Which puffer vest is best?

With advances in insulation technology, puffer vests have become warmer than ever. They can be used in winter or breezy days in the spring. They have also become more stylish, are available in a variety of colors, and the best ones come with water-resistant and windproof fabric.

For a durable, warm and fashionable puffer vest, theColumbia Women’s Heavenly Vest is the best choice.

What to know before you buy a puffer vest

Fill power

Fill power is an indicator of the quality of the down. Puffer vests with higher fill power provide better insulation from cold. Fill power is more important than fill weight, as certain lightweight materials, such as goose or duck down, can offer excellent insulation. A vest with 400-500 fill power offers decent insulation. The vests that offer the best insulation are around 800-900 fill power, but they might not be easily compressed for storage as higher fill power can make the vest thicker.

Size

The vest needs to be the right fit to provide adequate warmth. If it’s too loose, it won’t properly retain heat. It should also not be too tight or your movement will be restricted. You should leave some extra room in case you need to wear layers underneath it. The armholes should be large enough for comfortable wear and a full range of motion for your arms.

Weight

Fill power might be more important for the insulation but the weight of the vest is still an important factor to consider. A lightweight jacket will let you be more comfortable and active. Most puffer vests are designed to be lightweight, but if they are too lightweight they might not provide adequate warmth.

A vest that uses down for the insulation offers an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. If you don’t want materials sourced from animals, you can get a vest made from synthetic down.

What to look for in a quality puffer vest

Water-resistant

If you plan on using the vest for activities such as camping or hiking, consider getting one that’s water-resistant. These types of vests are typically made from nylon or strong polyester. The best water-resistant vests have moisture-wicking properties to keep the interior dry.

Windproof

Windproof vests are typically made from a high-density fabric that minimizes airflow. Micro-polyester, tricot and high-density nylon are the most commonly used windproof fabrics. Keep in mind that nylon can make a lot of noise in the wind.

Extra features

High-quality puffer vests often come with extra features, such as zipper pockets on the sides and chest, a large interior pocket for secure storage, or a detachable hood and elastic cuffs. Some high-end vests also offer a tapered design for slim-fit look.

How much you can expect to spend on a puffer vest

Inexpensive vests can be bought for less than $40, while high-end versions will be around $200.

Puffer vest FAQ

When should you wear a puffer vest?

A. One of the advantages of puffer vests is that they are extremely versatile. They can be worn on a mild day in spring or a cold day in winter. They won’t provide the same level of protection from the cold as a winter coat or full-sleeve puffer jacket but are ideal when you are active in cold temperatures.

Are there variations in design for a puffer vest?

A. There are a few. There is a V-neck version that’s less common but does not provide the same level of protection from cold. Most puffer vests come with a zipper but some versions offer buttons instead. The addition of a hood is another design variation.

What’s the best puffer vest to buy?

Top puffer vest

Columbia Women’s Heavenly Vest

What you need to know: For a durable, warm and fashionable puffer vest, this is the best choice.

What you’ll love: Its OmniHeat reflective lining and 100% polyester exterior help keep warmth in without sacrificing breathability. It’s water-resistant and has zippered pockets.

What you should consider: The sizing is sometimes inconsistent.

Top puffer vest for the money

Amazon Essential Puffer Vest

What you need to know: This vest offers excellent warmth at a fraction of the cost of other brands.

What you’ll love: The lightweight design makes the vest packable for easy storage or travel. It features a stand-up collar, zipper hand pockets and elasticized armholes. The outer shell is water-resistant and windproof.

What you should consider: There is no drawstring. The package design means this vest might be too light for winter use.

Worth checking out

Columbia Voodoo Falls TurboDown Vest

What you need to know: Made from patented Heat Reflective materials, this jacket is designed for optimum heat retention.

What you’ll love: The water-resistant fabric is breathable to help get rid of moisture for extra warmth. The interior has an extra-large pocket for storage and also features an adjustable hem.

What you should consider: Some users have reported the vests are oversized, so consider getting a smaller size for a snug fit.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Which pre-workouts are best?

Many people take pre-workouts before they hit the gym to help increase their energy and motivation. This can lead to better results and, potentially, help you reach your conditioning goals more quickly.

Anytime you are taking a supplement, it is always best to stick with reputable brands because they are not only proven to be effective but can also be relied on to use high-quality ingredients.

For example, the company behind Cellucor C4 Original pre-workout has sold over 3 billion servings worldwide. It has been making supplements for 15 years, so there is little chance of it containing unsafe ingredients.

What to know before you buy a pre-workout

What is a pre-workout?

Pre-workouts are supplements designed to be taken before you exercise to help you get the most out of your workout. They generally include three main ingredient categories: stimulants, pump enhancers and nootropics.

Stimulants help increase your energy by blocking receptors in your brain for the chemicals that make you feel tired. This allows you to exercise harder and for longer than you might otherwise.

Pump enhancers can work via several mechanisms depending on the ingredient in question. Most increase the amount of nitric oxide in your bloodstream, which in turn increases the blood flow to your muscles. Others aid in the production of ATP, which is your body’s energy source. Both can help improve performance and decrease delayed onset muscle soreness after a workout.

Nootropics are generally associated with improved cognitive performance, and they are said to do this by increasing the blood and oxygen flow to the brain. When used in a pre-workout, they help improve motivation and mental focus.

Should you take a pre-workout?

Whether or not you should take a pre-workout is a personal choice that no one can answer for you. Many athletes achieve optimal conditioning without the use of any supplements at all. However, many others struggle to work up the energy or motivation to head to the gym every day or simply don’t see the results they would like. If you fall into this latter group, a pre-workout might be the solution you desire. For even better results, you may want to consider also using a post-workout protein powder to give your muscles the building blocks they need.

Pills vs. powder

Pre-workouts come in both pill and powder form, each of which has its own benefits. Without a doubt, pills are more convenient. They are easier to transport and don’t require any messy mixing before use. However, they can take longer for the body to absorb, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. Another issue is achieving the proper doses in pills since they are limited in size, and it is difficult to get enough grams of the various active ingredients into them.

Powders are easier for the body to absorb quickly and don’t require you to swallow several large pills, which is a struggle for some people. Also, you can easily tweak the dosage to suit your personal needs.

Features to look for in a quality pre-workout

Amino acids

Amino acids play a significant role in building muscle. They are produced naturally in your body, but you can increase your levels through foods and supplements. Your body uses 21 types of amino acids, but nine are considered the most essential. Many pre-workouts include essential amino acids, most commonly branch-chain amino acids like leucine and arginine.

Creatine

Many gym-goers take creatine separately to help them improve their athletic performance and build more muscle mass. However, you can also find pre-workouts that contain creatine, so there is one less supplement you have to buy.

Caffeine

Caffeine is the most commonly used stimulant in pre-workouts because it is highly effective and well-tolerated by most people. The caffeine in pre-workouts may come from green tea, coffee or other sources.

Proprietary blends

Along with the above ingredients, most pre-workouts include proprietary blends that may contain vitamins, extracts, herbs and other ingredients to make them more effective. You should always read the ingredient label carefully of any pre-workout you are considering to ensure it doesn’t contain any ingredients to which you may be sensitive.

Flavor

Pre-workouts come in flavored and unflavored options. If you will be mixing your pre-workout with water, a flavored option is usually the best choice. However, if mixing your pre-workout into juice, a protein shake or other beverage, an unflavored option will be more suitable.

How much you can expect to spend on a pre-workout

Most pre-workouts cost $15-$40 for 30 servings.

Pre-workout FAQ

Are pre-workouts safe?

A. Pre-workouts are generally considered safe. However, they may be unsuitable for people with certain heart conditions or who are sensitive to stimulants. However, the FDA does not regulate them, so it is best to stick with reputable brands and read the ingredient labels carefully.

How long before a workout should I take a pre-workout?

A. It is generally recommended to take your pre-workout 20-30 minutes before exercising, so it has time to start working.

What are the best pre-workouts to buy?

Top pre-workout

Cellucor C4 Original pre-workout

What you need to know: Touted many gym-goers for its efficacy, C4 Original pre-workout should give you that extra boost you need before hitting the gym.

What you’ll love: It’s available in a wide range of flavors and dissolves quickly in water without leaving any grittiness behind.

What you should consider: It produces a tingling feeling in some people that may be uncomfortable.

Top pre-workout for the money

Optimum Nutrition Essential Amin. O

What you need to know: If you want energy without a lot of caffeine, Essential Amin. O is the way to go.

What you’ll love: It contains a blend of vital amino acids to help you get maximum results from your workouts. Many people find it provides not just energy but also mental focus.

What you should consider: It’s not calorie- and carbohydrate-free.

Worth checking out

Vega Sport Pre-Workout Energizer

What you need to know: In addition to 100 milligrams of caffeine, it also contains electrolytes to keep you hydrated.  It is suitable for vegans, gluten-free and non-GMO Project certified.

What you’ll love: It’s easy to mix as you only need one scoop in ice-cold water.

What you should consider: Vega Sport used a new formula, so previous users might find the taste somewhat different.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Which hex dumbbell sets are best?

There are more options than ever when it comes to working out and being able to get in your workout at home is becoming increasingly popular because it’s so convenient.

You don’t need a home gym or even expensive equipment to get started. It’s easy to get a solid workout with a set of dumbbells, and hex dumbbells are a great option because the dumbbell heads have six sides, which gives you the ability to do a variety of exercises you couldn’t with regular dumbbells.

Choices may vary depending on your needs and fitness level, but Papababe Hex Dumbbell Set is a sure bet due to their cast iron handles and rubber coating to protect floors.

What to know before you buy a hex dumbbell set

Weight range

Knowing what weight range you need for your current workout plan and to achieve your future goals is imperative when selecting a weight set. Light sets range from 2-8 pounds. Medium weight sets vary from 10-25 pounds. Heavy weight sets go all the way up to 50 pounds.

Benefits of hex dumbbell sets

Hex dumbbells are much better to incorporate into HIIT workouts, circuit training and CrossFit than traditional dumbbells. They have six flat sides, meaning they won’t roll away as you exercise and that they can be used as stabilizers. They can also be added to existing exercises to further enhance your workout.

What to look for in a quality hex dumbbell set

Adjustable dumbbell sets

If you enjoy working out at home and know that you’ll be using hex dumbbells frequently, it’s a smart idea to purchase a value set to cut down on the cost of purchasing multiple dumbbells at a variety of weights.

Types of dumbbells

• Cast iron: This traditional, rustic style of dumbbell gets the job done but can require more work to maintain. These types of weights require substantial cleaning to minimize rust. You also might need to purchase weightlifting gloves since cast iron can be rough on your hands.
• Stainless steel: This variation has stainless steel grips with rubber-coated weight heads. These work well for home workouts because they’re easy to clean, rust-free and limit impact and damage when you put them on the ground.
• Neoprene-coated: These are a great option for lightweight dumbbells but they aren’t available in heavier weights. They’re easy to grip and cause very little damage to your floors, furniture and hands.

How much you can expect to spend on a hex dumbbell set

Prices range for hex dumbbell sets based on the amount of weight and number of dumbbells included. Small sets with light weight can start at $20 and go all the way up to $1,800 for a heavier set with more dumbbells.

Hex dumbbell set FAQ

What other equipment do I need besides my hex dumbbell set to work out?

A. The advantage of a hex dumbbell set is that you’re able to use them as free weights without any additional equipment. You can always add equipment, such as a bench or barbells, to enhance your workout, but there are plenty of exercises you can do with dumbbells alone.

Do I need to keep my gym membership?

A. It all depends on your personal goals and preferences. If you have a workout routine that you’re able to do at home, you can do so with a set of dumbbells and limited equipment. The benefit of a gym is more equipment and more options.

What’s the best hex dumbbell set to buy?

Top hex dumbbell set

Papababe Hex Dumbbell Set

What you need to know: You can purchase sets with a total of 60 pounds up to 590 pounds. All weights have a rubber coating and cast iron handles.

What you’ll love: You can find a set that best fits your needs, be it low or high weights. They’re easy to store and durable, so they’ll last.

What you should consider: This set comes in multiple shipments, depending on the size of the set you order. Don’t be alarmed if you only receive some of the weights in your first order; the remainder comes shortly after.

Top hex dumbbell set for the money

BalanceFrom Colored Neoprene Coated Dumbbell Set with Stand

What you need to know: For an introductory weight lifter, this small, neoprene-coated hex set is a budget-conscious option.

What you’ll love: The smooth neoprene coating that covers the entire weight offers extra comfort, while the bright colors make them easy to distinguish. This set comes with 2-, 3- and 5-pound options, allowing you to do multiple workouts and advance to heavier weights when needed.

What you should consider: Customers have stated that the plastic stand with the weights has limited stability and that you should consider storing the weights on the ground or purchasing an additional weight rack.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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WHICH KIDS’ SNOWBOARD BOOTS ARE BEST?

Snowboarding is among those wonderful sports and activities where all ages and skill levels are welcome to take to it and foster their curiosity. Young children especially, with the right equipment, can learn quickly and develop a love that may last their entire life.

The equipment, and in particular the snowboard boot, is vital to safely enjoy boarding, particularly at a younger age where discomfort or falls can deter kids. Our guide will take you through all that you should consider when shopping for kids’ snowboard boots. We also have a couple of recommendations at the end, including our top pick, the HEAD Jr. Boa Snowboard Boots, which is a comfortable and stylish pair from one of the top brands in snowboarding.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY KIDS’ SNOWBOARD BOOTS

Flexibility

Snowboard boots should allow for a kid to safely and comfortably twist, turn, and flex with their fit. They should be snug, but comfortable, with enough support that you can’t hurt your ankles from falling, but not so much that the boot feels overly stiff and rigid. The ideal kids’ snowboard boot reaches about midway up the calf, where it can provide the most support without becoming too constraining.

Warmth

Some kids may be more susceptible or influenced by the cold, so make sure they have appropriately warm boots. The outer material may be hard and should be durable and waterproof. The interior lining should be insulated to trap warm air in, while thicker footbeds will provide more warmth. Some boots may have removable liners to help regulate temperature.

Closure

Kids’ snowboard boots may be secured in a few different ways, and each has their own advantages. Some boots may feature a combination of closure systems.

• Traditional laces: This common type of closure tends to be less expensive and offers a secure fit when laced tightly. However, lacing can be time consuming and it may come undone on the slopes more easily.
• Velcro fasteners: This option takes less time to do up and secure, but is not as durable over time like traditional laces. Velcro may be combined with laces on some models.
• BOA lacing system: This popular, hybrid system provides the security of traditional laces while taking up less time. A knob on the boot is used to tighten or loosen laces, making the process efficient and effective. These models are growing in popularity, and may come with a higher price.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN QUALITY KIDS’ SNOWBOARD BOOTS

Insoles

Most kids’ snowboard boots focus on extra padding and comfort so as not to discourage kids from enjoying their time on the mountain. Such support is especially important when walking around in the boots. This extra padding will often result in a warmer boot as well.

Soles

Kids’ may prefer boots that have deep soles on the bottom to provide better traction and support when walking through the snow. It may not be the most natural for walking with some boots, so make sure they grip well in the ice and snow.

Styles

Part of snowboarding is showing off your personality and attitude, and that stands true for kids as well as adults. As a result, some boots for kids may feature fun graphics or color patterns that are eye-catching and pleasing.

HOW MUCH YOU CAN EXPECT TO SPEND ON KIDS’ SNOWBOARD BOOTS

You can find a variety of quality kids’ snowboard boot options for between $70-$125. This range will feature popular brands as well as the flexibility and support needed for youngsters. You may want to go lower in price if you suspect your kid will grow out of the boots quickly, though.

KIDS’ SNOWBOARD BOOTS FAQ

What types of socks should my kid wear in the boots?

A. Your child should wear snow or winter socks that are thick and comfortable, and preferably handle moisture well. The socks should fit well all the way up the ankle without falling. Make sure your kid wears such socks when trying on boots so that the fit is right when they hit the slopes.

How long will a pair of snowboard boots last for my kid?

A. In terms of durability and effectiveness, kids’ snowboard boots, when properly maintained, should last a few seasons. However, your kid’s foot might grow within that time frame, which means it’s time for new boots. Some boots offer a slightly adjustable fit to accommodate for a bit of growth.

WHAT KIDS’ SNOWBOARD BOOTS ARE BEST TO BUY?

Top kids’ snowboard boots

HEAD Jr. Boa Snowboard Boots

What you need to know: These are snowboard boots that kids can secure themselves with cuffs for more comfort and extra flexibility.

What you’ll love: They have a sports BOA lacing system that’s easier for kids to use. They offer extra-warm padding in the interior. There are no liners inside, so they’re easier to put on and take off.

What you should consider: There are no other designs to choose from, unfortunately.

Worth checking out

Burton Zipline BOA Snowboard Boots

What you need to know: These boots are lightweight and flexible, so they can keep kids’ feet comfy all day long.

What you’ll love: They have gussets to keep snow out and a ratcheting cable lace to keep them on a kid’s feet.

What you should consider: They run small.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Which anti-fatigue kitchen mat is best?

Whether you find kitchen chores relaxing or dread them, standing on your feet long enough to cook every meal or wash every dish can take a toll on your body. An anti-fatigue kitchen mat is an easy way to lessen the strain on your body from daily chores.

Because the mat’s surface is flexible, your leg muscles contract lightly to keep you balanced. This keeps your leg muscles active, which keeps your blood flowing as you stand for long periods. Many different anti-fatigue kitchen mats are available, so it is important to consider the options to find the perfect mat to give you the most relief. The Kangaroo Anti-Fatigue Cushioned Floor Mat is a top choice for hours of standing.

What to know before you buy an anti-fatigue kitchen mat

Design

Anti-fatigue mats come in several different designs, though the flat ones are by far the most common.

• Flat anti-fatigue mats are the standard, as they are inexpensive to make and comfortable to stand on. A perfect entry-level choice, these mats are rectangular, flat all over and usually 1-2 inches thick. Many have beveled edges for a smoother transition to the floor.
• Nonflat active mats are similar to flat mats, but they have bumps or ridges throughout the surface. They are also available in different shapes. These mats have a unique texture that provides extra relief from fatigue by encouraging you to shift your feet more, which helps with circulation.
• Full active mats are less common than the other types, but they can be very effective at relieving the fatigue of standing all day. These mats typically feature some kind of movable part, such as a massage ball that you move around a track with your feet, which encourages you to keep moving. Full active mats can be a little odd aesthetically, but they certainly work.

Material

The material that your anti-fatigue kitchen mat is constructed with significantly impacts how comfortable it is to stand on. It is common to see anti-fatigue mats made from foam, foam rubber, hard rubber, and gel, with benefits and disadvantages to each.

• Foam is the most inexpensive material used for anti-fatigue mats, making it fairly common with cheaper models. It isn’t particularly durable and doesn’t provide much cushion, but if you only stand for short periods at a time, it should do the trick.
• Foam rubber refers to a mat with a foam core and a rubber coating. These mats have the benefit of being constructed from affordable foam, as well as the durability and cushion provided by the rubber coating.
• Hard rubber is the most durable material for kitchen mats, as it holds up very well even with repeated use. However, hard rubber isn’t the most comfortable material, so mats made from this don’t prevent fatigue as much as foam rubber and gel options.
• Gel is the most comfortable material used for kitchen mats, making it the most effective for preventing fatigue.

What to look for in a quality anti-fatigue kitchen mat

Size

What size mat you need is largely dependent on the space you have in your kitchen. In general, a bigger mat means more relief. Standard anti-fatigue kitchen mats are usually 2 by 3 feet or 3 by 5 feet, though larger options are available for warehouse or industrial conditions.

Thickness

Thickness is the main contributing factor to the comfort of a kitchen mat and its effectiveness in preventing fatigue. Most mats will be between 1/2 inch thick and 1 inch thick, though there are even thicker options. In general, you should look for a mat at least 3/4 inch thick for proper cushioning.

Nonslip underside

Some mats will have a textured underside designed to keep it from sliding around on the floor. This is especially helpful in the kitchen, where water from dishes can easily get on the floor and cause things to slide around.

Beveled edge

Particularly if you choose a flat anti-fatigue kitchen mat, keep an eye out for models with beveled edges. The slope downward around the edges helps the mat to stick on the floor, rather than rolling up and diminishes the chances of tripping over the edge of the mat.

Ease of cleaning

Your mat will get dirty over time, so it’s a good idea to be aware of how easy it is to clean before purchasing. For convenience, opt for a model that will be easily wiped off with soap and water rather than models that require more delicate cleaning processes.

Anti-fatigue kitchen mat prices

Unless you opt for a large mat of 6 feet or longer, you shouldn’t have to pay more than $100. Any mats less than $30 are probably made cheaply and won’t be as durable or effective as other models. If you need a large kitchen mat, you can expect to pay between $200-$500 for foot mats 6-12 feet long and $500-$1,000 for ones 12-60 feet long. For most households, a reliable and effective anti-fatigue mat should cost between $40-$90.

Anti-fatigue kitchen mat FAQ

How long does an anti-fatigue kitchen mat last?

A. As with most things, longevity will depend on the quality. In general, kitchen mats last one to four years. Purchasing a thick, quality mat and taking good care of it is the best way to get years of use out of it.

Should you wear shoes on the anti-fatigue kitchen mat?

A. If you have cushioned shoes, they can provide an extra level of comfort on your kitchen mat. However, ensure you don’t wear shoes with high heels or other protrusions on the bottom, as they can damage the mat. If your shoes have flat bottoms, it’s really up to you.

What’s the best anti-fatigue kitchen mat to buy?

Top anti-fatigue kitchen mat

Kangaroo Anti-Fatigue Cushioned Floor Mat

What you need to know: This ergonomic floor mat is supportive and reliable, perfect for hours of standing and designed to last.

What you’ll love: Thicker than most, this 3/4-inch mat is nontoxic and phthalate-free. It is shipped in a flat box to prevent creasing or rolling and comes in many sizes and colors.

What you should consider: Some customers thought the mats looked too industrial.

Top anti-fatigue kitchen mat for the money

Sky Solutions Anti-Fatigue Comfort Floor Mat

What you need to know: Available in a large variety of sizes and designs, this high-quality mat is supportive and comfortable for hours of standing.

What you’ll love: Specially designed foam provides a soft and supportive core, while the attractive rubber coating provides durability. This mat is shown to reduce stress on joints and muscles.

What you should consider: Creases left in the mat from the packaging may not fade quickly.

Worth checking out

Gorilla Grip Anti Fatigue Cushioned Kitchen Floor Mat

What you need to know: With this mat, you’ll get high quality at a low price point.

What you’ll love: It has thick foam that will make standing in your kitchen super comfortable. It’s also easy to wipe clean.

What you should consider: It may slip on some floor surfaces if it gets wet.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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