I can vouch for the Sony MDR-EX51LP ear buds. I've been using them for a couple years now and have even washed them (what is that in the dryer!?) withour hurting them. They operate more like a ear plug so noise is drasticaly reduced. I have the KOSS ones as well and still think they are better sounding and better at noise reduction, but the foam issue (comes off sometimes when removing) is a hassle.
Soren,
I use my old RIO 500 when riding short distances, but for long trips (like to Idaho) I would get at least a 1 gig player. The IPOD shuffle looks good as it dosen't have a hard drive. For $129 bucks it can't be bet. I'm leary about taking my $400 40 gig Ipod on the road!
...my 2 cents
