Review: DLO Action Jacket Case for Zune 4/8/16 and 80/120

Vendor: DLO

This will be the first of multiple DLO product reviews in the near future, this one in particular featuring the Action Jacket case for both the flash and hard drive players. Check out these exercise oriented cases.

Features:

Neoprene case with clear window protects Zune from sweat and the elements

Total access to all Zune controls and connector port

Washable armband fits a bicep circumference of 9" to 20"

These Action jackets are quite a bit different than the cases I have reviewed in the past, as they are more oriented toward use during exercise. Because of this, they are designed using a soft black neoprene material, covering just about all of the device, and a thin plastic covering over the entire front of the device.

Now, due to the fact that clear plastic covers everything, controls are harder to use. It leaves a small gap between the plastic and touch pad, so swiping it noticeably more difficult. One must push down harder to get the full functionality, which causes me to find myself clicking quite a bit more often. The thought is obviously that if your working out, you won't be needing to access these controls to much, and it's the price you pay for full protection.

To prevent your Zune from sliding out, there is a flap that closes via velcro. On the 80/120 version, this is located on the top, while the flash case has it on the bottom over the sync port.

The hold switch can be easily accessed on the 80/120 version, as there is a large gap at that location, but the flash case is a bit of a different story. A small slit is cut out of the top of the case for access, but it can be a bit of a challenge using the switch through it.

The sync port for both cases is easily accessible, as the 80/120 case leaves it open, and the 4/8 simply requires you to open the Velcro flap.

One of the main differences between these two cases is the belt clip. The flash case has a simpler belt clip, that cannot be removed, but can rotate 180 degrees. It does not just rotate freely though, it locks every 30 degrees.

The 80 gig clip on the other hand is much bulkier, but can easily be removed. Another difference is the fact that this clip simply swivels 360 degrees. However, the velcro strap holding the 80 in place can be attached so that it actually enters the bottom of the clip; keeping it in place. This is only possible at one angle though.

The belt clip for the flash case is built in a way that the armband can easily be slipped in.

The 80/120  belt clip does not function in a way compatible with the armband, so if you plan on using that the clip must be removed. Once removed, the armband can slip through two flaps on the back of the case. This reduces the bulk slightly when using  this model.

Conclusion

Overall, these were fairly enjoyable cases to play around with. They seem to be very protective, and are great for working out. For every day use though, not so much. The plastic covering the front makes using the controls harder than normal, and the case adds a fair amount of bulk. If your looking for a case for the purpose of exercising, you won't find one much better, just don't expect to use this case for too many other purposes. Also note  that these cases cannot be purchased yet, nor does DLO have them up on their site. You'll have to stay tuned for pricing info, and where to purchase.

Thanks to ShotgunSnipist for letting me use your zune 80 for the pics!