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iPod

REVIEW: iSkin DuoBand for iPod nano

iskin-duoband-nano.jpgThe DuoBand is an iPod nano armband from iSkin. The DuoBand is different than other nano armbands (like the XtremeMac SportWrap I reviewed in May) because it is comprised of a thin silicone iPod skin that snaps into a hard polycarbonate frame.
Armband are a nice complement to the diminutive size of the iPod nano and are practically a requirement for the gym. The DuoBand keeps sweat away from the nano’s click wheel by completely covering it with the silicone sleeve. The wheel is still accessible through a hole polycarbonate in the frame when being worn.
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iskin-duoband-nano.jpgThe DuoBand is an iPod nano armband from iSkin. The DuoBand is different than other nano armbands (like the XtremeMac SportWrap I reviewed in May) because it is comprised of a thin silicone iPod skin that snaps into a hard polycarbonate frame.
Armband are a nice complement to the diminutive size of the iPod nano and are practically a requirement for the gym. The DuoBand keeps sweat away from the nano’s click wheel by completely covering it with the silicone sleeve. The wheel is still accessible through a hole polycarbonate in the frame when being worn.
The DuoBand ships with a clear skin, additional replacement “Slims” are available in a five pack for when the mood strikes. The DuoBand will fit 8.5 inch biceps up to 19 inch pythons via the adjustable strap. The strap cannot be adjusted while being worn, so you’ll need to get the fit right before putting it on.
My only minor nit with the DuoBand is that the silicone skin prevents it from being easily slid around on my arm. For example, when I want to change a song I have to crane a little bit to see the outside area of my arm (where I position the iPod). The DuoBand doesn’t easily slide to a more accessible part of my arm. Not a big deal though as it’s easy to work around it.
I like the DuoBand slightly better than the SportsWrap because the iPod is easy to pop out of the frame to sync and charge. The SportsWrap requires me to remove the nano from the velcro pouch to charge. It should be noted that neither the DuoBand or the SportsWrap will work with the Nike+ dongle attached.
All-in-all a solid armband/skin combination that I use daily at the gym. The iSkin DuoBand nano retails for US$30 and comes in Arctic Flex (black) and Blush Reflex (pink). A pack of five multi-colored Slims for the iPod nano retail for US$30.

By Jason O'Grady

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