The iPhone 6 is out, and it looks an awful lot like an iPad. But everyone is talking about that. Instead, let’s focus on our favorite Apple gadget, the iPad Air, for a minute. We love it for reading books and magazines, watching New York Times videos and keeping up with our Instagram feeds in large format. To ensure that your iPad has a long and happy life, you’ll need a good case. We’ve tested a few, and these are our favorites.
DODOcase Classic
DODOcase is the original book-style case for the iPad. It’s made in San Francisco using traditional bookbinding techniques, helping preserve the craft of bookmaking. The exterior is made out of Moroccan book cloth and resembles a classic Moleskin notebook — stylish and functional. On the inside, your device is cradled in an eco-friendly bamboo tray. The classic model comes in three interior colors — red, sky blue and charcoal. A new multi-angle version is also available. If you’re looking to get more expressive, DODOcase lets you design your own case, choosing from a wide variety of materials and patterns for both the exterior and interior. It’s way too much fun, try it at your own risk. Also available for the iPad Mini.
$64.95 – $89.95, DODOcase
Cygnett Paradox Folio Case
If you prefer a slim functional case, Cygnett’s Paradox is a great option. Inspired by nature-tech, it features a clever folding cover that enables many different viewing positions. The soft, textured finish feels pleasant to hold and is a bit “grippy” to keep you from dropping it. The inside has a microfiber lining that protects the screen when you close the cover. We do miss the bright yellow version that used to be available, but there are still some fun colors to choose from.
$49.99, Cygnett
Pad & Quill Contega Linen Case
This book-style case is handmade at Pad & Quill’s bindery in St. Paul, MN. The exterior is wrapped in a beautiful, durable buckram cloth. The interior features finely finished Baltic birch wood, hand-applied bindery cloth and a ribbon bookmark that allows you to easily get your device in and out of the case. A multi-channel positioning system allows you to prop the Contega Linen in a number of useful ways. This is a very elegant case that looks like it belongs on the bookshelf of a literary connoisseur, albeit one that happens to read his books on a tablet. Also available for the iPad Mini.
$99.99, Pad & Quill
Sleeve by Nedrelow
If you prefer to use your iPad without a case, you’ll want a good sleeve to use when carrying it around. This felt sleeve is made in Minneapolis, from 100% natural and sustainable wool felt. We love the stylish, timeless design and natural feel. The iPad Air fits snugly in there, and the 1/8″ thick felt provides just enough protection, without taking up too much space in your bag. It’s also great to use as a resting place to protect your device from scratching and slipping when you put it down between uses. Also available for the iPad Mini.
$34.99, For the Store
C6 Neoprene Zip Sleeve
This zip sleeve is designed to precisely follow the contours of your iPad with no internal or external seaming, for a perfect fit. It’s a sportier option, suitable for people constantly on the move. What we really love about this case is the wide variety of fun color combinations available — from bold brights with contrasting zippers to more subtle tone on tone options.
£25, C6 Life
