If you are looking for a maximum protection solution for the screen of the iPad 2 this pouch from Proporta is a good option. It is compatible with the Apple Smart Cover that adds an extra layer of screen protection. The pouch by itself protects well by the trademarked “screen saver system” from Proporta. This is a sheet of aluminium sewn into the front of the pouch covering the entire screen.
The material used in the Leather Style Pouch is made from an alternative to leather. What this alternative is I am not certain of. As the edges are painted I presume that it is a mixture of low grade leather and recycled leather. Long-term durability might be an issue, and I have seen small scuffs making permanent dents. From afar the pouch looks great, but up close I can see the imperfections clearly. This lacks the usual Proporta level of workmanship. There where some seams that had started tearing before it was removed from the packaging. The thread also seems a bit too weak for the task at hand. It might have been enough for the smaller iPhone cases, but the iPad ones have to absorb more force. The painted edges also look poor up close.
The lining is made from a nice simple pinstriped soft material. Here there are also some issues with loose threads on the inside of the pouch.
For style a really neat looking contrast stitched speed stripe has been placed on the left side of the pouch. Three parallel stripes with black/green/black makes for a subtle design detail that gives the pouch a whole lot of personality.
When the iPad 2 is inside the pouch all function but the silent button, and headphone socket are inaccessible. For charging you can turn the iPad 2 upside down inside the pouch if you want it protected from falling debris. Another option is of course to clean out your office to avoid having stuff falling down.
The Leather Style Pouch is meant to be used with the Apple Smart Cover, but it also works well with thin back covers such as the Proporta Hard Shell Back Cover. Using the iPad 2 in the pouch without either a back cover or Smart Cover means it will fall out quite easily. If you make sure to always walk about with the opening facing upwards this is an option, but I advice against it and so does Proporta. I prefer using this pouch with a back cover, as the screen is protected when I don’t need to use the iPad.
Extracting the iPad is quite easy, and is done by grabbing it from the top. There is no way to push it out from the bottom since the sheet of aluminium makes it quite rigid. I prefer having the option to use a pull strap or freedom to push it out to avoid smudging the screen. It still works quite well pulling it out, but it demands both hands.
I am kind of disappointed in the level of craftsmanship, and materials used in the Leather Style Pouch. Proporta has created a stylish pouch that is compatible with either a back cover or Smart Cover. From afar it looks sleek, but up close there are quite a few imperfections. In the pouch segment it still provides the best available protection, and that is still a good reason to get it.
Final Rating
Leather Style Pouch at Proporta.co.uk £34.95
