Sena

Created in 1999 by gadget enthusiasts, Sena Cases aims to produce cases that are trendy, sleek, and completely function-accessible and customized entirely by the customer. Sena cases are handcrafted by leather artisans in Turkey using full grain genuine Italian and Turkish calfskin Napa leathers. Sena cases are offered in classic smooth leather or patterned leather such as croco, pebble, perforated or vincado in a variety of colors. Since Sena cases are made from full grain genuine leather, the cases adjust and soften to develop a perfect fit to the device after a short break-in period. The leather is unique as it begins to form and customize to the owner’s individual usage habits. Sena knows good leather, and believes in the variations of markings that come with their leather, considering marks and scars a necessity in distinguishing real, quality leather from imitation, and deems these “imperfections” as genuine properties of the leather that enhances the overall quality aesthetic of their cases. Offering a large variety of case designs for their vast selection of devices, Sena allows unique customization options so that each case is crafted just as their customers wish.

To read this full article, click “read more” to learn about Piel Frama, Krusell, Vaja, Noreve, OtterBox, and Fortte’s manufacturing process!

Piel Frama

The kind of leather Piel Frama uses to make their PDAs cases is cow skin 1ª quality. This leather comes from Piel Frama’s country of Spain, which allows them the opportunity to select the highest quality leather offered. The leather Piel Frama uses is from veal (young cows) due to their clean, undamaged skin. Additionally, Piel Frama´s leathers are environmentally safe, or “green”, because the leathers are tanned and finished with natural products and biodegradable organic substances, which avoids impact on natural systems. All of Piel Frama’s products are hand-made through an “elaboration process,” which maintains that each piece has a strict quality control. This elaboration process includes creating different molds in hard cartons, then cutting the different parts of the case (the leather, interior lining, etc.) and assembling each part together like puzzle pieces with glue that is not environmentally harmful. Piel Frama also uses a raw material called “viledón” which is a highly resistant synthetic cloth, located between the leather and the lining, adding consistency and resistance to the cover. The leather cover is then sewn together by 100% polyester thread (stronger and more durable than cotton), and a conveniently removable rotating clip is added to the case.

Krusell

Krusell, a Swedish company founded in 1991, makes a great deal of their products primarily with superior and medium nappa leather, a full-grain dyed and tanned leather known for its soft feel and durability, as well as cow skin for the interior of the case. Krusell offers seven different collections of cases labeled by different colors for a variety of customers (business [blue], active users on the job [red], sporty [green], “cool”/hip [orange], glamorous [purple], luxurious [Grand Kru], and a separate collection for accessory packs [black]). Because of this, leather is not the only material Krusell uses to craft their cases. For instance, their Green Label collection is made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) rubber for shock-absorption and durability for their sporty customers. As well, PU imitation leather is used for their Orange Label, quilted leather, micro fiber lining, and piping is used alongside nappa and PU leather in the Purple Label, and Polyamide plastic is used for the accessory packs in the Black Label. For more information on the manufacturing of Krusell’s products, watch the video below:

Vaja

All leather used in Vaja products is full grain cowhide. These hides are from the top ten percent of Argentina’s leather and are selected for quality, strength, character and grain. They have not been altered in any way thereby allowing the natural markings and character to show through. Full Grain cowhide is generally much cleaner and has minimal scarring and insect bites. This results in a more expensive product than other altered grain leathers, but Vaja feels this is warranted in order to produce a product of extremely high quality. Vaja’s products are made one at a time in their own factories by skilled craftmen who maintain the highest quality standards in the leather industry. According to Vaja’s online FAQ, “Each customized product is specially handcrafted for the customer who requires it. All of [Vaja's] products are handmade by a group of craftsmen specially selected for this purpose. There are many stages involved in the customization process: leather selection and special arrangement according to the model and features selected, case molding and assembling, finishing, quality and functionality testing. Attention to even the smallest details is always present in each of these steps.”

Noreve

This French (St. Tropez) manufacturer has conquered the international market through a network of specialized resellers across the globe since 2004, and continues to become more accessible to customers all over the world. Noreve specializes in the manufacturing of high-quality, individually hand-crafted leather cases for the most up-to-date devices by offering a large variety of color options as well as four selections of leather: Perpetual, Ambition, Exceptional, and the recently-released Illumination Selection. All four selections differ greatly between texture and style, and each leather type is unique and offers something a little different from the next. All leather used by Noreve production teams is premium cow leather that goes through a different treatment process depending on the custom-ordered case. In the Perpetual Selection of leather, full grain calf leather is used to create a smooth feel with a matte finish. The Ambition Selection of leather is pebble-grained and has a polymer to protect against scratches. This selection is also weather-resistant and fights discoloration. The Exceptional Selection is suede-like leather that goes through a strict weathering process to highlight the natural quality of the leather and make it unique from every other case manufactured by Noreve. Finally, the new Illumination Selection of leather is glossy and smooth to the touch and is finished with a layer of varnish that is applied during the last stages of the tanning process to obtain a shiny effect.

OtterBox

Dedicated to the “klutzy, spontaneous, chaotic, graceless individuals,” OtterBox (located in Fort Collins, Colorado) was created in 1996 to protect devices for customers with an active lifestyle. Their original line of cases are waterproof (like that of an otter’s fur… get the connection?), which has since expanded into four lines of device-specific cases for the most up-to-date gadgets on the market.

The four lines include:

1)      Defender Series:

http://www.otterbox.com/defender-series-cases

2)      Commuter Series:

http://www.otterbox.com/commuter-series-cases

3)      Impact Series:

http://www.otterbox.com/impact-series-cases

4)      Tandem Series:

http://www.otterbox.com/new-case-series/

As a company that has been continuously evolving, their cases are crafted primarily with polycarbonate and silicone components to withstand water, sand, dust, and klutziness in practically any situation. Additionally, silicone materials maintain good electrical insulation to resist the flow of electrical currents while polycarbonate components are easily molded and are impact-resistant. Both polycarbonate and silicone components maintain thermal stability and are temperature-resistant which is ideal for OtterBox’s active customers looking to keep their devices insulated and protected from UV light.

Fortte

Known as one of the leading leather case manufacturers, Fortte specializes in the creation of sleek, customizable leather cases for mobile devices popular in today’s market. They only use quality hides and inner materials that guarantee to maintain long-lasting durability. Fortte additionally manufactures in Biodegradable Plastic in an effort to help environmental practices, and part of sale is reinvested in Sustainable Forestry in the Amazonian basin. A focus of Fortte’s is guaranteeing that their brand is manufactured with only selected material under the ISO 9001:2008 (Quality Assurance), ISO 14001:2004 (Environmental Practices) and OHSAS 18001:2007 (Safety and Labor protection).  This also means that the suppliers of the materials also comply with the regulations.

Fortte cases are designed both to custom fit every specific device (they even offer a universal collection) and maintain a high level of functionality without compromising style. They offer high quality leather cases at decent prices in a variety of colors with a choice of belt clips and customization options. Fortte only brings their best cases to the market with a strict focus on quality standards and customer satisfaction.

This article includes:

Vaja’s ivolution Top Crystal 2 Series for the Apple iPhone 3G/3GS & BlackBerry Tour 9630

Sena’s UltraSlim case for the BlackBerry Tour 9630

Krusell’s ENCORE Label for the Apple iPod Nano 5^th gen.

Piel Frama’s Leather Goods Collection, “The Pearl”

Fortte’s upcoming cases

OtterBox’s New Tandem Series

Proporta’s Shine Case for the Apple iPhone 3GS

Noreve’s Motorola Droid – Milestone Tradition Leather Case

Follow the link below to read the full article.

Vaja’s ivolution Top Crystal 2 Series for Apple iPhone 3G/3GS & BlackBerry Tour 9630

This feminine series of cases is just about as girly as it gets, as encrusted Swarovski crystals sparkle around a vine-like design that borders both the front and back of the Caterina leather case, and a variety of color-scheme options are offered to allow the crystals to stand out as their own. The customization options are pretty nifty, as you’re able to choose from a few different “art” (design) options and can even personalize the back of your case (in about ten characters or less) with their laser-engraving option for an extra $10, as if the already-$220 case wasn’t expensive enough. Additionally, Vaja is offering the convenience of a leather wrist strap for a “secure attachment” for an extra $30. (To note: the strap is made of the same color and Caterina leather used for the rest of the case). Also for your convenience, with your purchase Vaja will include a leather bag with a drawstring, presumably used for carrying the case. (It’s like its own case for the case!)

This case allows access to just about everything, as you can see for yourself below:

Though we doubt Vaja will want to donate a potentially $260 case (personalization option and leather strap included), this is a case we’d like to get our hands on just to see if it really is worth the big bucks. Vaja is known as one of the leading case manufacturers, so the case is undoubtedly of high quality, especially including the Swarovski crystal glass beads, but it’s hard to really believe any small case could really be worth spending $260 on. Though maybe it is worth it, since it’ll take well over a month to craft. Let’s hope their female customers think so!

To purchase this case visit: www.vajacases.com where you can find the ivolution Top Crystal 2 Series under both the iPhone 3G/3Gs and BlackBerry Tour 9630 tabs.

Minimum price: $220.

(View image gallery below for additional ivolution photos).

The Sena UltraSlim case for the BlackBerry Tour 9630

This slender case is one of the thinnest leather cases ever designed for any mobile device (according to Sena), and has absolutely “zero bulk” as it is the leanest case Sena offers. The UltraSlim case is handcrafted from high-quality pebble textured Italian leather, and contains a soft, micro velvet lining with stitching along the opening of the case. While this case is merely a pouch to hold the BlackBerry Tour 9630, Sena has allowed cutouts in the leather for the speaker and microphone, and even offers an energy-saving sleep function activator. Though you aren’t offered the beautiful colors around the color wheel, Sena does offer five (somewhat bland, but sufficient) color options: White, black, brown, tan, and red.

The pebbled leather was a smart design choice for this UltraSlim case because it looks just as elegant as the next Sena case. Though the BlackBerry Tour won’t function while inside the case, this “slim” pouch option is a nice choice for protection while inside pockets and purses, and will protect the device while inside the Sena case. Plus, who wouldn’t want to be able to tell their friends that they have the slimmest case designed for any mobile device?!

To purchase this case visit: http://www.senacases.com/blackberry-cases/blackberry-tour-cases/ultra-slim-pouch-sleeve/.

Minimum price: $29.99

(View image gallery below for additional UltraSlim photos).

Krusell ENCORE Label for the Apple iPod Nano 5^th gen.

Following Krusell’s release of the ENCORE collection of cases for the Apple iPod Nano 4^th gen, Krusell has released the same label for the Nano’s 5^th generation iPod. It’s a stylish design offering a variety of fun metallic color choices (blue, silver, pink, yellow, orange, purple, red… to name a few), all to match the Nano unit, with a focus on functionality. There are openings in the small case for the screen, click wheel, and camera lens. The design is simple as you just slide the Nano into position in the case, but the real beauty of the case lies in the eye-catching metallic glimmer that radiates from this Krusell label.

To purchase this case visit: http://www.krusellcases.com/uk/p_krusell_product.aspx?i=189717.

Minimum price: £9.99

(View image gallery below for additional ENCORE photos).

The Leather Goods Collection “The Pearl” by Piel Frama

As difficult as Piel Frama’s website is to navigate around, the little information we can give you about this new Leather Goods collection is that the variety of cases offered range from men and women’s wallets, glasses cases, handbags and laptop and travel bags. These handmade cases are crafted using high quality Cowskin and a smooth finish. This series is very elegant and is distinguishable by its unique design.

To purchase products in “The Pearl” selection visit: http://www.pielframa.net/leathergoods/

Minimum price: Prices vary per product

(View image gallery below for additional “Pearl” photos).

Coming Soon to Fortte!

A long list of Fortte’s upcoming leather cases are as follows:

IPod Nano shoots video Chromatic, Sprint Samsung Instinct S30, Thuraya Satellite Phone, Samsung Rant M540, HP iPAQ 210, HTC Imagio, Sony Ericsson Satio, Sony Ericsson W595a, Google Nexus One.

To check back for availability visit: http://fortte.com/

OtterBox’s New Tandem Series Revealed

OtterBox’s now-fourth series has finally been announced: The Tandem Series for the Palm® Pre™. Featuring an overmolded design, this series incorporates TPR (a plastic material used in the injection molding process) into the polycarbonate shell for device protection. According to OtterBox, the first shell attaches to the front of the smartphone and the second shell attaches to the back. TPR lines the outside edges of the case and combines with polycarbonate to offer extra stability. Once the case is assembled, it allows for complete functionality, even when sliding the screen.

(This series was designed to complement the Palm® Pre™).

It’s an interesting design idea using two shells, even if it seems a little bulky.

To view this series and a chance to be notified when the Tandem Series is released for purchase visit: http://www.otterbox.com/new-case-series/

(View image gallery below for additional “Tandem” photos).

The Proporta Shine Case for the Apple iPhone 3GS

This case is one for the girls out there with its soft feel interior zebra print lining and high gloss patent leather exterior. If that wasn’t enough, Proporta has included an interior compact mirror for those high-maintenance women who are desperate for a quick peek while browsing their iPhone apps. There’s even a magnetic closure system that enables you to flip the cover of the case over and position in place for easy phone use.

This stylish case isn’t for the modest shopper, so all you girls out there who want a stylish case (and a compact mirror!), this one’s for you.

To purchase this case visit: http://www.proporta.com/F02/PPF02P05.php?t_id=4886&t_mode=des

Minimum price: £ 24.95

(View image gallery below for additional “Shine” photos).

Noreve Motorola Droid – Milestone Tradition Leather Case

Released earlier this month, the Noreve Motorola Droid & Milestone case is hand-crafted and slim with a top flap that snaps into a magnetic closure at the back of the case. Similar to most Noreve cases, this case allows openings in the leather for access to the basic functions of the two devices, and includes a stainless steel mesh speaker protector. It’s an elegant case like the rest offered by Noreve, but there’s nothing new to speak of in terms of design so if you know Noreve, you know what to expect. The usual color options are offered with this case (including the new Illumination Selection of leather), as well as a removable plastic belt clip. It’s protective and function-accessible while maintaining a level of elegance with its simple and direct design.

To purchase this case visit: http://www.noreveusa.com/product_info.php?products_id=2342

Minimum price: $51.00

123►

Overall the design of this case is simple and accessible. It is attractive and has features for any type of customer. I do think there could have been a bottom rail, however.

Protection: 9

The device will be protected through the leather, however the bottom of the device has been left exposed and the top flap has potential to shift a bit, exposing portions of the screen.

Functionality: 10

I do think this case is perfect for functionality, especially due to the removable lid and cut-outs in the leather for the device’s functions.

Overall: 9

This Krusell case has a lot to offer through its protective design, access to basic functions, removable top flap, and additional Multidapt swivelkit.

PCS-Ltd.com– $21.95

Color:

The color I’ve received is the Black/Beige, meaning the outer material itself is black and the thread and inner material is beige. Unfortunately this is the only color offered by Krusell, however the colors are nice together and I think the black makes the case look very classy.

Fit and Design:

There are a lot of great design qualities to this case; Krusell’s rail system helps keep the HTC Touch in place, and the removable top flap is convenient for those not interested in having the screen covered. Krusell has also included what they call the ‘ratchet swivelkit’ which is a removable belt clip which swivels 360˚ in place. When I first opened the case I had a hard time understanding how to get the case out of its blister packaging, but I’ll attach an instructional video to help clarify how everything works. Basically you’ll use a pen to remove the case as well as the belt clip. The actual design of the case is nice and simple, and the leather provides an attractive, smooth look. The rail system holds the HTC in place, and the openings in the leather allow for basic functions of the device. In the interior of the top flap Krusell has designed openings for one card slot, one microSD card slot, and one pocket for business cards or IDs. Additionally, there is a strap that snaps closed to keep the HTC’s screen protected. As well, there is an opening in the leather for the speaker which is covered by a mesh material to protect from outside harm.

Protection:

The HTC Touch will absolutely be protected by this Krusell case, unless you decide to remove the top flap to keep the screen exposed. The padding in the leather offers additional protection, and there is hardly any unnecessary device exposure, with the exception of the bottom of the device. I feel that Krusell could have managed some sort of protection in their case design, but I don’t feel like it will harm the HTC too much. One problem I have with the case is that due to the lack of leather at the bottom of device, the case is only held together with a skinny strap which swivels due to the metal snap. This, in turn, can make the top flap shift around expose small portions of the screen.

Quality of material:

The leather is high-quality and the case weighs about 1½ oz. so it really doesn’t add extra bulk to the HTC. The leather is smooth and attractive, the stitching is tight (though seems like it could be tighter), and the plastic for the ratchet swivelkit seems durable.

Conclusion:

I’d recommend this case to someone looking for multiple case features; perhaps someone looking for a case with a removable top flap, or someone interested in a swivel belt clip. The leather provides protection, and the design of the case offers accessibility to the basic functions of the HTC.

PCS-Ltd.com– $21.95

12►

The design and style of this case is nice, but not necessarily outstanding by any means. In terms of customer satisfaction with the style, it may only fulfill a certain demographic’s interest in terms of the bulky Krusell logo, the multidapt belt clip, and the styling of the stitching. Everything is crafted well, just may not be what everyone is looking for.

Protection: 6.5

I’m very unimpressed with the lack of protection Krusell has offered for the BlackBerry. Though the parts of the device which are covered are protected by durable leather, there is a great deal of the device which is left completely exposed and vulnerable to outside harm. If protection is what you’re going for, this isn’t the case for you! That said, if your only interest in this case is to use it while on your belt clip for easy access to your BlackBerry, you shouldn’t worry too much about harm. The top portion of the device is fairly exposed on its sides, however.

Functionality: 4

I’m having a hard time actually rating the functionality of this case because it is simply a pouch rather than a case, and the BlackBerry will by no means be able to function while in the pouch. It merely acts as a holder for the device. On the “up” side, the BlackBerry is easily accessible due to the design of the case and the simple magnet which opens and closes very easily.

Overall: 6.5

With some of the other leather pouches I’ve reviewed I’ve given higher scores. Reason being, their high-quality leather, accessibility, and style/design have proven elegant and attractive for any type of customer. I would like to point out, however, that this Krusell pouch is considerably less expensive than the other pouches I’ve reviewed and is definitely competitive with other pouches in the same price range.

Where to Buy:

PCS-Ltd. – $12.95

Color:

I received the black case, and I believe that may be the only option at this point as I’ve looked at both the Krusell website (http://Krusell.se) and on Amazon, and neither show any color options besides black. The color, however, is classy, and makes this Krusell case reminiscent of most mainstream cell phone covers which could be a good or bad thing depending on what you’re looking for.

Fit and Design:

This is a simple pouch; not much to it, but it’s easy to slide the device into and simple to remove it. This Krusell design is somewhat classy-looking, though falls a bit short of its front-runners with high-quality leather cases like Noreve and Vaja. That said, this design is elegant for that of an inexpensive case in comparison to its competitors in its price range. One aspect of this case I really like is the fact that the BlackBerry is secured in place by the thick leather as well as the top flap which holds the pouch shut by a magnet. As well, there is a nice-looking silver Krusell logo, though I find it a bit bulky and unnecessary. There isn’t much to say about the functions of this case because it is a simple pouch, but one major function on the backside of the case is the Multidapt with ratchet clip to secure the Krusell case on a belt. This can be applied easily but the actual clip is a bit stiff and seems somewhat difficult to actually fit on a belt.

Protection:

Unfortunately, I wouldn’t recommend this Krusell case as far as protection goes. Though the leather covering the BlackBerry is thick and protective, there is quite a bit of the BlackBerry which is left unprotected and exposed. A portion of the front of the BlackBerry is exposed (as shown in pictures) as well as part of each side of the device. Honestly, I’d say this Krusell case would be perfect for someone wanting to wear the belt clip at all times who will be able to access their phone quickly and easily.

Quality of material:

The case is fairly light, weighing less than 2oz. The leather itself is nice, though not the highest quality. It is great quality leather when it comes to how inexpensive it is, however. The stitching on this particular case is tight and fairly symmetrical and by the looks of it the stitching is tight enough that it won’t loosen easily. The plastic on the belt clip is durable, though not necessarily the toughest it could be. I will say that this leather is strong enough to protect against scratches, as I tested it with my nails, and tested dropping the case itself on different surfaces.

Conclusion:

It really depends on what you’re looking for to say whether I’d recommend this Krusell case for the BlackBerry, but I’d recommend it for anyone who isn’t looking for a case that will allow the BlackBerry to function while inside the case. It’d be perfect for someone interested in using a belt clip to access the device easily rather than someone wanting a case with any functionality.

PCS-Ltd. – $12.95

12►

It’s not terrible-looking, but it’s also not extremely attractive. It’s got somewhat of a cool look and will probably catch the attention of a fair amount of customers. The plastic makes it look a bit tacky, but it is protective so I’m happy with it.

Protection: 7.5

I am concerned with the amount of device exposure there is, however if you take good care of your device this case’s protection will be just fine. The leather is durable, and the plastic is sufficient.

Functionality: 10

As far as I can tell, every function is completely accessible. This Krusell case doesn’t hinder any accessibility.

Overall: 8.5

I would recommend this case, especially due to its qualities despite being inexpensive. The leather is durable and protects against scratches, the elastic is strong, the plastic is adequate, and the stitching is tight. I have a few qualms as far as protection goes, but otherwise this Krusell case is a great deal for all that it offers.

PCS-Ltd.com

Color:

This Krusell case which I’ve received is black/grey, and as of now it seems to be the only color offered on the Krusell website. The leather itself is black and the stitching is grey. I actually like the way the two colors look together, and makes the design a bit more interesting.

Fit and Design:

I’m a big fan of this case because it has a lot more to offer than some of the other Krusell cases I’ve seen. I really like the retractable cover so that when the phone is open the leather isn’t puckered or stretched out. The BlackBerry Pearl fits snugly in the Krusell case, and at first will be a tad bit difficult to fit in, but once you wiggle it all the way in it fits perfectly. The design of the case isn’t extremely attractive, as Krusell has allowed many openings in the leather for specific functions and the front cover and keys are protected by a clear plastic to protect against scratches or dirt. Additionally, there is a multidapt system on the back of the case for the option of using a belt clip.

Protection:

There is more device exposure than there is protective leather on this case, but a lot of the “important” parts of the device are covered like the front and inside screen, the key pad, portions of the side, and part of the back. That said, I don’t know how well I’d trust my BlackBerry to be protected from harm, but it’s your call completely. In my case, I tend to drop my phone every once in a while or keep it in my purse with other items so this case doesn’t entirely cut it as far as protection goes. But if you take care of your phone and don’t tend to drop it much, this case will be absolutely fine. One aspect of this case I do have a bit of a problem with is the actual amount of openings in the leather for each function and how little those functions are protected. For instance, there is a nice cut-out in the leather for the camera lens which is absolutely necessary, however the lens is left exposed and can be easily damaged. The same goes for the other functions as well.

Quality of material:

When you first receive your Krusell case it will look extremely small because of its retractable cover, and because of the many cut-outs in the leather this case is extremely light, weighing slightly over ½oz. The leather itself is clean and durable, and passed my “scratch test” with flying colors. The elastic inside the retractable cover seems durable, especially because it’s covered with leather and the stitching seems tight and potentially long-lasting.

Conclusion:

If you want an extremely high-end leather case this Krusell case isn’t for you. But for its inexpensive price this is a great find. The leather is durable enough, the stitching is tight enough, and the plastic is protective enough. It’s not great-looking, but it is interesting and accessible in terms of functionality. You’ll be able to complete any function of the BlackBerry Pearl while inside the case, and certain portions of the device will be protected. As long as you take good care of your device, your phone will be protected enough.

PCS-Ltd.com

Where to Buy:
PCS-Ltd.com– $19.95

read on for the full review and pictures…

Color
Krusell offers three different colors of cases to choose from: black/off-white, red/off-white, and grey/off-white. What I have here is the black/off-white, which looks nice and has more of a sporty feel thanks to the off-white stripes on the front of the case.

Quality of Materials
This case is 100% polyester and has a shock-absorbing padding interior. The durable polyester has additional plastic coating on the backside of the case for rain protection against your device. Weighing only 8oz., this case offers durability and protection against any harm thanks to its strong polyester material.

Fit and Design
For those who have been looking to keep your device protected through travel or in storage, this is the case for you. Though it does not allow the device to function at all, it protects more than the Noreve leather case does. The entire case is made with shock-absorbing padding inside the case which will protect against outside harm. The design of the case is simple; there is a zipper that opens and closes the single opening allowed for the device to fit inside. This Swedish design is slim and direct and is easily accessible to get in and out of the case. A simple zipper stands in the way of getting to your device.

*This case is designed to protect any netbook up to 10”. The inner dimensions are as follows: 270×190x50 mm.

Protection
Without a doubt, your device will be protected because 100% of your device will be covered and protected with its interior padding. There isn’t much more to say other than the fact that this case isn’t designed for device functionality; it’s designed for device protection, so if that’s what you’re looking for, this is the case for you.

Conclusion
This durable polyester case will cover the entirety of your netbook device and will even protect against rain. For quality protection and accessibility, this case is for you. If functionality is what you’re looking for, this case doesn’t offer that. It is strictly for the protection of your case against any outside harm.

Where to Buy:
PCS-Ltd.com– $19.95

12►

 Protection: 8.5
Aside from the exposed bottom corners, everything is well protected.

 Functionality: 10
Nothing wrong here, everything is available for access.

 Clip: 10
Its the Multidapt®-system, enough said.

 Overall: 9
(not an average) A great value for a great quality case.

Where To Buy:

• PCS-Ltd.com – $21.95
• AbsolutelyU.com – $23.95
   
  Quality of Materials:
  The Krusell line of cases has always had a strong commitment to great leather. The stitching on the cases is rarely compromised, even with extensive abuse. The snaps on the back of the case (for the camera) are quite sturdy and don’t pop open at random times. The plastic piece covering the screen (not keyboard) seeems pliable and protective. The inside of the case is a thin felt that won’t sratch the Blackberry Curve. On the sides is “anti-slip material” to keep your phone inside the case.

 Color:
It’s black. Typical standard fare there, but it does go with almost everything.

 Fit and Design:
The fit is a nice one. This case by Krusell is under their Blue Label & is called the Cabriolet. As the name implies, the top of the case is left open for easy removal of the Blackberry. There is access to all buttons, holes, and ports on all parts of the Curve. On the back there are two snaps that hold a piece of leather over the camera for protection. On the front there is clear plastic that coveres the entire screen and leaves the keyboard and track ball exposed. The fit itself is great! At first the top piece of leather flared out a bit too much, but after some use the leather settled into the position its supposed to be in. It fits nicely into your hand or pocket and doesn’t add a substantial amount of bulk.

 Protection:
All-around good protection. Although this is a top-loader, the Curve isn’t going to be slipping out anytime soon with the “anti-slip material” on the inside. The keyboard is left exposed with more of a risk for dust than actual contact with the ground. The only true weak spots are the exposed bottom corners of the 8300.

 Clip:
Probably the greatest part of the entire Krusell line is their Multidapt®-system. This patented system is designed to allow you to change clips easily. Krusell has 15+ clip and strap options, ranging from leather swivel kits to armbands, to car holder kits.  For now, let’s focus on the clip that comes with the case, the Slide Swivel Kit. The Multidapt® piece that is affixed to the back of the case is made out of hardened plastic and is the receptor for the clips. The Slide Swivel Kit comes in two pieces, the button and the clip. Once you slide the button to the back of the case, you can begin to use the clip. Once the clip is attached to the case, it swivels freely allowing gravity to take it where it wants. It is very secure to the case & clips to a belt nicely. My problem is that it sticks out from your side pretty far, making it an easy target for doorways and other things that might attack your side at waist level. The quick release at the top of the clip is easy to use. The clip can be easily detached from your belt with one hand. Maybe try out the Leather Swivel Kit, as it does not stick out quite as far.

 Conclusion:
Another solid case by Krusell. Nothing too fancy here, but with good protection and easy access to all functions, who needs bling? The Multidapt®-system is always a great selling point!

Where To Buy:

• PCS-Ltd.com – $21.95
• AbsolutelyU.com – $23.95

On June 29th Apple crazed enthusiasts gather around AT&T stores to sign-up and purchase the newly released iPhone. As you may have guessed, we are not here to give you another review on the iPhone, but to give you some release dates on iPhone cases by leading manufacturers.

Here is the NEWS BLAST on two of the favorite cases that we are still waiting to receive and review. I have to say that it’s frankly disappointing to say the least that quality manufacturers are still working on the release of their iPhone case.

Krusell – Swedish manufacturer

August 9th, 2007 – Krusell announces their iPhone case. Pictures are released on their web-site (www.Krusell.se) but don’t run too quickly to your favorite Krusell retailer, because we were just informed that the release date is September 29th 2007. This is to say that you will probably not be able to sport your Krusell case till the second week of October. If you are looking to pre-order a Krusell case for your iPhone, click on the links below to login in your reservation, Question: Will it be hot or not?

Currently available for pre-order purchase on
http://www.pcs-ltd.com
http://www.AbsolutelyU.com

Noreve – Saint Tropez, French Manufacturer

July 15th, 2007 – Noreve announces their iPhone case. On August 18th, 2007 – Noreve and NoreveUSA launches their pictures on their website. A reliable source reveals that the iPhone case by Noreve will be in stock the week of the August 31st. Shipments to their customers will be on the first week of September.

Currently available for pre-order purchase on

http://AbsolutelyU.com
http://www.NoreveUSA.com(For USA, Canada and Mexico).
http://www.Noreve.com (All other countries)

Style: 7
The black color is always a good standard & the beige interior and stitching help make it stand out a bit more. The addition of the clip and certain parts of the case give it a little bit too much bulk.
Protection: 10
Every part of the device is covered when the case is closed. Krusell even went as far to add an extra flap to keep the device from sliding open on its own.
Functionality: 7
The extra flap described below makes it harder to get to the keyboard. Flip cases always take an extra step.
Clip: 8.5
The Multidapt®-system gets a 10 by itself. The Slide Swivel Kit that comes with it makes the phone stick out too far when its on your belt.
Overall: 8
(not an average) A good case that has only a couple minor flaws. A touch more styling and a slimmer design would have given it a better score.

Read on for the detailed review and pictures…

Where To Buy:

• AbsolutelyU.com – $29.95
• PCS-Ltd.com – $27.95 

Krusell is a Swedish company that began designing cases in 1991. Most of their cases are designed in leather with the rare exception of PVC Rubber cases. Krusell’s greatest accomplishment is their Multidapt®-system, which allows you to choose from a multitude of clips & accessories. Today I am reviewing their Orbit case for the HTC S710. Krusell has different names for all of their styles of cases. The Orbit case is a flip design geared towards PDAs and Smartphones. It is the most protective design they create, aside from their universal cases. Each Orbit case is custom designed to fit each different model. This one fits the HTC S710 Vox, the Orange SPV E650 & Dopod C500. This case comes retail packaged with the clip being a Slide Swivel Kit. More on that later. Now let’s get started on the details…

Packaging
 The Krusell packaging is the best in the area of cases. Now that’s not a reason to run off and buy a Krusell case, but FYI it is an award-winning package. It is a very nice cardboard tri-fold box that showcases the case inside very nicely. Now please READ the directions on how to remove the case from the box, as brute strength will do nothing but damage the case.

Quality of Materials
 The Krusell HTC S710 case is crafted in genuine leather both inside and out. The outside leather is black and has a glossy finish, while the inside leather is beige and has a matte finish. The beige stitching throughout the case is nice to look at and seems well manufactured. The plastic over the screen and keys tend to reflect a lot of glare look like they can tear easily. The metal Krusell logo on the front is a nice touch and all snaps will surely last as long as the case.

Color
 As stated above the outside leather is designed in black with beige stitching and beige leather on the inside. For the Orbit line of cases this is the only color. Krusell is just starting to experiment with other colors and I think they need to expand that experimentation to the Orbit line. For the HTC S710 this color combination compliments the device well.

Fit & Design
 This Krusell case for the HTC Vox is a flip design, meaning that it covers the entire device. Getting the phone into the case has been a very exhausting thing to do. This has been the hardest case for me to get onto a phone. Thankfully instructions are provided. When putting the phone in the first time, the plastic that covers the keyboard is hard to fit right. It continuously bunches up and folds over itself. The leather is also very tight & this is where brute strength comes in. Once you have done it a few times, it gets easier but only by a little bit. This is definitely not a case that you want to always be taking your phone in and out of. Thankfully the design makes it unnecessary to do that.
 Because this is a sliding phone Krusell wanted to allow it to do so while still in the case. There is a large piece of plastic that covers the entire keyboard that does not interfere with the use of the keyboard, but does make the buttons feel different. When the slide is closed there is an additional piece of plastic that snaps over the front of the phone to keep it from sliding open on accident. The plastic only covers the screen and leaves the numeric keyboard open. In my opinion, this is an unnecessary piece and only makes the case more bulky and less accessible. Aside from that piece everything else is well executed. You have access to all of the buttons on each side of the phone. Access to the bottom section is only available when the snap is open. On the back there is a mesh cutout for the speaker. The camera is available to you when you open the snap of the case and fold it back. There is a magnet on the back of the case that holds the flap in place. The inside of the flap also has a section to hold 1 microSD card.

Protection
 As I said above, the flip design by Krusell is the most protective of their designs. The HTC S710 is well-protected inside the case. The case is designed very well in that if you were to clumsily drop this Smartphone the case would be the one to make contact with the ground. When the case is closed there is no way for the device to make direct contact with the ground. The front of the case is well padded and the back is reinforced.

Clip
 Probably the greatest part of the entire Krusell line is their Multidapt®-system. This patented system is designed to allow you to change clips easily. Krusell has 15+ clip and strap options, ranging from leather swivel kits to armbands, to car holder kits. You will be seeing reviews of each clip system in the future. For now, let’s focus on the clip that comes with the case, the Slide Swivel Kit. The Multidapt® piece that is affixed to the back of the case is made out of hardened plastic and is the receptor for the clips.
 The Slide Swivel Kit comes in two pieces, the button and the clip. Once you slide the button to the back of the case, you can begin to use the clip. Once the clip is attached to the case, it swivels freely allowing gravity to take it where it wants. It is very secure to the case & clips to a belt nicely. My problem is that it sticks out from your side pretty far, making it an easy target for doorways and other things that might attack your side at waist level. The quick release at the top of the clip is easy to use. The clip can be easily detached from your belt with one hand. Maybe try out the Leather Swivel Kit, as it does not stick out quite as far.

Conclusion
 The Krusell leather case for the HTC S710/Vox is a pretty good case. Once you actually are able to position the phone correctly inside the case, it does its job of protecting the device. The extra flap of plastic over the phone is pointless and makes it harder to get to your email & text messages. The Multidapt®-system has been and always will be Krusell’s strongest point. If you are a person who enjoys clips then Krusell is the way to go. The rest of the case is nice and everything is done well. Nothing else really jumps out at me, making this just another good quality leather case. Krusell, lets work a little harder on those clip options, ok?

12►

Where To Buy:

• AbsolutelyU.com – $29.95
• PCS-Ltd.com – $27.95