This pouch really does allow you to use the touch screen through the plastic. If you team this up with waterproof buds or headphones, you have a completely functioning phone safe from dust and water etc. The cord has a stopper that secures the top of the pouch into a strong clamp crown piece. It has a double zip-lock type closure, then folds over, before being inserted into the top. It would be hard for water to get in with all of that. I have not immersed this into water, but it would seem that if you accidentally did so, your phone woud still be safe. The pouch is transparent on the front and the back, enabling you to put a barcode swipe card in the back lanyard side. This gives you even more functionality and convenience.