Moftware Leather Jacket for iPod nano

Moftware’s Leather Jacket for the first-generation iPod nano is an inexpensive leather case, but its low price reflects its less-than-stellar features and protective capabilities.

The case’s form factor is shared with many other leather cases on the market, such as iStyles’s Leather Clip Case. The leather exterior has openings for the nano’s screen and Click Wheel, and the bottom of the case is open for sliding your iPod in and out. Because of this open bottom, your nano’s dock-connector port and headphone jack are accessible, though you’ll still need to slide the nano out of the case a bit to place it in any dock-cradle accessory. The top edge of the case provides an opening for the nano’s hold switch, and the back of the case features a Velcro belt strap.

Unfortunately, the openings for Click Wheel and screen leave both vulnerable to dust, scratches, and incidental damage. Also, the case’s design leaves the nano’s corners more exposed than I would prefer, doing nothing to protect them from scratches and dings. As for the Velcro belt “clip,” its security is questionable — a good yank will undo the Velcro, making it possible for the nano to fall off your belt.

Overall, the Leather Jacket is a disappointing case that offers little in the way of protection for your iPod nano. If you’re interested in keeping your iPod in good shape, you will probably want to look elsewhere.–Dan Moren