Freshfiber creates 3d-sculptured cases using strong nylon fiber. One of their 3G/3GS cases blew me away back in March, and now a new batch of exciting cases have been released for the iPhone 4. First out is the multipurpose Mondriaan case. If you immediately recognise the name Mondriaan it might be because of a great iPhone game reviewed here.
The Mondriaan case is based upon the cool geometric patterns found in the paintings of Piet Mondrian. Interpreted in 3d printing by artist Janne Kytannen the case is certainly something special. The pattern feels random, and completely planned at the same time. Done in two layers the inner layer is tight onto the phone, and the outer layer is about two millimetres further out.
For protection the Mondriaan case focuses on the back, and sides. The corners have been prolonged around the front protecting the screen if you place the phone screen down. The front sides are not protected at all. The back is completely covered, and the dual layers give a spring effect. If you drop it completely back down the case absorbs, and disperses the force.
The Mondriaan can be used for storing a credit card on the back. It is easy to extract, and is held in place by a small pin. Depending on what card you put in the case you get a different artwork. It is rather cool, and turns the case into a kind of futuristic frame. As the case is open the card is not protected against dirt, and grime. I would not want to have my credit card in the case, as it might become too dirty. Furthermore I don’t know if the heat or radiation from the phone might hurt the card. A couple of business cards or even a colour post it note could be used just to create cool patterns instead.
The springy effect of the credit card slot design makes the case feel somewhat loose. If I could choose I would have preferred the case without the credit card slot to make if feel more rigid when you use it.
Attention to detail is meticulous, and even though there are so many details in the patterns there are no visible tool marks anywhere. The main attraction to the Mondriaan case is definitely the design, and the fact that the design can be executed.
There is a cooling effect using the open back structure of the case. The iPhone 4 doesn’t heat up as much as the iPhone 3G, and there is no performance or battery improvement due to using the case.
Grip is excellent due to the fingers finding foothold in the different spaces found on the back. The uneven depth of the back due to the credit card slot can be somewhat bothersome. For longer gaming sessions the surface help keeping the grip fresh, and avoiding fatigue.
The packaging of Freshfiber cases is special as well. Foldout cardboard with printed words of thanks, and wisdom enhance the feel good effect of the product.
Freshfiber make really interesting cases, and Mondriaan is no exception. The credit card slot gives the case an extra use, but at the same time makes it uneven and less rigid. If you are looking for a case that you can keep fresh by replacing whatever motif you have in the slot definitely consider this case.
Final Rating
Mondriaan iPhone 4 case at Freshfiber.com €39.95
