Though I’m usually not a huge fan of iPad sleeves, there are a few that really stick out from the crowd. One of these sleeves is the Bowden by the folks at FineGrain, a relatively new startup that focuses on iPad sleeves. The Bowden is a sleeve that is handcrafted from a mix of leather, aircraft grade aluminum and wood, giving a hip and minimalistic look.
The Bowden’s design is quite unique. To insert your iPad into the case, you’ll have to flip open the leather front flap and slide your tablet to the felt coated interior. This material ensures that the Bowden will stay free of any rough materials that could damage your iPad. The edges of the case are crafted from aluminum frames and hold together a real wooden slab that looks classy and provides protection from damage due to drops. This wooden slab also makes up the back of the case.
If you’d like to purchase a Bowden case for your iPad, expect to spend $190 via FineGrain’s website. While I do agree that this sleeve is out-of-this-world expensive, you’re getting premium materials in a very nice package. The case is also available in four different color options, each of which uses a different combination of wood type and leather color. As of now, the case is only available to iPad 2, 3 and 4 users. FineGrain has not yet started to produce this case for the iPad mini.
