BAD CASE: Otterbox Real Tree Defender Case for iPhone 4S

The case is good, functionally:  

--not too big (still ergonomic, i would say), 

--better grip (compared to just bare iphone)

--firm close-to-precise fit (all parts).

--gives comfort in knowing that your expensive phone is protected at all times

--good camo orange (can see iphone immediately; less chance of having it misplaced)

But after just 3 months of usage, the rubber is now deformed. Material appears expanding although it is not exposed to extreme heat or sunlight (probably just the heat from a battery being charged or friction inside one's jean's pocket?).

For a 35 USD case, this is truly disappointing.

And it seems to be getting worse. I can not even close the charging port cover by this time, plus the resulting lump in the home button is truly annoying (considering that youll push the home button many times during the day).

I saw in the marking inside one of the parts that it is made in the US. Is this is a mistake in material selection by Otterbox's vaunted state-side manufacturing?

From my reading, the Defender model has been in the market for years since the early iPhone iterations. Hasnt Otterbox learned to screen for the right rubber or silicone material over the years?

I would discourage anyone from buying this case, obviously. Judging from the rate of degradation, this case will probably become unusable in 6 months. Very short useful life. Truly disappointing.