Are you looking for a shockproof protective case for your iPhone? Then the Pathfinder series from UAG is an option. This case with a robust design is suitable for any terrain and is designed for the ultimate protection of your iPhone.
The Pathfinder features a feather-light composite construction with sturdy corner protection and oversized tactile buttons. We tested this ultra-rugged case with our iPhone 15 Pro Max and our findings can be found in this review.
Smartphone cases from UAG
UAG (Urban Armor Gear) is no stranger to the smartphone accessory range. For years they have been making durable, strong and robust cases for iPhone, among others. The UAG cases offer military drop protection and have a tough, industrial design with anti-slip textures for extra grip.
UAG combines style and functionality, making them popular with those who want to protect their phone from tough conditions. Ideal for adventurers or those who work in rough conditions. The cases are also ideal if your iPhone needs to be able to withstand a knock or two.
UAG Pathfinder case
One of the most robust cases from UAG is without a doubt the Pathfinder case. Designed with high-quality materials for, according to them, unmatched protection. The Pathfinder has specific features that make this case so unique.
- Feather-light composite construction
- Shock resistant core
- Sturdy corner protection
- Tactical Grip
- Raised edge for screen and camera protection
- 5.4 fall protection
- Powerful built-in MagSafe module
Shockproof
The purpose of this case is to protect your smartphone when it falls out of your hands. The impact-resistant rubber edge gives your iPhone extra strength and has a fall protection of no less than 5.4 meters. This allows you to use your smartphone carefree in various situations. Thanks to the composite construction, the case is not only robust, but also feather-light.
Raised edges
The screen is optimally protected by a raised edge and can be used in combination with a screen protector. The camera section on the back also has a raised edge. Because this protrudes 2 mm extra, the camera lenses are protected from scratches when you place the iPhone on a table, for example. Because the case also has an extra elevation in the corners, the iPhone does not wobble when you place it flat on the table.
Extra grip
The Pathfinder is equipped with a so-called Tactical Grip. This refers to the rubber edge that is anything but smooth. The edge is provided with relief that provides extra grip. Furthermore, the edge has recesses at the height of your hand so that the case is not unnecessarily thicker. This makes the Pathfinder cover fit well in the hand and you can hold it firmly with gloves on, for example.
Large tactile buttons
The UAG case is equipped with extra large and tactile buttons, which is especially useful when you are wearing (work) gloves or want to operate the iPhone in your backpack or trouser pocket. The buttons can be pressed well, but are equipped with an opening on the sides. This is a special choice by UAG, because dirt can get in between. A closed solution would have been better.
Key cord
All UAG cases feature integrated lanyard anchor points. A lanyard is a portable accessory that allows you to hang your iPhone around your neck or attach it to your backpack or similar. The lanyard can be easily attached to the anchor points via a loop. The lanyard provides convenience and security, allowing you to quickly grab your iPhone and reduce the risk of losing or dropping it.
MagSafe and Apple Pay
Despite the case making your iPhone a lot thicker, you can still use Apple Pay for wireless payments. The case also supports wireless charging and is equipped with a sturdy magnetic MagSafe ring. This makes the case fully compatible with a MagSafe charger. The iPhone also ‘sticks’ to a ‘floating’ MagSafe charger.
If you use a MagSafe Wallet, it takes some getting used to. The wallet doesn’t stick as well to the case as cases with a flat back.
UAG Pathfinder in practice
Over the past few weeks, we have tested several UAG cases here at the editorial office, including the Pathfinder case from Urban Armor Gear in combination with my iPhone 15 Pro Max. This is already a large device and in combination with the case it became even larger and thicker.
Most people are looking for an ultra-thin solution to protect their iPhone, but I personally prefer a sturdier case, provided it is easy to handle.
I expected that I would not use the case for long in daily life because of the dimensions, but in practice this is very good. This is mainly due to the smart design of the cover. The edge has a good grip and the ‘Tactical Grip’ ensures that it is less thick at crucial points. This makes it fit well in the hand and you are less bothered by the dimensions.
On the front, the case has a raised edge that is higher than on smartphone cases from other manufacturers. This took some getting used to with regard to the operation of the screen. For example, opening the notification center from the Dynamic Island is no longer possible and you have to do this from the clock.
The back also has a raised edge around the camera. Unlike covers from other manufacturers, the phone wobbles on the table, but this is not the case with the Pathfinder. It remains firmly on the table thanks to the raised corners.
I didn’t deliberately drop the iPhone with the case from a height of 5 meters, but you can tell that it will protect your iPhone well if you drop it from your hands or it slips out of your pocket.
Conclusion: UAG Pathfinder iPhone Case
REVIEW SCORE
Do you want to give your precious iPhone an ultra protection? Then the Pathfinder iPhone case from UAG is a good choice. The drop protection up to 5.4 meters ensures that you can use your smartphone carefree during your work, adventure or in everyday situations. The case has a feather-light composite construction and extra large tactile buttons.
You have to love the robust design, but Urban Armor Gear certainly has an eye for detail. Thanks to the ergonomic design and texture, the Pathfinder fits well in the hand, despite this making the device larger and thicker. People with small hands may find the case too thick. Finally, the strong built-in MagSafe module ensures that you can charge your iPhone wirelessly and use MagSafe accessories.
- Robust design with lightweight composite construction
- Shock resistant core with reinforced corners
- Powerful built-in MagSafe module
- 5.4 fall protection
- Good grip thanks to ergonomic design
- Openings around the buttons (accumulation of dust and dirt)
Where to buy?
UAG products can be purchased on the website of urbanarmorgear.com, apple cover, Bol.com, Amazon and Smartphone cases. The UAG Pathfinder Case for iPhone 15 (Pro) has a suggested retail price of € 49.95. It is also available for previous iPhone models.
