When it comes to water-proofing your iPod, the options are limited. OtterBox was one of the first to spearhead the effort and now offers cases for the 4G and 5G iPod, iPod mini, iPod shuffle, and both iPod nanos, but competitors have been slow to enter the market. Lilipods, another early entry, has seemingly ceased the water-proofing effort after delivering cases for the 4G iPod and iPod mini in early 2005. SKB Cases with its Drypod line of waterproof cases for the 4G iPod, 5G iPod, and iPod nano is the newest firm to offer extended protection from the elements.

Drypod for 5G iPod

The Drypod cases are immediately recognizable thanks to their bold blue plastics. Unlike OtterBox, which employs a hinged one-piece design, the Drypod case separates at the middle to accommodate your iPod. While seemingly secure for lighter use, the Drypod case doesn't elicit the same water-proof confidence that OtterBox products do when latched shut.

For its part, SKB Cases seems to acknowledge that the Drypod isn't intended for more extreme uses. The manual notes that the case is not designed to be continuously submerged, unlike the OtterBox cases that are guaranteed to keep your iPod dry at depths up to 1 meter, regardless of how long they spend under water. As such, surface swimming is largely out of the question with the Drypod, which is geared more towards those who surf, hang out at the beach, or spend a lot of time in the rain or snow.

Drypod with lanyard (and splashed with water)

While the Drypod's two-piece design may not be as secure as the OtterBox, it does allow for greater versatility. Included with each Drypod is a belt clip, armband (which requires the belt clip be used, since the armband is literally just a simple band), and lanyard. The lanyard attachment takes the place of the belt clip, or both accessories can be forgone if a slimmer fit is desired.

The Drypod's "flex-pad" click wheel protector allows for decent control of your iPod. Significant sensitivity is lost on account of the thicker plastic and a small gap between your iPod and the case, but perfectly precise control has always eluded water-proof cases.

Drypod beltclip and armaband

The Bottom Line

If water-proofing your iPod is your main goal, or you simply want to swim with your iPod, OtterBox cases cannot be beat. If your needs are less demanding and you desire a case that will stand up to the beach or the slopes, the Drypod is a solid and more affordable option.