Waterfield Designs Ultimate SleeveCase for iPad

I’ve been a fan of Waterfield Designs’ work for many years, thanks to the San Francisco-based company’s solidly built and stylish cases, bags, and purses. I’m just as enthusiastic about Waterfield’s Ultimate SleeveCase.

The case is portfolio-style affair with a padded, ballistic-nylon shell, a rigid screen insert, a soft lining, and an optional leather bottom. The outside bears an accessory pocket and a flap that seals with a Velcro strip. When placing your order, you choose the standard nylon bottom ($55) or soft leather bottom ($59); whether you want horizontal or vertical orientation (the horizontal case is designed to go inside messenger bags or briefcases, while the vertical design is more appropriate for backpacks); and one of several shoulder-strap options. A shoulder strap is handy if you intend to carry the SleeveCase by itself, rather than tucked into a larger bag or backpack—you can choose Waterfield’s Simple Strap Mini ($9) or the wider Suspension Strap Mini ($19), or you can simply add a pair of D-rings for using your own strap ($5).

The SleeveCase provides a secure fit for your iPad, but not one that’s too snug—open the sleeve, tip it over, and your iPad will slip out. And the soft interior wipes away some the iPad’s screen smudges whenever you insert or remove the device. With the SleeveCase’s thick lining and shell, this isn’t the trimmest iPad sleeve you’ll find—if you’re after nothing more than a sleeve that protects the iPad from scratches and smudges, this is overkill. But if you need greater protection in a stylish sleeve, this one is worthy of your consideration.