Available in a number of different colors, including some not pictured here, Itskins’ Evolution ($40) is the latest iPhone 5/5s case from a company recognized most for a design language of unique curves. Made from layers of rubber and plastic, Evolution reminds us of Spigen SGP’s Tough Armor: the case includes rubber that sticks through the back, mirroring the design of the phone itself. Screen film and cleaning tools are included with the case.
If you put in a little effort, the rubber inner layer can be removed from Evolution’s plastic skeleton, but it certainly seems like it’s meant to stay together. Like Tough Armor, the rubber extends out to include button coverage along the edges, and leaves three openings at the bottom for access to the ports and grilles. The Sleep/Wake button becomes a little squishier than we like, but the volume buttons maintain the right level of tactility.
One of the strongest features of this case is the color lineup available, including the gold option. While not identical, it’s the closest to the gold aluminum iPhone 5s we’ve yet seen, and if it had white rubber instead of black, would match the rarer model almost perfectly. Even still, the finishes are quite nice. Combine that with the shape of the case and how well it feels in the hand, and it’s not a bad option at all.
At the same $30 price point as Tough Armor, Evolution would be just about on par, albeit with the advantage of not leaving the Apple logo exposed. The $40 asking price strikes us as a little too high, though, even given the strong aesthetics. That’s why it earns a B rating: it’s worth recommending, but at this price point, there are still more protective options, many of which look quite nice, too.
Our Rating
Company and Price
Company: Itskins
Website: www.itskins.com
Model: Evolution
Price: $40
Compatible: iPhone 5/5s