Leather Electronics Cases Archives

October 11, 2024October 11, 2024

Larsen & Ross Minimalist iPhone 6 Sleeve Review – $60

It’s always exciting when new technology is released. The new iPhone 6 has been a huge hit and with it came a flood of new case and sleeve designs. At BestLeather.org, we let the “dust” settle a bit on the initial wave of cases and sleeves and now we’re beginning to review some of the standouts. Whether these cases/sleeves are being reviewed because they’re standouts in design, price, uniqueness, or simplicity we’re planning to review quite a few of them. Our hope is to provide you, the reader, with lots of options to choose from should you choose to purchase the most current iteration of the iPhone. We’ve reviewed a couple of other iPhone 6 case options that include wallet capability, so now we’re going the opposite direction and just focusing on the Larsen & Ross Minimalist iPhone 6 Sleeve.

About Larsen & Ross

Jaren Larsen, founder of Larsen & Ross, has been involved in creating leather products for over twenty years. Larsen & Ross is based out of a Salt Lake City, Utah suburb and is dedicated to creating products that will last for decades. Jaren is deeply committed to using quality materials and creating a durable product that bucks the current trends of our throwaway, disposable society.

Construction

The Minimalist iPhone 6 Sleeve is created with US-sourced 4/5 oz. full grain leather that has a great pull up. What is “pull up”? Pull up defines a quality of certain aniline leathers, which are deeply impregnated with oils and waxes. When the leather is bent or pulled, the oils shift causing lighter tones and color variations. This creates a generally please effect that gives the leather additional character. Pull up leathers are indicative of good durable tanning and finishing processes where the leather is well moisturized and protected by all of the oils impregnated into the hide. And pull up leathers age well and looking more interesting as they distress over time.

Jaren uses a waxed polyester thread for the stitching. The sleeve is 100% handmade. The hand-stitched seams are very even, although you can definitely see a little variation here and there. However, in my opinion, that’s just verification of the 100% handmade status of this piece. The leather is evenly cut and the edges are beveled and hand burnished with beeswax.

I don’t believe any type of cement or sealer is used to secure the two pieces of the sleeve together on the edges as there is some separation and gap that appears here and there. To some that may detract from the design, but to others it simply reinforces the minimalist approach to creating and using the sleeve.

Function

I like this sleeve. It’s simple, features a low profile, feels nice, looks great, and functions perfectly. It holds my iPhone 6 snugly in place and protects it – just the way it is supposed to.

It’s not a bulky case. This is extremely important in my opinion since the new iPhone 6 is so much larger than its predecessors. In fact, it’s so much larger that I was not completely sold on upgrading to it. However, I did decide to make the jump (or as I feel, make the leap backwards a few steps closer to the old early 90s “candy bar style” of cell phones). Thankfully, I’m able to use the Larsen & Ross Minimalist iPhone 6 Sleeve, which doesn’t create much additional bulk at all.

Aesthetic

Aesthetically, the sleeve looks great. The leather is a reddish-brown color bordering on chestnut and the leather’s grain is very appealing. Scuffs and small scratches easily buff out with your finger due to the pull up feature of this leather. My version features the brown thread color. However, you have the choice to have your sleeve come with red or royal blue stitching, which I imagine will create some nice contrast.

In line with its minimalist design, the sleeve often goes under noticed…which is fine, but it is certainly not under appreciated. Once people do notice it, it yields comments because it’s different than the myriad of cases that you see most people sporting on their iPhones.

Conclusion

The Larsen & Ross Minimalist iPhone 6 Sleeve is a solid performer. Its $60 price is not out of line at all – especially when you consider the price of many of the overhyped plastic cases that are on the market. It’s hand made using quality materials and will definitely outlast the usability of the technology it holds. The question is, what will you use it for once the iPhone 7 is out? I already have plans for mine (it also houses portable hard drives nicely). This same style of sleeve is available for the 5, 6, and 6 plus on the Larsen & Ross website too. **Order one before January 2nd and you’ll enjoy a 20.15% discount in honor of the new year making the case a steal at $47.91. In fact, all Larsen & Ross products may be ordered now and receive this same discount.

October 11, 2024October 11, 2024

Waxhaws Salisbury iPhone 6 Wallet Review – $84

Waxhaws has previously sent us some great leather cases to review – “The Classic” iPhone 6 wallet and the iPhone 5 Signature Wallet. Today we are reviewing a completely brand new design. Instead of using the same case + wallet +leather formula of their previous designs, Waxhaws has added a touch of Salisbury Wool to create an entirely new model iPhone 6 case.

CONSTRUCTION

Waxhaws is really all about their Italian full grain vegetable-tanned English Bridle leather. It’s the same whiskey leather used in everything from their iPhone cases to their key cases. The difference this time is in the compartment design and addition of Salisbury Wool. There are two main compartments to this wallet. The exterior is one single panel of leather and the two interior pockets are single sheets of wool. An additional flap of leather is in the interior to create an additional accessory pocket. A single central push tab is used as a closure device.

FUNCTION

This wallet has completely different functions than “The Classic” IPhone 6 wallet. There is no case for the phone. Therefore the phone is best left uncased and slim to slide comfortably into the right pocket. The right pocket is designed with a free edge so headphones can be used on the phone while it is secure in the wallet. At the same time, the screen is not displayed so the phone must be taken out of the wallet to be used. The left pocket is a single pocket used for holding cards, bills, and anything you want to fit in there while the accessory pocket can be used for smaller items such as receipts or business cards. The push tab does offer security to keep things from sliding out. Honestly, this would be a nice leather wallet even without a phone. You can then use the extra pocket for a checkbook or anything else.

Compared to “The Classic” iPhone 6 wallet, the Salisbury wallet is more useful as a slim carry for the minimalist who doesn’t plan on using their phone constantly for gaming and casino with new deposit bonuses, talking, movies, or texting. I see this as the perfect go-to for a night out to a show, play, or date where you need to look sophisticated while staying away from your phone.

AESTHETIC

The Salisbury Wallet also comes with the signature Waxhaws gift box. The exterior of the wallet is plain and simple – all flawless full-grain leather. The interior definitely is a standout. The charcoal grey of the Salisbury wool goes beautifully with the unlined whiskey colored leather interior like the elbow patches on a fine gentleman’s sport coat. The accessory pocket has the Waxhaws logo with fine cross-stitching through the wool. This wallet is definitely the slimmer of the Waxhaws wallet given the lack of a phone casing and has a clean look with even edges (No need for camera cutouts here). The leather is also available in black which adds a more modern and edgy look in contrast to the charcoal wool.

BESTLEATHER CONCLUSION

Waxhaws Salisbury iPhone 6 Wallet is sold on the Waxhaws, Amazon, and Etsy websites. Although not as functional as the Waxhaws iPhone 6 Wallet “The Classic” iPhone 6 w/ kickstand, the Salisbury offers a slimmer, sleeker profile with a touch of “wool” sophistication which makes it a great option for those looking to simplify their carry while still looking smart.

October 11, 2024October 11, 2024

Waltzing Matilda Avery Sleeve for MacBook Pro Review – $160

Sometimes you don’t need a messenger bag, briefcase, or backpack. Yes, that’s probably an odd sounding statement to read from a guy who spends a great deal of time reviewing and testing bags and backpacks. But, seriously…think about it. There are those occasions that crop up when all you really need is your laptop. But, carrying your laptop “in the raw” or “naked”, without some type of protection is just not a wise decision. This is the great thing about laptop sleeves. And, if you’re an Apple fan who also happens to appreciate handmade leather products, you’re in luck thanks to Waltzing Matilda’s Avery Sleeve for MacBook Pro.

About Waltzing Matilda

This is the third piece from Waltzing Matilda that we’ve reviewed here at BestLeather. Their first piece was the amazing Tom’s Bag (which has turned into my daily carry bag. It works splendidly and continues to garner attention and questions from those around me). And, we recently reviewed the BYOB Dual Bottle Carrier – a unique, attractive bag designed to carry two wine bottles (or other beverages packaged in bottles of a similar size and design).

As a quick refresher, Waltzing Matilda is located in Wayne, PA (suburb of Philadelphia). Mike Balitsaris and his team expertly source all of their materials here in the USA and craft each piece by hand. Mike’s passion for his craft shines through in every piece. In my opinion, his pieces hearken back to greater days gone by of industry and pride of workmanship here in the US. It’s refreshing to see that those attributes are still alive and well–represented by Waltzing Matilda and a growing number of makers/crafters here in the US.

The Avery Sleeve for MacBook Pro is no exception. It’s a simple piece, with a simple mission, but it does it oh so well. The Avery Sleeve I received is sized for a 15” MacBook Pro. This is a fortunate thing for my middle son, who uses a 15” MBP at the college he attends in Montana. It’s unfortunate for me, because I use a 13” MacBook Air and do not get the opportunity to use the sleeve. But, I appreciate the fact that my middle son has an appreciation for products designed for longevity and a style that isn’t defined by gaudy logos, nylon, and other low quality materials.

Construction

The Avery Sleeve is constructed of a thick, yet supple leather sourced from a tannery in Maine. The sleeve is made from 3 pieces of leather: the main body piece that wraps around to form the sleeve, the closure strap that wraps around it to secure it, and the slip through closure. In keeping with Waltzing Matilda’s other’s pieces, it sports their signature exposed waxed thread stitching.

Function

As mentioned earlier, sometimes all you need is to slip your computer into a sleeve and run off to a meeting. Or, you might want to insulate your expensive laptop from other items rolling around in your bag or backpack and prevent them from dinging or damaging it. The Avery Sleeve performs both of these roles ideally. The sleeve is streamlined and doesn’t really increase the overall bulk of your computer.

It is worth noting that upon arrival the sleeve is a little tight. Slipping your MacBook into and out of it will take a little effort. However, after performing this routine a few times you’ll notice that the sleeve has stretched a little and your laptop will go in and out of the sleeve with ease, but still maintain its form.

The closure strap is easy to use and works without issue. It’s not complicated, it’s simple, keeps the overall bulk reduced, and stylish.

Aesthetic

I received the brown version of the Avery sleeve. It also comes in black and I’m sure it is equally as stunning with the contrasting thread on it. As with other Waltzing Matilda pieces, it sports a unique style. It’s rugged, yet it’s somewhat refined too. Refined, simplistic ruggedness? That description works for me.

The Avery Sleeve is purpose built. It has a single job to perform. But in doing it, it still exudes quality and a certain style that I appreciate. Personally, I would be comfortable carrying this into one of my local coffeehouses or into any boardroom.

Conclusion

If you own a MacBook Pro, chances are you made a significant financial investment when purchasing it. And, as is the custom with most MBP owners, you plan to keep it around for a while (especially since it will work well for many years to come). Protecting your investment for the long term is a solid decision. Protecting it with a Waltzing Matilda Avery Sleeve for MacBook Pro is a great choice if you’re looking for protection, durability, and style. Plus you’ll be using a 100% Made Here in the USA product. At $160, it’s a fantastic choice. It is also available for 13″ versions of the MacBook Pro. And, if you’re a diehard Apple Store fanatic, you can purchase the Avery Sleeve directly through the Apple Store.

June 30, 2021

Blackbrook Leather Tech Organizer Review – $109.00

As we move forward to a more tech heavy existence, the need for organization becomes crucial. The various tablets, e-readers, smartphones, power and banks all need to be near at hand when we’re on the go. Having an individual case for every item would be overwhelming. That’s where a good carry all like Blackbrook’s Leather Tech Organizer comes into play.

Construction

The Leather Tech Organizer is made from full grain leather. It features a semi rigid shell with an integrated organizer. The interior has a soft lining to prevent scratches/scuffs on more delicate contents. A solid metal zipper securely encloses your contents. It measures 10.63″ x 6.70″ x 2.75″

Function

I find this case to be very versatile. The rigid shell protects delicate items from being crushed in my bag, and is also handy as a mini desk when I’m writing notes on a plane flight or as an impromptu tablet stand. The multiple elastic retainers fit everything from portable power banks to bottles of hand sanitizer.

The design is very adaptable. When going to an appointment or to the doctor’s, we can throw in my daughter’s video games, a few books and a snack. I really like the ability to reuse this case for multiple purposes where specialty cases only work for certain tasks.

Aesthetic

This case really fits the bill of a high quality organizational tool. I like how it adds some sophistication to my devices. I have a Nintendo Switch and all the available cases are pretty juvenile, but this case houses it perfectly and I don’t feel like a 12 year old when I take it to lay the smack down on Super Smash…or maybe I should?

The clean lines, the feel and texture of the leather are all on point. The great thing about leather is the more you use it, the more character it will reveal over time.

Conclusion

We really enjoyed using Blackbrook’s Leather Tech Organizer. The quality construction and good looks were all nice bonuses but the organizational properties really shined through. Able to house almost anything we threw at it, this is a case we’ll continue to use again and again.

December 2, 2020

SENA Walletbook Case For iPhone 12 Review – $79.95

Disclosure: We are a professional review site that receives compensation from the companies whose products we review. We test each product thoroughly and give high marks to only the very best. We are independently owned and the opinions expressed are our own.

5G has finally descended upon us, and with that the latest incarnation of the iPhone. In years past, quality phone cases wouldn’t be available for a few months after a phone’s release. Thankfully now, companies have high quality cases right out of the gate. Here at BestLeather we prefer…leather, so when we saw the Sena Walletbook Case for iPhone 12, we had to try it out.

Construction

This case has a leather exterior with a skeleton consisting of shock absorbing thermoplastic rubber. While this certainly isn’t full grain, it really isn’t necessary.

A soft microfiber lining is used to prevent scratches while housing your phone. The stitching is clean and tight and we see reinforced corners for impact protection. This case seems to have all the protection of an otterbox, but without looking like a Jeep tire.

Function

The Sena Walletbook Case for the iPhone 12 works great as an option for those who want to consolidate their wallet or purse. With more and more financial transactions done by phone, you don’t really need to be concerned with its limited capacity.

You can get about 4-6 cards in it and a few bills before it starts to feel bloated. I did notice the case doesn’t close flat, but is easily remedied by flipping it over so the iPhone’s weight keeps it closed.

The leather acts as a natural shock absorber and barrier against the outside world. The iPhone sits snugly in the hard plastic enclosure. The flap also acts as a very nice stand.

Aesthetic

This case has a very classic vibe to it. I appreciate the sophisticated looks. In a market where most cases are cheap plastic throwaways it’s refreshing to see a product that takes pride in what it does and is more than just a flavor of the day cheap suit for a state of the art electronic device.

Conclusion

The Sena Walletbook Case for iPhone 12 is a handsomely made case that features great storage solutions and still does a good job protecting your phone. The cost is a bit steep, so it’s not for everyone. However, if you want a case that lives up to the phone housing it, it may be worth a second look.

November 8, 2020November 8, 2020

ColsenKeane No. 1214 – Standard Portfolio Case Review – $195

I was helping my brother in law clean out his home office last spring, and amidst the countless obsolete software manuals he must have had a dozen laptop cases. From black nylon zippered pouches to cheap, thin promo ones stamped with corporate logos from trade shows. It really got me to thinking the amount of money people spend on these cases over a lifetime and how buying one very good one can not only save you money, but provide for years of service. Enter ColsenKeane No. 1214 – Standard Portfolio Case.

Construction

The ColsenKeane No. 1214 Standard Portfolio is made of American sourced Full Grain Chrome Tanned Cowhide with Solid Brass straps. A general role of engineering is that less moveable parts equates to better durability.

The No.1214 executes that with one thick full sheet of leather – That’s right, no stitching to come apart on this case at all. 2 Heavy duty brass rivet buttons keep the case flap secure. Measures 13”x9”x1” and comes with a Lifetime Guarantee.

Function

The life of a portfolio sleeve is a simple one. However, it’s only limited in use by your imagination. You can load it with papers, slim electronics and even books. I like to use it to segregate the contents in my bag. It snugly fits my 13” Thinkpad (As well as 13” MacBook Pro and iPad Pro)

While it will prevent surface scuffs, this case provides little impact protection. The buttons have a strong snap and are very secure. The interior leather is soft and won’t scratch delicate electronic surfaces.

Aesthetic

The No. 1214 looks good, plain and simple. It’s not pretentious, yet doesn’t go unnoticed. When you take a material as timeless as leather and expertly craft a sleek case with no unnecessary zippers, handles, etc – you’re left with a dry good that will only get better with age. And unlike laptops, this case can serve for years and years.

Conclusion

The ColsenKeane No. 1214 – Standard Portfolio Case is great looking and built like a tank. It will faithfully serve your laptop and your laptop’s laptop for years to come. At almost $200 dollars, about what it would cost to put a down payment on a Kia, it might not be within everyone’s budget. However, look in your closet at how many laptop sleeves you’ve got and tally the costs per unit. This case will be your favorite and not likely replaced, as they say – Buy the best and only cry once.

May 16, 2018July 11, 2018

Mujjo Full Leather Wallet Case for iPhone X Review – €49.90

A smart phone skin made with top-quality leather is actually a fairly rare find. A sleeve or fold-over protective cover is more common. This is likely due to the relative thickness of good leather. Making it thin enough to protect a phone and remain unobtrusive is a tricky balance. Mujjo is one of the few companies out there that I’ve come across that has given this a shot with their Full Leather Wallet Case.

About Mujjo

Mujjo is a Dutch designer label that began in 2011. Their attitude towards design is to take something simple and make it as perfect as possible. This has resulted in an impressive lineup of fine leather tech accessories. Each is made to look and feel luxurious while also fulfilling it’s intended function fully. I even noticed a sleek wooden MacBook case they produced in a limited run! In their own words:

We try to make our products as simple, striking and functional as possible. This is something that dates back to our early days and will continue as we challenge ourselves going forwards.

Leather & Construction

As the name indicates, the outer surface of the Mujjo case is made with full grain leather. This thin layer is stretched over a rigid plastic material for shape, and a soft velvet material rests against the back of the phone. On the back is a leather sleeve for up to three credit cards, carefully stitched onto the case. Overall, there are no obvious issues with construction, and all materials are of high quality. After several months of typical use, I see very few signs of wear. Impressive for a phone case made with a soft outer material.

I did have one issue with the very thin strip of material surrounding the mute switch on my iPhone X. As I mentioned, making a quality leather phone skin thin and unobtrusive is a challenge. Mujjo has done a fantastic job of keeping this case as thin and sleek as possible, but this also means the case is conforms very tightly to your phone–and can be quite difficult to remove. While removing it from my phone I managed to crack the part of the case around the mute switch. Mujjo tells me that this is something they’ve improved in continuing iterations of the design. Their cases are backed by a two-year warranty. A customer would receive a replacement without charge if this happened to their purchase. A two-year warranty is excellent…most phone owners tend to use a phone for two years before upgrading.

Function

For me, the important aspects of a phone case are, first and foremost, how well it protects your phone, but also how little it hinders the functions of your phone.

First, protection. The Mujjo case isn’t the type that will protect your phone if you throw it across the room at a brick wall, but short of this, it should be very well protected. The Mujjo case has kept my investment safe through some small accidental drops. The lip of the case comes ever-so-slightly above the surface of the screen, to protect against face-first falls. Your pricey iPhone X, in the course of normal use, should remain pristine in the Mujjo Full Leather case.

Next, phone functions. Buttons are covered, but a careful indentation in the leather is recessed around them. Tactile response, while muffled, is still sufficient. The tightness of the case helps in ensuring button presses don’t require extra force.

The Mujjo case leaves plenty of room open around the screen and ports, which is especially important with the edge-to-edge screen of the iPhone X. Drops on flat surfaces will still be stopped by the raised edges, but there’s no hindrance while in use. Mujjo has found a good balance in this regard.

The leather is smooth, but has texture for grip. The profile of the case is fairly minimal. While not ultra thin, I found the added thickness to be unobtrusive. The card sleeve functions as expected, and saved me frustration several times when I didn’t have my wallet on me!

Comparison

One consideration that should be addressed is the fairly obvious comparison to Apple’s own similarly priced leather case. I haven’t used Apple’s version extensively, but a few things stood out when I was able to handle one for a short time. Mujjo’s case is a hair larger and uses a higher caliber leather. Apple’s case uses machined aluminum buttons, giving a better tactile response. Mujjo may be edged out in sleekness, but will win out in phone protection and offers twice the warranty.

Aesthetic

Mujjo’s approach to simplicity in design results in a sleek, beautiful case. I find it highly complementary to my Space Gray iPhone X, in both color and shaping. Button recesses are smooth and don’t disrupt the lines of the case. The design is subtle, uniform, and a great pleasure to look at.

Conclusion

I’m happy to recommend the Mujjo Full Leather Wallet Case. It looks great, feels great, and offers a good level of protection for your phone. The staff over at Mujjo will have your back should you run into the issue I did around the mute button. At €49.90 (~$60 at time of writing), it’s pricier than simple cases, but is highly competitive with top of the line phone cases, particularly any made with fine leather. Mujjo makes cases for other phones and tech as well, so head over to their website to see for yourself.

October 23, 2016November 27, 2021

Pad & Quill Oxford Leather iPad Pro 9.7 Case – $120

Looking for a flashy yet stylish way to carry and protect your iPad Pro? Look no further than the Oxford Leather iPad pro case from Pad & Quill.

With a simple a slim design, this case doesn’t add the unwanted bulk. Perfect for an office setting, travel and anywhere else you’d take your iPad pro to work and show off!

About Pad & Quill

Kari and Brian, founders of Pad & Quill, are out to make their mark on the world of eCommerce. Instead of outsourcing their products to the lowest bidder, they have a strict code that they want all of their products to adhere to, which you can read about here. They have a 25-year warranty on their bags, showing their commitment to longevity. From their website:

“We think there are folks out there who have the same sense of awe as we do when they behold a beautiful thing. Who marvel at how a handful of seeds can become a majestic stand of Baltic Birch, that are then transformed, in artisan hands, into a gorgeous, organic product. There are friends who share our sense of adventure and love to have a bag they pull from their closet with 15 years of travel written upon it, and miles to go. Pad and Quill products will never resemble a trinket pulled from a fast food bag.”

Construction

This case is crafted from a single piece of full-grain bridle leather with a soft black colored American leather interior. The stitching is marine grade nylon and the closing strap is a sturdy elastic band.

There is also a magnet stitched into the interior front cover to trigger the iPad’s ‘sleep’ function.

Residue free adhesive technology keeps the iPad securely in place. Although you can easily remove the iPad from the case, it is recommended that you do this minimally to preserve the adhesive strength. Otherwise, replacement adhesives can be ordered -here-.

An optional Apple pencil accessory is available as well and can be purchase separately -here-.

Closed the case measures 10 inches by 7.5 inches and .75 inches think with the iPad in it. Opened, the case measures 14.5 inches.

Function

The overall basic function of this case is to offer basic protection to your iPad’s screen. Similar to a leather book binder, the cover acts more as a cover than a protection case. Sure it will protect the case and screen from dust and minor drops and bumps, but I do not see it protecting it in a more rugged environment. The inside pocket also serves as a handy place to put notes, receipts or other loose papers. The elastic band holds the case very secure when closet.

There is also, of course a wide rectangular cut out for the iPads rear camera on the back cover.