jedolley, thanks. This thread was towards the top as there were recent posts and it was the exact (pretty much) question(s) I was looking to get answered here. You mention two other skins I am not familiar with. I will search the forum for more details but you piqued my interest now in the Phantomskinz due to the clear coat and smooth feel you describe. that is exactly what I am looking for. At least for the screen portion.
Thanks again!
I'm a big fan of Phantomskinz, especially for touch screen devices since their skins have a smoother feel than all the other ones I have tried. However, I should warn that their design/cut for the iPad 2 is not the best IMO. The corners can be difficult to apply.
When it comes to the design/cut for the iPad, BSE, Ghost Armor, and Wrapsol did a better job IMO.