Boots are one of my favorite things about winter – once the novelty of snow and sweaters has worn off, anyway.

Boots can be practical or sexy, although rarely both in the salt-laden streets of harsh winter climates. Speaking of which…

While it may often seem like store clerks are just trying to boost their commissions by ringing up protective sprays and gels, their sales gimmick is not totally bogus.

It is essential to understand that not all boots are created equal. The word ‘boot’ is not synonymous with water-proof or snow-friendly. Respect your fashion investment by weather-protecting and cleaning all of your winter footwear regularly.

Realize that protective and restorative shoe applications cannot perform miracles. Have the common sense to know when to air on the side of practicality and not to wear your suede stiletto calf-cut boots. Salt and water produce damaging, lasting stains which – in addition to ruining boots’ finish – actually corrode the integrity of genuine suede, leather and fabric. Purchase a swank boot bag in which to tote your trendy footwear to work in nasty winter conditions while opting for damage-proof snow or rain boots while en route.

Boot Tip: If you remember nothing else: Be seasonally consistent when putting an outfit together. Do not wear boots and a skirt with bare legs; tights, nylons, or even flesh colored fishnet stockings help bridge the (thermal & fashion) gap between your knees and your hemline.

Ankle Boots

Very funky footwear when worn with tights and a skirt. Avoid wearing ankle boots with long skirts past the knee – this tends to look frumpy and matronly.

Mid-Calf Boots

A unique cut that looks great with skirts of all lengths. This style accentuates your calf muscle and stands out from the crowd of knee-high boots. Very sexy, indeed.

Tall Boots

The classic knee-high boot. Ensure that the boot fits snugly around your leg; if the boot gapes open you may need to have it altered for a more chic look—a standard procedure at most cobblers.

Fur-Lined Boots & UGGs

Narrow, fur-lined lace-up tall boots are a sweet accompaniment to a flirty short skirt. For a funky casual style, try wearing knee socks over your tights and letting them peek (ever so slightly) over the top of your boot. This look works best if your socks and tights are contrasting colors.

UGGs have become all the rage as the surfer-type’s (and urban wanna-be surfer type’s) winter foot-wear of choice. These robust, wooly sheepskin boots have been fashioned for years by Australian craftsmen, and were first mass introduced to North America in 1978 by Brian Smith, a young Australian surfer seeking to spread the UGG-love across the United States.

Twenty-five years later, and while UGGs aren’t exactly the height of chic sophistication or glamorous sexiness, they are hailed by wearers as the ultimate in comfort and warmth at 30 below.

Johneen Manning is Editor-In-Chief of http://www.GKFA.com, a hip, savvy & fresh online magazine for the ‘Sex and the City’ generation of women.

This article describes where to look, what to look for, and how to choose day-hiking boots. Knowing where to look and what to look for, you can be sure to get the high-quality hiking boots you need without paying extra for features you don’t need.

Day-hiking boots range anywhere from $40.00 to $150.00. The high end of that range is beginning to cross into backpacking boots, but anything below that range is either an exceptionally good deal or an imitation hiking boot that will disappoint you badly.

So, let’s talk about the kinds of places to shop for hiking boots, features to look for, pitfalls to avoid, and techniques to make sure you have the right fit.

Where to Shop for Hiking Boots

If you have never done any serious hiking, you will want to buy your first serious hiking boots in a hands-on experience. I’m being honest here (habit of mine). Yes, it is in my interest to persuade you to buy your hiking boots through my Web site, but I won’t do that if it is not appropriate for you. Even aside from ethical considerations, it would be bad business for me to create a lot of dissatisfied customers telling their friends about their bad experience. No, I’m just being honest. I don’t want to take your money and leave you unhappy. Buy your first pair of hiking boots at a brick-and-mortar store where you can handle the boots and try them for proper fit. Then, when you have enough experience to know what you want in your second pair of hiking boots (or third, or …), you can take advantage of the lower prices available on the Web.

When shopping for hiking boots, look for an outdoor equipment store rather than a shoe store. The sales clerks in a general shoe store are not likely to know the difference between real hiking boots and fashion imitations of hiking boots. You might pay more money at an outdoor equipment store, but you will realize the savings out on the trail.

Once you’re in the store, ask about some of the things you read in this article. If the sales clerk doesn’t know what a scree collar is or why soft outer soles are better than hard, look for another sales clerk, or another store.

If you are ready to buy your hiking boots on the Web, you can take advantage of the best of both worlds. You can buy from a high-volume store that has the best prices, but first get your advice, recommendations, and reviews from affiliated Web sites that specialize in hiking equipment.

Wherever you choose to buy your hiking boots, make sure there is a reliable, knowledgeable person in the loop somewhere. If the sales clerk or Web site seems too eager about making the sale and not interested enough in discussing and comparing features, you should look somewhere else before you make a final decision.

Especially when you are shopping the Web sites, you may need to pay attention to brands. Certain brands have a well-deserved reputation for good quality, and you should not ignore that. On the other hand, some brands have an overblown reputation that often has more to do with fashion than with genuine quality. The only way to know the difference, and to find the quality you need without paying for fashion that you don’t care about, is to talk to those who know the difference and to read reviews from people who have actually used the hiking boots in the field.

Features to Look For in Day-Hiking Boots

Here is what you need to look for:

* Deep tread in a soft sole for traction.

* Appropriate height (just above the ankle).

* Soft, wide, thick scree collar (the padding around the top that keeps pebbles out without chafing your Achilles tendon).

* Fiberglass shank. Steel is okay, but fiberglass is better in day-hiking boots because it’s lighter. Full-length is preferred, but shorter shanks may be acceptable if you are planning more moderate hiking.

* Tongue attached at least up to the top of the foot, or higher if you plan on crossing streams frequently.

* Crampon attachments (good, but not essential, unless you do a lot of hiking in icy conditions).

* Hooks for the laces above the top of the foot.

* Choose eyelets, D-rings, or webbing for the lower lace attachment points as a matter of personal taste. My experience does not indicate any one to be better than the others for day-hiking boots.

* Good insulation and padding all around, firm on the bottom, with a tough but smooth lining.

* Double stitching on all visible seams.

* More leather and less fabric is better. Split leather is fine (and you’ll almost never find full-grain leather in a day-hiking boot), but not full suede.

* Fewer seams is better.

Most of these features are self-evident, but here are a few techniques for evaluating specific features.

* Tread should be at least two fifths of the total thickness of the sole.

* Measure the softness of the tread surface by pressing your thumbnail into it. You should be able to make a visible indentation that springs out in a second or so.

* Measure the stiffness of the shank by holding the heel in one hand and the toe in the other, and twisting the sole. You should not be able to twist it at all.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Hiking Boots

The biggest problem you’re likely to find in shopping for day-hiking boots is cheaply-made “imitation” hiking boots. They look like hiking boots, but they’re not built to stand up to trail conditions. They will not last long, and they will not give you the traction and water resistance you need.

You can tell an “imitation” hiking boot from the real thing by these characteristics:

* Mild tread, less than about two-fifths the thickness of the sole.

* Hard tread surface that you can barely indent with your fingernail.

* Non-attached tongue.

* Non-rigid sole that you can twist by hand.

* No scree collar. There may be patches of leather or a different color of fabric that look like a scree collar, but if it doesn’t have thick, soft padding around the top, it’s not a real hiking boot. It won’t keep the pebbles out, and it might chafe or constrict your Achilles tendon.

Fitting your Hiking Boots

You must fit your hiking boots with any orthopedic inserts, off-the-shelf insoles, and the hiking socks you intend to wear with them. A good rule of thumb is to start with one full size larger than your regular street shoes.

With all the inserts and insoles in place and your hiking socks on, but with no laces in the boot, put the boot on and push your foot all the way forward until your toes touch the front. You should have just enough room behind the heel to slide your finger all the way in.

Next, lace the boot up snugly and walk around. The boots will be stiff and uncomfortable because they’re not broken in, but they should not allow your foot to slide or rub.

Stand on a steep slope with your toes pointing down. (Use the fitting horse where you’re supposed to put your foot to lace the shoe while sitting. Go ahead and stand on it.) You should be able to wiggle your toes, and they should not touch the front of the boots.

If you bought the boots via the Web, do this fit-test as soon as you get them. Even if you think you know your size, boots from different manufacturers might fit differently. Check the size and fit immediately, and return them for a replacement if they don’t fit right.

Conclusion

If you are looking for your first pair of serious hiking boots, you must do your shopping in an outdoor equipment store where you can handle the boots and talk to knowledgeable sales staff. Only if you have some experience with day-hiking boots, take advantage of the bargains available on the Web.

Check for the features that identify a quality hiking boot, and avoid “fake” hiking boots.

Bring all the inserts and socks you will wear with your hiking boots, and check for a firm but comfortable fit with no rubbing or sliding.

Look for quality, and expect to pay for it, but don’t pay more than you have to for features that don’t contribute to the durability and comfort of your hiking boots.

Chuck Bonner is a lifelong hiker and amateur naturalist, and webmaster of http://www.HikingWithChuck.com For more information about hiking boots and other hiking equipment based on many years on the trail, visit http://www.hikingwithchuck.com/Gear/HikingGear.htm

Packing men’s clothing is easy once you get organized. As a rule, they will not take as many items as women pack so you can use a smaller case. Lightweight luggage with a removable suiter inside is the easiest way to go if you are packing one or two suit or sports jackets. The suiter will keep the jackets almost wrinkle free. Of course, you can always pack a travel steamer just in case. There are models that will use any type of tap water. International steamer models can be used around the world. If the luggage does not have a suiter or if you are taking more than two jackets, you will have to use a garment bag. A garment bag will hang all of the clothing on hangers right from your closet.

Shirts can also be hung on the same hanger underneath the jacket. Garment bags are easiest to pack when they are hung up. Gravity will pull the clothing straight and keep everything neatly in order. There are usually small mesh pockets and other zippered pockets for underwear, pajamas and shaving gear. A small narrow pocket will hold ties. Shoes or sneakers will fit on the bottom of the garment bag. Pockets that will hold socks are located on the top on either side of the hanger hook. Because hangers slope down, this is a perfect area for small items. In the outside pocket, you can slip some casual items or gym clothing. Try to leave room for a lightweight raincoat and a small travel umbrella. Garment bags come in soft models or those with wheels and a pull handle.

Packing a Pullman case with the removable garment sleeve is very easy. Jacket and slacks can go on one thin wire hanger. Place them inside the garment cover. They will usually fold once or twice depending on the size of the luggage. Then the balance of the clothes you’ve chosen can be packed. The garment cover is generally in the top part of the luggage. Underwear should go in first on the bottom of the case, against the inner bars of the pull-up handle. It’s easiest to pack first inside a packing cube, so he can unpack quickly by dropping the cubes in one of the hotel drawers. Next, pack any additional slacks on hangers to continue to make unpacking easy. His cotton shirts can be packed in a shirt cube. These keep the shirts from wrinkling and they will look like you just picked them up from the laundry or cleaners when you unpack. This type of cube also keeps everything from shifting inside the suitcase to further eliminate wrinkles. His socks can be placed inside the shoes or sneakers. Cover the shoe or sneaker with a travel shoe cover and pack them around the perimeter of the bag. Continue to pack any travel accessories around the perimeter of the case.

The new airline regulations do not allow you to take your toiletries on board. The only liquids and gels you can carry with you have to fit inside a quart sized clear plastic bag. Inside the bag, liquids can be in containers no larger than three ounces. And travelers may take only one of these on board. Easy-go and Travelon are two companies that make this convenient 3-1-1 bag with the correct sized travel bottles included. The balance of your toiletries must be packed in your luggage. That means hair gels, toothpaste, shampoo, mouthwash, and shaving cream and after-shave lotion all must be carefully packed. The safest way is to cover each container with plastic wrap and then pack everything inside a man’s shave kit. These are usually leather on the outside and washable nylon lined inside. If anything leaks or spills, the kit will hopefully protect your clothing from being soiled or ruined. Discount luggage can also be stained inside from these dangerous spills and leaks.

Many shorter trips can use a carryon bag. These trips have to plan carefully because carryon bags generally can be no larger than 45″ measuring length plus height plus width. Some of the carryon bags have a suit fixture inside. You will need to pack your slacks and jacket on one thin wire hanger inside the carryon. It will fold up with soft padded folds usually once or twice depending on the design. Toiletries will have to be in the regulation 3-1-1 clear plastic bag. There’s usually room inside these carryons for a small travel umbrella. Underwear and pajamas will fit inside one of the smaller packing cubes. These carryon bags are convenient and easy to travel with on short trips. You don’t have to wait at the baggage carousel and can be on your way as soon as the plane lands. These cases are popular corporate gifts and can be individually monogrammed with your initials, or with a company name or logo. However you travel, pack well and enjoy your trip!

Maxine Greco has been in the luggage and travel business for over 38 years. She is currently working at Village Luggage and Gifts.

Some of us are fortunate enough to live where we can golf year-round. Others of us enjoy winter vacations to locales, either in the U.S. or abroad, that boast the sunny, dry weather that makes an afternoon on the links one of life’s greatest pleasures. As for the rest of us, well, we longingly await the coming of spring and our next round of golf.

Whether we’re just learning the game or are avid players, this is the perfect time of year to haul out our equipment and make sure we’re prepared for the coming season. Here are some things to consider when gearing up:

Golf Clubs: Look at your golf clubs and think about your game. Do your clubs show your ability to its best advantage, or are they relics whose time has long passed? If you’re ready for a new set (or even a new driver or putter), you can’t go wrong with TaylorMade, Callaway, or any other premium brand. If you can’t afford the best, Callaway pre-owned golf clubs are certified and will help you get the most from your game. This is particularly true for women, who benefit from Callaway’s commitment to incorporating the technology of men’s clubs into lighter, shorter clubs with smaller grips.

Golf Shoes: You can’t develop a great swing unless you have good golf shoes that give you the kind of grip you need on sloped fairways or in the wet rough. Plus, you need a well-fitting pair of shoes that will ensure your comfort as you walk the course. There are many excellent brands of shoes available, some with soft spikes and others that are spikeless. The style, materials (leather vs. manmade), and extra features (like gels that are responsive to your foot’s temperature) are a matter of personal taste, but comfort and functionality are key.

Golf Apparel: With an unprecedented number of styles and fabrications, there’s no reason you can’t both look and feel great on the course. For men, there are a wide variety of long- and short-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and slacks. Women can definitely make a fashion statement on the links with solids and prints in stylish color palettes. Whether your prefer skirts, skorts, or shorts, and whether you favor tanks over short-sleeved tops, you can easily find golf apparel that makes you feel terrific during the game and in the clubhouse.

Golf Accessories: As you’re looking over your equipment, don’t forget to check on your glove. You want to ensure that you have a great grip, so be sure to find one that has a great fit and that feels great. While you’re at it, make sure that you have a hat, moisture-wicking socks, and other golf accessories that will enable you to keep your mind on your game.

Golf Balls: Every golfer has his or her favorite golf balls, but if you haven’t tried out some of the new offerings, it’s always fun to experiment. Nike, Callaway, TaylorMade, and Bridgestone all have many different styles from which to choose.

Once you have your equipment in order, all that’s left is to patiently wait for the weather to clear and then hit the links.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web.

Learn more about Gear Up Your Golf Equipment or Majon’s Sports directory

Bareback riding (without the saddle) was always something kids did. You grabbed your pony from the field, hopped on and away you went.

Today we barely function without saddles. While saddles help us look pretty or be more functional, bareback riding has many benefits for both posture AND confidence.

Bareback riding allows you to feel the true movement of the horse, and sends the rider information that is imperative for higher training. It is this very idea that correlates to English saddles having as little leather between the horse and rider as possible, especially in dressage saddles, where the flaps are thin and flexible.

This style is not particular to any discipline, and all disciplines and levels of riders can benefit from it. I ride bareback one day a week, and it not only improves my riding performance, but also tends to tune up the horse as well, as he/she is able to feel softer, subtle cues instantly, without the interference of leather.

Bareback also allows the rider to improve balance, strength, posture, flexibility and a side benefit of added confidence. As the horse moves, you are able to feel the muscle groups respond, and you gain a sense of where the horses’ feet are placed in each movement. Part of being a good horseman is the ability to connect with the horses body and feet. Many great riders will tell you that they feel as if they become one, almost like a centaur.

Riders are athletes. Regardless of the amount of riding you do, you need strong muscle groups. And strong muscles must stretch to be fully functional. Stretching while riding bareback gives you more room to move and gives the rider a better sense of balance. It cannot be done while your legs are glued to the horses’ sides. You must be free of tension, sitting with balance and freedom.

Longeing

This is a great way to begin, and remember to use a safe horse! Some people like to use the reins, but I find it best to tie off any equipment and just concentrate. Should the horse make any movements that are uncomfortable or alarm you, get off. Too many accidents happen because the rider stays aboard. If you find the horse may be quiet but not suitable while longeing, have the handler walk you around. Also, perform this within the confines of a roundpen, arena or any fenced area with softer ground. Never push the experience with an unsuitable horse. And wear a helmet! Many falls will dump you very close to the horses’ feet.

A great exercise that will prepare you for emergencies and give you better coordination is to practice dismounting. While walking, place your hands on the horses’ neck, push up and swing your leg over and jump down. If you do this enough times, you will remember it instinctively when you really need to dismount in a hurry. If the horse stops when being dismounted, reward him. You want to teach the horse to stop in case you fall off.

The weight (fat) of the horse will either provide comfort or be a hindrance. Thin horses provide a direct relation to the muscles, while chubbier horses provide comfort. Both will give you results, and while the middleweight horse may be best, if you have access to different body types you will only improve your learning. Overweight horses do tend to throw the legs out improperly, and you will lose the truer sense of balance, so use the chubby horse less frequently.

When you first start out on the line at a walk, concentrate on feeling balance. Are you tipping to one side? Try shifting your weight until you feel centered. It also teaches you how to make contact with your seat bones. Try to ‘match’ the movements of the horse, as opposed to being stiff and tight. While walking, do stop/walk transitions, again ‘feeling’ the legs beneath you and the muscles around you.

If you have a quiet horse, close your eyes and ‘feel’ – this practice will fast-track information to the brain, and if you do this regularly, you will find your improvements will come faster.

The trot and canter

Move slowly, at your own pace through the gaits. Never let anyone move you faster than you are comfortable, as you may lose all confidence and never ride again.

Often when you begin the trot, you will be thrown forward and back, sending mixed signals to the horse. If you work consistently, your balance will improve faster than the horse can be damaged. Remember, everything you do with your horse is training, even trying to ride bareback! Perfect practice makes perfect.

Speeding up

If you find the horse trots slowly in a saddle, but speeds up bareback, it is likely because you are gripping and moving your legs around and back. If that is the case, go back to the walk and regain balance by stretching and doing more exercises. Whenever you have a problem, go back to the slower gaits and work it out there.

Don’t use the reins to balance

Another problem that comes up with bareback riding is the use of the reins for balance. If you start to lose balance, grab the mane instead of the horses’ mouth. A horses’ mouth is a sacred place that should never know abuse, so try not to get into the habit of reaching for the reins.

Jumping Bareback

Jumping allows you to experience one of the more thrilling aspects of riding without a saddle. Before you venture into this, make sure the horse is capable and confident over small fences and poles. Start with ground poles or Cavaletti, moving from a single pole and gradually adding as you gain confidence. You can eventually do gymnastics on the longe line, but if you have progressed enough to begin jumping, you may want to ride free of the longe line.

Confidence

One of the best things you will walk away with is added confidence. Bareback riding involves a level of trust between you and the horse that riding in a saddle won’t teach as deeply. There is a sense of freedom, oneness and an exhilaration that’s hard to equal in any other sport. As you progress, you will find that your begin to learn balance intuitively, and I always state that in order to ride really well, you need to be able to move intuitively as opposed to mechanically. The only way to achieve this is to get out there and keep doing it. It’s like riding a bike: once you learn it’s with you forever.

April Reeves
Clinician, Instructor, Trainer
Horseman’s U.com

Many people are now interested in purchasing a pair of cowboy boots given the “cool” image that is attached to the wearing of such apparel. Indeed many actors and celebrities have contributed to promoting the image of cowboy boots.

So how do you select distinguish among the various western boots that exist and how to choose one that matches your foot? Whether you will buy a ready-made cowboy boot or a custom made one, this guide should help you.

There are nowadays many companies that sell cowboy boots and this should make it easy for you to find them. However, there are certain features that you need to know before splashing your money on a pair of western boots.

First, you should make sure that the boots are made from quality materials (usually choose boots that are made of leather). Cowboy boots are known for being tough and solid and you should choose a boot that does not just give the impression of being tough but should be “heavy duty”.

Secondly, make sure that the stitches well made and clean. The stitches should be buried and does not give an impression of unfinished item. Quality boots should be clean and no mark of glue should be found (sign of an amateurish work).

Just as when choosing a shoe, you should make sure that the western boots are adapted to your feet type and size. In this way, you will prevent yourself from getting injuries in your feet. Take time to test the boots before purchasing them.

The bottom line when choosing is to make sure that you are purchasing them from a reputed boot-maker and that you take time to choose the boots that are adapted to your feet and not to the feet of your friend.

Visit http://www.1stopboots.com for the latest Cowboy Boots!

Most of us enjoy a whiff of a delicious perfume, either on ourselves or on somebody else. Instead of buying just any perfume for an anniversary, why not get one that directly has something to do with the theme of the celebrated anniversary? There are infinite amounts of options out there, so you do have to know about your partner’s preferences. If a woman like musky notes, don’t bring home a fruity perfume! To play it safe, I would recommend that you buy the smallest size possible, so it’s not that much of a loss if he or she doesn’t like it (and people sometimes have adverse reactions to certain scents). Plus that way, he or she will have used it up by the next anniversary and you can go out and buy more!

Anniversary 1 is Paper: We start out pretty lame, since I could not find any perfume that contained the word “paper” in it. But, there are cards with perfumed inserts, which might be most appropriate for women.

Anniversary 2 is Cotton and we have a few more options here. Cotton is associated with the scent of freshly washed linen, so most of the perfumes have a lighter note. For a woman get Cotton Splash Perfume by Marc Jacobs, White Linen Breeze by Estee Lauder or Crisp Cotton Perfume Oil sold in The Body Shop. For men there are not that many options; you could go with Cotton Candy Perfume by Demeter for men and women, or Lucky You by Liz Claiborne, since one of its ingredients is Cotton flower.

Anniversary 3 is Leather. A scent mostly associated with men (because of the whole cowboy thing, I guess), you have a lot of option for the guys: Containing the word leather in it’s name are a series of English Leather by Dana, English Leather Wind Drift, English Leather Timberline and English Leather Musk.

The following fragrances for men carry a note of leather: John Varvatos, Polo by Ralph Lauren, Carlos Santana, Chaps by Ralph Lauren, Dunhill Fresh by Alfred Dunhill, Gentleman by Givenchy, Gucci Pour Homme by Gucci, Nicole Miller for Men, Safari by Ralph Lauren and many, many more. You can always ask for more fragrances with a leather note at the perfume store, should none of these appeal to you.

For women it’s the same thing: there are only few perfumes that have the word itself in the name. The only ones I found are Leather for Women by Demeter and Aigner in Leather by Etienne Aigner. But when it comes to perfumes with a note of leather, you have more options: Cabochard by Parfums Gres, Fendi, Habanita by Molinard, Image by Nino Cerruti, No. 19 by Chanel, Caleche by Hermes and more.

For anniversary 4, Fruit or Flowers you will have so many options that I can’t possibly name all of them. Most of the perfumes have both flower and fruit notes, so if you want to go with one of the two only, you’ll have to speak with a knowledgeable salesperson in the perfume store.

Only a few options for her are Fruit de Bois by Jean Charles Brosseau, Jessica McClintock for women, Fruity Rythm by Adidas, Pacific Paradise and Island Kiss by Escada, Faconnable Femme by Faconnable, Guess for Women, Head Over Heals by Revlon, Incanto and Incanto Charm by Salvatore Ferragamo, Flower for Women by Kenzo, Spring Flower and Fantasia de Fleurs by Creed, Fleur de Diva by Ungaro, Fleur de Fleurs by Nina Ricci … let me just catch my breath! The list goes on and on, so you will have many options here. Make sure with your darling which fruit or flower she likes, else she just might get a headache!

Since men’s fragrances tend to be less fruity and sweet, you would think that you would have fewer options, compared to women’s fragrances, but don’t forget that almost all perfumes have a flower or a fruit thrown in somewhere. Some ideas for him are: Baldessarini by Hugo Boss, Black Code by Giorgio Armani, Neroli Sauvage by Creed, Curve by Liz Claiborne, Sport by Royal Copenhagen and Very Sexy for Men by Victoria’s Secret.

Now to the last theme of the first five anniversaries. Year 5 is Wood, so if you include fragrance notes like sandalwood, you are going to have a lot of options again. For women, get Glamourous by Ralph Lauren, Eau de Dior Relaxing by Christian Dior, Shi by Alfred Sung, Versace Woman by Versace, Sensi by Giorgio Armani, Black Cashmere by DKNY or Blush for Women by Marc Jacobs. Honestly, there are so many I could fill up a whole page, but these will give you an idea.

And finally, for men you have Black XS by Paco Rabanne, BLV Notte by Bulgari, Brit for Men by Burberry, Cacharel for Men by Cacharel, Dune by Christian Dior, Gravity by Coty and Gucci Pour Homme, just to name a few.

Michael RussellYour Independent guide to Anniversary Gifts

This article describes where to look, what to look for, and how to choose day-hiking boots. Knowing where to look and what to look for, you can be sure to get the high-quality hiking boots you need without paying extra for features you don’t need.

Day-hiking boots range anywhere from $40.00 to $150.00. The high end of that range is beginning to cross into backpacking boots, but anything below that range is either an exceptionally good deal or an imitation hiking boot that will disappoint you badly.

So, let’s talk about the kinds of places to shop for hiking boots, features to look for, pitfalls to avoid, and techniques to make sure you have the right fit.

Where to Shop for Hiking Boots

If you have never done any serious hiking, you will want to buy your first serious hiking boots in a hands-on experience. I’m being honest here (habit of mine). Yes, it is in my interest to persuade you to buy your hiking boots through my Web site, but I won’t do that if it is not appropriate for you. Even aside from ethical considerations, it would be bad business for me to create a lot of dissatisfied customers telling their friends about their bad experience. No, I’m just being honest. I don’t want to take your money and leave you unhappy. Buy your first pair of hiking boots at a brick-and-mortar store where you can handle the boots and try them for proper fit. Then, when you have enough experience to know what you want in your second pair of hiking boots (or third, or …), you can take advantage of the lower prices available on the Web.

When shopping for hiking boots, look for an outdoor equipment store rather than a shoe store. The sales clerks in a general shoe store are not likely to know the difference between real hiking boots and fashion imitations of hiking boots. You might pay more money at an outdoor equipment store, but you will realize the savings out on the trail.

Once you’re in the store, ask about some of the things you read in this article. If the sales clerk doesn’t know what a scree collar is or why soft outer soles are better than hard, look for another sales clerk, or another store.

If you are ready to buy your hiking boots on the Web, you can take advantage of the best of both worlds. You can buy from a high-volume store that has the best prices, but first get your advice, recommendations, and reviews from affiliated Web sites that specialize in hiking equipment.

Wherever you choose to buy your hiking boots, make sure there is a reliable, knowledgeable person in the loop somewhere. If the sales clerk or Web site seems too eager about making the sale and not interested enough in discussing and comparing features, you should look somewhere else before you make a final decision.

Especially when you are shopping the Web sites, you may need to pay attention to brands. Certain brands have a well-deserved reputation for good quality, and you should not ignore that. On the other hand, some brands have an overblown reputation that often has more to do with fashion than with genuine quality. The only way to know the difference, and to find the quality you need without paying for fashion that you don’t care about, is to talk to those who know the difference and to read reviews from people who have actually used the hiking boots in the field.

Features to Look For in Day-Hiking Boots

Here is what you need to look for:

* Deep tread in a soft sole for traction.

* Appropriate height (just above the ankle).

* Soft, wide, thick scree collar (the padding around the top that keeps pebbles out without chafing your Achilles tendon).

* Fiberglass shank. Steel is okay, but fiberglass is better in day-hiking boots because it’s lighter. Full-length is preferred, but shorter shanks may be acceptable if you are planning more moderate hiking.

* Tongue attached at least up to the top of the foot, or higher if you plan on crossing streams frequently.

* Crampon attachments (good, but not essential, unless you do a lot of hiking in icy conditions).

* Hooks for the laces above the top of the foot.

* Choose eyelets, D-rings, or webbing for the lower lace attachment points as a matter of personal taste. My experience does not indicate any one to be better than the others for day-hiking boots.

* Good insulation and padding all around, firm on the bottom, with a tough but smooth lining.

* Double stitching on all visible seams.

* More leather and less fabric is better. Split leather is fine (and you’ll almost never find full-grain leather in a day-hiking boot), but not full suede.

* Fewer seams is better.

Most of these features are self-evident, but here are a few techniques for evaluating specific features.

* Tread should be at least two fifths of the total thickness of the sole.

* Measure the softness of the tread surface by pressing your thumbnail into it. You should be able to make a visible indentation that springs out in a second or so.

* Measure the stiffness of the shank by holding the heel in one hand and the toe in the other, and twisting the sole. You should not be able to twist it at all.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Hiking Boots

The biggest problem you’re likely to find in shopping for day-hiking boots is cheaply-made “imitation” hiking boots. They look like hiking boots, but they’re not built to stand up to trail conditions. They will not last long, and they will not give you the traction and water resistance you need.

You can tell an “imitation” hiking boot from the real thing by these characteristics:

* Mild tread, less than about two-fifths the thickness of the sole.

* Hard tread surface that you can barely indent with your fingernail.

* Non-attached tongue.

* Non-rigid sole that you can twist by hand.

* No scree collar. There may be patches of leather or a different color of fabric that look like a scree collar, but if it doesn’t have thick, soft padding around the top, it’s not a real hiking boot. It won’t keep the pebbles out, and it might chafe or constrict your Achilles tendon.

Fitting your Hiking Boots

You must fit your hiking boots with any orthopedic inserts, off-the-shelf insoles, and the hiking socks you intend to wear with them. A good rule of thumb is to start with one full size larger than your regular street shoes.

With all the inserts and insoles in place and your hiking socks on, but with no laces in the boot, put the boot on and push your foot all the way forward until your toes touch the front. You should have just enough room behind the heel to slide your finger all the way in.

Next, lace the boot up snugly and walk around. The boots will be stiff and uncomfortable because they’re not broken in, but they should not allow your foot to slide or rub.

Stand on a steep slope with your toes pointing down. (Use the fitting horse where you’re supposed to put your foot to lace the shoe while sitting. Go ahead and stand on it.) You should be able to wiggle your toes, and they should not touch the front of the boots.

If you bought the boots via the Web, do this fit-test as soon as you get them. Even if you think you know your size, boots from different manufacturers might fit differently. Check the size and fit immediately, and return them for a replacement if they don’t fit right.

Conclusion

If you are looking for your first pair of serious hiking boots, you must do your shopping in an outdoor equipment store where you can handle the boots and talk to knowledgeable sales staff. Only if you have some experience with day-hiking boots, take advantage of the bargains available on the Web.

Check for the features that identify a quality hiking boot, and avoid “fake” hiking boots.

Bring all the inserts and socks you will wear with your hiking boots, and check for a firm but comfortable fit with no rubbing or sliding.

Look for quality, and expect to pay for it, but don’t pay more than you have to for features that don’t contribute to the durability and comfort of your hiking boots.

Chuck Bonner is a lifelong hiker and amateur naturalist, and webmaster of http://www.HikingWithChuck.com For more information about hiking boots and other hiking equipment based on many years on the trail, visit http://www.hikingwithchuck.com/Gear/HikingGear.htm

There is a well known fact that sense of smell has much longer lasting memories as compared to name or face of a person. Relishing this fact, fragrance is used as a luxury personal.

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Nowadays cologne manufacturers are working relentlessly for producing distinguishable products. Various signature brands of colognes are created from nine scents which are citrus, spice, musk, herbal, wood, powder, fruit, floral and leather.

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Citrus are the common head notes described as fresh, assertive and sharp. Slightly sour, citrus notes smell similar to the smell of fresh oranges, lemons, grapefruit, bergamot and pomello. Eg calvin klein perfume truth has citrus as domination fragrance. They form the main constituent of men’s cologne. Woodsy is the fragrances that are dominated by woody scents, typically of sandalwood, cedar and patchouli resulting in camphoraceous smell whereas leather is a family of fragrances which features the scents of honey, tobacco, wood and wood tars in its middle or base notes.

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My only solace that summer is over is that fall has come. And with it, ubiquitous fashion magazines boasting the season’s must haves, gotta haves, wish you had. While I generally pore over such magazines, I’m especially voracious for the shoe section. If jeans are my first love, shoes are a very close second. I won’t even admit to how many pairs I own, partly because I lost count quite some time ago. Due to my collection (”collection” sound so much nicer than “obsession” doesn’t it?!) I am always eager to read what the “experts” are saying about shoe trends and how to apply them to long legs, and let’s face it- big feet. Typically I write very favorably about our good fortune in the height department. But let’s be honest. Sometimes the price we pay is looking longingly at the size 8 section while cursing our genes, or if we are freaks of the family as I am, just cursing in general. But just because we have big feet, ahem…non petite feet, doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the season’s hottest trends.

I could write a novel about the many styles, designs, trends, shapes, colors, textiles, genus, species, and families of shoes. And though it would be fascinating, I’ll spare you the delightful details. I’ll just talk about a few of my favorite styles. Now this one may be disputable, but my absolute favorite fall staple is a pair of warm, cozy, and comfortable Uggs. I’m aware that every fall, some fashion columnist deems Uggs “out.” Yet, I argue that this trend has staying power. People are still splurging on the real thing, or buying every kind of knock off known to man. So apparently their appeal has yet to wane. Next is the riding boot phenomenon. Who knew equestrian wear could be so fun? Like Uggs, I suspect there will be those who label these “so last season,” but again I beg to differ. Casual boots of all styles are a staple for your fall wardrobe.

What I appreciate most about both Uggs and riding boots are that they look great on long legs and big feet. Most women might avoid cutting the line of their legs nearly in half but we have a few inches to spare. Both of these styles also typically come in flats and large sizes. Another flattering trend for tall women is ballet flats which are showing up all over the place in fall textures like tweed, patent leather, and faux animal skins. I won’t lecture those of you who do not wear heels; I understand the temptation to avoid all the unoriginal comments about already being tall enough, not “needing” heels, the air up there, yada yada yada. Regardless, I am six feet tall and I refuse to give up heels. Um, does the word “glamazon” mean anything to you?!

For those of you who are a slightly bolder and like not only a high heel, but unexpected details, you will be pleased to find that of bows, jewels, peep-toes, updated oxfords, and retro shapes. To make your foot appear smaller try round toes, the recent “cap toe” trend, with the toe in a different color than the rest of the shoe (the caveat is these heels are typically higher), color blocks, and banded flats or Mary Jane’s. These styles break the foot into smaller parts and trick the eye. No ladies, there are no Spanx for feet. I googled it.

All advice aside, if you are obsessively self conscious about your feet…they will appear bigger (terribly silly pun intended). So the balance is to wear trends that flatter, but not focus on the negative. While I have a weakness for fashionable trends, I refuse to be enslaved by them. There are a variety of options in terms of large sizes, styles and trends, so shop around until you find the perfect pair (ok, let’s be realistic- the perfect pairs) for fall.

Tiffany DeLangie, a tall fashionista loves all things fashion, including writing about tall fashion for Tall Clothing Mall http://www.tallclothingmall.com a website for tall women and tall men looking for current trends in tall sizes. Visit the tall shoes page to find lots of great styles at http://www.tallclothingmall.com/womensshoetrends.html