Designed for travel, Hemings ($60) is a nice new take on the iPad Air portfolio-style case, and is one of the better products we’ve seen from the Incipio-owned brand. Its looks and functionality make it suitable for the office, while pockets hold accessories and more for when you’re on the go. The waxed canvas-like vinyl exterior comes in eight rather subdued colors, offering personalization while remaining professional.
A zipper with a genuine leather pull tab runs along the edge of the case, and while it’s closed, the only part of the iPad Hemings leaves exposed is the rear camera. We find this to be a good thing, as it means you won’t have to remove the tablet from the case to take pictures.
It’s a rare design choice on this style of case for some reason, but it’s a smart one. Inside, there are three distinct components: a set of pockets on the left, a plastic shell on the right, and a microsuede divider between them.
The case is lined with a soft canvas material, and we really like the feel of it. There are six total pockets: four are business card-sized, one is twice that width, and the largest runs the entire height of the portfolio. They’re loose enough to accept accessories without a struggle, and even earbuds and cords can be packed inside.
The divider is permanently sewn in place, protecting the iPad Air’s display from whatever extras may be packed along with it. Look closely and you’ll find a pen holder along the spine.
Hemings’ shell isn’t drastically different from any other shell we’ve tested. The lack of button coverage and partially exposed chamfered edge aren’t as big of a deal as they would be on cases with the folio to offer extra protection. Because it’s sewn on at the right edge, it can be difficult to access the tablet’s volume buttons and side switch, but it’s not that bothersome.
