I am an older person, who has seen the better part of almost a two-thirds of a century, who has a problem sensing when I have a good grasp on something. Sometimes I think I have a solid grasp on my iPod nano only to have it slip out of my hand. Fortunately, the iPod nano usually falls on the chair or table. Since I put my iPod nano into the Speck ToughSkin 2Tough I have not dropped it and feel much more confident. The added weight and indented design makes my hold on the slipperly player more secure. If I do drop it, the patented DropGuard metal side bars should protect against any damage.

The Look and Feel

The ToughSkin 2Tough for the 2nd gen iPod nano (aluminum) is a little bigger than the iPod and encloses it completely. It is approximately 4 inches by 2 1/2 inches by 1/2 inches. Basically, the perimeter of the case is a black rubber-like substance. The sides have a metal framework which connects the cover and the back. An opening on the top provides access to the Hold switch. There is a larger opening in the bottom where one connects the computer cable and one for the ear piece cable. While I don’t think the case is waterproof, these openings are small and probably minimize the possibility of the iPod getting wet if you get caught in the rain.

It has an almost clear but dark plastic face which makes it hard to see the screen. You can see the screen, but not well if you have any eye issues. I have to open the front so that I can see the screen better. The back of the case has a firmer plastic cover. The belt clip attaches to this part of the cover. The removable clip is a better solution than stuffing it my pocket with my keys, plus it is easy to remove.

Directions Requested

There are no directions shipped in the ToughSkin 2Tough case, so a neophyte needs to spend some time looking at what he or she have to make sure you understand the case. Instructions are available on the site if you need help. There is a cardboard facsimile of an iPod inside, and that shows you how it is supposed to fit in this cover.

Click Wheel Cover

It ships with a small piece of round plastic that you use to cover the iPod Click Wheel. If my wife had not noticed it, I would have tossed it out with the trash. In reality, I don’t find much use for it. It is hard to position and close the cover, plus it never seems to be aligned when I close the case. I cannot control the iPod's Click Wheel with the circle in place. I still have it, but I don’t know for how long, perhaps it exists to keep the rain out.

Just What I Need

All in all I think the design is sound and the 2Tough cover is a useful and solid protective device. It may be bulky for some people, but I find that it is just the right size for my needs and abilities.

by Chet Small