The iPad cases are starting to roll on and, as expected, they are coming in a few basic designs. Among the most popular thus far are the slip-cases or sleeves that offer full protection for the iPad when in transport but let you remove the iPad and use it naked (or protected by a clear skin) when you want to use it.
Case in point- the be.ez LA robe iPad Allure.
From the company-
Don’t compromise with “net book-compatible” sleeves, LA robe iPad is adjusted to fit your iPad exactly, offering the best protection and style in the minimum volume to carry out.
The sleeve features-
-a protective thickness of 5MM
-a “trendy, unique design”
-soft fleece fabric inside
-the ability to use it alone or throw it in a bag for transport
The case is available in Allure Red Kiss (red), Allure Color (multi-colored stripes), Allure Moka (mocha) and Allure Black (Black). We were sent a review unit in Mocha.
The be.ez LA robe is a simple design with some nice, albeit understated, features. It is made from good quality material that has a bit of a sheen to it. Elana noted that it looks and feels like the material used in some of her swimsuits and, as a result, she would likely be a bit careful as it might (might!) be prone to pulling. Vertical stripes in varied shades/colors and widths provided interest and a sense of “depth” to the fabric. I was surprised to find that it was a bit rougher than expected. (More accurately, perhaps, it was less smooth than it I expected.) Note that isn’t a criticism, just an observation.
On both sides of the sleeve there is a “.e” logo (with the “e” backwards) for the company in one of the same colors as the stripes. It is there but is easy to miss if yu look at the sleeve quickly. The metal pull, which has a nice curve to it that makes grabbing and pulling on it easy, also has this backward “.e” stamped on both sides. be.ez gets a gold start for including the requisite branding on the sleeve in a remarkably subtle and understated manner.
The interior material is soft, although not as soft as I expected.
The top zipper seems up to the task and, as noted, the pull is crafted in a manner that makes it easy to grab and pull.
The zipper is attached to the outside material so that the interior material creates a “lip” of fabric that keeps it away from the iPad.
The iPad fits inside as expected and, thanks to the zipper, isn’t going anywhere until you want it to.
In all the sleeve looks good and seems well-made. It offers a nice degree of padding and, as such, is a good choice for someone who does not want to have to worry about their iPad when throwing it into a bag or other larger case.
The Be.ez LA robe Allure Sleeve for the iPad is available from Amazon.com, as well as a variety of other retailers.
MSRP: $29.99
What I Like: Well made; clearly designed to fit the iPad specifically, and it does so nicely; finish and material look nice
What Needs Improvement: The interior is not as soft as I expected
geardiary: e.ez LA robe iPad Allure – Review – http://www.geardiary.com/2010/04/10/e-ez-la-robe-ipad-allure-review/
Looks like a good design for there not being much time between now and the iPad launch. The not so smooth exterior is likely so it doesn’t slip out of your fingers while carrying it.
P.s. Can you throw one of these in when I win your iPad? Hehe
I’m such a moron, just noticed you are including one in the giveaway. Forgive my airhead moment…I’m sure it won’t be the last.