Carry your BlackBerry and accessories in style with the Golla Bay Pouch

Walking around the streets of NYC in the summer isn't easy, especially when you factor in the sweltering heat from the sun and the subways. Carrying around a purse on my shoulder in 100+ degree weather is not something I look forward to when I need to carry around my BlackBerry, credit cards, keys, Building ID, etc. That's why I've been searching through our CrackBerry store looking for a combination case that would let me carry some small items and my device with me while on the go.

Golla has always been a favorite of mine ever since I saw their PlayBook line at CES and thought they do a great job of combining style and functionality all in one protective case. Awhile back, Kerri and Michelle took a look at their Smart Bags and Wallets line so I decided to check out the Golla Bay Pouch and see if it would suit my needs.

Design

Golla is known for their fashionable products that offer great design, protection, and functionality. The Golla Bay Pouches are extremely durable and well-built and come in three different colors: black, light grey, and menthol (which is the one I chose). Similar to the design of the Smart Bag, this case for compatible devices offers the same top loading corduroy design with a velcro closure to keep your BlackBerry snug and safe in-between the soft material. There's an additional pocket on the inside and a zippered pocket on the outside to let you store your credit cards, ear buds, cash or change, flash drive, or anything else you need to take with you on the go.

One thing they are unparalleled with though is how trendy they are. My friends and co-workers actually stopped me to show them the case. I really like how practical they are and don't sacrifice quality just to be stylish. In this case, your BlackBerry will be protected from all the elements. While it offers minimal drop protection, the velcro doesn't budge and the D-ring stays put on whatever you hook it to.

Features

• Carabineer for attaching the bag in a variety of places: belt loop, bigger shoulder bag or backpack, golf bag, etc.
• Belt loop
• Separate neck-strap
• Velcro closing on the front of the bag
• Zipped pocket on the front for coins and small items
• Small extra front pocket for earphones or credit cards
• Soft lining material to protect the screen of the device
• Case size: 85 x 120 mm / 3.4 x 4.7 inch
• Cover: 84% polyester; 16% nylon

Daily Use

While the design allows for easy handling would it be able to last on a daily basis? For me the answer depended on what I was using it for. At work this case was perfect fitting in my pocketbook, staying on me at my desk or for casually walking around the city at lunch. It was able to protect my device from the occasional drop and fall that happened in the street or in the home or office.

The weekend, however, was a different story for a power user like me. While the case is great for portability, it leaves your BlackBerry vulnerable when removed. Once you slip your BlackBerry out of the case all bets are off. When I answered a call, it fell from my hands onto the hard supermarket floor. Needless to say I almost had a heart attack. So if you're an addict that constantly looks at your device for each and every alert then this might not be for you, especially if you prefer carrying it on your belt.

One thing that did irk me was the lack of a sleeper magnet. As someone who is spoiled by their belt clip holster it took awhile to get used to locking my keypad when slipping in and out of the case. Otherwise, I wound up pocket dialing my friends and even sending blank tweets (sorry Bla1ze!).

 

This case is versatile and not only can it fit an array of small electronic devices (i.e. Camera, mp3 player, various smartphones), but quite of few personal items or accessories as well. I was able to fit my BlackBerry Bold 9900, a spare battery, my credit card and Drivers License, a flash drive, and some cash without straining the stitching or velcro. It was able to stretch (within reason) to accommodate these extra items thanks to the durable material that is smooth and easy to clean.

 

While this is not the full body case I'm used to, I do feel it's sturdy and offers protection for my BlackBerry no matter how I wear it. I like how it secures a variety of devices including my old Torch 9800 and Bold 9000. My 9900 fit nice and snug in the pouch, although only when naked; it will not fit if you have an Otterbox or Seidio Case around it. However, my Bold 9700 in an Otterbox Commuter did in fact fit. So if you prefer keeping your device naked, need convenient access to your personal items, and want something that won't put a strain on your wallet and still be trendy then the Golla Bay Pouch is for you.

BUY NOW