Amid a vast catalog of cases and protectors for our iPhone, Mujjo's Maizcase emerges as an option that prioritizes sustainability without compromising on design and functionality. In a context where Apple’s FineWoven cases have faced some criticism over their durability, the Maizcase positions itself as an interesting substitute. Crafted from Italian bi-leather made from corn and other cereals, this case achieves a finish very similar to traditional leather, both in appearance and aging, but without sacrificing any animals in its production and without harming the environment.
Materials and design: sustainable luxury
The Maizcase utilizes a new bio-leather, created from corn and other natural ingredients, mixed with recycled polyester. Or at least, that's what the box says, because in person, the feel—and almost the smell—is the same as any other Mujjo leather product.
The consistency is remarkably well achieved. A very rich texture, pleasant to the touch, neither slippery nor too sticky. Simply a leather texture. And, as we will discuss shortly, a texture that ages over time, giving the iPhone a personal and distinctive touch.
Sustainability is a fundamental pillar of the Maizcase. During its production, 98% of the water used is recovered, thus minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, every component of the case, from the buttons to the Japanese microfiber inner lining, is made from recycled materials.
The Maizcase stands out not just for its looks, but also for its protective capabilities. Thanks to its case edge around the screen and a metal rim protecting the camera, this case offers significant protection for our iPhone.
The side buttons, made from machined metal, continue to protect all parts of the phone while ensuring that we can find them by feel and press them easily. As for the Camera Control, a minimal but sufficient opening, along with a slight thinning of the material in that area, allows us to easily use the new flagship feature of the iPhone 16. Of course, like all Mujjo cases such as the Shield Case, the Maizcase is fully compatible with MagSafe.
The key point: aging with style
After testing the Maizcase for a month, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it withstands the test of time. All cases, no matter how careful we are, accumulate small marks and wear with use. It's totally inevitable.
Some hard plastic cases or those with several metal rims might avoid such wear and tear, but at the cost of compromising the feel and use of the phone. Rather than resisting wear, well-designed leather accessories embrace it.
They have, of course, the necessary reinforcements in the corresponding parts, but they do wear out. Mujjo has experience in this wear, in the patina, in the small marks left by contact with a sharp or abrasive object, and they have used all this to create a case that ages with style.
It's not just a fancy way of putting it; far from it, I have not tested the integrity of the Maizcase, but in everyday use, cases have to withstand certain situations. The wear that might mar a plastic case does not have the same effect on a leather one, and Mujjo has managed to translate this to vegan leather.
At a time when the FineWoven cases might be more durable and their design not as similar to leather's behavior as some might wish, Mujjo has achieved something quite interesting. At a price of 59 euros, the Maizcase is a really intriguing case. One that offers solid protection and a sleek design, all while respecting animals and the environment.
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