Over the past few weeks, I’ve been boating my iPhones around in Bellroy cases. One features a slightly more rugged design, while the other utilizes the company’s new Innovera faux leather fabric. I’ve also been using the Innovera MagSafe Wallet, and I’ve really fallen for its unique book shape.
I’ll start with the Venture case that I’ve been using for my iPhone 17 Pro Max. This is the company’s more rugged option, and at $65, it comes in a lot cheaper than the Beats case I reviewed earlier. However, the Bellroy case is also more comfortable to hold, features a simple lanyard, and has nice textured metal buttons.
I like the look of the case, but the Fog colour I got to review is more blue than I expected, so it looks a bit awkward with the orange iPhone beneath it. Both colour options appear to match the silver or blue iPhone 17 Pro models more closely. It’s not a huge deal, but something to be aware of.
There is, of course, a passthrough capacitive sensor for Camera Control, and I like the offset colour of the button, which gives some contrast and technicality to the case. The button is also raised, so it doesn’t fall into the same trap as the rugged Beats case, which forced your finger to sit on the control area all the time.
You’ll also notice that there actually are some grooves along the sides to provide grip. This placement gives your fingers something to push against and makes using the large phone a bit easier. It’s a small improvement, but it does a lot for how it feels when you’re holding it.
Finally, the lanyard is nice, but it won’t be for everyone. You can take it off if you want, but I will say it has become one of my cat’s favourite toys as he swats at it when I’m using the phone and he’s beside me on the couch.
Bellroy’s MagSafe wallet
The company’s Magnetic Wallet has a unique design where the front and back are folded together on one side to give it the shape and feel of a little book. It’s a little bulkier than Apple’s version, but I still wouldn’t call it large. On the contrary, the extra surface makes it a little easier to peel off your phone.
The real secret trick is that the top corner folds down, and when it’s down, it works as a kickstand. You really need to work in the fabric crease when you first get it, but once it’s worn in, it works much better. That said, it might not be the best kickstand accessory if you have a light phone like the iPhone 17 or iPhone Air. If you have it on one of those phones, you’ll want to ensure you’re using a case to provide the phone with some added friction to stop the phone from sliding around due to the force of the kickstand.
How does the Innovera fabric feel?
The final case I got to test is the slim Innovera case for the iPhone Air. It’s not too bad, and the fabric definitely feels more like leather than the really cheap Elgo cases that I tested earlier. Beyond that, there isn’t a lot to say, it’s a standard case. It fits nicely, but it’s offering the bare minimum of drop protection.
It has nice clicky metal buttons that match the case, and I really like the taupe and butterscotch colours. The natural tones really remind me of leather, even if they’re not right on the nose with typical leather colours. I think these will also patina nicely over time, but it’s going to take a bit for that to happen. I’ve been using the wallet for two weeks so far, and it still looks brand new.
The real downside of this case is that the price is around $75, which does feel a little much for this one. Especially since the Venture case ends up being $10 cheaper. Still, both cases are pretty nice, and if you’re looking for a good leather alternative, this one hits the mark.
