I would recommend you go for a polycarbonate (hard case) that's compatible with the smart case for your iPad Air. They're great because they still keep the iPad very slim but do protect the back. The only downside of these is that they have a higher chance of cracking if they are dropped (but the cost of a case is less than a new iPad 
). Alternatively, go for a TPU gel style case that's compatible..
). Alternatively, go for a TPU gel style case that's compatible..