Package Contents

The Sena case arrives in red felt pouch with a drawstring tucked inside the trademark Sena box.  My review sample was blue.  Other color choices include: black, tan, brown, magenta, green, orange and yellow.  There is also an optional Bantam belt-clip that rotates every 90 degrees.  My sample did not include the belt clip.

Testing Environment

iPod Video (30GB)

Evaluation

I have owned a number of Sena cases over the years.  I have used them to protect my iPaq 4355, Dell Axim x50v, and my Axim x51v.  As a new iPod owner, though, I quickly discovered there seems to be no end to the number of companies producing cases to protect anything iPod!   I’m guessing that Sena’s strong following among PDA and Smartphone users will bode well for their iPod line as well.

Attention to detail is obvious with quality stitching throughout and an embossed Sena logo on the front cover.  Inside the flip cover Sena provides one “multi-purpose pocket” for a credit card or cash, I suppose.

Two magnets sewn into the bottom corners of the flip cover and case ensure that the iPod body and screen will be protected from anything in your gear bag or pocket that might otherwise scratch it. 

Plugging in the earphones is possible without having to open the flip cover thanks to a designed notch around the speaker jack.

You can synch and charge your iPod without having to remove it from the Sena case via the cutout for the

The dimensions of the leather cut out around the screen appeared exact on my sample and allowed unobstructed views of the entire screen.  The cut out around the click wheel is so precise so as to not interfere with smooth scrolling.  The first time I inserted the iPod into the Sena case it was a snug fit.  The new leather gripped the iPod so snugly that it makde removing the iPod for the first time a real tug-of-war!  I was afraid I was tugging on it so hard that when it finally did come free I was going to sling the iPod across the room.  Note: after a week or two in the case, the leather has conformed beautifully making it much easier to remove of the iPod when necessary.

Closing Words

Overall Sena provides a very well constructed and functional case that keeps the iPod pocketable.  Quality does come at a cost but, in this case, the old adage is true; you get what you pay for.  The Sena leather is durable and the workmanship is top-notch making the Sena magnetic flip case a smart choice for those seeking a stylish and functional leather case to protect their iPod!

Pros:

• High Quality craftsmanship and full grain leather
• Slim design doesn’t add a lot of bulk to the diminutive iPod Video
• Ability to synch/charge your iPod while still in the case
• Available in a choice of colors

Cons:

• Until the leather relaxes a bit, it can be a real tug-of-war to get the iPod out of this case. 
• $50 may seem pricey compared to other case options available.
• For those who use their iPod while exercising, a belt clip is the only option (no armbands available)