What’s the Best iPod Case?

A reader asked, some time ago…

I’ve been reading for a couple weeks about iPod and the cases that are available for them. All in all, I just want someone to tell me what is the BEST iPod case (in your opinion) for protection of the iPod while allowing access to the necessary controls.

Well, it’s really a tough call. There are so many iPod cases out there now, that the best way is to probably go to a store and check out as many as possible.

I initially wrote this article back when I had published my book, iPod & iTunes Garage. At the time, in 2004, I was fortunate to try out many cases. Cases have changed a lot since then; at the time, there were only a handful of companies making iPod cases or other accessories. Since then, dozens, if not hundreds of vendors have released cases. I’ve been fortunate to try out a few, though, and here are some of my suggestions:

• Vaja‘s leather iPod cases, for some of the finest quality craftsmanship, and the widest variety of colors and color combinations. I especially liked their iVolution Rasta case (shown at the beginning of this article), which they no longer make. But they offer hundreds of color combinations, and their cases are made of the finest leather.
• iFrogz makes a line of silicone and plastic cases that are unique, and that protect your iPod. I’ve got one that I use for my iPod classic. It’s smooth and comfortable, and it protects the iPod in case of falls.
• The Contour Design Showcase was around back in 2004, in a slightly different form, and at the time I said that it was “one of the best plastic cases I have found. It’s not as luxurious as a leather case, but it’s practical, and it really protects your iPod.” I still like the way it looks, and think it’s a good way to get a case that doesn’t change the look of your iPod.

There are many other iPod cases, including dozens of silicone sleeves that offer skin-tight protection, metal cases that keep your iPod safe in harsh conditions, and lots of other leather models. The huge selection makes it hard to chose!