Let's face it: Apple's newest iPod shuffle is so tiny and so conveniently clippable it renders traditional cases and armbands virtually obsolete. But even if there's not much of a market for some products, you can rest assured that some iPod accessory makers will try to create one and further extend the reach of the lucrative iPod economy.

Speck TechStyle-Puck

Such came to mind when I first took a look at the TechStyle-Puck from Speck. This durable case, roughly the size of a hockey puck, is constructed from hard molded EVA plastic and covered with nylon fabric, making "rugged" almost an understatement. An included carabiner makes it easy tote with you.

Unzip the TechStyle-Puck and inside you'll find a nice holder for your iPod shuffle that doubles as earphone management, giving you something to wrap the cord around and keep it neatly tucked away. All in all, not a bad execution (although we did have occasional zipper issues), and one that reminded me of the earBuddy (4 stars) earphone case from SendSation, but for five dollars more.

The $19.95 question is whether anyone needs the TechStyle-Puck. Sure, clipping your iPod shuffle to you and jamming the earphones into your pocket when not in use is less than elegant, but the TechStyle-Pick increases the volume of your iPod shuffle by a factor of 20 and takes away what I consider the shuffle's most valuable feature: being able to have it on you without even realizing it.

The Bottom Line

If you're in the market for a rugged case for your iPod shuffle and don't mind the extra heft, the TechStyle-Puck will serve your needs, but most people may prefer to look at more svelte products to protect their mini music player.