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Manufacturer's Site

Works with
Third-generation nano

The Good
Protects nano screen and clickwheel
Stretchy armband snugly fits many arms
Extra storage space for license or key

The Bad
Nano can fall out if case is upside down
Screen a bit imprecise

The Price
US$29.99

The Case Logic True Sport iPod nano armband is a third-generation iPod nano case designed for the exerciser. It’s based on the successful design of Case Logic’s earlier iPod nano armband cases, including the version that fit the second-generation nano.

When it comes to iPod cases, fit is a key attribute — both how well the case fits the you, but also how well the iPod fits inside the case. Unfortunately for the True Sport armband, it doesn’t secure the nano tightly enough, leading to accidental drops.

The True Sport armband is a fairly standard iPod sport armband in most respects: it’s got an adjustable strap to help it fit most arms, a way to loop headphone cables, and protection for the iPod’s screen and clickwheel. It even adds a nice little touch — a small pocket at the back of the case where you can store a license or key while they exercise.

The problem with the case stems from the area that holds the iPod being a little loose. This makes the iPod easy to get in and out — too easy, it turns out. In most iPod cases, especially those designed for sports, the case holds the iPod snug against being jostled or dislodged during exercise. Not so the True Sport armband. Instead, the slot for the iPod is loose, as I found to my chagrin when I accidentally held the case upside down and dropped my iPod onto the tile floor in my gym’s locker room.

This slip wouldn’t happen with headphones plugged in, as the cord stops the iPod’s fall before it hits the ground (in most cases), but you won’t always have your headphones plugged in.

Also, because the fit is too loose, the plastic overlay that protects the screen and clickwheel isn’t as precise as it could be. This is a minor issue — really more of an annoyance than a real problem — but it’s worth noting.

Despite these issues, the Case Logic True Sport iPod nano armband is a good case. If you’re willing to learn how to deal with its shortcomings, it will serve you well as you exercise.

Manufacturer's Site