Traditionally, when it comes to iPods and cases, I always stick with iSkin. However, I decided to make a change with the iPod Touch. I planned to skip a case this round since the iPod Touch’s screen is scratch resistant and the memory is flash based. That idea didn’t last, because when I heard about WaterField’s iPod Touch Smart Case, I knew a case was in my future.

Why a Smart Case

I’m no stranger to the WaterField brand; I’ve owned a SleeveCase for both my MacBook and MacBook Pro. In my mind, owning a SleeveCase has associated the WaterField brand with high quality, protective cases. Knowing this, I made no hesitation in placing another order with WaterField, but there were other reasons as well.

As I mentioned earlier, I feel the iPod Touch is scratch resistant enough to be enjoyed without a case. However, I still may drop my iPod Touch, crush it while it’s in my backpack, or even inflict a fatal blow. Therefore, I felt a case that provided protection while not in use, and allowed me to enjoy the Touch without dock constraints was the case for me.

As you can guess by now, the Smart Case meets all the above requirements. Being a slip case, the Smart Case allows easy storage and removal whenever necessary. The open top keeps the music playing even when stored, and the thick padding provides shock protection should the Touch ever be dropped.

The Design

The design of the Smart Case is superb. The outside of the case is made of an easy to hold material, with the sides providing extra rubber grips. The inside of the Smart Case is made of suede, which not only prevents scratches, but polishes the iPod Touch with every storage and removal.

Not only is the design excellent, but the case fits the iPod Touch like a glove. Despite having an open top, I feel confident my iPod Touch will not fall out of the Smart Case. To prove my hunch, I tried holding the Smart Case upside down and even jogged with the Smart Case. Both actions resulted in no significant movement of the Touch. In fact, the hold of the Smart Case is so tight, the first couple of uses can be difficult getting the iPod Touch to fit (WaterField mentions this). However, after those first few stores, the iPod Touch slides in and out easily.

The Appearance

Finally, while protection is important, style is just as important in my book. I can thankfully say the Smart Case passes this test as well. Providing six different colors to choose from, WaterField has a color for everyone. The case also has a professional feel to it, and while that may seem out of place for an iPod case, I think it fits the Touch well.

In addition, the Smart Case is the first case I’ve ever owned that received a compliment. My friend David noticed me holding the Smart Case a few days ago and wondered what slick device it carried. After letting him inspect the case himself, he complimented its design. That’s a change from the usual “what the heck is that” response my past iSkins received.

Conclusion

Overall, I feel the iPod Touch Smart Case is an excellent case. The Smart Case combines superb protection, a glove-like fit, and a great design in one slick package. While the Smart Case is one of the first Touch cases out of the gate, I feel the combination of protection and design will keep this case in the running throughout the Touch’s lifetime.