The iPhone Pocket is a knitted pouch Apple created with Issey Miyake. It's a Japanese fashion house known for experimental textiles. As it appears, it's meant to hold your phone while being worn as a fashion accessory.
But as corporate consumerism goes, a simple idea is rarely simple. This product costs between $149 and $229, yet it doesn’t protect your phone or add any technical value.
You could always buy something cheaper that does the same job, like a lanyard or crossbody bag. Still, it’s worth admitting why the Pocket exists. Here are cheaper alternatives you can buy online.
Strapurs zipper pocket phone wallet
$29.99
Now we’re talking fashion. This Strapurs piece comes in a faux leather design. It acts as a mini purse for your phone, cards, cash, coins, and IDs. You can also fold it into a kickstand and watch content hands-free. The style is constructed around the iPhone 12 series, but it should support your device if it's around 6.1-inch with similar height/width ratios.
Tainada neoprene crossbody sleeve
$18.49
Tainada plain neoprene phone sleeve
$16.99
Enjoy water-resistance on this neoprene pouch. Liquids will bead up and sit on top instead of soaking in. But that only applies to spills, light rain, or sweat. There's a velcro hook-and-loop fastener inside that pinches inward slightly, and creates friction against the phone. It'll keep your phone from slipping out when you bend forward or move quickly.
Nabevin knit phone bag
$22
A soft, ribbed knitted pouch made from stretchy acrylic yarn. It does exactly what the iPhone Pocket does, and turns your phone into a wearable accessory. You’re saving roughly $127 to $207 per unit compared to the Apple version.
Prime Comfort crossbody bag
$16.99
Keep your phone in this fully enclosed, zippered compartment. It won't slide out or peek through fabric, which reduces the risk of drops and protects it from moisture. The only con is the access speed since you have to unzip to reach your device.
KIWIFOTOS phone holster
$15.99
Kiwifotos’ travel pouch uses a muted fabric with woven polyester that mimics the texture of work backpacks and laptop sleeves. It's common in office and travel gear because it resists scuffs and doesn’t crease. Get it if you want something that doesn't draw too much attention.
Keep your phone close
If cost is still a major concern, traditional lanyards and wristlets may be your cheapest entry point into hands-free phone carrying. They may not offer full coverage or padding like pouches, sleeves, or wallet cases, but they do keep your phone attached to you. You can get quality products for as low as $5 on Amazon and other online stores.
