Native Union Stow Slim
Native Union’s Stow Slim for iPad is available in for the 11” iPad Pro (which also fits the iPad Air & 10.2 iPad) and 12.9” iPad Pro.
Native Union has released a pair of elegant and minimalist sleeves for the iPad. Here are my thought on these as a premium sleeve for your iPad.
Their Best Qualities
Design: One of the cleanest and minimalist cases I've seen available for the iPad. The build quality is premium, a cleanly stitched wrapping of dark grey weathered canvas that looks as clean and refined as it is durable. The iPad is inserted into the top of the sleeve, which shuts with magnetic closure (no zippers here!). Finally, the sleeve features a front pocket that can store paper, a notebook, or maybe a charger (I don't use this pocket… I am too nervous about unevenly stretching out the canvas). Again, this case is gorgeous!
Weight/Bulk: The Stow Slim cases only add a minimal amount of weight and thickness to the iPad. The 11" case weighs just .18 kg while the 12.9" case weighs .25 kg.
Apple Pencil Loop: An update to the 11" case now includes a spot to hold your Apple Pencil 1st generation.
Stuff I Don’t Like
Wide(ish): The design of the case having magnetic closure requires the addition of some width to the product. While this offers a ton of side protection to the product, it means that the case is notably wider than the iPad placed inside it. The 12.9” sleeve is 5.4 cm wider than the iPad Pro, which may mean that bags fitted for the 12.9” iPad Pro may not accommodate this case. I appreciate Native Union providing a size guide to ensure you measure your bag to ensure it can fit the Stow Slim before purchasing.
Marks: I’ve found that the vinyl material on the front of the case can tend to show oily fingerprints. This wipes away cleanly though.
Stuff I Wish For
Make it in Blue: Native Union Makes a stunning Indigo Stow Slim for the MacBook. Looks amazing!
Does it Fit?
Note: All of these were done with the Apple Pencil attached using a 12.9” iPad Pro and Stow Slim.
Will it fit my iPad Pro Naked? Yes
Will it fit my iPad Pro with Smart Folio? Yes
Will it fit my iPad Pro with Smart Keyboard? Yes
Will it fit my iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard? Kinda… but lets not¹
¹Native Union’s website warns that the Stow Slim is NOT compatible with the Apple Magic Keyboard. In my experience, I found that I can get the iPad in/out of the sleeve, but it’s quite an effortful process - it’s clear your trying to force the issue by inserting the iPad. I would not recommend this sleeve if your primary carry needs involve the Magic Keyboard.
