There's quite a selection out there - all are pretty good, some slightly better than others, but not much between them considering they're all compact cameras. Assuming the depth rating isn't too big a factor (most handle 9 feet or so, some are a little shallower, some deeper). They're not made for diving - more for splashing, snorkeling, pool duty, or rain.
Don't worry too much about cards - virtually all brands, if not all, take SD nowadays.
Ones to consider - sticking with fairly large brands:
Fuji Z33 & Casio EX-G1 - the cheapest ones...basic, waterproof.
Fuji XP10, Pentax Optio WS80, Olympus Tough 3000 - slightly better, slightly pricier.
Pentax W90, Olympus Tough 6020 & 8010, Panasonic TS1 - All nicer, slightly more pricey, better built and strong cased compacts
Canon D10 - good performer, much bulkier, built to go deeper - if you don't mind the bigger, fatter camera, a good option
Sony TX5 - the slimmest and smallest of the waterproof/shockproof cams, mid-range protection and waterproofness, best at low light, a little pricey - if you want the slimmest and smallest
You won't go terribly wrong with any of them, just don't expect DSLR performance from any. The Canon & Panasonic have been well reviewed in the past, though many of the cameras above weren't around when the last large review of WP cameras happened. The Sony has some of the most innovations, and is the smallest. The Pentax W90 has some nifty macro ability and closeup with lights right around the lens ring. Olympus and Pentax have made waterproof compacts longer than the others - maybe experience helps. Lots and lots to decide!
then he set it down and it fell of into the wet dirt, it then got dirt ALL through it and I thought great! guess it's not sand proof but... he dunked it in a bowl of water for a little while last night and voila it's like new! LOL They should name this one husband proof!
