I take my 15" Macbook Pro (early 2008) to what most would agree are extreme environments. In one year it's been from extremely dusty (Sahara Desert) to extremely wet (Irrawaddy Delta) to just plain hostile (Congo) and a lot in between. In the interests of protecting it, I've had the following hardcases: (In no particular order.)
Pelican 1090CC - Hands down, the toughest off-the-shelf protection you can buy for your MBP. Dustproof, waterproof, crushproof. If you feel that there's a real change that your computer might ever end up in the water, this is it. Have taken several tumbles from motorcycles on dirt roads with this in my pack, no problems. Personally, I feel its superior to similiar issue Army gear. The only drawback is that it's very bulky. This thing won't fit into my briefcase, which is one of those leather messenger bag type things. In a medium sized airplane carryon bag, you won't be able to fit much else. For most people, total overkill.
Rhinoskin Aluminum - Very form fitting and doesn't add much bulk. Don't have to remove when sitting at a desk or table. The little window that lets everyone see your glowing Apple is deeply flawed. There's some flex here and there's a joint between the plastic and the metal that will scratch up the aluminum around your Apple logo. The padding is inadequate. Its too thin and there's some play between the MBP and the case so I added some padding so it wouldn't bounce around so much. For 150 USD, should be much, much better. Still, adds least amount of bulk.
Rhinoskin ABS - Not worth the money. Not much smaller than the Pelican, not nearly as much protection. A lot of flex in the case, particularly in the center. The feet/strap attachment points are poorly designed. Adds a lot of bulk and the straps never feel secure enough for me to want to carry a computer that way. Same window problem as the Aluminum. Mine had a sharp edge on the open button and it scratched up the lid release button on my MBP. Ugly as sin and other Mac people you meet even in the most far flung corners of the globe will make fun of you for your poor taste (true story). Returned it for a refund.
RadTech Mactruck - Better all around than than either Rhinoskin option. Higher quality, much better fit and finish. Handle adds a lot of bulk but can be removed with a bit of work. Case itself is a little bulky. Solid attachment points for straps. Just wish it had less pointed corners and edges. Very expensive, but best protection if you're not risking Pelican levels of environmental hazards.
Mathias Laptop Armor - Not really a case, but a very small briefcase. Stylish in that James Bond "hey look, I'm a spy!" sort of way. Excellent protection (watch the video on their site).
I haven't tried this one, but Otterbox has a briefcase style case that fits the MBP if you need dust, water and environmental protection. Plus for the Otterbox is that it floats.
The Booq Vyper and Axio Hardsleeve are glorified sleeves. The latter has a hard shell, but there's way too much flex in the shell and between the shells along the zipper.
