Many of you are, right now, asking why in the world my iPod would be stuck in my bra. Well, for months now I've been running around 6 miles a week and during those runs I use my iPod. Sometimes I'm pushing a stroller and sometimes I'm alone and it's those times when I'm alone that I must ponder the eternal question:

Where in the world do I stick my iPod?

My running shorts don't have pockets... and the little key pouch is big enough (it's only a Nano, after all), but that's uncomfortable. I'm already holding a water bottle, so I don't want to hold my iPod... It doesn't stay if you stick it in the band of your shorts... So, really, the only place left is somewhere in my sports bra.

Talk about irritating and gross. There has to be a better way!

Why a sport armband was the best for me...

I venture out to Target and start looking at all the nifty accessories they stock for the iPod Nano. I saw no less than three different sports armbands and a large variety of belt clips. The belt clips were less expensive but (by and large) it was hard to access the buttons. Since the iPod would be so low, there's also the issue of the cord continually getting in my way... and... In addition, I've never really liked things clipped to my belt so those are right out.

I then turn my attention to the three main sport armbands -- the Nike + armband, the Apple armband and the Incase version. Each armband cost $29.99 but their differences were quite remarkable. Let me tell you why I didn't purchase the other two before I get into the dynamics behind the Incase product.

First, the Apple armband. Biggest issue? It's some sort of material that doesn't look like it can be washed easily -- some sort of faux leather. In addition, it's not a flexible material (so it can slip down your arm easily) and the velcro fasteners are extremely small (meaning you might have a hard time getting a custom fit). I'm sure the material would get all sorts of gross after a few runs in 90 degree weather. The case does not cover your iPod entirely (meaning if it gets turned upside down, it will fall out) and it doesn't support the Nike + receiver. Actually, wait... There is a way for it to support the receiver -- by turning the iPod upside down... but then you can't access the screen. Foolishness. It is stylish and attractive, but the negatives made me move on to another $30 armband (this is absolutely the pinnacle of fashion over function).

Then comes the Nike + band. It's made with a stretchable, breathable fabric that fastens easily and comfortably to virtually any arm. The fabric is washable and the casing completely covers the iPod. It can also be used with the Nike + receiver. Only problem? The casing doesn't include a clear window so you can see your iPod's screen. I'd actually like to see what song I'm turning it to if I'm messing around with it. Another issue is that even though I'm sure it's not that much larger than the Incase model, the size just looks large for someone of my size (I'm 5'4'' and weigh 125).

Specifics about the Incase Armband

The Incase Sports Armband comes in two colors -- black/gray and pink/gray. It is specified for the iPod Nano 2, 4 and 8 GB models and is compatible with both 1st and 2nd Generation iPods. It is made of neoprene and is lightweight and flexible. While the fastener system uses velcro, it's much more universal than the Apple model. The materials are also reflective, meaning there is enhanced visibility in low-light situations. The case is built to fit the iPod nano tightly and the clear plastic cover protects the entire iPod from scratches. Since the fit is so tight, there's no worry about the iPod falling out, even when upside down. The plastic cover allows you to see the full screen and access all of the controls easily. In addition, it is built to allow "dock connectors" like the Nike + receiver. The way the armband is designed, it allows you to reverse the direction of the iPod (so you can put it in upside down) without loosing any of the functions (including the hold button). The material itself is completely washable.

My Opinion

I love my Incase armband. It's easy to use and easy to fit. I haven't experienced any issues with fit (either being too tight or loose) and it's never slipped down my arm. The material is so lightweight I almost forget it's there. The neoprene doesn't hold a lot of moisture, so even though I'm running in 90 degree weather my armband stays comfortable. The little moisture it does hold evaporates quickly once it's off, so no fear of mold or any disgusting sliminess developing. The iPod Nano fits in tightly, meaning no matter how hard you try, the iPod will not fall out of the sleeve. The plastic cover is thin and responsive -- I've had no issues with changing the volume or switching songs; it responds to my touch as if the plastic wasn't there. While the outside of the plastic gets dirty, it really does protect the iPod from dirt and scratches very well (probably because of the tight fit).

I've washed it and it comes through the wash well. There aren't any instructions on how to wash, but I do it on delicate (no fabric softener) and allow it to air dry. So far we've had no issues with washing.

Overall

The InCase Sports Armband really is a very comfortable, stylish and functional armband. In my opinion, if you do any sort of heavy workout this is a handy accessory to have. It's well worth the $30 you'll spend on it.

I give the armband a Five Star rating and a Yes on the recommendation.

Editor's Note: While this is the correct category, the picture is not the correct one -- it's for an older model. Check out Target's website -- they have it.

Recommended: Yes