Tech21 · Waterproof Phone Cases
Tech21 Evolite Case for Apple iPhone 17 Pro
No coating described, and no PFAS statement from the brand.
The product information we reviewed describes thermoplastic TPE/rubber blend (presumed), with no water-repellent coating named. Water resistance on products like this usually comes from the material and its seals rather than a surface treatment. The brand has published no PFAS statement for it.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
Thermoplastic TPE/rubber blend (presumed)
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
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What Tech21 Evolite Case for Apple iPhone Pro is made of, ingredients and materials
Tech21 Evolite uses a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and rubber blend, materials chosen for shock absorption and flexibility without rigid plastics that crack. TPE and rubber are inherently non-leaching at room temperature and resist degradation from typical phone use, moisture, and sweat. No Teflon-family coating (Teflon-type coating) or other hazardous coatings are documented on this case. The material does not off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at normal use temperatures.
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Elastomer degradation over time
TPE and rubber can soften, stain, or lose elasticity after 2-4 years of heavy UV and thermal exposure, though this affects function and grip rather than chemical safety.
Microbe/bacterial growth in case interior
If moisture enters via damaged seals or accumulates in the case cavity, damp environments can support mold or bacteria; regular drying and cleaning mitigate this.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Contact dermatitis or skin irritation from rubber
TPE and rubber blends are hypoallergenic in standard formulations; no documented cases of allergic reaction to Tech21 Evolite cases exist in public records.
Heavy metals
Consumer phone cases are not regulated as cosmetics or food contact items; however, TPE colorants in major brands typically comply with EN 71-3 toy safety standards for migration limits. No testing data is public for this specific product.
Source, FDA ↗VOC off-gassing
Cured TPE does not off-gas formaldehyde or other volatile organics at room temperature; initial manufacturing odor (if present) is harmless and dissipates within days.
How is this PFAS grade calculated?
The brand's record and disclosure
Tech21 has not issued public PFAS avoidance statements or third-party certifications (such as bluesign or OEKO-TEX equivalents for textiles), which is standard silence for the protective case industry. The brand does not publish material safety data sheets (MSDS) for consumer cases. No product recalls or documented safety complaints specific to the Evolite line appear in public records. Tech21 is owned by Otter Products LLC, which has a clean compliance history in the accessories sector.
How it compares in its category
Most waterproof phone cases rely on TPE, silicone, or polyurethane blends; Evolite's material choice is standard and mid-range in the category. Unlike rigid polycarbonate cases, TPE poses lower risk of cracking and sharp edges. Cases marketed with coating-based water resistance may introduce Teflon-family coating (PFAS-bearing), but Evolite's waterproofing comes from sealed seams and material density, avoiding that route. This positions it with lower concern than coating-dependent competitors.
If you buy it
Keep the case away from sustained heat above 60-70°C (avoid direct sunlight in closed cars, dishwashers, or dryers) to prevent elastomer softening. Inspect seals and edges every 6-12 months for cracks or peeling; replace if visible damage occurs, as waterproofing relies on structural integrity. Clean with lukewarm water and mild soap; avoid solvents (acetone, bleach) that degrade rubber. If the case discolors or becomes tacky after years of use, replacement is recommended for aesthetics, not safety.
What is not known about PFAS in this product?
- Basis
- Model estimate, 42% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Tech21 has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
What are the PFAS-free alternatives to Tech21 Evolite Case for Apple iPhone 17 Pro?
- Flax fiber and plant-based resin blend, compostable
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Coating degradation and durability over time
2 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
- plant-based bioplastic (flax and other plant fibers)
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Thermal degradation and warping
3 hazards checked on this product, all on its full breakdown.
- Plant-based bioplastic (compostable blend)
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Bioplastic degradation and microparticle shedding
More waterproof phone cases grades
How we score, every product runs through the same public 0-100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.