Yesterday we took a look at Speck Products' Grass FunSkin for iPod nano (4 stars, October 2005). Today we're tackling the tamer half of the FunSkin line-up: Cloud. We're not quite sure what the clouds overlooking Speck's Palo Alto headquarters look like, but if they resemble this silicone case, Michelin might want to make sure it knows where its mascot is.

Speck FunSkins for iPod nano

Joking aside, Cloud is one of the finest skins I've come across for any iPod, ever. The ribbed styling is subtle but distinct and feels excellent in your hand. Like Speck's other iPod nano cases the Cloud FunSkin features a removable screen protector that thanks to a rubber edge helps stay secure and keeps the plastic from actually touching the nano, alleviating the possibility of debris being caught under the protector and scratching the screen.

Cloud compared to other Speck skins

A basic belt clip is included with Cloud, and while the belt clip nub on the back is not especially noticeable, it can be removed entirely if you don't plan on using the belt clip. The one disclaimer black iPod nano owners should be aware of is that the skin isn't as opaque as it appears on Speck's Web site. With the black iPod nano inserted the barely translucent Cloud skin looks jut a couple shades closer to light grey.

Spending nearly $35 on a single skin for your nano may sound expensivebecause it isbut if your like the styling the Cloud FunSkin is a first-rate product.

FunSkin Cloud detail

Attached to belt clip