Filed under: iPod Family
Timbuk2 ballistic iPod cases
I've pretty much been using the Apple-supplied iPod case since day 1. Why? Well, because it's included with the iPod, and I'm a cheapskate. I have been looking for a replacement, however, and the ballistic cases from Timbuk2 look pretty good. First of all, they aren't bullet proof (though wouldn't that be cool?). But they do feature, among other things, a belt loop instead of a clip (which are terribly bulky) and a small velcro flap enclosure which allows for access to the top ports. Sure, you can't access the controls, but I listen to my iPod almost exclusively in the car via a Griffin iTrip, so I'm not concerned about being able to access the controls. I just hit "shuffle" and let it roll. All I'm really looking for is good protection in a compact sized case (that isn't horribly ugly).
I have two Timbuk2 shoulder bags - one for carrying the Powerbook and one I use as a diaper bag - that I'm very happy with. I might give this one a try. So, what are your iPod travel solutions? Got a favorite case?
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Brad said 11:17AM on 8-15-2005
I personally prefer the iSkin. I had a case from Old Navy that was quite cool because it could be attached to your shoulder strap of your bag. But the iSkin is great since it provides some hardcore protection.
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Mat said 11:30AM on 8-15-2005
I prefer being able to see the display without having to pull the iPod out of its case which is why I've never used the iPod case.
I used to have a iSkin which was ok but I found the silicone acted as a fluff magnet when it was in my pocket and got dirty quickly. Recently I got a hard Contour case/shell off Ebay (I've got a version 3 iPod so it was only 99p!) The case makes the iPod a little bigger but its now virtually indestructable.
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Kacy said 11:34AM on 8-15-2005
i just used the one that came with my ipod. I tend to be frugal when it comes to that stuff. If i felt it was really worth the cost i'd buy it but instead I save that money for things like my next ipod.
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DF said 12:45PM on 8-15-2005
Dave:
My favorite part of Timbuk2's cases are the velcro flaps on the back that let you attach the case to the strap of a shoulder bag or backpack.
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my moustache said 1:38PM on 8-15-2005
Which generations came with free cases?
my 30gig photo was naked when it got to my house - a case ran another $30...
grr.
at least i got a wall charger, unlike mini owners.
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boss sauce said 1:57PM on 8-15-2005
I use a DLO action jacket (http://www.smalldog.com/product/12653958) for my 40GB G4 iPod and it works fine. I use it with the armband, and I don't worry about tossing it in my gym bag or office pack. I only take the iPod out of the case at work so I can put it in the dock; the dock cord opening on the bottom works for charging/syncing with the USB cable at home. My only complaint is that the opening on the front for the click wheel doesn't line up perfectly, but it lines up well enough after tugging and slipping it around. I'm looking for a better case-- post, peoples...
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Blair Hurley said 4:51PM on 8-15-2005
After seeing the iPod socks, I sewed my own out of my Dad's corduroy pant leg. The hem of the pants even makes a nice little border at the top. Works fine for me, gives me access to the plugs on the top, and iPod slides in and out nicely. I might have to get a more secure one for jogging, though.
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Lee Gibson said 11:53PM on 8-15-2005
The thing that chaps me about the Timbuk2 case that I have right now (slightly different design than the one pictured above...it was the original model) is that the hook-side of the velcro caused the side of my T2 Detour bag to be all hairy. The hooks pulled threads out of the nylon, and it looks pretty bad.
I was really disappointed when Timbuk2 stopped using waxed canvas. Far superior to nylon IMO...
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Nate MC said 9:48AM on 8-17-2005
Wow, Timbuk2 actually fixed their iPod case? I'm amazed.
As a self described messenger bag fetishist, I was severly disappointed in Timbuk2's previous offering of an iPod case that couldn't even be used while the iPod was in it without cutting holes in it for the headphone cable.
Luckily I was saved by REI who had a zip up all purpose Timbuk2 bag that would fit my iPod (at the time 2nd Gen 20gb, and my now 4th gen 20gig) and an iTrip just in case, and my ID, for only $7. Plus it fits with the iSkin on it. So look for the zip up pouch, it will come in handy more often than you think.
I've switched to a chrome messenger bag now, much more comfortable than Timbuk2 or Crumpler (Who does make a nice camera bag).
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