Review: Agent 18 EcoShield + FlowerVest for iPod touch 2G

As updates to its earlier case products, Agent 18’s new EcoShield ($25) and FlowerVest ($25) alternately offer a hard, recycled matte plastic shell or a soft, flower-laden rubber case to protect the second-generation iPod touch. EcoShield is a two-piece, snap-together design with an included screen protector and Universal Dock Adapter, offered in three colors, while FlowerVest is a single-piece design with the same two pack-ins, offered in two color combinations. Though both of these cases are fine designs, FlowerVest offers considerably more protection than EcoShield for the dollar, covering the iPod touch’s top and side buttons, as well as its upper right corner, which is exposed in EcoShield to let you more easily open the case. Both designs are fully accessory compatible, and extremely similar in thinness; EcoShield is notably thinner than the prior iPod touch version we reviewed in greater detail. We’d pick the more novel and colorful FlowerVest any day given its more distinctive rear designs and better iPod protection, but if simple hard protection’s what you seek, EcoShield is a good option, as well.