FitSugar

All the Right Gear For Summer Hikes

Heather Dale — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 15:36:05 PDT

Take to the hiking trails this Summer with the proper shoes, equipment, and apparel to help make your day - or night - excursion as effortless and enjoyable as possible. Just as it's a good idea to have the proper gear for Spring, hiking enthusiasts should also keep a stash of items suited for Summer hikes. Here are some great products to help keep you cool, comfortable, and hydrated while trekking through different terrains over the next couple of months.

Clockwise from top left: Black Diamond Spot Headlamp ($40), Columbia Omni Shade Sun Goddess Booney ($20), Patagonia Borderless Short ($48), Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel Water Bottle ($18), Guyot Squishy Bowl and Cup Set ($15), Brooks Cascadia 6 ($110), Feel Goodz Flip-Flops ($25), Thorlo CoolMax Light Hiker Socks ($16), ASICS Abby Shimmel Tank Top ($35), CamelBak Vantage 35 Hydration Pack ($149).

Get in Gear: Camelbak StoAway

FitSugar — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 02:30:00 PST

Even though it's Winter, if you're getting out and active in the snow you still need to drink water. Since you are already loaded down with gear like poles, a regular water bottle is way too bulky, and plus it might freeze.
That is why this StoAway ($35) by Camelbak is great. The super durable plastic bag inside that holds 70 ounces of water, and the external circular purple cap makes it easy to refill. Since it's so slim, it can fit inside your existing backpack with all your other necessities. The drinking tube allows you to access your water easily, so you're more likely to drink it and stay hydrated. All you do is bite the end and suck out the water just like a straw. The bag, tube and bite valve are all insulated, which prevents your water from turning to ice. The StoAway is not just for Winter; it keep your water cool in the Summer. Sounds like a good deal to me.

WineRack and BeerBelly: Love It or Hate It?

YumSugar — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:15:38 PST

A few months ago, I encountered a product called The Beer Belly ($34.95). It's a liquid container that you strap on around your waist, allowing you to smuggle beverages into places. Think of it as a CamelBak for your front side. The concept is moderately funny, and it does resemble a beer belly when attached. Recently, the company behind BeerBelly put a new product on the market called The WineRack ($29.95). It's the same concept, only this time you strap it around your chest. A bit on the offensive side, but still sort of funny. While these products might save money on beers at the ball park, I can't imagine actually using one, they're just too tacky. What do you guys think? Are they making their way onto your wish list?

Get in Gear: CamelBak FlashFlo

FitSugar — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 02:30:00 PDT

Running outside is wonderful, but the one drawback is water. I have yet to find a water fountain when I am out trail running. Now, you could wear the Terminator FuelBelt like Fergie Ferg, or you could opt to use the FlashFlo ($40) by CamelBak.

The FlashFlo is a fanny pack designed to hold water that has a built in drinking tube with an easy to use valve. Clip the tube to your shirt and you are good to go. You can easily slip the tubing to either side of the pack so it easy to use if you are right or left handed. The FlashFlo also has a zippered pocket for your keys and a secure outer pocket for your iPod. The fanny pack style is better suited for walking, hiking and trail running than the backpack style hydration units made by CamelBak.

So run those trails carrying 45 ounces of water sitting comfortably on your waist. Buy one directly from CamelBak.

Get in Gear: The Sugar Pack

FitSugar — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 04:00:00 PST

If you are into doing anything outdoors, you've got to have a Camelbak. It's an easy way to make sure you've always got your water with you.

Sometimes when you're out for the day, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or whatever, it's annoying to have to stop all the time to get your water bottle out of your backpack.

Using the Camelbak keeps your water much more accessible so you are apt to drink as much water as you need.

It's a pack that has a reservoir pouch that holds the water. And there's a little tube that goes from there all the way up to your shoulder. To get the water out, you bite down on the end and suck - it's like a big straw - it's so easy.

But won't my water freeze? Nope. Camelbak makes insulated packs like this one so your water is protected from the cold. It's called the Sugar pack. You know I love that!!!

For $70, it holds 70 oz of water and has extra storage space for important things like snacks, a camera, your cell phone, and extra layers. What a brilliant idea.

Gear That Every Hiking Backpack Needs

Michele Foley — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 12:24:00 PDT

With cooler temps on the way, early Fall is one of the best times to go hiking. Whether it's two miles or 20, you'll want to make sure that your backpack is filled with all the essentials. From protecting your skin to protecting yourself against a serious emergency, here's everything you should have in your pack before hitting the trail.

Water - When hiking, do not let yourself get dehydrated! Carry a big water bottle or, better yet, a Camelbak. A Camelbak generally allows for more water and makes it easier to get a drink than having to fish for your bottle. Camelbak reservoir pouches fit right inside a pack, and a tube from the pouch runs out toward your shoulder. To get a drink of water, bite down on the end of the tube and suck. What's great is that Camelbak pouches double as backpacks, meaning you'll have room for all of your other goods, too!
Sunscreen - When spending a full day hiking, one application of sunscreen won't be enough. Make sure to follow the specific guidelines on the sunscreen bottle to know how often to reapply. Keep in mind that if it's hot out, you'll want to apply sunscreen more frequently since you'll likely be sweating it off. For maximum protection, buy a broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen with a water-resistant formula.

See the rest of the items - including one that may save your life - after the break!

$30 and Under: A Summer Pregnancy Survival Guide

Rebecca M Gruber — Thu, 19 May 2011 08:37:52 PDT

Take a load off this Summer! There's no perfect season for pregnancy, but many LilSugar readers agree that Summer isn't ideal. The heat, combined with extra swelling and weight can be a recipe for misery. Before spending your entire paycheck on a warm weather maternity wardrobe, check out our picks – each is under $30 and will take a mama-to-be through the Summer.

Clockwise from top left: A wide-brimmed hat, like Tilly's Textile Floppy Hat ($14), will keep the beating sun off mama's head. Liz Lange for Target Short Sleeve V-Neck Knit Dress ($27) will keep an expectant mama cool at work or while out for dinner at night. Don't forget to lather on the sunscreen every day with a paraban-free version like Kiss My Face Sunspray Lotion ($16). A cool, loose shirt, like Old Navy's Maternity Smocked Floral Top ($24) keeps things cool, as does Gap Maternity's Bold Floral Graphic T ($24). A stainless-steel water bottle, like CamelBak's will ensure that the mama-to-be stays hydrated throughout the day. Flats, like these espadrilles ($29) provide more support than a flip-flop, and are easier on the back than a wedge version. For the beach or pool, a tankini, like the ASOS Corsage Tankini ($22) is fun, while keeping things comfortable.

Don't Drink Bacteria: How to Disinfect Your Reusable Bottle

Jenny Sugar — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 03:06:08 PDT

The beauty of the reusable water bottle is that it's just that - reusable. You can repeatedly head to the water cooler or faucet to fill 'er up, but when your bottle continually stays wet, you know what that means? Yep, bacteria loves a moist, dark environment. Along with your dinner dishes at night, it's good to get in the habit of cleaning your bottle every night, or at least every three days. Here are some ways you can get rid of the germies and grime.

Throw it in the dishwasher: Some bottles are dishwasher-safe, so check the bottom of your bottle or the brand's website to make sure. Kleen Kanteen Classic and Wide Mouth stainless steel bottles are dishwasher safe, as well as some products from Nalgene, although it's recommended to clean SIGG water bottles by hand.

Wash it with warm soapy water: Pour out any leftover liquid, add a few drops of dish-washing soap and some warm water, screw on the top and shake for a minute or so. It's smart to invest in a bottle brush so you can scrub deep inside your bottle, especially if it has a narrow mouth. Thoroughly clean the cap and straw as well and allow to dry overnight.

Use a weak bleach solution: If you're really worried about germs, nothing stands a chance against a little bleach. It's perfectly safe to drink from a bottle that's been cleaned with a weak bleach solution. Just empty the contents of your bottle and fill it with room temperature water. Add one tablespoon of Clorox bleach per gallon of water (other brands may not be safe for food containers), screw on the top, and allow to sit for two minutes. Then drain and allow it to dry out completely. Give it another rinse and you're good to go.

Use water bottle cleansing tablets: Many companies make this type of product, including SIGG ($8 for 20) and Camelbak ($12 for eight), or you can also get away with using effervescent denture cleaning tablets such as Efferdent. Just fill your bottle with water, drop the tablet in, and allow to dissolve and sit for 15 to 30 minutes (depending on the product's directions). Then rinse and enjoy your clean bottle.

Source

Get Your Partner to Exercise: No Nagging, Bribing, or Insulting Required

FitSugar — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 00:03:28 PDT

Fitness may be a priority for you, but your husband, boyfriend, or partner might be another story. If you wish your better half would include more exercise in their day whether it's to relieve stress, drop a few pounds, or as a way to spend more time together, I'm sure you've discovered that nagging, bribing, or insulting them are surefire ways to get them to shun sweating it out. Plus, it won't make you feel very good if you're constantly pressuring your partner to get moving. Your significant other is more likely to start working out and stick with it if he or she feels like it's their idea, so give these tactics a try.

Work the money angle. Mention that the gym you want to go to offers huge deals if you join with a friend. Who doesn't jump at the opportunity to save a little moolah?
Speak their language. If saving dough isn't exciting enough, lure your significant other with talk about air-conditioning, deals on massages, and huge TVs to watch sports and The Food Network.
Make it about your dog. If you have a four-legged friend, mention that you went to the vet, and your doc is really concerned about recent weight gain leading to a doggie heart attack. That'll pull on the old heart strings a little, and will certainly inspire regular walks or runs with Fido, but really, Fido will be walking or running them (wink).
Surprise, you're exercising! There's no backing down if you casually sign the two of you up for a Partner Yoga retreat, salsa dance class, or dodgeball team.
Throw them a compliment. Come home from the gym all upset and say, "I really wish you were with me to spot me on the machines because you're so patient and strong. I'd much rather have you help me than one of the random muscly dudes at the gym. Could you meet me after work tomorrow?" Flattery can work wonders and maybe once they show up, they'll do a few sets and like it so much that you'll have yourself a permanent spotter and gym buddy.

Keep reading for more ideas.

How to Throw a 127 Hours-Themed Oscar Bash

Lauren Bradshaw — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 14:30:03 PST

I've already walked you through how to host your own Social Network-themed Oscar shindig, but let's switch gears with another Academy Award best picture nominee: 127 Hours. Even though the film may not seem like party material at first glance (that arm-cutting scene doesn't exactly go well with hors d'oeuvres), it's still a great source of inspiration.

I've come up with a few suggestions to kick-start your planning, so take a look. And while you're at it, don't forget to download your own Oscar ballot to pass around to your guests, and fill out our online ballot for the chance to win a Samsung HDTV.

Who to invite: All of the people you've met on your various travels - or at least your friends with the strongest stomachs. You don't want any pals to pass out mid-show because they're feeling a little queasy.
Dress code: One-armed shirts in honor of the film's dramatic climax. Guests can alter old tops with some scissors, but if you don't want to tear up your clothes, then hiking pants and a bandanna will suffice.
Table setting: Turn your party area into a backpacker's oasis. Lay out some sleeping bags on the floor to lounge on, or use a camping kerosene lamp as a table centerpiece.

More tips after the jump.