Well, I definitely think the armband is useful for running or the like, but for times when it is in my purse/carry-on bag, I don't want it to get scratched. Most of the cases I saw were either way too overpriced or flat-out ugly. The socks (I think I paid 5 bucks for a pack of 6) are cheap, cute, and keep the screen safe when I am carrying my ipod around.