The second Animal branded case review covers the silicone cases. These come in female and male versions. Strangely enough the masculine version comes in the shape of a Zebra pattern that I would usually associate with a more feminine look. The women’s series come in two different versions: the psychedelic Owl, and straightforward Corp Logo. What all the silicone covers have in common is an attention to detail, and tactile surfaces.
The silicone is rubberized, and the grip is excellent. This also means that the case is prone to attracting dirt and dust. No matter how clean a pocket is there is almost always some specks of dust collected on the case when extracted. The grooves and indentations in the design also collect some extra dirt. The case is easily cleaned using a damp cloth, or with water when the iPhone is not in it. Never clean any case using running water with the iPhone inside.
The tactile properties of the cases are really cool. Having zebra stripes or triangular patterns makes the case easy to grip, and makes it easy to adjust the grip when making calls. The patterns are well made, and I see no wear on them. There are also some cool patterns inside the cases, and that attention to detail is what manufacturer Contour is all about. One thing that detracts somewhat from the overall appeal is the fact that there is a mould line around the case from the manufacturing process.
For protection the Animal silicone cases definitely offer good overall scratch, and impact protection. The back, sides, and to some extent the front are all protected by silicone. The silicone is quite thick, and this is especially noticeable around the sync socket at the bottom where the silicone is rigid instead of flappy. The volume controls, and silent button are covered with silicone. The covered buttons are still responsive.
The Animal silicone cases are in the midrange when it comes to adding bulk and weight. They are thinner than the OtterBox Impact, but thicker than the Speck PixelSkin HD. The rubberized surface adds grip, but also adds dust. For anyone interested in getting a cool tactile case offering a good amount of protection the Animal silicone cases come highly recommended.
Final Rating
Owl Silicone case at Animal.co.uk £21.99
Zebra Silicone case at Animal.co.uk £21.99
