I read my Kindle very happy in the gym on the stepper, cross trainer or treadmill. I usually put it on the apparatus, but now and then I think he likes in his hand. Since the retaining tab comes into play: Is a great invention! The Kindle keeps well and slips through the velvety material in the hand also nothing, if you start to sweat times.
To smell the envelope: I think basically all for my nose to new smartphone, tablet or even this Kindle Cover. I was very surprised because I could barely notice a smell. And what I smelled, actually reeked of leather and not plastic or similar reasonable in China!
Absolute buy recommendation! For the price really great!