For many people who are in the market for an iPod case, less is often more. Belt clips, flip cases, and lanyards be damned—basic protection from bumps and scratches in a minimalist package is all most people really need, right? It's for that reason that we're a fan of Marware's $10 Sport Grip (4 out of 5), but having just finished sampling iStyles' basic silicone skin for the iPod nano, we have a new favorite.

The formula iStyles uses for the silicone in its case results in a rubber that is tactile but super smooth and feels fantastic in your hand. It also completely covers the click wheel, but unlike some cases that do this the iStyles silicone case actually makes the click wheel more responsive, as your finger effortlessly glides around it. The case also restores that raised center button feel of past iPods, making it easier to feel what your doing.

iStyles Silicone nano case in black

The case extends slightly past the bottom of the iPod nano to protect it from bumps but leaves the dock and headphone connector wide open, meaning any size plug will be compatible with the case. A small hoop in the corner for tying your iPod nano to a lanyard or keychain rounds out the features.

What's this sort of svelte basic protection that's available in eight different colors going to cost you? Try just a measly eight bucks, which makes the iStyles silicone case not only one of the nicest if minimalism is your thing, but also if your budget happens to match your taste in cases. The only thing holding back this silicone case from a perfect rating is the missing screen protection—it would have been ideal if iStyles had included a little square of clear plastic cling like Marware does.