I’m a fan of pouch cases for the iPhone, as I like to feel the actual phone in my hand when I’m using it, rather than whatever case it’s wrapped in.  What pouches don’t always do though, is offer the same degree of protection that a case does, but this Proporta pouch uses an ingenious method to overcome this flaw.

Once removed from its attractive packaging, the case is revealed as stylish and understated, however if we try to squash it like you feel a leather pouch should, you’ll find that the leather conceals a plate to stop you from doing so.  As you’ve probably guessed from the name, this plate is made of aluminum, so it’s light but strong and should help avoid any screen-threatening mishaps.  The plate only covers the front of the pouch, as the rear has a special tag used for assisting in the removal of your iPhone.

It’s simple enough, as giving it a tug when your iPhone is in the pouch sees it rise out of the top, without the need for digging into the case with your fingers.  The fit is super-snug and there is absolutely no excess room inside whatsoever.  While this means the phone will never accidentally slip out, it does present one problem, as my iPhone 4, like some others, suffers from antenna problems when held in a certain way, which means I really have to use a case.  Even Apple’s own Bumper, which is relatively slim, makes the phone too big.  It’s so tight in there, that I wonder whether a screen protector would cause a problem!

This aside though, it adds very little in terms of size and weight to the iPhone 4, it’s beautifully made with good, even stitching, a soft liner and a proper leather feel and smell to it.  It’s a wonderfully tactile little thing too!  So much so that it’s tempting to put up with fewer bars of reception just to use it!  It costs $43.95 or £29.95, so it is expensive, but believe me when I say the price reflects the quality here.

You can purchase the Proporta iPhone 4 Aluminium Lined Leather Pouch direct from Proporta’s website.