So you have an Apple iPod and if you spent $299 or $399 for it, you are most likely very protective of it. Many people go to extremes to keep it shiny and scratch free. So what if you want to take it with you while jogging, fishing, boating, or even just outdoors on a humid or rainy day? The chance of exposing the precious iPod to moisture and harsh conditions is enough to get most people to leave it at home. While there are many cases and protective gear that can prevent scratches and minor bumps, moisture and hard bumps are very different things. Now Otterbox comes to the rescue. Otterbox makes a wide range of waterproof, protective cases for different devices and needs. There are Otterboxes for all model iPods, but let’s take a look at the Otterbox for iPod Video.

Otterbox for iPod Video

Price: $49.95
Optional Armband $19.95
Compatible with: 30GB and 60GB Apple iPod Video.

Models may look different than pictured above, but are functionally the same.

The Otterbox is a clear, plastic case that is design to completely encase the iPod Video and provide a waterproof environment that is also free from dust, dirt, sand, etc. It is even designed to provide drop and shock protection. The Click Wheel is protected by a thin membrane that is protective and water-proof, but still remains fully functional through the case. Even the headphone jack is water-proof. Inside the Otterbox is a headphone connector that plugs into the iPod headphone jack. This is connected to a headphone jack on the outside of the Otterbox that is water-proof and allows a headphone to be connected to the iPod while it is safe and secure inside the Otterbox. Please keep in mind that while the Otterbox is water-proof, it is not design for scuba diving or being fully submerged in water below 1 meter.

The Otterbox opens via a wide latch on the bottom edge of the case. You can then tilt the top cover up by 40 degrees. The inside of the Otterbox is lined on the outer edge with a shock absorbing rubber liner. Simply slip the iPod into the rubber liner making sure that the headphone plug slides into the headphone jack. The water-proof rim will give the Otterbox a tight seal, so squeeze the top and bottom together and snap the latch close. That’s all there is to it. Now your protected iPod is ready to go.

The sealed headphone jack is on the top edge of the Otterbox. Use any normal headphone or buy a pair of water-proof headphones. On the back of the Otterbox you will find a plastic belt clip. The belt clip is nicely designed to also provide a cable spool for managing your headphone cable. The Belt clip can be unlocked and slipped off the Otterbox if you do not need it or for attaching the optional armband.

That’s all there is to using the Otterbox to protect your iPod. You can now use the click wheel normally. Of course there is no external access to the Dock Connector, so if you need to plug in any dock accessory, you will need to remove the iPod from the Otterbox. There is also no access to the Hold Switch. Both of these are minor issues when considering the protection the Otterbox is giving your iPod. The screen area of the Otterbox is clear so it will provide a nice view of the iPod screen. However it can be easily scratched. I recommend that a screen protector be applied to the screen area of the Otterbox. Plastic is easier to scratch than glass and if you get too many scratches on the screen area, the image will become blurry.

An optional armband is available so that you can wear the Otterbox on your arm. The armband is soft, flexible, and water-resistant. The belt clip on the Otterbox can be removed and replaced by the attachment clip on the armband. Installation is quick and simple.

Finally you can take your precious iPod with you every where you go. The Otterbox is tough and rugged enough for almost any environment and situation. It is the most protective case you can find for your iPod and combined with the Otterbox Unconditional Lifetime Warranty, I highly recommend it for anyone who likes to be physically active and enjoy their music at the same time.

Reviewed by Harvey Lee, Senior Technology Editor

Product: Otterbox for iPod Video
Manufacturer: Otterbox
Web Site: http://www.otterbox.com
Category: Mobile / Case