Review: Speck Product’s FlipSkin

Speck Product’s new FlipSkin is a rubberized Video iPod case with a built-in adjustable viewing stand. This stand can support about four different viewing angles, unlike some cases that only open to a basic 45 degrees, and folds flat against the case when not in use.

From a straight out vanity point of view, I think the FlipSkin looks really really nice. It doesn’t hurt that it’s olive and black, one of my absolute favourite colour combinations, but it is also clearly styled to look ‘active’, ‘progressive’, ‘forward’, and ‘adventurous’. I think it succeeds and succeeds well.

The case itself has strategic cut-outs to allow full access to your iPod’s click wheel, bottom sync port, top hold switch, and the all important headphone jack. Once enwrapped then, you’ll never ever have to take your iPod out of this case again, unless you need to transfer it to a more special purpose case for some reason, like when you go dune surfing or swimming.

I don’t think that the viewing stand really isn’t strong enough, however, to double as a belt or pocket clip. As such, the FlipSkin will be living in your pockets, purse or bag a lot when you’re not watching videos. It come with a clear plastic screen protector that, once you carefully place the rubber gasket side down again your iPod’s face, will keep the screen from getting scratched up or banged when it’s inadvertently sharing space with your keys or pocket change, but there isn’t any sort of protection whatsoever for the click wheel. It’s just out there on its own exposed to whatever you happen to bump into or brush up against. This probably won’t be a problem for most people, but it’s something to think about.

The click wheel issue and the lack of a belt clip take the FlipSkin’s final rating down a little bit, but its definite visual appeal and otherwise solid design earns it a good 80%. It really is a truly gorgeous case, and the flip stand works well. Another fine offering from Speck Products!