IPhone :: Need Picking 2 3G Cases

My wife and I just purchased 2 3G Iphones. We want to protect them ASAP. We want to buy cases that will help protect the phone from being dropped. Also we want them to be somewhat slim and not bulky. I would think a silicon case would be better than a hard case in shock absorption but please correct me if I am wrong. My wife keeps her phone in her purse while I usually have it in my pocket. Are budget for both is $50 shipped. Do hard cases help absorb shock when you drop your phone? Also what is a good online retailer for Iphone cases? Here are the options I am thinking about. I am open to any other suggestions. Amazon has these all in stock.

Switcheasy Capsule Rebel: I like the idea but I don't know if I like the look.
Switcheasy Capsule Neo: Looks better than Rebel but reviews are not as good.
Iskin Solo: What my wife is looking for but may be too glossy.
Shield polycarbonate slim fit case: Cheap on amazon but don't hear too much about this case
Incipio Feather: Looks awesome and slim but would it protect the phone when dropped??
Speck Candyshell: Looks very nice but rubber corners and bottom tend to break or rip.
Seidio Flexarmour: Ok looks. Don't hear much about them.
Seidio innocase: Looks nice but will it protect iphone if dropped??
Otterbox Impact: Cheap, good reviews, and looks like it will protect. It looks too bulky and not the most attractive case either,