Looking for a flexible tripod...

[VibrantMindDance]

I've seen plenty of postings about tripods here, but none that seemed to address the salt water thing.

I'm currently using this POS Manfrotto set that i purchased for under $150 (which supports the true level of POS). Anyway... one day at the beach, adrenaline took me by the throat and i plunged that tripod right into the nice salty sandy water...

...needless to say, only about three out of the 9 extensions works, and the locks dont lock anymore and it makes a wretched sound when i do extend the remaining legs.

Im looking for something that will survive salt water abuse, if any such thing exists. I'd also love it to be flexible and get close to the ground for macro type stuff. Can i add that it would be super awesome if it was affordable? Like... under $300...

am i dreaming?

[gldiana]

Just like anything else, tripods don't like salt water. It doesn't man they don't mix, just make sure you wash it thoroughly with fresh water after use so that the salt doesn't deposit. That's probably the noise you're hearing.
I would feel safer using carbon fiber tripods with salt water than any metal tripod.

[Southern Wolf]

I use the Manfortto MagFiber and I love it.... it will get down to about 4 inches off the ground. The legs will extend at 90* angle from the head. I dont know how well it will survive saltwater... but it would be better than the metal ones.... it will set you back about $325