I just got my new 4G iPod, and I'm not sure which way to go on a case. I've read a lot of these fora and read a lot of reviews, and what it comes down to is not a lack of feedback on specific models but on case TYPES. I'd be interested to hear some ideas on this. I'm considering three kinds of cases:

--"Shell" case. Probably not the appropriate term, but basically I'm talking about the Contour Showcase. I had one for my 3G, and I liked it OK, though it did get somewhat grimy (the case, not the 'Pod). I dropped it once and it protected my iPod perfectly. I DID however shear off the clip (the clip sheared off rather than releasing from my belt).

--"Skin" case. I'd be getting the iSkin evo2. I've never had a silicone form-fitting case before.

--"Holster" case. I'd be getting the Xtrememac Xtremity system. I like the modularity and I like the auto mounting system. I'm not sure I'm all that put out by not having access to the click wheel when fully closed. But I've read some concerns on this forum about its durability.

OK, here's more about my own needs out of a case, in no particular order:

--Protect from scratches. I'm a neat freak. I know once the first scratches are there it'll be fine, but I'd like to protect as much as possible. Seems like the Contour and iSkin win there over the Xtremity, or do they? I do tend to be very careful with my equipment, so though I'm naturally concerned about dropping I'm more concerned (as far as the case goes) with scratching.

--Form factor. I like to keep the iPod nice and trim. Don't want bulk. This is aesthetic more than anything else. My current Contour was OK with that, it looks like all three fit that bill.

--Auto mount. I often use the iPod in the car. I don't have anything fancy, just a cassette adapter, and I'm not likely to change that. But I'd like to have a place to stick the iPod rather than toss it on the passenger seat (or in a passenger's lap). I do have an open space it could sit in my car dash (meant for a CD player or other component), but that has proven a hazard if I want to grab it to change tracks or adjust volume or whatnot. I DO do that. Here, the Xtremity seems to be the best choice. What are people's experiences in such situation with other kinds of cases?

--"Permanent". I don't want to have to keep taking out and putting it in. But I do live in Seattle, and I do take it out when I'm jogging, and I don't consider any of these to be rain-proof or good exercise gear, but what are all your experiences in such situations?

I don't currently use an iTrip or any other top-mounted device, though that's not out of the question later. I DO use a Belkin media reader all the time, which plugs into the bottom. I don't use the dock, I'm fine just plugging in the cable directly.

So, what do you all think? Which kind of case do you think will make me happiest? Let me hear via the poll, but I'd be interested in your responses, too!