NOMAD has released new, handsome leather cases for the latest iPhone and all are compatible with Qi wireless charging. At least one of their reasonably priced cases will suit everyone — unless he’s looking for a “flavor” rather than rustic brown or black. I’ve had a chance to experiment with the Active Rugged Case and the Rugged Folio.
The former, wrapped in hydrophobic leather, is made from high grade polycarbonate fused to a rubber TPE bumper. It’s designed to offer six-foot drop protection (although, to be honest, I’m not intentionally dropping the pricey iPhone I paid for to test this).
The Active Rugged Case repels water, so will protect your smartphone from splashes and sweat. However, it’s not a waterproof case like those from companies such as Lifeproof. Only the leather is waterproof.
That leather is provided by Heinen, a German tannery established in 1891. According to the folks at NOMAD, while other leather is sprayed with a water-resistant coating that wears off over time, Heinen leather is infused with natural lipids that should never wear out.
The hyrdrophobic leather is resistant to light scratches and scuffs. However, unlike the NOMAD cases built with Horween leather, the Active Rugged Case is designed to develop only a slight patina over time.
It also sports dual lanyard attachment points. Both are built into the reinforced speaker ports on the bottom edge of Active Rugged Case.
Apple World Today Rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★★
The $69.95 Rugged Folio is made from vegetable-tanned Horween leather and designed to look better over time. Much like your favorite pair of raw denim, leather ages in a similar way, developing a patina as oils from your skin and other elements of the environment absorb into it.
Patina isn’t a bad thing; it’s a good thing. In fact, it’s the main reason people fall in love with natural leather in its raw state. Starting with a beautiful pale tan shade, it eventually develops into any range of browns through wear and use.
Not only does the Rugged Folio look good, it offers thin-but-sturdy protection thanks to its polycarbonate body bonded to a raised TPE bumper. Like the Active Rugged Case it promises six-foot drop protection (my previous disclaimer still applies).
Like the previously mentioned case, it has dual lanyard attachment points. Unlike the Active Rugged Case, the Rugged Folio also includes three card slots and one cash slot so may be able to double as a wallet for some folks. And there are two lanyard attachment points, both built into the reinforced speaker ports on the bottom edge of Rugged Folio.
Apple World Today Rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★★
I have no trouble recommending either of these cases. After all, no one makes better looking iPhone accessories than NOMAD.
