A friend passed along his latest recommendation for USB sticks, the Patriot Xporter XT Boost 4GB Flash Drive (newegg link). Rugged exterior, and apparently legendary transfer speeds.
New Egg is always my first stop due to the fantastic user reviews. I was sold on this one when I read the following review…
Pros: Like everyone else says the transfer rates are amazing, but what I look for in a drive is survivability. This thing has survived 3 runs through the washer machine!!!
Cons: It is a lint magnet.
Other Thoughts: Running it through the washing machine will clean all the lint off of it.
Really, what else do you need to know?