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.

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.

The Coat you need – Women Wool Coat Guide

With so many different coat models offered to us women, you might find yourself, struggling with knowing which coat model to choose and how to wear it. That’s why we put together this guide for you to help to clarify some of the most common women wool coat models.
The Collarless Coat
A collarless coat is classy and timeless coat choice. It’s one of today’s dressier wool coat type and it enhances any look.
Wear it with a dress for a sophisticated style, or with a top, pants and a cardigan for a formal, yet stylish, look.
The Standup Collar Coat
A standup collar coat, also known as Funnel neck coat, is a trendy coat model. It’s the perfect choice when you want a coat that gives you extra protection and helps you stay warmer around the neck without adding a scarf.
The Pea Coat
Today’s caban jacket isn’t what it used to be. The caban jacket has become more and more popular in recent years and can be combined with almost anything thanks to its simple cut.
The Wool Trench Coat
A wool trench coat, also known as overcoat, is a warmer version of the regular trench coat. Some call it the winter version of trench coats. A wool trench coat / overcoat is long, classy and always has its signature detail – the belt. Just like a trench coat.
The Duffle Coat
The Duffle Coat a stylish, casual coat option. You will easily recognize the duffle coat by its distinctive horn toggles fastening and a hood. It’s typically short length and often seen with patched pockets. The most common, or traditional, duffle coat fabric color is khaki and brown but you should choose a fabric that fits your personal style.
The Classic Double Breasted Coat
The Double Breasted Coat is perhaps the most traditional, and slightly formal, of the coat options. Choose a grey, brown or beige fabric for a formal option. Even though this coat type is slightly more formal than the other options, it is very versatile and can be dressed up by wearing a suit underneath it, or as an everyday coat paired with jeans and cardigan.

How to Choose Your Business Dress Shirt

Are you a working woman? And you’re looking for a professional women’s business attire? Here’s your guide about all you need to know about women’s business shirts. To look good is just not enough. You need to look like a pro. Your attire is a representation of your working aptitude. Formal dress-up is a key to achieve more and better in your workplace. Women’s business shirts are the basic dress-code for professionalism. So, all the working ladies out there step up your game with this brief article.
Types of Women’s Business Shirts:
There’s a lot of variety for women to choose their shirt styles for their day to day office routine. Here are the top shirt styles loved by working women all over the world:
1.Formal shirts with round collar
2.Contrast panel shirts
3.Short sleeve formal dress shirt
4.White formal shirts
5.Pinstriped office shirts
How your professional look can affect you?
As mentioned above, the professional attire matters for a working lady. It greatly affects her personality and position in her workplace. Here are some of the benefits of women’s business shirts:
The first impression is the last:
Going to give a big presentation in your office or having a job interview? Your personality speaks before you. Your formal dress-up will convey a professional working attitude of yours to the receiving party. Women’s business shirts are an easy way to manage your attire for him the big day.
A proper dress Shirt brings a sense of confidence in you:
These women’s business shirts bring a sense of confidence in you. If you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing, you’ll be able to give your 100%. It also shows your commitment to your work. Hence, your dress-up is a symbol status for you in any working place.
Individuality:
Your formal dress-up portrays your individuality in the workplace. It brings a sense of fashion in professional women. It also creates a sense of freedom in them. As it allows them to express themselves in an attire which is not too casual for them and not too formal. They can easily perform their tasks in such shirts. Custom business shirts will make you look exclusive.
Customized Business Shirts for Professional Ladies:
You can show some uniqueness at your office by having customized business shirts. You can have customized business shirts designed by yourself. You can add your monogrammed initials on the shirt as well. This innovation is great for the ladies who find women’s business shirts all the same and cannot find anything new. So, basically, they can design their customized business shirts as per their requirements.

How to Choose the Right Coat for Your Dress

Wearing a dress in the colder months can be a bit tricky. First, you want to pick a dress that you won’t freeze in. Secondly, you start to wonder if you should wear tights—nude or black —or just go bare leg.
Just as you’re about to run out the door, you remember that you haven’t selected a coat or jacket to wear to complement your dress. This is always a challenge: What kind of coat should I wear to stay warm but also match my dress? To make this task a bit easier, here’s a guide on some dress and coat combinations that will never fail.
Blazer
Never restrict blazers to just professional events. Blazers can be quite fashionable when paired with the right outfit. It’s the trick to instantly polishing your look into something more sophisticated.
With all the different cuts, length, and styles of blazers, you can definitely have fun bringing in a different element to your outfit. A more cropped blazer will flatter your waist, but a longer blazer can also bring more attention to the silhouette of your dress.
Leather Jacket
You can never go wrong with a leather jacket—no matter the outfit or season. Throwing a leather (or faux leather) jacket over your dress brings in a certain cool and effortless vibe that can really change the look of your outfit.
Make sure you have one that hugs your body well and flatters your waist. You want to wear a coat that accentuates the shape of your dress, not hide it.
Faux Fur Coat
Throwing a faux fur coat over your dress is the best way to immediately take your outfit to the next level. No matter the color, texture, or length, a faux fur coat brings a certain boldness and confidence to your outfit unlike anything else.
Depending on the style you’re chasing, go for an oversized coat for a more effortless look or a fitted one for something more glam. You’ll be surprised by now versatile a faux fur coat can be
Wool Coat
The wool coat is your classic go-to. You’ll never look out of place at any event wearing one over your dress. A wool coat can immediately pull look together your look and elevate your outfit to something very chic and classy.
Depending on the length of your dress, you can choose a maxi coat or a mid-length coat. Playing around with silhouettes can also bring more interest to your outfit, whether it’s fitted, flared, or boyfriend-style.
Suede
Suede is the more subtle alternative to leather. With a softer but trendy touch to your outfit, bringing in this fun texture can totally amplify your look. With so many different styles of the suede coat, you can definitely find the perfect one for your dress. If you want an option with a bigger statement, select a rich, dark-colored suede to complete your look.
Puffer Coat
If you’re looking to make your outfit a bit more casual and even a bit grungier, topping off your dress with a puffer coat will do just the trick.
To balance out the boxier look of this coat, wear a body-hugging dress or a shorter dress to bring more appeal to your look. Playing around with the different lengths of a puffer coat can also quickly change the look of your outfit.