Benefits of Hiking Pants

Lightweight – Made from strong nylon, hiking pants are lightweight—weighing less than even a cotton pair of shorts. On longer hikes the large weight savings allows for more comfort—and thus enjoyable—hiking.
Quick Drying – Due to their nylon construction, hiking pants dry very fast. If the pants get wet, they will dry out often times within minutes –even while wearing them. Unlike blue jeans or other cotton fabrics, nylon hiking pants do not hold or absorb water. For this reason, hiking pants are the pants are ideal for hiking trips where stream crossings need to be made or where there’s the potential of stormy, wet weather. The ability to keep the “pants dry” is especially important in mountain areas, where cold temperatures often accompany rainy weather. A hiker wearing wet blue jeans in cold temperatures will, let’s just say, not have an enjoyable hiking trip.
Quiet – Quality hiking pants are made from specialized nylon that is both “soft” and “quiet”. Quality hiking pants, when worn, do not make that “nylon rubbing” sound like lower quality nylon pants and other poor quality nylon clothing make. This “quiet” not only gets rid of an annoying trail side irritation to the ears, it also allows for better wildlife viewing.
Pockets – Hiking pants usually have many, and often large, pockets. These pockets always come in handy, allowing for easy storage of maps, small digital cameras, lip balm and other items best stored “on person” instead of in a waist pack of daypack. The many pockets on hiking pants also make it easier to go “ultralight.” The pockets are perfect to store maps, sunscreen, lip balm, munchies, phones and other small items “on person” instead of buried in a pack.
Comfort – Hiking pants are one of the most comfortable pants a person can wear. Hiking pants are light—so light they are easy to forget that they are even there. Moreover, hiking pants—properly sized—are also roomy. With a hiking pant, you’ll never have to worry about the pant “crimping up” or rubbing against the skin (which often happens with blue jeans on longer hikes). A hiking pant essentially allows for unlimited flexibility. Hikers who journey off-trail or scramble along the rocks will come to enjoy this benefit greatly. Also, hiking pants often have elastic waistbands. While not exactly stylish, elastic waist bands are comfortable since it allows the pant to move with the motions of the hiker’s body.
Convertible Shorts – Many hiking pants convert easily to shorts. These types of hiking pants are called “Convertible Hiking Pants.” Convertible hiking pants have zippers about 1/3 the way down the pant. Just unzip the lower part of the pant on each leg and the pants convert to excellent hiking shorts.
Leg Protection That is “Cool” – Because hiking pants breathe (sweat isn’t trapped inside the pant), hiking pants keep the legs cool while still protecting the legs from twigs, thorns and other hazards found when hiking—especially off-trail. Off-trail hikers will quickly come to appreciate how the pants protect the skin while still allowing the legs to remain cool.

Clothing layers: how to stay warm

What’s the secret to staying warm and comfortable when active outside? Layers. Layering your outdoor clothing adds comfort by protecting your body from wind, water and moisture, and helps to regulate your temperature during activity.
There are three basic components to your layering system: base, mid and outer layers.
Base layer
This is the layer in direct contact with your skin. Its main purpose is to transport or “wick” moisture off your skin and move it toward the surface of the fabric where it can evaporate. If your base layer holds moisture, you’ll quickly start to feel cold when you slow down or stop for a rest. Choose a thickness, or fabric weight, based on how cold it is and how active you expect to be. Look for seamless or flat-seamed garments that won’t rub against your skin when combined with outer layers or with a pack. And aim for a snug fit that isn’t constricting.
Mid-layer
This layer adds insulation, traps body heat to keep you warm, and continues moving moisture outward. Materials that are fuzzy like fleece are a good choice because they insulate without feeling bulky. And they are highly air permeable so warm, moist air can easily pass through them. Gridded fleece and high-loft fleece trap warm air without adding bulk. Other mid-layer options are lightweight, low-profile insulated pieces – they can weigh less and compress nicely in your pack while still being warm. Mid-layers should be roomy enough to accommodate a base layer and allow movement, but should still be somewhat snug.
Outer layer
Your final layer, sometimes called a “shell,” protects you from the elements. Depending on the climate, you might want a layer that blocks wind, sheds precipitation or does both. It’s important that this layer is still breathable and allows the moisture from your inner layers to escape. Your outer layer should fit easily over your base and mid- layers, without being so loose that all your warmth escapes. And it should still allow you to move freely.
Natural or synthetic?
The type of fabric you choose will depend on climate, activity level, and desired amount of warmth. Certain fabrics, such as cotton are not ideal for layering as they retain wetness and can quickly make you feel chilled.
Synthetic base layers
Synthetic fabrics such as polyester and recycled polyester absorb very little water, so they are quick to dry. These fabrics have good stretch and are easy to care for. They make great base layers – except that they can retain odours if worn for multi-day trips. To combat that, many synthetic base layers have antimicrobial treatments to cut down on unwanted odours.
Wool base layers
A base layer made of merino wool can absorb up to 35% of its weight in moisture and remain dry to the touch since the moisture gets pulled inside the fibres. It has a soft texture and for the same weight, it will be warmer than synthetics. Wool is also naturally odour-resistant, so it’s a good choice if you’ll be working up a sweat day after day. Plus it’s highly breathable, great for temperature regulation, and is long lasting. The drawbacks with wool? It takes longer dry out, and it’s likely to be more expensive and less durable than synthetics. The bonus is that since it’s naturally antimicrobial, you don’t need to wash it as often.
Synthetic mid-layers
Polyester fleece is a classic insulating mid-layer. It traps warm air, it’s durable and absorbs very little moisture. Fleece can be a little bulky though. If space and weight are a concern, you might choose a gridded or high-loft fleece, or opt for a synthetic insulated piece that holds warmth while being compressible enough to carry in a very small pack.
Insulation materials
Down or synthetic insulated mid-layers are both good options if you’re looking for a combination of lightweight and warm. Down provides incredible warmth for weight, and can last a very long time if properly cared for. When wet, though, it loses much of its insulating value and is slow to dry. Synthetic insulators are typically less expensive than down and are easier to care for, but they are typically heavier and bulkier. They also dry out quickly and keep much of their original insulating value when they’re wet.
Protective layers
Waterproof, windproof fabrics and insulating and materials in an outer layer keep the rest of clothing system functioning as it should.

Wool garments for the outdoors

From temperature regulation to dirt and odour repellency, there are many reasons to add wool clothing to your active wardrobe. As a base layer for running, hiking or skiing, there are few materials that will keep you as warm and comfortable.
Keeps you dry and warm
Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture and remain dry to the touch. It will only feel wet when water gets between the yarns and saturates the fabric. Even when it is wet, wool traps heat better than synthetic materials that allow your body heat to escape, making it a great choice for damp or rainy conditions.
Since it releases or absorbs heat slowly, wool buffers you from temperature changes and helps regulate your core temperature. You won’t feel instantly chilled when you step into a cold environment or get hit with a blast of wind. Because of wool’s unique ability to manage moisture (vapour passes through like steam through a screen door), it helps maintain a stable temperature, aids your body in cooling and can help lower your heart rate when worn next to skin.
Requires less washing
Wool fibres don’t tend to absorb oils or perspiration and the odour-producing bacteria that come with them, so it’s naturally odour-resistant. Wool doesn’t cling to your skin either, so it won’t pick up dirt particles as easily as other fabrics, leading to less washing than synthetics or cotton.
It’s fire-safe and chemical resistant
Unlike synthetics, wool is self-extinguishing, and the least flammable of fibres, so it’s great to wear when you’re camping. A thin protective membrane, like a wax covering, is bonded to the outside of each wool fibre, making it resistant to chemicals like dry cleaning fluids.
What’s different about merino?
Wool can be sourced from a few types of animals (cashmere from goats, angora from rabbits). Merino wool comes from merino sheep, a breed that has developed a coat to withstand extreme temperature ranges. They need to stay insulated in winter and need their skin to breathe in summer.
Here’s where we get technical: merino is measured in microns (1mm = 1000 microns). The coarser the micron, the thicker and more rigid the fibre, giving you less flexibility and movement.
It’s great as a base layer or mid-layer due to its softness, warmth-to-weight ratio, breathability and wicking properties. It’s a strong fibre too, so it stretches to move with your body and bounces back without bagging out.

Beauty Tips for Gorgeous Skin and Hair

Could your skin be more clear and smoother than it is? Could your hair be any silkier, stronger and voluminous? All of this without having to spend thousands of rupees are your next-door salon? Yes, absolutely! I come across hundreds of young women looking for desperate solutions to their skin and hair problems and expecting me to wave my magic wand and tackle their issues overnight and transform them. I would love to oblige but the truth is that nature doesn’t bloom overnight. The smallest seed of a plant also needs to be planted, nurtured and cared for before it can blossom and show its magnificence.
So wake up and imbibe these spells into your festive look.
1. For dull, oily and combination skin
Massage the skin with iced yoghurt and sprinkle some sugar along with it. Now take orange halves and scrub gently until the granules melt. Wash the face with iced water and see the difference.
2. For dull, tired and dry skin
Massage the skin with papaya. Then make a scrub by mixing oats and honey along with a little cold milk and scrub the skin. Wash off with ice cold milk and water and pat dry.
3. Suffering from frizzy hair?
Try this simple, quick and easy-to-make spray. Take slices of two lemon and simmer in two cups of water until it reduces to half the amount. Pour the liquid into a spritz bottle and spray on your hair. Not only will there be a wonderful natural sheen but static and fly away hair will be gone!
4. For natural hair colour
If you have a brownish tinge in your hair and don’t have the time to henna or colour it, then take a few sprigs of rosemary from the kitchen shelf and simmer them in 2 cups of water along with 2 tsp black tea until it reduces to half the quantity. Mix with 1/4cup of shampoo and every time you shampoo, use this mixture. Leave the shampoo in your hair for about 15 minutes and see the difference it makes.
5. For a smooth back
Planning to wear a low back blouse, backless dress or choli, but have no time to go in for a body scrub to show off a smooth back? Here’s a quick home remedy. Take 1 cup of sea salt and mix it with half a cup of olive oil. Add 5 drops of sandalwood oil and mix well. Store in a jar and scrub the areas of your body you want to flaunt. Wipe off with a wet towel.
6. Dealing with under eye bags and dark circles
Take used chamomile tea bags and store them in the freezer. Grate half a cucumber and massage around eye area and then lie down with the tea bags on your eyes for 10 minutes.You will find an instant difference in the way your eyes look and feel.
7. Instant face lift
Wash your face with ice water or simply rub and ice cube with a tsp of honey on the face. Beat an egg white until it peaks and brush onto your skin and let dry. You will feel the stretch in the skin. wash face with icy cold water.
8. Tired eyes?
Long hours at work, then shopping and getting things organized for the festive season can be tiring. I would suggest you make this wonderful eye wash which will make you feel refreshed instantly. Take iced spring water in a bowl and add a few drops of rose water, 2-3 drops of honey and immerse one eye into it. You can also open your eye a little and then close it. Throw away the liquid and make the same water for the other eye and repeat the process. After this, splash the eyes with cold mineral water. There maybe slight redness for some time but it will go away soon and your eyes will feel refreshed in minutes.
9. Quick Hair Care
Don’t have the time to shampoo and blow dry your hair even though it is oily? Well, sweat not. Sprinkle talcum and amla powder onto your hair brush and overturn the hair over your head and brush from the nape of the neck to the tips .Now throw your hair back and voila you have bouncy oil free hair in minutes

Hair Care: Eat These Foods To Revive Your Dull Locks

Most people across today have hair-related issues. Be it hair fall, dandruff, frizzy hair, lifeless hair, limp hair, lusterless hair, or damaged hair, split ends, scanty hair, and thin hair, the list is endless! Our skin as well as hair require extra time and care as both of these are subjected to harsh chemicals through cleansing agents, pollution, chemically-grown fruits and vegetables, harsh water, stress and tension, improper nutrition, lack of proper sleep, exercise and inadequate intake of water.
Thick healthy hair is possible and there are certain super foods, which, if included in your diet can help you have better health and better hair too!
Try these super foods and see a marked difference in the quality of your hair
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc and this helps cellular production, cell division and growth to form keratin, a protein that makes up hair. Zinc is known to preserve the hair colour and can also be found in lentils, sesame seeds, lamb, chickpeas and oysters. Zinc also prevents dandruff, further keeping hair fall at bay.
Avocado
This fruit is excellent for hair growth and thickness as it contains high amounts of copper that builds up collagen and elastin of the skin that holds the hair follicles. The copper content in shell fish, whole grains, dark leafy vegetables like spinach and methi (fenugreek),beans and legumes also helps balance the hormones so the hair grows strong and aids other reactions in the scalp that strengthen lipids in the hair.
Eggs
Eggs promote hair growth and not only make them thicker but stronger as well. Eggs also come loaded with a combination of protein and biotin, both of which are super nutrients for healthy hair.
Fatty Fish
Fish like mackerel, salmon and herring are super foods for the hair as they are abundantly rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon is loaded with vitamin D and protein, which supports strong hair and a healthy scalp.
Berries
High in antioxidants, berries are a superfood for hair. The high antioxidant content helps protect hair follicles from damaging. Strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries; these robust juicy fruits are rich in vitamin C, which aids in collagen production and iron absorption, two factors that promote hair growth.
Sweet Potatoes
A medium-sized sweet potato contains enough beta-carotene to provide more than four times your daily vitamin A needs. Include this easily available vegetable in your daily diet and see the improvement in your hair.
Spinach
It is one of my all time personal favourites and is full of nutrients like vitamin A and C, iron and folate. Being a great plant-based source of iron, it helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body and fuels the metabolism to aid growth and repair hair damage. Vitamin A found in these dark leaves helps the skin glands produce sebum, which in turn keeps the hair and scalp moisturised and healthy.
Soybean
The presence of spermidine, a compound that promotes hair growth, makes soybean an absolute essential as a nutritional supplement for active hair growth. Include this in recipes with stews, soups, salads, etc. on a regular basis in your diet to see a marked improvement in hair growth.
Copper Water
Metals and minerals have always had an effect on the body, which is why in olden days people used to eat from utensils made of silver, gold, copper and brass. I have researched and found that water kept in a copper glass overnight and consumed first thing in the morning has benefits on the hair growth and body as it provides the necessary copper content to promote hair growth and strengthen the follicles.
Meat
This is a great source of protein absolutely essential for hair growth. Red meat in particular is a rich source of iron, which helps promote hair growth and should be included in your diet 3-4 times a week.

Women Fashion Trends in Autumn/Winter

As the year progresses, so do the hottest styles. From designer showrooms and runways to street style fashion, there have been plenty of fresh looks to try this year. From the omnipresent neutral color combinations to a myriad of bright shades, there is something for everyone.
1. Bright Pop Color Suits
Make a statement from the office to drinks with your friends in a bright suit. These pops of color brighten everyone’s day and elevate your wardrobe instantly. Rather than go for traditional shades, try your hand at something loud, such as blue or red. Find a hue that best suits your skin tone and rock it in its entirety. Add accessories like a bold clutch bag and a pair of funky heels. It’s a versatile option that allows you to stand out amongst the crowd.
2. Brown PU Leather Coats
Let the freezing weather reign while you rock a brown PU coat. This faux leather outerwear is a classic and understated option for the colder months but remains on-trend this season. Style it with a pair of slimline trousers or a mini skirt. You can even tie the waist in and create a dress. The perfect shades to wear with this item include black, grey, or blue. Be ready to wear this stunning option all the time.
3. Natural Tones All Over
It’s one of the longest-lasting trends for the past few seasons, and it isn’t going anywhere soon. These monochromatic and neutral outfits are easy to replicate and look great on everyone. Choose from a sandy-colored suit with a turtleneck to a boilersuit or leather skirt. Don’t be afraid to experiment with varying shades of this neutral tone – try sand, camel, or even buff. The opportunities are endless, and it is a timeless option for anyone’s closet.
4. Wide Leg Trousers Tucked into Boots
Mixing and matching new styles is a great way to discover something new, and that’s what this latest trend does. Tucking your straight leg trousers into boots puts a funky spin on the classic outfit, and adds a subtle punk twist to your ensemble. Whether you prefer combat to cowboy designs, you can find the perfect fit to match your personality.
5. Blue Styled with Natural Tones
As one of the most prominent color combinations of the season, neutral tones with a blue twist is a popular choice. It combines some of the hottest hues of the last few months and puts a magical spin on it. Choose from a sleek brown suit with a bright blue bag, or rock a monochrome ensemble in the colorful shade and add a pair of classic leather pumps. It’s a stunning option for anyone and is so versatile that you can try hundreds of different pieces.
6. Yellow Maxi Coats
Brighten up even the coldest days in one of these sunny maxis. Yellow is a bold and vibrant shade and is sure to turn a few heads. Flatter the hue with varying tones, or rock it with a white turtleneck and brown boots. From a trench to a puff jacket, there are plenty of ways to make this easy piece work for you
7. Cream Color Slouch Boots
Keep it slouchy with these funky boots. Sitting just below the knee and crumpled with every step, this footwear looks great during the colder months. Whether you prefer a warm shade of cream or you’re into off-white, you can up the ante of every outfit. Compliment the pale hue with a white T-shirt or button-down under a coat – make them stand out with a black dress and oversized blazer.
8. Tiger Prints
Every season, there’s a new animal print to covet – this season, we’re going crazy for tiger pattern. This funky and fresh print is a great way to liven up a monochrome outfit without going overboard. The combination of black and warm brown will match the fall temperature perfectly. Add a pair of blue jeans into the mix, and don’t be afraid to play with patterned accessories or shoes. Have a little fun with this trend; it’s an easy way to freshen up your look.
9. Pop Color Soft Handheld Bags
There are plenty of designers who are embracing these soft clutches. The billowy leather is an excellent option for the colder months, and there are plenty of fun ways to wear it. Opt for a bright pop of color amongst the rest of your ensemble – try orange amongst browns and neutrals, yellow amongst blue or burgundy with white. Hold this accessory under your arm for maximum impact – it’s a comfy and stylish choice for everyone.
10. Chain Necklaces Worn with Hoop Earrings
When it comes to accessorizing, sometimes more is more. This season, why not add a chic chain necklace with a pair of stunning hoops? These classic jewelry options are timeless in design and work with every type of outfit. Opt for gold or silver for a traditional feel, or inject a little color into your outfit with a statement piece? You’ll want to rock this combo every day, no matter where you’re heading.

How to choose a surgical mask or respirator?

Several criteria should be taken into account when choosing a mask such as application, type of mask, level of protection required, etc.
Application: depending on the profession, the field of application and the presence or absence of contagious diseases, patients and caregivers use a certain type of mask with a certain level of protection.
The type of mask: the two main types of masks are “surgical” masks and “respirators.” They have different functions, standards and objectives. The key point to keep in mind is that surgical masks only protect against infectious agents that can be transmitted via “droplets”, while protective masks or respirators also protect against the inhalation of infectious agents that can be transmitted by “airborne” routes.
The level of protection required: each of these types of masks is subject to different standards and regulations in different countries. Within these standards, there are different classes of devices to determine the degree of protection. Refer to the regulations in your geographical area.
Disposable or reusable: Surgical masks are only available as disposable. Respirators can be resuable. In the case of respirators, it is possible to replace the filter once it is full.
Effective life: the duration of a mask’s effectiveness varies according to use. It can be between three and eight hours. A cheaper mask can mean a short period of use. This is systematically indicated by the manufacturer.
Comfort: there are different sizes of masks, adaptable to the morphology of the person who will be wearing it. Protective masks or respirators can also be equipped with an exhalation valve to improve user comfort. Some masks also cover the eyes if eye protection is required. These are called full face respirators or masks.
Why choose a surgical mask?
A medical or surgical mask is a disposable medical device. It protects against infectious agents transmitted by “droplets.” However, it does not protect against “airborne” infectious agents. It will therefore not prevent the wearer from being potentially contaminated by a virus.
A surgical mask does two things:
– Prevents droplets of saliva or secretions from the upper respiratory tract when the wearer exhales. If worn by the caregiver, the surgical mask protects the patient and his or her environment (air, surfaces, equipment, surgical site). If worn by a contagious patient, it prevents the patient from contaminating his or her surroundings and environment.
– Protects the wearer from infection transmitted by “droplets” or from the risk of splashs of biological fluids. In the latter case, the surgical mask must have a waterproof layer. It can also be equipped with a visor to protect the eyes.

Tips on wearing the right clothes in the autumn season.

Choose the right dress for the autumn season
Wear suitable dress:
In the autumn, in the morning and in the evenings, the weather is cold and cool, and the noon is warm. For this reason, you should wear something that can easily be removed from your body when it is heated.
Here are some suggestions.
– If you live in a place where the air is still hot in the fall, relatively thin coats, textured coats, and wicker coats will be the right option for you.
– If you live in a place that is relatively cool in the autumn, a perfect suit or a long rain shower is ideal for you.
You can also use thicker coats, woolen coats and woolen coats.
– Warm and loose, long loops will fit well for the fall.
You can easily wear any clothes you like under your hood.
Wear your clothes together:
The temperature during the fall is very volatile. In the mornings, the air is cool, the weather is warm at noon, and the evening is quite cold.
If you are working or studying for the whole day, you probably can not change your clothes with cool weather and warming up.
The best way to do this is to wear clothes on top of each other;
Because in this case you can easily make one of the layers of clothing whenever you get warm.
Wear long pants:
If you really want to use short skirts and shorts in the fall, you’ll have to wear black or dark lips below them.
In general, the best pants you can choose for the fall are jeans or lace pants.
If you use tight pants, you can easily put them in your boots. If you are more interested in the skirt, you can wear a woolen skirt and use pantyhose or solid support below it.

The Two Styles of Hiking Pants

There are two “styles” of hiking pant available, the convertible hiking pant and the standard hiking pant. Each style has their benefits and specific uses.
Convertible Hiking Pants vs. Standard Hiking Pants
Convertible hiking pants convert to hiking shorts by use of a zipper that allows the lower 2/3 of the leg to zip-off.
By contrast, a standard, non-convertible hiking pant is just that—a pant. The standard hiking pant often has zippers on the lower part of the leg, to make it easier to remove the pants without needing to remove boots. However, standard hiking pants can’t convert to hiking shorts.
There are benefits and drawbacks to each style. The standard hiking pant, since it lacks the zipper across the upper-leg, has a much cleaner, sleeker appearance. Even up close, quality standard hiking pants almost pass for a nice looking pair of casual, dress pants. Moreover, everything else equal, a non-convertible pant is a “tad lighter” in weight than a convertible pant is—since the zipper and extra fabric needed to cover the zipper isn’t needed.
Which Style to Choose?
Which style to choose depends on the type of hiking a person does and whether the person will use their hiking pants for “other things” beyond hiking. For example, I wear my hiking pants “around town” much of the year. The lightweight and breathability of a hiking pant is ideal for everyday tasks such as shopping, walking downtown or simply going to a neighbor’s barbeque. For these activities, I find the non-convertible pant ideal, since the look just like a normal casual pant.
But for hiking, the convertible hiking pant simply can’t be beat. I enjoy the flexibility to start a hike in long pants, change over to shorts during the warmer temperatures of mid-day, then back into long pants as temperatures fall in the evening. In terms of pure flexibility and practicality, the convertible hiking pant is better than a standard hiking pant.