In search of a durable DSLR camera?

The best dSLR for body sealing, mag alloy body, and for image sensor quality in your price range is the Pentax K-5. But here's the one problem. While Nikon, Sony Alpha and Canon have dSLR models that are tough, and have some kind of weather sealing, the majority of lenses are not weather sealed, and the few that are, can be pricey. Look into pentax glass, see what they have in weather sealed lenses to go with that K-5.

Even with tough pro bodies that are way out of your listed budget, they aren't designed to take big drops, and smacks. So, I think the better option might be to look for the best compact that's tough like the Olympus ones that are freeze, crush and water proof. While they will never rival a dSLR, they might do a better job than a GoPro.

Water proof housings can be crazy expensive, often the cost of a really good dSLR. Why? I have no idea. A good water resistant bag, with good padding should mate up well with a mid range dSLR like the K-5.

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If you are going to be joining in on the extreme sports, I wouldn't recommend a DSLR for you. DSLRs are heavy, bulky and contain many moving parts such as the reflex mirror. (hence the "Reflex" in Digital Single Lens Reflex") that can be damaged with excessive shaking and bumping. And a DSLR that would come close to withstanding the abuse you'll be subjecting it to is in the $5000+ range for pro DSLRs with weather proofing. For your case, a smaller point and shoot will suit your needs better and be within your $1500 budget. For waterproofing the camera, there are ziplock type bags with thick sides that can be submerged for a few feet or hard plastic enclosures which cost a lot more that can go even further underwater. If you're into video GoPro has a wide assortment of video options and mountings for their small cameras.

A waterproof housing will cost you more than $1500, so yeah... A used Canon 50D and an 18-200 would serve you well is you wrap it in a big plastic garbage bag. Lowepro makes great bags - go to a local camera shop and see which on fits you best. I know this isn't want you want to hear, but you're better off with a compact durable weatherproof P&S, such as the Coolpix AW100.

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all DSLR cameras have moving parts that are susceptible to extreme rattling. In other words, it will break whether it is a $500, or $45,000 DSLR.

I suggest something like the Nikon AW100 which is made for more extreme stuff, or a couple of gopro hero cameras rigged on a helmet.

the best you could then do would be to get a mirrorless camera, such as one of the Sony NEX cameras and waterproof case for it. They have no moving parts, so they would be better suited for extreme sports. Still, they were never meant to do such things.

Unless you're trying to shoot POV, the best protection you can get is a companion who isn't traveling under the same extreme situations. They operate the camera while you show off.

Mirrorless/EVIL cameras sound like the best alternative, but even these have delicate electronics and lenses that can't handle much shock. Prime lenses (non-zooms) have the fewest moving parts; try to find one that has internal focus (the lens casing does not expand/retract while focusing).

Those cameras that are actually designed to take a beating would likely be too heavy to mount on your gear.

The Nikon D7000 would be a good choice

It's an amazing camera that can produce great images. It also has a magnesium alloy body, so it's really tough. It's also weather sealed, but it doesn't mean you should dunk it into water. A light drizzle will be fine. And lastly, remember that a lot of lenses are not waterproof. The more expensive ones may be, but most aren't.

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Pentax K5.