It takes a lot to get this reviewer excited about an iPhone case. To get my attention, a case either has to have a function that is completely unique, or be so distinctive that it stands out in the crowd. The WÜD (US$39.95 – $69.95) and RÖK (US$39.95) cases from Virginia-based WÜD fit the latter criterion in that each case is indeed a one-of-a-kind specimen that will never be duplicated.
Design
Any recent iPhone can be outfitted with a WÜD or RÖK case; they’re available for iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone SE, iPhone 5s, and iPhone 5.
The WÜD and RÖK cases share a common piece; a very thin and well-designed polycarbonate and rubber shell that protects the sides of the iPhone and provides a base for the natural wood or stone backing. That shell only adds 1.8mm (0.071 inches) to the thickness of the phone. The cases are also quite light: 1.2 oz (34gr).
With the WÜD case, the back is inlayed with a one-off thin veneer of burl wood that is injected with dyed resin, sanded by hand, treated with a protectant, then cut to size with a laser. The RÖK case begins its life at a slate stone quarry, with slabs sliced incredibly thin. Those stone pieces retreated with a protectant, then cut to fit the plastic case shell.
For both types of cases, customers are offered a variety of types of stone or burl wood. For example, the RÖK cases come in “Space”, “Meteor”, “Aztec”, “Mars”, “Crater”, “Canyon” and “Volcanic”. Each has a slightly different look, tint, and texture. Select one of those types, and your case will look similar to the examples shown on the site — but since they’re made of natural material, the look will vary and you will get a completely unique case.
The burl wood WÜD cases come in five different types: Limited Edition (natural), Blue Stabilized, Red Stabilized, Green Stabilized and Purple Stabilized.
Function
Let’s face it; these cases fit their goal of protecting your iPhone quite well and they’re easy to both install and remove. But let’s talk about their real function; making your iPhone look good!
First, the RÖK case I reviewed was stunning. Judging from the subtle greenish tint to some of the stone, the case was using the “Meteor” finish. The texture is wonderful, and the colors vary all over the spectrum from deep rust to an almost sea green.
Moving on to the WÜD case, it appeared to be made of the green stabilized burl wood although the colors varied from turquoise to almost pink. Unlike the RÖK case, the back felt quite smooth, although there are small natural indentations in the wood surface.
The big thing is that each RÖK and WÜD case is unlike any other that has been made or that will be made in the future. This is the perfect iPhone case for the true individualist, someone who wants an iPhone case that nobody else in the world will have. The fact that WÜD does this at a surprisingly affordable price is just icing on the cake.
Conclusion
Completely unique, protective, attractive, and affordable, the WÜD and RÖK cases are perfect for you or as a gift!
