Best Weather Sealed Wide Angle?

[friedmud]

What do you think is the best weather sealed wide angle lens for use with a 7D? I value resolution over anything else (for instance, it doesn't need autofocus). Should be at least 20mm or smaller...

Thanks!

 

[wickidwombat]

16-35 f2.8L II
needs a filter on though

I've have used it in rain with a 1D no problems
and in a dust storm too
non extending is essential to being good at being weather sealed IMO

i find the technically weather sealed lenses that extend to be not so good in this regard
especially in regards to fine dust more so than to rain

 

[friedmud]

Thanks wombat! Any comments on how its resolution compares to a 17-55 f/2.8 (which is what I have now). I would love to not be able to take a hit in sharpness.

 

[Loswr]

Thanks wombat! Any comments on how its resolution compares to a 17-55 f/2.8 (which is what I have now). I would love to not be able to take a hit in sharpness.

The 16-35L II is very slightly less sharp than the EF-S 17-55mm when both are used on the same APS-C body. The difference can be detected in controlled tests (I've done some with my 7D), but is not really evident in real-world shots.

If you need to go wider than 16mm, your only weather sealed option is the EF 14mm f/2.8L II (or the 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye, but I presume you want a rectilinear lens).

 

[prestonpalmer]

The 16-35 II with a UV filter is probably your best bet.