Nano

Despite the fact that we've hit winter weather, manufacturers want us to believe waterproof iPod accessories are the new black. A company called Swimbelt has a series of waterproof holsters for iPod video, shuffle and nano, $39.99, that were designed to work while fully submerged in the pool. The belts are made of neoprene that is resistant to the effects of oils, solvents, heat, and water. You have to purchase the H2O Waterproof Case, $79.99, and waterproof headphones, $49.99 separately, which means a waterproof set will put you out nearly $170 on top of the cost of your iPod. I think the price begs the question, is the ability to listen to music underwater worth it?

Now that the new third generation iPod nanos have hit the stores, I'm sure many of you have picked one up. They're wider and shorter than the older versions, which makes them even better to use when working out.

Check out the iPod nano Armband. It's flexible, lightweight and protects your precious nano beautifully. If you like to keep track of your runs, the front pocket that holds your nano even has space for the Nike + iPod Sport Kit receiver.

The straps are adjustable, so you can wrap it around your arm or your wrist and have easy access to the controls. Order your iPod nano Armband ($29) from the online Apple Store.

If you happened to treat yourself to a new iPod Nano (lucky duck) you are probably searching for a case that is both fashionable, functional and easy on the wallet.

Check out these hand-made suede sleeves which cradle your Nano and protect it from scratches. Although it looks like your iPod could easily slip in and out of this sleeve, the creators assure us that your iPod will fit snugly inside so it will not fall out but can still be removed effortlessly. You can also operate the scroll wheel through the case since the leather is quite thin. Priced at $18 each and available from Etsy. Scroll down to see an assortment of styles...how cute is the Halloween one?

With all the latest additions to the iPod world, I was wondering how long it would take before the accompanying accessories would hit the market. Here are some new fun and fashionable cases by Fabrix, which come in custom sizes to perfectly fit the new nano, regular iPod and the new iPod Touch. Featured on The Bag Lady, these hand sewn cases come slightly cushioned for added protection against scratches and bumps. Choose from many patterns and colors. Prices start at $20.

The new nano hasn't even hit store shelves yet, and companies like Belkin are already creating accessories for Apple's latest products. Here is one of them, the sports armband plus which has been specifically designed to hold various Apple devices. Each armband is hand-washable and made from breathable and water wicking CoolMax material. This sleek fitting sleeve also includes a cable capsule for you to store your earphones in. Available for the upgraded nano model ($30), the classic nano ($20) and the new Touch ($30). You can currently place a pre-order, as items are expected to be shipped around October 15th. via CrunchGear

If you've spent a tiny fortune on your iPod Nano, you want to get a case that will really protect it from getting damaged or broken while working out. When I run, mine used to always fall out of my pocket, but I'm totally covered with the iSkin Duo.

The iSkin Duo has 2 layers (hence the name) which equals twice as much protection. The inner layer is made of colored silicone, specially treated to resist dust and lint. I love that it has integrated click wheel protection. It is shock absorbing (for when you accidentally drop it a million times), and protects against moisture (like sweat or rain) and normal wear and tear.

The outer layer is called the VISOR Face Protector. It's made of hard resin and protects the face and screen of your iPod Nano. There is a removable rotary beltclip included, so you can clip it to your pocket or waistband when you exercise.

It protects against both impact and scratching, but is still compatible with Apple's Universal Dock and other similar docking devices. Have I peaked your interest? You can get one for $29.99 directly from the iSkin website.

Do you love to listen to music while you workout? Me too. What about a little rain, does that bother you? Me neither! The only problem is that I don't want to ruin my iPod when I'm out in the rain, and I was using a ziploc baggy to cover it, but then I found this...

It's a waterproof iPod case made by Otterbox. Clever name, huh? Whatever kind of iPod you have -- a Nano, a Shuffle, a Video, a Mini, or a 20gb -- they make a cover for it. Otterboxes are waterproof, dustproof, dirtproof, sandproof, and my personal favorite - DROP-PROOF.

The click wheel is protected by a thin membrane which remains fully functional through the case. Plus there is an external headphone jack attached that fits your headphones, but keeps the water out.

You can use it when you're out running, biking, camping, hiking, kayaking, or whatever - and for $39.95, the Otterbox iPod case protects your iPod no matter what comes your way. Wouldn't you rather spend $40 on a case, instead of $150 or more on an iPod? Yeah, me too.

We protect our feet with sneakers so why not protect your precious iPod with sneakers as well?

This cute little case has sewn-in screen protection, a slim belt clip on the back, as well as a sturdy canvas and rubber design. I have two favorite things about this case -- The first is that it looks like my all-time favorite Chuck Taylor Converse sneakers. The second thing I love is that it is only $7.00 right now! Buy it from SpeckPRoducts.com. FYI: It fits 1st generation iPod nano only.