Need case advice: heavy commuter about to be an iPad 2 owner

[spiderman0616]

Ok--I really need some advice from the forums.

For my new job, I spend about 2 1/2 hours on the train commuting each day. I also have an hour lunch which I usually spend at my desk. It was time to order an iPad, so I ordered my iPad 2 tonight.

Looks like I have about a month to decide on what case to buy for it. I definitely do NOT want to "go naked" with this thing for several reasons:

1. I am INCREDIBLY anal about my devices. Ask my iPhone. I don't want bumps, scratches, or dings on my iPad, and it will be proned to that type of thing from doing so much traveling.

2. I may have to walk in the rain some days. On those days I'm sure I'll have it in a bag or some other protective covering, but I still want the case to be something that will protect it from stray rain drops.

3. My wife and kids may use it from time to time and I need something to protect it from grimy hands. I already bought screen protectors for it, so I'm not worried about the screen, but more the bezel and the back of it.

Needless to say, I don't think I want the smart cover. I have heard that it scratches the iPad up and I don't think it's going to give me enough protection. I appreciate the idea, but it's not enough insurance for my $500 device.

The best case I've ever had in my life for any device is my current one: the Belkin GripVue because it does not bang up my antenna band or glass and it's easy to get on and off. Anyone have a suggestion that's similar to that?

Highly appreciate any help.

Thanks!

 

[kalex]

Otterbox defender or commuter series. Not sure when they will start shipping them but that should work for u

 

[glen e]

Stay home in the closet.......too many ways your 500 device can get scratched in the real world.

Seriously, relax, get a full case like a marware or portenzo , a screen lfilm and worry about something else...

 

[Pete the Geek]

I'm a heavy commuter - on small (14 seat) airplanes every week. I'm so looking forward to leaving my laptop and heavy backpack behind on future trips. I treat my devices well, though I don't worry about natural wear and tear.

To protect my iPad 2, I bought the smart cover for the screen. I got a decorative GellaSkin (vinyl sticker) for the back (I haven't decided if I will use the GellaSkin around the bezel). To carry it around I bought a Tom Bihn Ristretto for iPad. It has thick padding that fits the iPad 2 perfectly and has plenty of room for other essentials.