The Kindle2 looks great, and a number of us have already ordered ours. There are tons of improvements over the first generation including size (it is thin!), speed (pages apparently turn much faster), and internal memory (2GB!).

Unfortunately, there are some definite steps back too. Chief among them… no case! I don’t like this trend at all, but it is sadly increasingly pervasive that after buying high end electronics you have to spend additional cash in order to give it ANY protection.

Fortunately, there are already some excellent choices which will be available that offer both style and protection. Two that we have our collective eyes on…

Waterfield’s Options-
I love Waterfield cases, and I am happy that they will have three from which to choose–

The Travel Case for the Kindle 2 is designed with padded, internal compartments to keep the Kindle 2™, the power adapter, the clip light, and any additional accessories tangle-free and organized while in transport. Self-locking zippers on a front pocket and the main compartment ensure that contents stay in. Available in six vibrant colors, the water- resistant case maintains its thin, compact shape, even when fully packed. Users can toss the case in their bag or opt for a removable shoulder strap to carry it as a stand-alone case.
Price- $49. Six colors: black, silver, brown, blue, green or red.

The Slip Case for the Kindle 2 sports the same vibrantly colored water-resistant material on its exterior; a lightly padded, scratch-free liner; and impact-resistant plastic to protect the Kindle 2™ screen. The open top provides secure yet quick access to the device.
Price- $27. Six colors: black, silver, brown, blue, green or red.

The SleeveCase for the Kindle 2 protects the device with: high-grade neoprene; a sturdy, black, ballistic nylon shell; and a lightly padded closing flap. Two sizes store either the Kindle 2™ naked—the Small, with an impact resistant, screen protecting insert—or the Kindle 2™ in another case—the Large. A rear, open-top pocket stows USB cable, ear buds, etc. With its optional Shoulder Strap, users can wear the case or toss it into their bag.
Price- Large or Small: $39. Color: Black.

All three cases are available for pre-order from Waterfield & will ship March 10, 2009.

M-Edge’s Option-
I’m new to M-Edge, but their cases look quite nice.

The Executive Jacket is

the ultimate for sophisticated on-the-go eReader users. Whether in the office, at a business meeting, or on the treadmill, the Executive Jacket^TM provides refined and stylish protection of your Amazon Kindle in a superior case. The Executive Jacket^TM offers full surface protection in a lushly padded case, while the soft grey interior ensures your Kindle will always be cushioned in comfort.

The jacket utilizes a four-point mounting system to hold your device firmly in place. This smart case with classic lines includes interior pockets for storage of notes, business cards, and other essentials. Even while closed, you’ll find access to all ports, so you never need to remove your reader for charging. The M-edge Accessories Amazon Kindle 2 Executive Jacket^TM is a sleek case that will protect your eReader from scratches and dings. It is the perfect solution for the user with a fashionable, active lifestyle.

Price- $39.99 but on pre-order sale for $29.99 in Red, Royal Blue, Camel, Mocha Brown or Black. Available for preorder with an expected ship date March 2, 2009.

The Platform Jacket for the Amazon Kindle 2 is

the ultimate for sophisticated on-the-go eReader users. Whether in the office, at a business meeting, or at home, the Platform JacketTM provides refined and stylish protection of your Kindle 2 in a superior case. The Platform JacketTM introduces a new stand-up design, which allows you to read your Kindle upright, hands-free, while still offering full surface protection in a lushly padded case. The soft grey interior ensures your Kindle will always be cushioned in comfort. The Platform JacketTM seamlessly integrates with M-Edge Accessories’ exclusive e-Luminator booklight via a specially designed pocket sewn into the interior of the jacket.

The case includes a pen loop and interior pockets for notes, business cards, and other essentials. All ports remain accessible while the Kindle 2 is in the Platform Jacket.

Features: Synthetic leather exterior and soft, grey microfiber interior. Front flips over and closure tab tucks in to serve as bookstand for upright, hands-free reading. Solid front & back construction with plush grey interior for maximum device protection. Compatible with M-Edge e-Luminator booklight (sold separately). Jacket allows access to all ports and buttons.

Price- $39.99 but on pre-order sale for $29.99 in Red, Royal Blue, Camel, Mocha Brown or Black. Available for preorder with an expected ship date March 2, 2009.

I wish Amazon offered SOMETHING by way of protection, but it is nice to know there will be some good options available. We hope to have reviews of all of these cases when they are released.