It is a personal preference but I like leather cases protecting my devices and I like leather that is soft, pliable and rich in texture. That is what you get with a Vaja case but in addition, the cases they have designed for the iPod have all those qualities but in addition it is a hard case. They have incorporated between the inner and outer layers of leather a hard material that protects the device from “stress” it can receive from drops or pressure exerted on the iPod case while in a tight pocket. It is a pretty cool design, slim in overall appearance and best of all, it has the look that only leather can give.