I'm after a case for my 40gb iPod and I'm just wondering what people would recommend?

I suppose it depends on what you need the case to do - whether its for basic scratch protection or shock/water protection etc.

That said if you're just after basic scratch protection then you can't go wrong with the trendy geek pod shield. Its basically just a thin film that 'sticks' to the ipod via high static, the result is a virtually invisible film that will protect from scratches, perfect for genral use of the ipod. Not only that but it also allows total use of the ipod; including charging and compatiblity with itrip and airclick.

http://www.trendygeek.com/prod-pod-shield.php

There's a new case out from speck which is complelety unpracticle but kinda cool nonetheless. Not sure if this'll work but here goes:

You're going to have to have one strange shaped pocket for that to fit in it!

And imagine the looks you'd get if it was in your pocket??

"Is that an ipod in your pocket or are you just happy to see me" springs to mind..

I'd agree with Rodney, the best bet is the pod shield. I had an iSkin first and can't really recommend it, the ipod won't fit in its dock with it on, its a pain to take off and it just looks a bit cheap and nasty. With the pod shield you get the protection without comprimising the looks and fuctionality of the iPod

I have the Iskin Evo2 (i think). Robbie is right about the skin not working with the dock. It does allow connection to remote/ iTrip etc without removing the case though.

Also, I read somewhere you shouldnt charge iPod whilst in a case due to heat transfer issues and the iskin can be a pain to get off (feel like the pod will jump out of my hands whilst stripping it).

Still haven't bought the case yet due to, well, sheer laziness. I think the Pod Shield is the way to go for general use but I will need something more sturdy for heavier travelling. James would you recommend the evo2, notwithsatnding the dock issue?

Well, it certainly keeps it well wrapped and (dock issue not withstanding) leaves the Ipod fully functional. Still wouldnt go dropping it in any puddles or off any cliffs though.

Thats a bit of a pain because nothing gives me greater pleasure than dropping iPods off of cliffs like lemmings. Unfortunately at the moment it's a fairly expensive hobby because they always end up smashing on impact and I have to buy new ones. I was really hoping that the evo2 would do the trick...

Perhaps something a little more poncey would go down well (though I doubt it'll survive cliff dropping)

http://chipchick.blogs.com/chip_chick/2005/06/designer_ipod_c.html

I am having an iSkin casing which is just nice for my ipod. I think it will just be enough for normal usage.

Do you not think that the iSkin detracts from the sleek look of the iPod though Kenny?

Yes, basically it become more fatter. It will give you a new feeling when you remove the iSkin. But I personally the ipod without any casing is easily damaged in its outer appearance. I really like the design of the ipod compare to the other mp3 device like iRiver. I will prefer it without casing if its outer apperance will not be easily damaged. Any recommendation for any casing that minimize the hiding of the original apperance of the ipod?

Absolutely, try the pod shield that rodney recommended earlier in this thread for average use its the perfect way to protect your iPod whilst still showing it off! Cheap as well and lasts for about 6 months and you get 3 covers per pack, check it out here:

Pod Shield

Or if you have far too much time on your hands try making your very own wooden iPod case

DIY Wooden Case

Brucie, I'm sure that cover is very cheap to make! $12.00 sounds like a rip-off to me!!!

And Rodney, I'm sure that case is gonna make my iPod very old fashion! It's a good market for people aged 50+ and thinks having an iPod is far too young for them!

the trendy geeks good you can get them at www.allthingsipod.co.uk

Cases are very useful as they protect the equipment, I broke my first mobile phone because I dropped it. It probably would have survived if it had been in a case.

Are mobile phone cases still the same as they used to be? Horribly bulky and made from tacky leather? Surely someone's come up with a more stylish way to protect a mobile by now? I suppose the number of different models of mobile phone make it slightly unpracticle and unprofitable...