Of all of the many cases that we review here at Apple World Today, there are a handful that I decide to keep and use as protection on whatever iPhone I’m currently using. One that was a “keeper” was the Lander Powell case, aptly billed as “expedition grade” protection for an iPhone. Sadly, when I moved to the iPhone 7 Plus I was forced to leave my Powell case behind… until now, with the classic case now updated for the newest iPhone. The Lander Powell case for iPhone 7 Plus ($39.95) continues the tradition of being a strong, yet slim iPhone case that provides protection without being bulky.
Design
Many “rugged” cases are bulky and thick, often interfering with easy use and handling of the iPhone. The Powell has been my favorite for a while since it’s a very slim case that meets the MIL-STD 810 testing regime, although Lander does not specify what tests are performed.
Three design features of the Powell stand out in my mind as being unique and useful. First, the back of the case has five longitudinal ridges that not only look good, but provide extra strength in much the way that corrugated steel can withstand pressure better than a flat piece of steel. Next, the edges of the case are textured to provide a better grip. The Powell is the best case I’ve found for holding an iPhone while wearing gloves. Finally, there’s a subtle raised bezel that protects the iPhone screen from “flat drops” that might otherwise crack the display.
Cutouts are provide for the dual iPhone 7 Plus cameras, the mute switch, the Lightning port and the bottom speakers. There are pass-through buttons for the power switch and volume rocker.
The Lander comes in two finishes: black and dark blue.
Function
The days of bulky, boxy protective cases for iPhones have passed. With the new water-resistant design of the iPhone 7/7 Plus, a strong case like the Powell and a glass screen protector can turn the iPhone into a lightweight armored beast.
The Lander is quite easy to install and remove — important for those of us who review cases — and I appreciate the fact that it doesn’t add any bulk to the iPhone 7 Plus. The protection adds only 1.3 ounces (36.9 grams) of weight.
Conclusion
Maybe it’s my upbringing in the Rocky Mountain region — the home of Lander — that makes the Powell such an attractive and useful case to me, but I still find it to be one of the best protective cases for my needs. It’s well worth the $39.95 price tag, and will keep your iPhone 7/7 Plus (or iPhone 6/6s/6 Plus/6s Plus) safe and sound.
Apple World Today Rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★★
