Swiss-Case Glacier Gase for iPhone 5 and iPhone 5s review

The Glacier Case for iPhone 5 and iPhone 5s by Swiss-Case is a minimalistic case that offers moderate protection without adding a ton of bulk. It's made out of a sturdy silicon and plastic combination that feels and looks high quality. But how does it hold up after a bit of day to day use? Let's find out!

I used the Glacier Case on my iPhone 5s on and off for a few weeks now and I'm pleased to report that it has held up extremely well. My iPhone is also in one piece so that's always a plus.

Swiss-Case Glacier Gase for iPhone 5 and iPhone 5s review

One of the things I like the most this style of case is that it's easy to get on and off. Simply pull at an edge and it pops right off. One thing I've always been careful of with cases like this is that they aren't too loose or too tight. Loose fitting cases and fall off during impact and tight fitting cases can cause unintended damage to the frame of the iPhone. I found the Glacier Case to be a happy compromise. I've pulled it off several times and there's not one scratch around the edges of my iPhone 5s.

When it comes to design, the Glacier Case has an extremely thing profile but manages to stand out at the same time since the cutouts on the back are unique to this specific case. You can also see the Apple logo and iPhone text on the back of your device. So if you don't like to cover those up, you're safe with the Glacier Case.

Swiss-Case Glacier Gase for iPhone 5 and iPhone 5s review

During my use period with the Glacier Case I also made sure to test out the camera flash since that seems to be an issue with some cases if light bounces back into the lens. I didn't experience any issues with or without flash in several different lighting environments. So in that aspect, the Glacier Case gets a pass.

Since the profile is so slim and minimal, you've got access to all your ports and won't have to worry about needing to take the case off in order to charge your iPhone. That's always a bonus. No one wants to have to take a case on and off every day.

Swiss-Case Glacier Gase for iPhone 5 and iPhone 5s review

The only thing I didn't care for with the Glacier Case was that I couldn't put my iPhone face down on a table. Sometimes I like to do this so it doesn't disturb others I may be sitting with and for privacy. Since the edge of the case doesn't come up around the edge of the screen, I was afraid my screen would get scratched. Not a huge deal but something to think about if you like laying yor iPhone face down on a table too.

The good

  • Great design that's unique and minimal
  • The rubber/silicon combo adds grip but doesn't pick up pocket lint
  • Easy to put in a pocket and pull out, unlike some rubber cases
  • Comes in a variety of different colors

The bad

  • No bevel on the edge that wraps around the screen which means no laying it face down on a table

The bottom line

If you want a sleek case that adds very little bulk but is unique in its own right, the Glacier Case by Swiss-Case is a great option. With the vast array of available colors, there's most likely a combo to suit your personal taste.

  • $29.95 - Buy Now

If you pick up a Glacier Case by Swiss-Case, be sure to let me know what you think of it in the comments!

Allyson Kazmucha

iMore senior editor from 2011 to 2015.