I think these cases are pretty good because you can slide your hand into one of those straps. Ensures the ipad won't fall. Just lock the screen and you should be good to go.
http://www.cyberacoustics.com/retail/Cases-and-Covers/IC-...
Marware micro shell folio ftw! I love this case
For holding and reading in portrait I would recommend an M-Edge case from their soon to be discontinued Trip or Executive series. M-Edge is known for making some of the best Kindle cases so they know how to cater to readers (although I find their new iPad offerings a bit questionable). Anyway, you can pick up a Trip or Executive case for very cheap right now as they're both on sale as they're being discontinued. I shall add that I have had my Trip case for a year and I am pleased with it overall. Leather plus canvas is an attractive combination, but I wish I had chosen a colourful canvas instead of the black which is a dust magnet. However, it's scotchgard protected and easy to wipe with a damp cloth.
Oh wow those are good deals. Do the Trip or Executive have a stand up view (Like the smart cover)? or is it just for holding? I am thinking about getting the mocha executive.
Nope, no stand functionality. These are very straightforward, discreet notebook style cases. Also, don't be fooled by the mount - the elastic is very strong and the iPad will sit tightly protected in the case with the benefit being that it's really easy to remove the case when you want to use the iPad naked.
Thanks for the response. Do you find it a pain that it doesn't have a stand function?