I have been using my MacBook Air since it first arrived on January 31st. Since then I have found myself using it more and using my tablet pc less.

As much as I was enjoying it, though, it wasn’t until I flew to a conference a few weeks ago that “like” became “love”. Being able to carry my Mac everywhere but only having to lug 3lbs was great. The battery life was more than enough to allow me to spend my time at the airport and during the flight finishing my presentation. It was light and cool enough for me to comfortably take notes in a number of sessions. And between Keynote and the Apple Remote presenting with the MBA was a breeze. It has been two and a half months and I haven’t had a moment of “buyer’s remorse”.

I am finding myself carrying it with me far more often than any prior notebooks. As a result, I need a good case to protect it from life’s bumps and bruises. I got my MBA so early (it was the first day they were arriving state-side) that there were few, if any, options when it came to cases. Fortunately Waterfield saved the day with their SleeveCase. It has, and continues, to serve me well but I want something that offers a good deal more protection and comes in a more “refined” package. Once again Waterfield comes to the rescue. This time with their HardCase.

The folks at Waterfield describe the HardCase this way–

First-Class Protection. Stylish, sleek protection for your laptop and a few necessities. No-scratch padded liner caresses your computer. Protective foam and impact-resistant plastic shelter it from harm. Dual-leather flap and authentic paragliding buckle get you that first-class upgrade without even asking. Choice of Leather Flap Interior colors. A few pockets to hold just the necessities and you’re ready to go.

I describe it as AWESOME! Read on for a full review and pictures…

The fit and finish of the HardCase are what I have now come to recognize as Waterfield’s norm. The seams are straight and tight. The leather is high quality and perfectly smooth. The body material is flawless. And the pieces fit together with absolute perfection. There wasn’t a loose thread to be found!

The heavy-duty hardware is sure to withstand a great deal of travel, whether international or just to the office.

Perhaps most importantly, the HardCase provides an amazing degree of protection. The notebook fits tightly inside and, once there, the MBA is completely surrounded by almost an inch of padding. (My quick measurement- not a technical spec.)

The interior compartment was clearly designed specifically for this particular device since it is held- or perhaps more accurately cradled- more securely than any case I have used.

The minimalist styling of the case’s back adds to its good looks. A zipper along the back’s top reveals storage for small accessories. Since that, and three small and tight (read- of limited use) compartments at the front are the only additional storage, space is at a premium.

To be clear- this is not the case for someone who carries a lot of papers or various gadgets. This is the case for someone who is more or less paperless and needs to carry the MBA, the charger, an adapter or two, a usb modem, headphones (so long as they are earbuds) and a few other small items. In other words- the HardCase takes its cues from the choices and compromises that led to the MacBook Air.

For my needs it is almost perfect. My complaints are few-

First, I find the handle a bit too tight. It is uncomfortable to hold for long periods and I worry about scratching the leather beneath when I go to grip it. An inch or two more would have been great. That noted, however, I use the case with the sturdy, well-made and well-padded strap so the handle isn’t a big deal.

Second, at $229 for the MacBook Air version, the HardCase isn’t inexpensive. For the money, though, you get amazing protection for your MBA in a light, easy-to-carry package. To my mind, that makes it a good value.

I’ve been using the HardCase since I got the unit to review last week. I love knowing my MBA is well protected. And I like protecting it in a case that looks good and is incredibly light. After all, what good is an ultralight MBA if you have to put it in a heavy case to protect it?

How much do I like the HardCase from Waterfield? Enough that I am buying the review unit from Waterfield.

This one is taken, but you can order one directly from Waterfield who, it should be noted, manufacture locally (in the Continental U.S.A.) and are a wonderful company with whom to do business.

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