On the iTunes App Store there are roughly 6,000 apps focused on the outdoors and fitness sports. Everything from navigation to training coaches and everything in between. Taking advantage of these apps – especially in the outdoors – requires that you protect your iPad from the elements.

A growing number of companies produce iPad accessory products including three that have a decidedly local bent. They design, and in at least two cases, build their products here in the U.S. The passion these small companies have for what they do shows.


Tom Bihn Cache – based in Seattle, Tom Bihn started as a personal obsession with gear and evolved into a thriving business in highly customizable products. The Cache is elegant in its simplicity. See review.

Us+U Swivel ProFolio
Us+2 Swivel ProFolio – the Chattanooga, Tennessee company’s Swivel ProFolio was designed specifically to stabilize the iPad when in use. A clever elastic hand strap and secure case make it easy to take your iPad on the go. See review.


WaterField iPad EXO SleeveCase – the San Francisco-based company founded by a former bike messenger makes a range of laptop bags, brief cases and tablet accessories. Their iPad EXO SleeveCase uses a combination of padded ballistic nylon and leather to protect the iPad. See review.

None of the above companies have broad distribution. Only Tom Bihn has a traditional storefront in Seattle. Links to the companies’ websites for ordering are provided in the detailed reviews.