« Lajo eXo3x Shuffle skin for iPod shuffle | Main | Microsoft's new Xbox plays nice with iPod? »

May 18, 2005

iPoditude Review: Moshi mini iPouch

I've always liked the simple pouch style iPod bag. They're easy to use, look nice, and I don't mind having to remove the iPod for usage. Just slide the iPod in the pouch and throw it in your bag or coat pocket and your good to go.

The iPouch from Moshi caught my eye when I wrote about it a few weeks ago because of some unique design features: First, there was the fabric, it's called Terahedron™ and is a type of microfiber. Secondly, the small pocket on the front for storing earphones would give this pouch more utility than the average one. Then there was the drawstring closure on the top which seemed able to provide the iPod with all-around protection. I've been using the Moshi iPouch for a couple of weeks now and it has lived up to my (high) expectations. Click through for the full review.

The Facts
Specifications according to the manufacturer:

- Designed for mini iPod, also suitable for Cellphone, Smartphone, and other similar-sized mobile devices.
- Free of chemical treatments and is machine washable.
- Anti-static and splash-proof surface treatment for Terahedron(TM)'s outer layer.
- in-situClean(TM) microfilament interlaced strands are designed to remove grease and fingerprints without scratching.
- Terahedron(TM)'s cross-sectional yarn is specifically designed to trap fine particles.
- Colors: blue, pink, white (review sample), and black
- US Price: $19.99

Construction and Materials
According to the literature that Moshi provides, the soft fabric on the exterior surface of the pouch is designed to remove fine particles and dust. While the more coarse fabric on the inside (just the back of the material since the case is a single layer) is designed to clean fingerprints, grease, and stubborn stains.

Note that you're never supposed to wash any microfiber cloth, not just this pouch, with fabric softener. It makes the micro fibers cry. I did wash my Moshi (that's fun to say) but I didn't put it in the dryer. It was even softer after a washing and I would expect that the Moshi case would age well and hold up to a lot of washings.

The seams and stitching were all very good. The thread used in the stitching is thin and soft so as to not scratch when the pouch is used as a polishing cloth. I accidentally snagged a stitch when I was polishing some eyeglasses and it tore out of one hole. The seam has not loosened or deteriorated further, which is a testament to the quality of the workmanship and the type of stitch used.

My only criticism to the appearance of the pouch, and it's a small one, is the drawstring pull. It is a hard plastic clip-on device that, while color coordinating with the milk-white of the fabric, has a matte finish and just seems a little out of place. I think a molded, glossy finish, rounded shape would be nicer to look at and hold.

Usage as a Cleaning Cloth
Sounds strange to say that about an iPod case, but it's entirely appropriate for this Moshi pouch. Let me tell you with one word how this pouch works as a cleaning cloth: AMAZING. That describes the abilities of this pouch well. And to my surprise, the described specialized cleaning uses of the inside and outside of the fabric are accurate. This pouch works well for polishing the iPod mini, but it REALLY worked well for polishing the regular iPod. This pouch works so well as a cleaning cloth that I got completely carried away - I polished all of my iPods including the shuffle, my sunglasses, my eyeglasses, my cell phone, and my iBook. When the Moshi pouch gets too grimy, just throw it in the washer. Fantastic.

Usage as an iPod Pouch
The Moshi iPouch works well in this more traditional function. The pouch fits a little baggy on my iPod mini, which made it easy to insert and remove, and would also lead me to believe that a mini wearing a silicon skin or other close-fitting case might also fit inside, if that's your thing. The drawstring closure seals well and resists opening by itself. This gives the iPod more protection and the pull string gives you a way to carry the pouch or even clip it to something for added security.

While the exterior pocket is on the small side, Apple earbuds wrapped around a Sumajin Smartwrap (iPoditude review) fit well enough inside. The pocket is a handy design feature that doesn't add any bulk to the pouch, but does add a small measure of utility to it.

As is a common attribute of pouch style cases, drop protection is nonexistent. But with the drawstring closure sealing the top of the iPod, this case would protect well enough for any trip around town in a bag or purse.

The Bottom Line
If you're looking for a pouch style iPod case, get this one. If you're one of those people who worry about scratches and constantly obsesss about your iPod (you know who you are), get this pouch. It's as simple as that. The additional cleaning and polishing functions aside, the fabric is sturdy and soft and it's easily washable. To add to that, it features a nice drawstring top and handy little pocket. It comes in a nice selection of colors and the price is reasonable. 5/5 stars.

The good: Makes an excellent cleaning/polishing cloth for not only the iPod but eyeglasses, sunglasses, etc. Durable, washable fabric, useful pocket, drawstring closure adds security and protection.
The not so good: Plastic drawstring pull feels cheap compared to the elegant design of the rest of the case.

For more information: Moshi. The Moshi iPouch is available in the US starting this month.

45stars.gif

rating-system.gif

Posted on May 18, 2005 11:07 AM | Category: Reviews

Comments

I bought one from ebay and it was only .99 cents. Shipping was $5.95 though but it was still a good deal considering the retail price is 20 bucks. I use the iskin case and put it in the ipouch but its quite difficult. Some force is required but it still fits. Good product. I agree with you about clasp…it doesn’t feel good and it seems like cheap plastic.

Posted by: Kathy on August 1, 2005 03:54 AM

I also bought a mini iPouch for my iPod nano, it’s a loose fit but right now I couldn’t find a better alternative. Hope they make one for the nano soon! I couldn’t find the ebay listing for 99 cents, nowhere near that price range… the cheapest I could find is $14,99 w/o S&H.

Posted by: Emma on September 19, 2005 12:12 AM

I just wanna tell you that i got this Tera Pouch for iPod nano a few days ago, and they changed the “Plastic drawstring pull” into a better looking thing ! They seem to have listened to you ;) I did 2 pictures in my blog, but i think you can’t really see it v_v but that’s not plastic anymore.

Posted by: Hana on July 1, 2006 06:09 PM

…but you can see it well here : http://www.aevoe.com/moshi/terapouch.htm .

Posted by: Hana on July 1, 2006 06:22 PM