you’re guaranteed the interior to remain dry even when fully submerged or during heavy rainfall.
The material doesn’t also require additional waterproof coating, allowing you to use it in ‘as is’ condition throughout its lifespan.
The seamless construction is also made of molded shells that reduces gaps and voids that might compromise the material’s performance and structural integrity. The material doesn’t swell, crack, or warp when exposed to water, ensuring its durability.
For instance,Bam Hightech Contoured Violin Case combines Airex Foam, ABS, and Fiberglass for excellent waterproofing. Hightech violin cases have a strong reputation longevity, and class. They also have backpack straps for portability, making them ideal for musicians on the road.
See all the fiberglass violin cases for sale here.
Carbon Fiber - Best Overall
Carbon Fiber is a well-rounded violin case material that can resist moisture and is lightweight and strong enough to absorb impact. On its own, the material is water-resistant, meaning it can prevent moisture from penetrating its surface. However, it becomes completely waterproof when paired with closures and airtight seals. This way, the interior remains dry during rainfall or accidental splashes.
The seamless design and continuous structure eliminate any gaps where water can seep through. Many carbon fiber violin cases include water-repellent and rust-resistant zippers for maximum protection.
Violin cases made from carbon fiber are excellent for musicians seeking complete waterproofing without sacrificing durability and weight.
Polycarbonate - Excellent Waterproofing
Polycarbonate violin cases are known for waterproofing capabilities, which are perfect for musicians exposed to harsh weather conditions.Bam Ice Supreme Violin Case is an excellent example of a high-performance and waterproof violin case. As a thermoplastic, the case doesn’t absorb water even during heavy rainfall or when submerged. The structural integrity ensures the case remains sealed, keeping the instrument dry.
Polycarbonate violin cases don’t warp or crack from continuous exposure to water. This way, you’re guaranteed longevity and optimum protection.
Continuous construction, reinforced edges, rubberized seals, and reinforced closures eliminate any weak points that may allow water to seep through.
Other violin materials like treated fabrics and thermoplastic shells are water-resistant but cannot keep out water when submerged or under heavy rain. However, they become less porous when reinforced with polyurethane (PU) or carbon fiber. The design structure, like continuous construction and sealed joints, also determines if the case is waterproof.
With hundreds of violin case brands in the market, it’s overwhelming to choose a waterproof case. Luckily, there are ways you can identify waterproof cases. This way, you can save yourself hours of reviewing every product and the anxiety of buying the wrong one. Here’s how you do it.
How to Identify Waterproof Violin Cases
It’s not rocket science, and you don’t need to stress out yourself much. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed decision.
Seamless Construction
Seams are bad news for any violin case since they allow water through. Seamless designs are common in waterproof cases. They also have water-resistant zippers or overlapping edges with rubber gaskets that block water.
If you look atGewa Air 1.7’s design, you’ll see it’s meant to keep water and moisture away from the instrument.
Materials Used
As we’ve seen, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and polycarbonate are common waterproof materials. Violin cases made of these materials are less porous and would protect your instrument from heavy rainfall or splashing. However, reinforcing other materials like thermoplastic shells, which are water resistant, would improve water protection.
Airtight Seals
Airtight seals are meant to keep air, water, and moisture away from your instrument. They’re often common in high-end violin cases likeBam Hightech Contoured, which is a popular choice for many musicians. Rubberized zippers are also very common in many waterproof cases. Unlike ordinary porous zippers, these are enhanced with rubber to help keep water away from the interior.
Differences Between Waterproof and Water-Resistant Cases
Most of the time, the terms ‘waterproof’ and ‘water-resistant’ are interchanged to mean one thing, but they’re slightly different. Here are a few differences to help you tell them apart:
Waterproof Cases
Most violin cases are generally waterproof. These cases are built to keep water from damaging your violin cases. Here are some key standout features to expect.
Key Features
They’re completely impervious to water and can keep out any amount of water. This means you can submerge them in water or can be extensively exposed to water without damaging the interior.
These cases are mostly made of fiberglass or carbon fiber materials, which are less porous and airtight and prevent moisture and water from entering.
Waterproof violin cases are perfect for musicians who constantly perform and are always on the road. They offer total protection from water damage.
Water-Resistant Violin Cases
Water-resistant cases help protect your violin to some degree. Here’s how.
Key Features
They successfully protect against splashes and slightly lighter rain. However, water can get through after extensive exposure or heavy rain.
They’re mostly made from materials with water-repellent coating or treated fabrics. They don’t have many seals, although many have continuous constructions to help keep away water.
Water-resistant cases are ideal for mild weather conditions and occasional outdoor use.
Which Violin Cases Provide Exceptional Protection From Water?
We've tested hundreds of different violin cases in real-world conditions—from Seattle downpours to Florida humidity. We've identified five cases that deliver genuine water resistant protection. What sets these cases apart isn't fancy marketing but their construction fundamentals and functionality: hermetically sealed closures, hydrophobic materials, and proper gasket systems that create true barriers against moisture intrusion.
The difference becomes immediately apparent when you examine the seam construction. For musicians who perform outdoors, travel frequently, or live in humid climates, this distinction is essential for surviving against water.
Before diving into fully waterproof cases, let's address what we consider the most practical solution for musicians who already own a quality case but need enhanced water protection: the Bam Submarine Violin Case Cover.
Bam Submarine Violin Case Cover: The Universal Waterproofing Solution
This neoprene cover isn't cheap—but it's substantially less expensive than replacing your entire case. What makes this Submarine cover stand out is its construction material. Unlike the quilted fabric covers that dominate the market, Bam uses marine-grade neoprene—the same material used in wetsuits and professional diving equipment. This provides true water-repellent properties rather than mere water resistance.
The zipper system, often the weak point in water protection, utilizes a channeled design that diverts water away from the closure points.
The cover adds just 0.55 pounds to your case weight—negligible compared to the peace of mind it provides. While it's designed specifically for Bam Hightech contoured cases (dimensions: 79x25x18 cm), it can potentially fit other manufacturer's cases with similar profiles.
There's a small zipper compartment just big enough for boarding passes, and strategic slots allow you to attach a strap to the case's D-rings without compromising water protection.
For protection against heavy rain, snow, and extreme humidity, it's exceptionally effective. For musicians who travel frequently or perform outdoors, this cover represents one of the most cost-effective insurance policies you can purchase for your instrument.
Top 5 Picks For Instrument Protection
Here is a list of our top 5 picks for the best water-resistant cases. These cases represent the gold standard in keeping your violin safe from moisture damage without the premium cost of specialized waterproof solutions.
Each offers a different balance of protection, weight, features, and price point to match your specific needs and playing circumstances.
#1: Bam Ice Supreme Violin Case: Premium Weather Protection
The Bam Ice Supreme represents the pinnacle of violin case weather protection without crossing into fully waterproof territory, combining sophisticated moisture resistance with exceptional physical protection in a striking design.
Its standout feature is an airtight seal system that creates a substantially more effective barrier against moisture than conventional cases, providing unmatched protection during rainfall and high-humidity conditions. The shell utilizes three premium materials—polycarbonate (used in bulletproof glass), Airex foam, and ABS—creating BAM's most protective and scratch-resistant case to date.
Despite robust protection, it weighs just 4.1 pounds, making it exceptionally travel-friendly with a sleek "L'opera" design that fits into most airline overhead compartments.
Two padded, water-resistant neoprene backpack straps attach to side D-rings for evenly distributed weight, while anti-slip rubber patches prevent sliding on wet surfaces and the suspension padding system protects against both impacts and temperature fluctuations.
#2: Bam St. Germain Shaped Violin Case: Premium Water-Resistant Protection
The Bam St. Germain Shaped violin case offers enhanced moisture protection through its premium St. Germain Ballistic fabric. This specialized material effectively repels rain and moisture during normal exposure while providing superior tear and abrasion resistance compared to typical canvas cases.
The signature foam core construction serves dual purposes: creating a thermal barrier against temperature extremes and functioning as a suspension system that absorbs impact forces if the case is dropped.
This cushioning system prevents energy transfer to your instrument during impacts—a critical protection feature often overlooked.
Storage is thoughtfully designed with a removable accessories pouch, a back-positioned sheet music pocket that prevents tipping, and a dedicated zippered compartment for shoulder rests. The padded backpack straps configured in an upside-down V shape distribute weight evenly for comfortable carrying.
While not fully waterproof against sustained heavy rainfall or submersion, the St. Germain provides reliable protection during typical rainy conditions, making it an excellent investment for musicians seeking professional protection with effective water resistance in a stylish package.
#3: Pedi Superlite Pro Violin Case: Water-Resistant Features
The Pedi Superlite Pro offers specific water-resistant features including YKK water-resistant zippers and a protective oxford cloth cover designed to safeguard your violin from moisture, making it suitable for rainy conditions.
At just 3.3 pounds, this exceptionally lightweight case appeals to busy students and professionals who carry their instrument alongside other items. It features a removable padded music pouch and detachable backpack straps with breathable mesh backing for extended carrying comfort.
A standout safety feature is the NiteFlash protection strip system that reflects light, increasing visibility to vehicles when walking at night—a thoughtful addition for players traveling after dark. While providing good protection through its suspension system and insulation, the case lacks reinforced steel bars but includes two bow holders and spacious accessory compartments, offering practical water-resistant protection for everyday use.
4. Tonareli Oblong Violin Case: Stylish Water Resistance with Versatility
The Tonareli Oblong violin case combines water resistance, durability, and style in a popular package for students and advancing players. Its fiberglass shell—a material used in marine applications—repels water while providing physical protection against light to moderate rainfall and temperature fluctuations.
Its standout feature is an adjustable design accommodating both 3/4 and 4/4 violins through a movable neck cushion—ideal for growing students and instruments with non-standard dimensions. Four strategically positioned D-rings provide optimal carrying comfort, preventing neck discomfort and allowing the case to ride higher on your back.
The case features well-designed storage with a removable accessories pouch, enough space for four bows, and secure latches to prevent moisture exposure during transport. While not the lightest at 5.6 pounds, the Tonareli distinguishes itself with the market's most extensive color selection, perfect for musicians seeking personal expression.
5. Gewa Maestro Violin Case: Traditional Aesthetics with Modern Water Resistance
The Gewa Maestro violin case blends classic styling with modern water-resistant technology, maintaining a traditional wooden appearance while incorporating protective materials against moisture and environmental challenges.
Its water resistance comes from a thermoplastic shell beneath a water-resistant canvas cover—naturally water-repellent and providing better protection than traditional wooden cases against rainfall and humidity. This construction also delivers excellent temperature insulation and impact resistance while preserving the classic aesthetic.
The interior features a secure suspension system and innovative cushion-based violin neck securing system that prevents string scratching. Storage includes a spacious accessories compartment for bulky shoulder rests, additional small compartments, and a hygrometer and humistat for humidity monitoring.
Though not lightweight at 5.7 pounds, the Maestro offers comfortable carrying with padded backpack straps and backup security rings for peace of mind.
Why Choose Waterproof Violin Cases?
Violin cases protect your musical instrument, ensuring its longevity and excellent performance. Waterproof violin cases add an extra layer of protection by preventing water damage. Let’s see more reasons why you should consider a waterproof violin case.
Complete Protection from Extended Water Exposure
Waterproof violin cases differ from water-resistant ones due to continued protection even when exposed for longer periods. For instance, water-resistant violin cases can withstand water to a certain depth or intensity, like light rains and splashes. However, waterproof violin cases keep protecting the instrument for hours, ensuring no water gets through. That’s probably the first and most important reason for choosing these cases.
Harsh Weather Conditions
Musicians, especially those performing in concerts or on the road, expose their instruments to varying weather conditions that might affect them. For example, someone backpacking or traveling on a tour bus to perform in different places encounters conditions such as rain or immense heat.
That's why we recommend fiberglass cases for their weather-resistance.
Waterproof violin cases take off the edge and eliminate worry since they know they’re always protected. Too much heat also causes moisture to build up, which can penetrate the case if it’s not waterproof.
Durable and Reliable Materials
Waterproof violin cases are made of durable materials like carbon fiber and fiberglass that can withstand impact and different climates. This way, you’re guaranteed protection from impact and water damage. It’s a win-win situation.
Final Thoughts
Not all violin cases are waterproof, as some are water-resistant. However, the ones mentioned in this article have all been tested and verified to be waterproof. Besides protecting your instrument from impact, they also offer great protection against water damage, such as warping or cracking. Check out some of the cases to see which fits your fashion desires and budget.