As 2014 begins, case manufacturers are as busy as ever. This week’s roundup features a few high-grade bumpers, something to help you shed those extra calories, and even a little something straight out of the Caped Crusader’s glove compartment.
The Shell Gel SG (iPhone 5 and 5s; $28) features three different layers of protection against scratches and bumps, in a convenient package that doesn’t add too much bulk to your handset.
The case comes in blue/purple, blue/navy, white/grey, red/grey, slate/white, slate/pink, and slate/black.
When it comes to its name, the Aluminium Case (iPhone 5 and 5s; $45) is not going to win any prizes for originality, but it sure looks like it means business: Its precision-machined-aluminum frame protects your handset’s weak spots while weighing a mere fourteen grams.
The case is available in red, and it comes with spare screws, a hex wrench, and a complimentary screen protector.
The Embrace 5 (iPhone 5 and 5s; $89 to $108) is an aluminium bumper with a special design that allows it to be installed without the use of tools. It features a super-strong anodized finish and a non-conductive liner for maximum protection that doesn’t interfere with your iPhone’s normal functionality.
The Embrace comes in black with an optional black or titanium-grey back plate.
Holy smartphones, Batman! The Kapow (iPhone 5 and 5s; $30) is a wallet case that protects your device like a superhero thanks to wraparound construction and extra padding.
The case, which doubles as a viewing stand in landscape orientation, also comes with two interior pockets that can be used to hold credit cards and some spare cash.
The PureMove (iPhone 5, 5c, and 5s; $50) is designed to keep your handset safe and handy during your daily exercise, with a special snap-on mechanism that provides easy access to all ports and controls, along with a moisture-wicking armband that’s comfortable and resist bacterial growth.
The case is available in black/pink or black/green.
The Hollow Out Nest (iPhone 5 and 5s; $2) is as inexpensive a case as you’re likely to find anywhere, with a simple design that protects your handset while adding minimum bulk and weight.
The case comes in purple, blue, pink, yellow, black, fucsia, slate, or navy.
The company’s eponymous gel skin (iPhone 5 and 5s; $20) is designed to adhere to the back of your handset and protect it with a minimalist profile that also feels great in your hand.
The covering comes in slate, grey, or tan.
The Canvas (iPhone 5 and 5s; $25) is made from a durable, canvas material coated with a matte, scratch-resistant layer that protects both the case and your phone from everyday accidents like drops and bumps.
The Canvas is available in black, red, or pink.
Author: Marco Tabini
Marco Tabini is based in Toronto, Canada, where he focuses on software development for mobile devices and for the Web.