Italian tripod and accessory manufacturer Manfrotto has launched a range of memory cards that it claims is the strongest on the market. Comprising of SD, MicroSD and CompactFlash models, the Pro Rugged series is claimed to combine high-speed performance with waterproof, crush-proof and temperature-proof build quality that can withstand extremes of use and conditions.

The SD cards particularly are sealed against ingress of water and dust, and can remain underwater for up to 72 hours without suffering damage. They are made from a solid moulded piece of plastic and are said to be three times stronger than normal cards and able to survive a 20kg impact. Tested in temperatures of between -25 degrees C to 85 degrees C, the SD cards come in 64 and 128GB capacities and have a V90 rating that sees 280MB/s and 250MB/s read/write speeds.

The Pro Rugged MicroSD cards are V30 rated, offer 90MB/s read/write speeds and come in 64 and 128GB capacities, while the CompactFlash cards are UDMA 7 rated, offer 160MB/s and 130MB/s read/write speeds and also come in 64/128GB varieties. The CF cards aren’t waterproof but Manfrotto claims they are made from tougher materials than most cards, that they will last longer and that they can withstand a 35kg impact. They are suited to use in temperatures of between freezing and 70 degrees C.

The SD cards are half price at the moment on the Manfrotto website and are listed at $57.50/£47.50 and $112.50/£92.50, while the CF cards are $80/£65 and $150/£125 and the MicroSD cards are $32/£27 and $42/£35. Visit Manfrotto's website for more information.