Hugyfot

Type: Housing manufacturer
Founded: 1953 (Switzerland); relocated to Belgium circa 2003
Headquarters: Erembodegem, Belgium
Key products: CNC-machined aluminum underwater housings, GoPro Vision systems, macro ports, buoyancy arms
Key people: Rene Hugenschmidt (founder), Pascal Eekhoudt (Hugyfot/Green Force), Luc Leys, Andy Fenn (UK distributor), Andi Voeltz (German distributor via Digideep)

Overview

Hugyfot is one of the oldest underwater housing manufacturers in the world. The company was founded in 1953 by Swiss engineer Rene Hugenschmidt, whose earliest customers included Hans Hass, Jacques-Yves Cousteau, and Leni Riefenstahl, placing Hugyfot at the very origins of underwater photography ([1]). Hugenschmidt built custom housings for decades, earning a reputation for craftsmanship and a “everything is possible” approach to custom ports and gears ([2]).

Around 2003-2005, Green Force, a Belgian underwater lighting company, took over Hugyfot from Rene Hugenschmidt and relocated production to Erembodegem, Belgium ([3], [4]). A reviewer noted that “the current manufacturer does not quite share Rene’s ‘everything is possible’ attitude to ports and gears” but that they were “very committed to building quality housings for a modest amount of money” ([5]). The Z6/7 II housing page confirms that “production of Hugyfot housings moved to Belgium in 2003” with hard anodizing of all aluminum parts standard from that point ([6]).

In 2019, Hugyfot BV was refounded by two former production employees, continuing the brand’s tradition of CNC-machined aluminum housings while adding new product lines including the Vision monitoring system and GoPro housings.

By 2024, Hugyfot had stopped manufacturing DSLR housings, focusing instead on mirrorless and action camera systems. Forum discussions from 2024 indicate that owners of Hugyfot DSLR housings were concerned about future parts availability ([7]).

Manufacturing & Design Philosophy

Hugyfot housings are CNC-machined from solid blocks of seawater-resistant aluminum (AlMgSi1 high-strength alloy). Each housing is sanded by hand, sandblasted, and finished with anodizing ([8]). The finish is described as “satin dark grey, not painted but anodised” with a neoprene strap as a signature design element ([9]).

Starting with the Nikon Z6/7 series housings in 2022, Hugyfot adopted Cerakote, a ceramic polymer-based thin film coating offering “industry-leading durability, hardness, flexibility, UV stability together with excellent scratch, corrosion, heat, and chemical resistance.” Colors available include Graphite Black, Titanium, Blue Titanium, and Pink Champagne ([10]).

Later GoPro Vision Xs housings (from 2020) incorporated 3D-printed resin camera trays and a durable Surlon KE non-stick coating layer over hard anodizing ([11]).

The 2005 London International Dive Show featured the Hugyfot HFN D70 Delrin housing, made from Delrin engineering plastic rather than aluminum, making it significantly lighter. Show reporter Paul NG called it “easily the prettiest and coolest D70 housing in the market” with “extremely high” build quality ([12]).

Key Innovations

HugyCheck Vacuum Leak Detection

Hugyfot introduced their HugyCheck vacuum leak detection system in 2009, making them one of the earliest housing manufacturers to offer integrated vacuum integrity checking. A review of the Backscatter Airlock system in 2013 noted that “vacuum housing integrity check systems are not a new idea, with Gates releasing their Seal-Check in 2007 and Hugyfot their Hugycheck in 2009” ([13]). The D7000 housing announced in 2010 was described as being “equipped with the HugyCheck leak detection system” as standard ([14]). The system became standard on all subsequent Hugyfot housings, including the compact Vision Xs GoPro housings ([15]).

Variable Buoyancy Arms

In October 2012, Hugyfot released an innovative adjustable buoyancy arm system. The kit included two sealed floating arms and two adjustable arms with valves that could be partially flooded during a dive to achieve neutral buoyancy at any depth. When empty, the system provided 2.5 kg of positive buoyancy. The complete kit cost 750 Euros, which drew critical commentary about pricing ([16]). In 2018, the concept was refined as the DNA (Dynamic Neutral Arm) system, allowing modular arm segments to be combined for specific buoyancy and length requirements, rated to 100m depth ([17]).

Vision Integrated Monitor System

Starting in 2017, Hugyfot developed the Vision system, integrating a 7-inch HDMI monitor, dual lithium battery packs (providing up to 5-8 hours of operation), and the housing into a single aluminum package. First released for the GoPro HERO5, the Vision concept expanded to Sony RX100 compacts and was also offered as a standalone monitor housing rated to 200m ([18], [19]).

Port System Compatibility

Hugyfot offered adapters for other manufacturers’ port systems, allowing users to reuse existing ports. The BOOT 2007 report noted that “as a specialty they offer Adapter for the most Port Systems, so that you can use your old ones” ([20]). Third-party manufacturers also supported Hugyfot: Nauticam offered port adapters for Hugyfot housings ([21]), and SAGA Dive produced a Nauticam WACP-1 adapter for Hugyfot Nikon housings ([22]).

Distribution Network

Hugyfot products were distributed through regional dealers:

Hugycup Competition

Hugyfot sponsored the Hugycup, an international underwater photo and video competition. The Hugycup 2010 was held at Seraya Beach Resort, Bali, with over 100 participants from 9 countries competing in 9 photo and 2 video categories. Over 30,000 Euros worth of prizes were awarded. Belgian photographers dominated the results, with Luc Eeckhaut winning the Portfolio category and Bruno Van Saen taking Wide Angle ([31]). The Hugycup 2011 was held in Dahab, Egypt from September to October, using a unique format where participants could dive and submit entries throughout the competition period ([32]).

Community Discussion

Forum users discussed Hugyfot housings extensively, with opinions ranging from enthusiastic praise to frustration with customer support. Multiple threads involve users seeking advice on Hugyfot housings for Nikon D7000, D800, D300, and other cameras. One 2015 thread titled “Terrible Hugyfot housing support and parts” reported difficulty getting correct replacement circuit boards, though other respondents noted positive experiences when contacting Pascal Eekhoudt directly ([33]). A 2024 thread discussed the future viability of Hugyfot DSLR housings after the company stopped making them, with community consensus being to continue using existing equipment rather than selling at a loss ([34]).

Hugyfot housings were included in Wetpixel’s comprehensive D7000 housing review alongside Ikelite, Aquatica, Sea & Sea, Subal, and Nauticam ([35]). Cave diving videographer JP Bresser used a Hugyfot housing for his Canon 5D MKIII to film the acclaimed “Underground 2013” cave diving compilation ([36]). Dutch photographer Rob van Twist used a Hugyfot housing for his Canon 7D snooting work ([37]).

Product Timeline

Film Era & Early Digital (1953-2003)

Green Force Era — Nikon Focus (2004-2009)

Expansion & DSLR Era (2010-2016)

Vision Era & Mirrorless Transition (2017-2022)

Post-DSLR (2024+)

Trade Show Presence

Hugyfot maintained a consistent presence at major European dive and photography trade shows throughout its history:

Third-Party Compatibility

Hugyfot housings were supported by numerous third-party accessory manufacturers:

References


Sources

  1. Wetpixel article, Oct 2, 2005: Hugy D70 Review
  2. Wetpixel article, Oct 2, 2005: Hugy D70 Review
  3. Wetpixel article, Oct 2, 2005: Hugy D70 Review
  4. Wetpixel article, Sep 1, 2005: Digideeps European Open
  5. Wetpixel article, Oct 2, 2005: Hugy D70 Review
  6. Wetpixel article, Mar 2, 2022: Hugyfot Announces Housings For Nikon Z6 7 Series
  7. Forum thread: Future Of Hugyfot Housing Help
  8. Wetpixel article, Mar 2, 2022: Hugyfot Announces Housings For Nikon Z6 7 Series
  9. Wetpixel article, Oct 2, 2005: Hugy D70 Review
  10. Wetpixel article, Mar 2, 2022: Hugyfot Announces Housings For Nikon Z6 7 Series
  11. Wetpixel article, May 18, 2020: Hugyfot Announces Vision Xs Housing Fir Gopro Hero 8
  12. Wetpixel article, Mar 19, 2005: London International Dive Show Lids 2005
  13. Wetpixel article, May 30, 2013: Review Backscatter Airlock Vacuum Integrity Check System
  14. Wetpixel article, Dec 17, 2010: Hugyfot D7000 Housing Renderings Released
  15. Wetpixel article, May 18, 2020: Hugyfot Announces Vision Xs Housing Fir Gopro Hero 8
  16. Wetpixel article, Oct 11, 2012: Hugyfot Releases Varibale Buoyancy Arms
  17. Wetpixel article, Jun 2, 2018: Hugyfot Announces New Products
  18. Wetpixel article, May 22, 2017: Hugyfot Vision Hero5
  19. Wetpixel article, Mar 26, 2019: Hugyfot Releases Vision Monitor
  20. Wetpixel article, Feb 4, 2007: Boot 2007 Expo Report By Simon Klaiber
  21. Wetpixel article, May 23, 2016: Nauticam Ships Housing For D500
  22. Wetpixel article, Mar 18, 2021: Saga Ships New Adaptors
  23. Wetpixel article, Feb 4, 2007: Boot 2007 Expo Report By Simon Klaiber
  24. Wetpixel article, Oct 1, 2008: Photokina World Of Imaging Live Coverage Day 1 Report
  25. Wetpixel article, Apr 1, 2012: London Dive Show 2012
  26. Wetpixel article, Oct 29, 2012: Show Report The Dive Show 2012
  27. Wetpixel article, Oct 15, 2004: Dema Show 2004 Report
  28. Wetpixel article, Apr 4, 2006: Hugyfot D200
  29. Wetpixel article, Feb 19, 2013: Show Report Eudi Milan
  30. Forum thread: Terrible Hugyfot Housing Support And Parts
  31. Wetpixel article, Nov 24, 2010: Results Of Hugycup 2010 Announced
  32. Wetpixel article, Feb 8, 2011: Dates For Hugycup 2011 Announced
  33. Forum thread: Terrible Hugyfot Housing Support And Parts
  34. Forum thread: Future Of Hugyfot Housing Help
  35. Wetpixel article, Jul 18, 2012: Wetpixel D7000 Housing Review
  36. Wetpixel article, Jan 19, 2014: Video Underground 2013
  37. Wetpixel article, Oct 31, 2016: Article Narrow Beam Underwater Snooting By Rob Van Twist
  38. Wetpixel article, Oct 2, 2005: Hugy D70 Review
  39. Wetpixel article, Jul 6, 2003: Uk Germany 10d Housing Ships
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  41. Wetpixel article, Nov 29, 2004: Hugyfot Nikon D70 Housing
  42. Wetpixel article, Nov 1, 2004: Antibes Festival 2004 Report1
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  45. Wetpixel article, Sep 1, 2005: Digideeps European Open
  46. Wetpixel article, Oct 2, 2005: Hugy D70 Review
  47. Wetpixel article, Apr 4, 2006: Hugyfot D200
  48. Wetpixel article, Jul 4, 2006: Hugyfot Introduces New Viewfinder
  49. Wetpixel article, Oct 31, 2006: Hugyfot Nikon D200 Housing Review
  50. Wetpixel article, Feb 4, 2007: Boot 2007 Expo Report By Simon Klaiber
  51. Wetpixel article, Apr 16, 2007: Seaspace 2007 Dive Exposition
  52. Wetpixel article, Jul 14, 2008: Uwp Magazine Issue 43 Available For Download
  53. Wetpixel article, Oct 1, 2008: Photokina World Of Imaging Live Coverage Day 1 Report
  54. Wetpixel article, May 30, 2013: Review Backscatter Airlock Vacuum Integrity Check System
  55. Wetpixel article, Jun 12, 2010: Canon 5d Mark Ii Housing Shootout
  56. Wetpixel article, Nov 24, 2010: Results Of Hugycup 2010 Announced
  57. Wetpixel article, Dec 17, 2010: Hugyfot D7000 Housing Renderings Released
  58. Wetpixel article, Feb 8, 2011: Dates For Hugycup 2011 Announced
  59. Wetpixel article, Mar 27, 2011: 2011 London International Dive Show
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  63. Wetpixel article, Oct 11, 2012: Hugyfot Releases Varibale Buoyancy Arms
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  74. Wetpixel article, Mar 25, 2019: Hugyfot Ships Housing For Sony Rx100 Mark 6
  75. Wetpixel article, Mar 26, 2019: Hugyfot Releases Vision Monitor
  76. Wetpixel article, Apr 25, 2019: Hugyfot Introduce Vision Xs Housing
  77. Wetpixel article, May 18, 2020: Hugyfot Announces Vision Xs Housing Fir Gopro Hero 8
  78. Wetpixel article, May 18, 2020: Hugyfot Announces New Macro Ports
  79. Wetpixel article, Jan 31, 2021: Hugyfot Expands Vision Range To Hero9
  80. Wetpixel article, Mar 2, 2022: Hugyfot Announces Housings For Nikon Z6 7 Series
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  90. Wetpixel article, Oct 1, 2008: Photokina World Of Imaging Live Coverage Day 1 Report
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  92. Wetpixel article, Nov 6, 2014: Report Marseilles Show 2014
  93. Wetpixel article, Mar 1, 2013: Backscatter Releases The Airlock
  94. Wetpixel article, May 25, 2011: Dyron Releases New Products
  95. Wetpixel article, Mar 23, 2011: Dyron Releases A Macro Lens Dome Ports And Lens Adaptors
  96. Wetpixel article, Mar 18, 2021: Saga Ships New Adaptors
  97. Wetpixel article, Nov 8, 2018: Saga Dive Announces Interchangeable Viewfinder System
  98. Wetpixel article, Sep 2, 2011: Zen Update Dome Compatibility For Canon 8 15mm
  99. Wetpixel article, May 23, 2016: Nauticam Ships Housing For D500
  100. Wetpixel article, Oct 17, 2020: Uw Technics Offer Ttl Board With Hss Support
  101. Wetpixel article, Feb 11, 2015: Easy Dive Announces The Leo Iii Housing
  102. Canon 10D housing pricing (article)
  103. DEMA Show 2004 Report (article)
  104. Antibes Festival 2004 report (article)
  105. Hugyfot Nikon D70 housing (article)
  106. LIDS 2005: HFN D70 Delrin housing (article)
  107. Digideep’s European Open competition (article)
  108. Hugy D70 review (article)
  109. Hugyfot D200 announcement (article)
  110. Hugyfot new viewfinder (article)
  111. Hugyfot D200 housing review (article)
  112. BOOT 2007 report (article)
  113. Photokina 2008 report (article)
  114. Canon 5D Mark II housing shootout (article)
  115. Hugycup 2010 results (article)
  116. Hugyfot D7000 renderings (article)
  117. Hugycup 2011 announced (article)
  118. LIDS 2011 (article)
  119. London Dive Show 2012 (article)
  120. Wetpixel D7000 housing review (article)
  121. Variable buoyancy arms (article)
  122. Dive Show 2012 (article)
  123. GoPro HERO3 housing (article)
  124. EUDI Milan 2013 (article)
  125. Backscatter Airlock review (HugyCheck history) (article)
  126. DEMA 2013 (article)
  127. Underground 2013 cave video (article)
  128. GoPro monitor (article)
  129. Canon 70D housing (article)
  130. Marseille show 2014 (article)
  131. Dive 2015 (article)
  132. BOOT 2016 (article)
  133. Rob van Twist snooting article (article)
  134. Vision HERO5 (article)
  135. New products 2018 (DNA arms, Vision RX100) (article)
  136. Vision RX100 Mark VI ships (article)
  137. Vision standalone monitor (article)
  138. Vision Xs GoPro 5/6/7 (article)
  139. Macro ports family (article)
  140. Vision Xs GoPro HERO 8 (article)
  141. UW Technics TTL boards (article)
  142. Vision Xs GoPro HERO9 (article)
  143. SAGA adaptor for Hugyfot (article)
  144. Nikon Z6/7 housings with Cerakote (article)
  145. Hugyfot housing support thread (forum)
  146. Future of Hugyfot housing (forum)
  147. Nikon D600/Sony Action Cam news (news)