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WaterField MacBook Vertical SleeveCase

by Simon Helton

WaterField Designs

Price	$38 and up, depending on configuration
Requirements:	13-inch MacBook
What's Hot:	Thoughtful design, excellent construction, good price
What's Not:	Only comes in black

Note: Because it shares much in common with the vertical SleeveCase, portions of that review will be reused here. Mac users are spoiled for choices when it comes to keeping their portable housed in something both stylish and protective. Several companies are making terrific products to cater to all needs, desires, and budgets. One of the companies leading the way has been WaterField Designs, and their line of sleeves is no exception. I'll be taking a look at their SleeveCase for the 13-inch MacBook in a horizontal orientation, in its most minimalistic form: no flap over the opening, no shoulder strap, and no piggyback attachment for storing peripherals.

Most people hear 'sleeve' and think a simple affair: something protective for falls and scratches with a close fit. WaterField, though, offers several options for configuring a sleeve to be minimalistic or nearly a complete replacement for a laptop bag. Options include a flap to completely cover the open end of the sleeve, multiple shoulder strap options, and a piggyback pouch for accessories. In my review unit without the flap, protection is still very good, but the open end does make it possible for dust, liquid, etc., to reach the laptop. Depending on your needs, a flap might be an unncessary extra, or a significant protective benefit. The sleeve itself includes a slot for putting files, papers, etc., giving it some added versatility.

The sleeve itself shows a similarly great attention to detail and construction quality. The external material is ballistic nylon, known for its ruggedness, with a soft and gentle lining on the inside. It's obvious that the designers paid attention to what material would be in contact with what, as the lining and velcro are situated so that no scratches will befall the laptop. The fit is quite good on the MacBook, with no excessive room for shifting contents or obnoxiously tight quarters. The level of protection is also quite substantial. While some sleeves are more for looks and protection from minor scratches, I would not fear dropping my MacBook while in the SleeveCase. There is a very slight rigidity from the padding, but it is a soft case.

Overall, I'm quite pleased with the SleeveCase and think the flexibility it offers makes it suitable for a lot of usage types. The construction appears to be very good, the materials high quality, and the design well-conceived.

Update: A WaterField employee has let me know that there is a handle available, but it's simply not part of the regular online options. If you're interested in this option, which is about $12 and includes the necessary D-rings, email WaterField. The handle includes a mountain bike-style grip that looks good and should provide plenty of durability.