OtterBox makes some terrific cases for just about anything you could imagine, from iPods and iPhones to valuables and even cigars.

I'm really loving my OtterBox Armor case for my 3rd generation iPod Nano. The Nano is so small and thin I'm afraid I'm either going to break it or lose it. I take my Nano skiing and this last winter I used it no less than 30 times while snow blowing and shoveling what turned out to be the 5th heaviest winter in my state's history.

The problem, especially when I'm skiing or snow blowing, is that the iPod gets wet. I've had to put the Nano in my pocket to protect it from the elements, which is fine until you want to skip over a song or switch to a different artist.

Now with my Nano mounted to my belt, or to my sleeve or jacket in my new OtterBox case, I can easily access the controls but protect the unit from the elements or from being damaged when I wipe out on the slopes.

Technology

The OtterBox Armor case is a clear impact resistant plastic clamshell case. The iPod slips in snugly and is sealed in the clamshell by a rubber gasket. Once the case is shut it is waterproof, dust proof, scratch proof and practically damage proof. I've dropped my Nano in the case right on the pavement many times. I know the unit would be broken, dented or at least severely scratched had it not been in my Armor case.

With the iPod in the case, it is very convenient to just throw it in your backpack, bag, purse, gym bag etc., and not worry about it being damaged.

The back side of the case has a belt/sleeve clip. The clip snugly snaps into the rails on the back of the case but can be easily removed.

How waterproof is it?

OtterBox states that the Armor case is waterproof up to three feet. They don't recommend the case for deep depths, so for those of you who wish to listen to Pink Floyd while deep sea diving you are out of luck.

In the picture to the right, you can see I have my Nano submerged in water inside the Armor case. The unit is playing but the screen went into sleep mode before I could get my camera out and turned on.

Does the click wheel work?

Since the entire iPod is covered by the case, you might think the touch sensitive click wheel may not work. OtterBox has a "patented membrane" which protects the click wheel yet still allows full control. Very cool feature.

Critiques

I'm extremely happy with the protection and functionality I have with my Armor case. The only slight inconvenience is inserting and removing the iPod. I worry about the angle you have to insert and remove the iPod, and possible damage to the iPod's headphone jack over time.

OtterBox Photo Gallery

For more images of the OtterBox 3rd Gen Nano Armor case as well as more OtterBox items (coming soon), click here for the Mac Space OtterBox Gallery.

Conclusion

The iPod Nano 3rd Gen runs a hefty $150-$200. The Armor case, at $39, is a great way to insure your delicate and expensive toy from the elements or accidental damage.