iPod armor is the ultimate in hard protection for your iPod mini. With the tagline ‘total access when open, total protection when closed’, it is the next best thing to actually owning an iPod: it mirrors the sleek design of the iPod mini so well that you could almost just carry the case around so people think you have an iPod…

The iPod Armor comes in two equally attractive designs, both with a plastic brushed steel effect and front opening panel. The insides are lined with chic black velvet to provide non-slip friction and hold your iPod in place. One of the designs comes with a clear plastic front, to let the colour of your mini be seen, and the other has the same metal-effect front as the back, with an embossed click-wheel design and a clear screen panel. This model also comes with a belt clip.

After getting the iPod mini in the case, (which is a bit tricky as it is a reassuringly tight fit), it is held perfectly with no rattling around. It felt smooth and elegant like the iPod mini itself. As with most hard cases, you have to open it to get to the iPod’s controls, but this is simply a case of pulling it open: much less hassle than unzipping it or removing it completely. It closes with a satisfying click, essentially shutting your iPod away from the damages it could encounter.

The great thing about these cases is that any top-loading devices (iTrips, Navipods) or charger cables can be used whilst the iPod is in the case. With other models of hard cases (and even some soft ones) you face the cumbersome unloading and reloading in any charging situation. The charger can be connected by opening a rubber flap at the bottom, but due to the thickness of the case it is too big to fit in a dock.

A disadvantage to these cases is that the metal surface can get scratched, unlike some of the fabric-covered hard cases such as the Marware Sports Sleeve. However this does prevent the iPod itself from being scratched, which is surely what the case is designed to do?

As far as the iPod is concerned, why buy a thing of beauty just to hide it in a case? You won’t find a case that is more suited to the job it performs: it protects from scratches and shock, and displays your iPod as it should be seen.