When I opened the mail and unwrapped G-Form's Extreme Edge iPad case, the first thing I said was "God, this thing is ugly." The Lady disagreed, and while I still don't think the rugged case will win many beauty awards, its practicality has won me over.
The Extreme Edge case works like the skins that slide on to protect the back and sides of the iPad, only it's a lot thicker. Once snugly ensconced, held fast by four fat corner sections, the iPad looks a little like a baby wrapped up against the winter cold, its little face peeking out from the padding around it.
The case is made from something called PORON XRD, a foam-like material that is light and flexible until something hits it. Upon impact, the foam stiffens and--according to the manufacturer--absorbs up to 90% of the force. This makes it great for, say, carrying your iPad up in a bike handlebar bag where it is constantly getting jiggled and bumped.
It seems to work, too. I didn't try dropping my iPad while inside because I'm a wuss, but there are people less careful than me who have dropped bowling balls onto the thing.
The case itself adds some bulk (whilst remaining light), and covers up everything except the screen and the camera. This isn't all bad: Whilst the volume controls can just about be reached by poking in a finger, the power button can be pressed through the case (there's a little nodule to guide your finger to the right spot) and the headphone jack is accessible via a gap between the main case and the corner restraints. You can plug in the dock connector by peeling the bottom lip away slightly.
The screen is somewhat protected because the four corners stick out and stop it from hitting any flat surface. But if you drop it, Murphy's law dictates that the screen will find the nearest blunt object and head straight for it.
If you want all-round protection, G-Form also makes a full sleeve, but this version seems to offer a good compromise. It also makes the iPad very easy to hold when you're using it, thanks to the easy-to-grip "bezel" it forms around the tablet.
The Extreme Edge, which will fit just about any 10-inch tablet, is available now for $45.
The Extreme Edge, which will fit just about any 10-inch tablet, is available now for $45.
Extreme Edge product page [G-Form. Thanks, Kristen!]
