about a year ago, i read an oh so reputable article on how thieves were stealing iPods by yanking on the white headphone lines that hang out.
Since then, I have been paranoid about walking in public whilst listening to my iPod.
Tonight, I believe I’ve solved the problem!

I put the iPod in my easily accessible front jeans pocket and then wind the cord twice around my belt loop before stringing it to my ear.
tada! thief proof.
sorta.