Remember a few years ago when it seemed like the fervor surrounding iPods, not to mention the hordes of iPod-friendly accessories, couldn’t get any bigger?  Fast-forward to today where it feels like 90% of the (capitalist-friendly) world's daily routine includes using an iPod.

Companies worldwide have continued cashing in on the phenomenon – namely, with accoutrements for everyone’s favorite accessory.  So, with spring coming, we figured it’s the perfect time to embrace the portable music device that makes running/jumping/grooving downright easy.  Here is a list of a few of our favorite recent pieces of iPod paraphernalia:

i-Dog($29.99)
Whether or not you were of a generation raised on The Jetsons (consistently pleading with your parents for an Astro of your own), you’ll love this robotic dog.  Feed your iDog danceable beats and it’ll groove day in and out (or as long as its AA batteries will last).  Play your tunes through this 4 1/2-inch-high pet’s built-in speaker, or set it against any sound-producing source and watch as it flashes different-color LED lights and dances to its little plastic heart’s content.

Vonia Sports Headband ($84.25)
Sorry users of iPod alternates, this sweatband is reserved solely for those who Shuffle.  Thanks to Thanko (sorry, we couldn’t resist) – the USB-port-obsessed company responsible for this Vonia Sports Headband – shufflers can now take their music-listening experience to the next level: hands-free.  Just slip your Shuffle into the headband’s pouch and, voilà: you’re ready-to-go.  Never mind its simplistic appearance, this headband employs bone-conduction technology, which allows users to “listen to sound using vibrations, which travel from the emitter to your inner ear using your skull.”  Very 2010.
*Note: this product is currently only available in Japan. 

iPod Video Privacy Screen Protector ($9.99)
Feeling shy about sharing what’s on your iPod?  No, we’re not talking piracy.  Just privacy.  With the iPod Video Privacy Screen Protector (we recommend calling it the iShield for short) you can hide the screen of your 5G iPod from wandering eyes.  So, no matter what photos or videos strike your fancy (or where), with this little accessory you’ll never again have to feel self-conscious while viewing in a crowd.

V-Moda Bass Frequency Earphones ($50)
Bass-lovers (on a budget) everywhere, listen up.  V-Moda’s Bass Frequency Earphones are consistently rated at the top of audiophiles’ charts and offer the best sound quality of any comparable product on the market.  Not to mention, the line comes in a range of eye-catching (slightly cheekily-named) colors including Steel Blue, Platinum White and Bling-Bling Black.

KNG FUNKit iPod DJ dock ($50)
Looking for a Bose alternative with a bit more flash?  The FUNKit iPod DJ dock might be right up your alley.  Leave the spinning (and the styling – it comes with its very own Fubu jacket) to the DJ.  Just plug your iPod into the dock and kick back as your own personal entertainer comes to life -- blaring your favorite tunes from its built-in speakers.  It’ll bring new life to your listening experience.

Myvu ($299.95)
While the marketing behind this "portable big-screen" TV by the eponymous corporation leaves something to be desired, we’re crazy about the concept.  Essentially - take your 50” TV screen with you everywhere you go.  Watch your iPod videos via a pair of glasses with built-in headphones and mini-screens in the lenses.  These are at the head of the (style-setting) pack. 

~Alisa Gould-Simon