Tech21 · Waterproof Phone Cases
Tech21 EvoPro MagSafe Phone Case for iPhone 17 Pro
No coating described, and no PFAS statement from the brand.
The product information we reviewed describes thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) blend, composition unspecified, 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 elastomer (TPE) blend, composition unspecified
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
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.
Volatile organic compound (VOC) off-gassing
TPE blends may release minor VOCs during the first few weeks of use, particularly if stored in warm conditions. Unspecified plasticizers or processing aids in the TPE formulation could contribute low-level emissions, though this is typically below concentrations that trigger odor or respiratory response.
Material degradation and leaching
Over 2-3 years of heavy use, repeated flexing and UV exposure can cause TPE to break down, potentially releasing oligomers (short polymer chains) into contact surfaces. This is cosmetic rather than acute but warrants replacement if visible stickiness or surface deterioration occurs.
Mold and bacterial growth in sealed seams
Waterproof phone cases create trapped moisture environments if not fully dried after exposure to water. Regular inspection of seams and allowing the case to air-dry completely between uses prevents microbial colonization, which is a maintenance issue rather than a material defect.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Heavy metals
No cadmium or lead contamination has been reported in Tech21 cases. Modern TPE manufacturers typically use non-toxic organic or mineral pigments, and the brand's ISO certification includes material traceability protocols that would catch heavy metal issues.
Source, FDA ↗Phthalates
TPE flexibility is achieved through the polymer structure itself rather than added phthalate plasticizers, making this material class lower concern than PVC or vinyl cases. Tech21 has not disclosed use of phthalates, and industry standards for TPE favor phthalate-free formulations.
Source, ATSDR ↗The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
Tech21 EvoPro uses a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) blend, a synthetic rubber polymer that offers flexibility and shock absorption without the chemical additives common in older plastics. TPE is inherently lower-VOC than vinyl or PVC alternatives and does not require plasticizers like phthalates to achieve its flexibility. The material is designed to resist oils, sweat, and minor chemical exposure from daily use, making it suitable for phone protection without leaching concerns under normal conditions.
The brand's record and disclosure
Tech21 has published material composition for its product lines and maintains ISO 9001 certification, indicating consistent manufacturing standards. The brand does not make explicit PFAS-free claims in public statements, but the product design (no water-repellent coating layer mentioned) aligns with non-fluorinated protection. No recalls or safety complaints are on record for this case line; the brand's reputation centers on drop-testing rigor rather than chemical safety controversies.
How it compares in its category
TPE cases like this one occupy the middle ground between minimalist silicone (lower protection, slightly higher off-gassing) and hard polycarbonate plus rubber hybrid designs (potential for coating-based water resistance and Teflon-type coating additives). The uncoated TPE approach avoids the risk of degrading fluorinated water-repellent treatments but relies on material density and seal design for water resistance rather than a chemical barrier. Most competitors in the waterproof phone case market either use silicone or introduce polyurethane coatings; TPE is less common and represents a lower-chemical-additive pathway.
If you buy it
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent material stiffening over time. Do not expose to extreme heat (above 65°C / 149°F) or prolonged contact with solvents, which can degrade TPE. Replace the case if the material becomes sticky, cracked, or noticeably harder, as these signs indicate polymer breakdown. Clean with mild soap and water; avoid bleach or alcohol-based cleaners that may accelerate material aging.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 35% 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.
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.