Just to add in defence of the nike+ users, it is possible to select "no music" whilst using the ipod to record your distance/pace etc.
I often wear one earpiece with no music, so that l can hear the electronic voice counting off the km on a long run. You get the benefits of motivation without the potential distraction of the music.
I agree that in race conditions, there should be enough going on around you to keep you on track without having to rely on pumping music.
