id America’s (http://www.idamericany.com/) Cushi Stripe for the iPad 2 offers extra grip and extra protection for the Apple tablet. These things it does admirably, though its pin-striped look is a just a bit funky for me.

The Cushi Stripe is designed to complement the Apple Smart Cover, even though its 3D striped appearance isn’t a good aesthetic match — as least when it comes to appearances. There’s a cut out on the Cushi that accommodates the mounting of the Smart Cover.

Other that this gripe, I have no trouble recommending the Cushi Stripe. For 24 bucks, you get a front clear protective film, a microfiber cleaning cloth, six home button protectors and a squeegee for proper film application. The pad — made from EVA embossed, soft foam — also offers an anti-residue adhesive for easy application and clean removal, as well as cutouts for access to all iPad ports, controls, and cameras.

For me, the film was a bit difficult to apply. Darn you, air bubbles.

If you like the pin-striped appearance — or at least don’t mind it too much — the Cushi Stripe adds comfort, protection and extra grip to an iPad 2.

Rating: 8 out of 10

— Dennis Sellers