I always check my hotmail account from my Axim using this link.
http://login.passport.net/uilogin.srf?id=961
If you get the msn main page just click on the "already have an account?" under the View demo button.
I'm not sure if having a hotmail account also gives you a .net passport account or if they are one in the same.
Once the cookie is on your Ax you shouldn't get the main page any more. I get the mail login with my hotmail email already filled in. I just need to put in my password and I have a pretty normal hotmail looking page.
Let me know if this worked for you.
for all other pop3 you can use.
http://mail2pda.com/
Axim 5/400/2003