Expert's Rating
Pros
Cons
Our Verdict
Speck makes some great cases, but this isn’t one of them. Sure, the spacer padding that allows it to fit either20 or 40 GB models in the armband is a nice touch. And we like the way it swings opens near the bottom rather than being open on either end. This lets you slide your ipod in from the middle of the case and protects the top and bottom of your iPod. Furthermore you can then open it easily to connect it to your dock. It’s a thoughtful touch.
Yet the rubberized case leaves your screen and clickwheel exposed–the areas where you’re most likely to need protection. But while that’s fairly typical of some silicone cases, what left us scratching our head was the armband. It sports a three-sided hard plastic shell that wraps around the back and sides of your iPod. It adds a lot of bulk, and we found it irritating while running. We also were perpetually concerned that our iPod was going to come tumbling out in mid-jog. While it might be okay for the gym or a bike ride, this armband is a no-go for anything with a lot of arm motion.–Mathew Honan