All posts by admin

Women’s specific products are becoming a norm in the outdoor industry, and we’re happy to say most that manufacturers are no longer using the “shrink it and pink it” strategy when creating women’s products. When designed with intention, women’s products are a brilliant choice and can help you become the best outdoor person you can be. Women’s sleeping pads are a great addition to the outdoor market and will help you have a warm and comfortable night’s sleep.

Recently we’ve discovered that manufacturers are making their unisex products in smaller, women’s specific sizes, so we have a broader range of products to choose from. To find out what we thought about all the women’s specific pads we tested, check out our Women’s Sleeping Pad Review.

Why Choose a Women’s Specific Pad?

Do you want to maximize your weight-to-warmth ratio while going lighter and reducing your pack size? Why wouldn’t you? Choosing a woman’s specific product is a smart and easy way to maximize your gear without increasing the weight of your pack. Typically, women are physiologically different from men; often, we feel the cold differently, and it usually manifests in cold hands and feet. Sleeping pad manufacturers have taken this into account when designing pads specifically for women and have made them smaller to fit the average woman’s frame (about 5’5 or 66 inches).

They have added extra insulation in areas where we get colder, specifically the foot and torso areas. We like that Sea to Summit women’s specific pads have a more thoughtful shape that is wider in the hips and narrower in the shoulders, giving us space where we need it. Want to up your game even more? Check out our women’s sleeping bag review to get yourself a high-performing sleeping bag tailored to your gender.

This time around, we dabbled in unisex pads that are sized for the average woman, 64-66 inches, which will save us weight and increase our choices if we’re interested in something that isn’t a “woman’s specific pad”.

A Man Using a Woman’s Sleeping Pad??!!

For guys who are in that 5’5 range, why wouldn’t you get a women’s model? That’s right; men are cluing into the benefits of women’s pads as well. They fit small frames better, have a smaller packed size, and are almost always warmer than the equivalent men’s version. Even taller men are looking twice at woman’s versions for these same reasons. It is easy to supplement the length of a pad by putting items like backpacks or ropes at your feet for insulation from the ground.

The Basics

Sleeping pads can be used any time you’re sleeping on the ground, from kids’ sleepovers to Denali expeditions. The women’s pads we reviewed are designed specifically for camping and backpacking purposes. If you are strictly car camping, you may want to check out our Car Camping Mattress Review for plusher and more comfortable models. If you are a taller lady, or you just want to shop around a little more, check out our unisex review. Below we will tell you what you need to know to choose the right pad for you.

Construction Types

Most sleeping pad manufacturers use some combination of air and foam or other insulating materials to create their mattresses. The models in this review had two basic construction types. The majority were self-inflating, where the open-cell foam is glued to the interior of the pad. That can be quite warm, but the more foam in the pad, the bulkier and heavier it becomes. Pads of this type can be very comfortable, warm, and even be inexpensive.

The Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XLite is one of the only pads we tested that uses a structurally insulated air core system. This features an intricate baffle system used to deflect the cold air from the ground and reflect back the body heat. This construction allows the pad to compress very small and be very lightweight. Pads of this style are best for extended trips where weight really matters. There are more products emerging use a thin layer of synthetic insulation for warmth, including our Top Pick winner the Ether Light XT. These products pack down quite small, considering how warm and comfortable they are.

Weight and Packed Size

If you are participating in self-propelled activities like bike touring or backpacking, every ounce you are carrying counts and should be a significant consideration of your purchase. In this category, the NeoAir XLite can’t be beaten. It packs down smaller than a one-liter Nalgene bottle and weighs less than a pound (12 ounces). The Big Agnes Q-Core SLX Petite is almost as small, but not as warm as the NeoAir. If weight and packed size are less of a concern, comfort will be a high priority. The REI AirRail Plus is a very comfortable mattress, and you can still carry this model around for short stints. Self-inflating mattresses tend to be slightly more durable, so if you’re looking for something you can do yoga on in the mornings outside of your tent (although we do not recommend this!), you may want to go with a high denier fabric like the one found on the Therm-a-Rest Trail Lite – Women’s.

Warmth

Your sleeping pad doesn’t have to be the warmest; it just depends on where and when you will be using it. The most important duty of your pad is to insulate you from the ground. If you are sleeping on snow or out in late fall, the ground will be colder, and you will want a one that can insulate you from these colder temperatures. This is where R-value comes in. The higher the R-value, the warmer the pad. If your R-value is not necessarily high enough for winter camping on its own, you could purchase a closed-cell foam pad like the Therm-A-Rest Z-Lite Sol to use underneath your inflatable pad to up your R-value for 4 season camping.

Women’s pads generally have a higher R-value because we are known to be colder sleepers. Most manufacturers will up the amount of foam or insulation in the foot and torso areas, where we get the coldest. If you’re choosing a unisex pad that is sized for a woman (66 inches), be sure to check out how warm it is, as it may not be as warm as you’re used to.

A rain jacket is one of the first pieces of performance outdoor equipment many outdoor enthusiasts purchase. The primary reason is that a waterproof shell is among the most important pieces of gear for comfort and safety when a storm rolls in or the wind starts to howl. The models tested in our rain jacket review span affordable rain protection options for day hikes and general around-town use, as well as ultralight rain protection for climbing, long-distance backpacking, and trail running. Whether you’re searching for your first jacket, a modern replacement for an old favorite, or an ultralight model to add to your quiver, you’re in the right place.

Construction 101: 2, 2.5, and 3-layer Fabrics

Nearly every manufacturer clearly lists how many layers their jacket is constructed with, but if you’re like many people, you’ve likely wondered, What does that even mean? Are more layers better? Worse? What are the pros and cons of each, and most importantly, how should this affect what products you consider?

Most rain shell fabrics use a 2, 2.5, and 3-layer construction, even though nearly all of them only look like a single layer when you hold them at the store because these layers are tightly-sandwiched and laminated together. Whether a 2, 2.5, or 3-layer fabric, these designs share most of their construction qualities, with only a small difference generally presenting on the inside facing side of the garment. All three styles feature an outer shell fabric, commonly referred to as a face fabric, which is coated with a chemical Durable Water Repellent (AKA: DWR, more on this below) finish to help keep the outer layer from absorbing water.

The second, or middle layer, is the actual waterproof layer, whether eVent, Gore-Tex, another proprietary membrane generally made of polyester or nylon, or a coated fabric.

3-Layer Fabrics

Three-layer builds feature an external DWR-treated face fabric with a waterproof, breathable membrane in the middle (that could be any of the types listed above), in addition to a super-thin polyurethane (PU) film or other similar backing on the inside of the product. The goal of the third layer is to keep sweat and oils from clogging the microscopic holes in the waterproof-breathable layer. This reduces breathability and will likely make the user feel wet from sweat, that they might think is coming from the outside.

The advantage of a three-layer build is that they are typically the most durable because the innermost layer, which protects the waterproof membrane’s pores from clogging (at least for longer), thus maintaining better breathability between washings. The disadvantage of three-layer pieces is that they are not always as breathable and are often slightly heavier than many of their 2 or 2.5 layer counterparts.

2.5-Layer Fabrics

Outerwear with a 2.5 layer construction looks similar to those with a three-layer design but may feel slightly lighter in hand. Jackets made of a 2.5 layer material still have the same outermost layer (the face fabric) treated with DWR, which minimizes how much water is absorbed by encouraging moisture to shed, thus helping to protect the waterproof layer below. A “middle” waterproof layer applies as well. However, in the case of three-layer builds, this can be anything from an ePTFE membrane to a coated piece of nylon. In contrast, in 2.5-layer jackets, it is generally a treatment that’s “painted on” instead. This is why it’s considered a half layer (yes, the painted on layer is the half-layer), even if it covers all of the inside surface area. Such a strategy makes for a much thinner and lightweight result than what most 3-layer garments can offer.

Jackets with a 2.5 layer construction also offer similar degrees of breathability to what is seen in 3-layer jackets, though they may occasionally feel marginally clammier, depending on the innermost lining fabric. Why? The innermost layer doesn’t do quite as good of a job at “absorbing” and transferring sweat compared to the innermost lining fabric featured on most three-layer models. 2.5-layer jackets are typically slightly lighter and more packable, but often are not quite as durable (and must be cleaned more frequently to maintain a similar level of breathability). It is worth noting that this portion of the market has grown substantially over the past few years, showing more updates and improvement in design. Some 2.5 layer jackets now deliver a far less clammy experience than what was notable in earlier iterations.

2-Layer Fabrics

There has been a big change in 2-layer fabrics in the last year or two. Traditionally, 2-layer products would have the same DWR face fabric bonded to a waterproof-breathable layer but include a loose (typically mesh) liner hanging on the inside. This style fell out of favor as 2.5-layer models became more affordable, and 2-layer garments with their hanging mesh liner were heavier, bulkier, and generally less comfortable.

Recently Gore-Tex has re-introduced a 2-layer design in the form of Gore-Tex Paclite Plus. Paclite Plus has the same exterior face fabric laminated to a waterproof membrane. Still, instead of a laminated layer (like a 3-layer) or spraying on a protective coating (like a 2.5-layer) Gore has instead textured the inside of the waterproof membrane in such a way to increase its abrasion resistance, rendering a half-layer treatment or full third layer unnecessary. Sticking with only two layers means that such a garment is more breathable than many, as moisture has less fabric to travel through. It also reduces overall weight due to the decrease in materials. It’s worth noting that Paclite Plus is made of a different construction than the older Gore Paclite, which used a traditional 2.5-layer construction. Other 2-layer materials may not yet claim the same performance upgrades.

Waterproof Membrane Types

ePTFE Fabrics:

Gore-Tex is an ePTFE waterproof-breathable fabric that is the oldest and most widely known and has become somewhat of the Kleenex of the waterproof-breathable fabric world. On a fundamental level, Gore-Tex is a polytetrafluoroethylene (or ePTFE for short) membrane stretched to a specific dimension. At this dimension, water vapor can escape. Still, liquid water cannot enter due to both the sizes of the pores (which are 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet) and the material’s extremely low surface tension, which cannot absorb liquid water without tremendous pressure. Kinda cool, right?

Polytetrafluoroethylene is a huge word, but you might have heard it because of its slightly better-known name from the DuPont brand: Teflon. W.L. Gore always tries to improve their products and understands the valuable market share the Gore-Tex brand occupies. They want to do their best to maintain that good reputation. To better achieve that end, the company has strict rules and restrictions for manufacturers that want to use their product. For example, they set rules on face fabrics, interior fabrics, zippers, and, in some cases, applications to help maintain their reputation of “Guaranteed to Keep You Dry.”

Gore-Tex with Paclite technology is now slowly evolving into Gore-Tex PacLite Plus. Its earlier iteration was known as Gore-Tex Paclite, a 2.5 layer fabric with a normal Gore-Tex membrane paired with a proprietary super-thin half layer that completely covers the inside. Gore keeps exact specifications pretty locked up, but it more or less has the same properties as most 2.5 layer models (being lighter, more subtle, and slightly more breathable) but uses Gore-Tex as the waterproof membrane. Gore-Tex PacLite Plus is the next evolution, as it replaces the innermost layer of the older Paclite material entirely and instead textures the inside of that waterproof membrane in such a way to resist dirt and grime while increasing durability.

In the last part of our three-part series on layering clothing we explain how to layer for winter and different outdoor conditions. We provide details and examples on common layer combinations for different types of activities. These systems reflect our bias to travel fast and light while staying prepared and safe in changing conditions.

Layering Systems

Here’s an overview of the three articles in this series:

• How to Layer Clothing to Keep Warm – How modern technical clothing is designed to work as a layered system. We explain each layer from base to outer shell.
• Why You Get Cold in the Mountains – How and why you lose (and gain) heat during outdoor activities? How can a layered system help?
• How to Layer Clothing for Winter and All Seasons (current article) – Recommended layered clothing combinations for practical situations ranging from all-day hikes to extreme mountaineering.

Summer Half-Day-Activities

 (Two-Layer System)

For a half-day hike in the summer, or a short multi-pitch rock climb, we prefer a two-layer system. Since it’s warm, and you’re never too far from civilization, there is no need to overdo it with insulated layers. But keep in mind that if it gets windy or stormy, you will need some protection until you can retreat or find cover.

1. Base — Start with a performance shirt or long underwear base layer. It could be long-sleeved or short-sleeved depending on the amount of sun exposure you expect and how hot the temps are, and you could select either wool or synthetic materials. That said, you’ll see us heading out in a long-sleeved, zip-necked wool shirt as a base layer.
2. Outer — For your second layer, if you are concerned about space and weight, choose a lightweight, compressible wind jacket such as the Patagonia Houdini. Or choose a windproof fleece such as the Arc’teryx Fortrez Hoody. Lastly, if there is a chance you might see some moisture throughout the day, a windproof soft shell like the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded that is also mostly water resistant will do the trick.

Summer Full-Day Activities

 (Three-layer system)

A full-day in the mountains can bring surprises. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in many mountain areas, especially in July-Sept, and can arrive with little warning. Being caught in the backcountry in such a storm, and facing a hike out without adequate protection, is not just uncomfortable, it can be dangerous. Whether it’s a day hike, or a serious alpine rock climb, we’re going to tuck a bit more in our rucksack just in case something goes wrong. While your “three-hour tour” may go better than the one in Gilligan’s Island, we advocate being prepared for the combination of a twisted ankle and an unexpected storm in the back country.

Multi-Day Backpack Layers

There’s frankly not a huge difference between our Full-Day layer system and what we bring on a multi-day backpack trip. Mostly, we’ll just assume that bad weather will occur, and the time to get out if things go wrong will be longer. In short, we’re a bit more conservative.

1. Base — We’ll choose a light merino wool long-sleeve base layer with a zip neck. But, we might toss in a light short sleeved performance shirt as a luxury.
2. Mid — We’ll forgo the fleece for the hooded version of light insulated jacket such as the Patagonia Down Sweater. While a fleece jacket is comfy, a light insulated jacket is more robust, and will keep you warmer in a broader range of circumstances.
3. Outer Shell — Top it off with a shell that is appropriate for the conditions. For a multi-day backpack we’ll assume significant rain and bring a hardshell or quality rain jacket along with some rain pants.

In addition to the above, we’ll bring a warm hat, a headlamp (and extra batteries), a whistle, athletic tape (in case of a twisted ankle), along with our usual assortment of backpacking gear.

Winter Wanderings

 (Four-Layer System)

For even colder and wetter activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, ice climbing, or moderate mountaineering, 4 layers work best to allow you to cool off during the hard aerobic parts of your day and stay warm during the slow or stormy periods. Layers can be removed and added as needed throughout the day.

1. Base — Start with a long underwear layer, shirt and bottoms. Thinner usually works best so that you don’t overheat while charging uphill. As always, we’ll choose a light merino wool long-sleeve base layer with a zip neck.
2. Mid — Select a fleece that you like best. It should be light to mid-weight such as the Patagonia R1 and R2, or the Arc’teryx Caliber Hoody. It can be thinner than the fleece you would choose for a three-piece layering system, because in this system you will also have an insulated layer.
3. Insulating — For an insulated layer, pick something relatively lightweight, and it can be either down or synthetic insulation. It should be able to fit over your fleece and under your shell layer. While we prefer a light down sweater-style jacket with a hood, in winter conditions where your jacket may get wet, a synthetic insulated jacket is wise. Synthetics weigh a bit more and are bulkier than down alternatives, but they retain their insulating properties when wet. If we’re in the back country on a multi-day ski trip, the additional weight and bulk of synthetic is well worth it. Our favorite insulating layer jackets for winter include the Arc’Teryx Atom SV and Mountain Hardwear Zonal.
4. Outer Shell — A protective hard shell layer is where it’s at. If you are playing in snow, whether it is shredding, back country skiing, or snowshoeing, you are bound to get wet, which is something you don’t want. A Gore-Tex or EVent jacket such as the RAB Latok Alpine jacket will keep you dry while still providing some level of breathability.

Also, a warm hat that completely covers your ears, a balaclava and a neck gaiter (buff) are recommended.

With all of the options out there, it can be daunting to find the best winter boots to fit your needs. Narrowing down the selection as much as possible will help make the decision much easier and quicker. This article aims to explain the different styles of winter boots and their best uses, highlight design components for consideration, and help you narrow down your choices so you can pick the perfect boot for your needs. If you want to see our favorite boots, including our recommendations for different purposes, check out our complete review of winter boots for men.

Types of Winter Boots

The winter boots that we tested and reviewed broadly fit into a few different categories based on their design, features, and intent. Below we detail the ins and outs of each type.

Pac Boots

This category of winter boots includes footwear with big rubber soles, tons of insulation, and calf-height uppers. Their name comes from the Pac, or moccasin slipper, traditionally worn inside an outer boot layer with a rubber shell around the foot and tall leather uppers to protect the calf from deep snow. They are often comprised of a soft, insulated liner that slips inside of an outer waterproof shell, or an insulating layer fixed underneath a weather-resistant shell material.

Sorel is the brand that catapulted the Pac boot into the modern lexicon when they introduced their now famous Caribou model in 1962. Two years later, they released the Sorel 1964 Premium T. Since then, many manufacturers have begun producing similar styles. Pac boots provide the best weather protection and warmth amongst many types of winter boots.

The major downside to Pac boots is that they are often bulky and clumsy. Also, they sometimes suffer from a sloppy fit that is hard to get snug. As such, they are best used for activities where dexterous footwork isn’t needed, and they are too heavy and bulky for winter hiking. These boots are great for casual use around town or for winter chores like chopping wood and shoveling.Purposes: Winter chores, snowmobiling and sledding, casual errands

Insulated Winter Hiking Boots

These boots are designed to keep your feet warm and dry on the trails all winter long. They fit much better than Pac boots, feeling more like a sneaker or summer hiking boots. They also have less insulation than Pac boots because your feet will naturally produce heat during activity. They use waterproof materials, but the uppers don’t reach as far up the calves, which helps you walk with more comfort and flexibility. And, they have high-traction soles to grip slippery trails and snowy surfaces. These boots are great for active winter activities like outdoor work and chores on dry surfaces, winter hikes, and general town use when the snow isn’t deep.

The main downside to winter hiking boots is that they compromise on warmth and weather protection to allow the user to walk with ease. So, these boots aren’t helpful in the most extreme winter climates or in snowy conditions while shoveling or sledding. For users in warmer winter climates where precipitation falls as rain as much as snow and where the snow doesn’t pile up deeply every winter, these could be an everyday boot. But for snowy winter climates, a taller and warmer boot is needed. If you’re looking for something for multi-day winter camping or hiking trips, you can read our review of mountaineering boots for more options on double-layer boots.

Slip-On Work Boots

Slip-on boots do not use a lacing system. They often have large handles or pull tabs to help get them on or a loose enough cuff that sliding a foot right in is an easy task. Slip-on boots are made out of many materials, including rubber, neoprene, leather, textile, or sheepskin. They may or may not be insulated depending on the application the boot is designed for and may have varying degrees of water resistance and walking comfort. The main advantage of slip-on boots is convenience.

Slip-on work boots are a long-time favorite for chores and dirty, wet jobs that require the utmost weather protection. They are simple, durable, and easily cleaned shell boots that are easy to put on and take off, and they allow the user to simply step into the boot, pants included. They are very protective and come with varying levels of warmth, depending on the thickness of insulation used in the shell. Because they are designed with slip-on convenience in mind, they often suffer from loose and baggy fits. Work-oriented slip-on boots aren’t very comfortable to walk in, and they don’t offer much precision.

Chelsea Boots

Chelsea boots are a specific style of leather slip-on boot that was popularized in London in the 1960s and have made a resurgence in recent years. These boots are stylish, and their leather outers provide decent weather resistance, but the elastic patch that allows the boots to expand to slip on easily and then retract for a snug fit also allows water to penetrate at very low heights. These boots will not protect your feet if you step into a puddle deeper than a few inches.

But if the weather is dry and cool instead of snowy and frigid, these boots provide enough protection. Our favorite part about these boots is that they can transition from looking stylish indoors and around the city to being relatively effective in colder winter climates. They can even be used for light-duty chores and outdoor work. Many users in cold urban climates wear these boots 90% of winter days.

Enjoying the mountains to the fullest extent requires knowing how to dress. With the right clothes, an afternoon alpine thunderstorm can make for a surreal and magical experience in the backcountry. But, unprepared, that same storm might leave you recalling a shivering, wicked-cold, misery tour (or worse).

This three-part article is designed to share expert advice and know-how for staying warm in the mountains. We’ll give you an overview of how layering systems work to keep you warm and dry, why you get cold, and our favorite layering systems for different activities and conditions.Here’s an overview of the three articles in this series:

• How to Layer Clothing to Keep Warm – (this article you are reading) Covers how modern technical clothing is designed to work as a layered system and explains each layer from base to outer shell.
• Why You Get Cold in the Mountains – Provides background information on exactly how and why you lose (and gain) heat during outdoor activities, and how a layered system addresses those thermodynamics.
• How to Layer Clothing for Each Season – The part of the series where the rubber meets the road and we provide recommended layered clothing combinations for practical situations ranging from an all-day hike in the mountains to extreme mountaineering.

In this section you are reading we’ll focus on how modern technical clothing is designed to be used as a layered system: each layer serving a purpose in keeping you warm, allowing you to combine different layers to tackle different conditions with grace and style. While layers play a less critical role when car camping, when you engage in athletic exercise, whether it’s hiking, skiing, or climbing, a layered system provides you to the tools to avoid overheating when you are working hard, and yet stay warm when you stop.

Types of Layers

Below we list the different types of layers, which can be used in combination with each other to reach the ideal effect for the season, environment, and activity you are pursuing. These layers work together to achieve the four goals of wicking moisture, trapping in heat, insulating from cold, and blocking wind and weather.

Today, increasing numbers of outdoor-savvy people choose wool over synthetics for their base layer. Why? Many feel that wool insulates better than synthetic base layers when it’s cold, and stays more comfortable over a larger temperature gradient when its hot. Although wool takes longer to dry than synthetics, it continues to insulate well even when wet. Today, wool base layers are made primarily out of merino wool, which is thin and lightweight, less itchy than traditional wool, and does not retain stench. Here at OutdoorGearLab, the Editors prefer wool base layers for most activities. However, we do notice that wool tears and abrades much more easily when rubbed against a rough surface, a key advantage of synthetics for activities such as rock climbing. For activities such as hiking, wool base layers work wonders.

Base layers come in different weights, so depending on the conditions you expect to be in you may select a thicker, more insulating base layer. However, you may be surprised to learn that most mountaineers prefer thin base layers. The reason is that when performing strenuous activities, even in cold environments, overheating can be as big a problem as keeping warm. If you plan on being in cold conditions but also plan on aerobic activity, such as in mountaineering or nordic skiing, typically a thinner base layer is the wisest choice because it helps wick the sweat the best when you are working hard. Rely on the layers above your base layer for insulation. Your base layer’s key function is to manage the conditions right next to your skin.

Lastly, we prefer a zip-neck base layer, which gives you another tool to conveniently regulate body temperature. Alpine activities such as hiking, climbing, or backcountry skiing can seem like an endless cycle of putting on and taking off clothing. A zippered neck can often save you the time required to stop and shed an outer layer. The additional cooling of an open neck is substantial when you are working hard, and easy to zip up when you take a rest.

Spring is already drawing to a close (that was fast!), which means the summer season is about to settle in for another round of sweltering weather. With sunny days and warmer temps come an influx of invitations that will have you venturing away from your A.C. and you’ll need to dress the part for the weather and the occasion.

But summer heat doesn’t mean you have to break a sweat figuring out what to wear. Designers delivered a fabulous array of fashion trends to choose from that will make dressing up for all your summer soireés, like graduations, birthdays, and traveling abroad, a breeze.

From hot pants to capris and polos layered like a Miu Miu girl, there’s a summer fashion trend that will have you looking stylish all season long.

10 Summer Fashion Trends

1. Hot, Hot, Hot Pants

Whether you’re out and about exploring the city or heading to the nearest beach to nourish your tan, hot pants are the cool-girl bottoms to try this summer. If you’re worried about showing too much skin, balance those high hemlines with tailored button-downs from Max Mara, fitted cardigans, as seen at Fendi, and maybe even a chunky Ralph Lauren sweater like the viral American flag design.

2. Chic Capris

If hot pants are just a tad too showy for your liking, then go for the semi-controversial capri pant trend, instead. Yes, this style is polarizing—not everyone loves an above-the-ankle crop—but if you ask us, there’s something undeniably chic about mid-calf pants in the summer. After all, if it’s good enough for Audrey Hepburn, it’s good enough for us.

3. Spectacular Silks

Making a stylish statement this summer is as easy as putting on the right piece and walking out the door. And there’s nothing better than scarf prints to cause a stir. Ranging from funky florals to geometric marvels, scarf-inspired tops are a flowy, silky take on a classic. Make sure to look out for daring dresses, like the ones at Bottega Veneta, and pieces with tons of pigment. It’s impossible not to turn heads in these prints.

4. Laid-Back Lace

Languidly lounging in lace during the sweltering summer is the epitome of laid-back luxury. The best way to incorporate the ladylike fabric into your wardrobe is by way of smart separates. As seen at Chloé and Michael Kors, this sporty take on the textile feels and looks fresher than a traditional dress. If you want a bit of edge, pair your lace look with leather knee-high boots or a cropped vest to release your inner rocker.

5. Posh Polos

Whether you like to layer yours like a Miu Miu girl or go the sheer route, the polos of today have gotten a major style upgrade since the Y2K era. Wearing this preppy style in the summer is a no-fuss option for those looking to add a bit of varsity flair and jaunty personality to their wardrobe. Pick polos in poppy colors to keep them from straying too far into school uniform territory.

6. Striking Shirtdresses

Wearing a shirtdress in the summertime is a chic choice for those on the go—just ask Dior, Fendi, and Tommy Hilfiger. This all-in-one style can easily be styled for any occasion—all you need are the right accessories. For a stroll around the city or your commute to the office, try a low-heeled mule and vintage-style sneaker. For a more beach-ready ensemble, just throw on a sun hat and espadrilles.

7. Short Suited

Just because temperatures are on the rise doesn’t mean you can’t slip into a suit during the summer months. To solve your summer style woes, simply choose a matching set like the crochet ones from Chanel and Ralph Lauren with a skirt or shorts. Long-sleeved jackets maintain an air of elegance, whereas the high hems of the bottoms keep things playfully sweet.

8. Swimsuits as Going Out Tops

Swim attire isn’t just for the beach anymore. Designers from Chloé to Zimmerman and Miu Miu have turned bikinis and maillots into the hottest going-out tops, lending a sexy athletic vibe to any outfit. Think of this trend as the cheeky cousins to bandeau tops and bodysuits.

9. Sheer Delight

Sheer separates are a sharp way to upgrade your summer style. Layer transparent pieces over solid bandeaus, tank tops, and hot pants à la Hermés for a look that stands out for all the right reasons. For the boldest of the bold, the colorful hues at Prada and the flashy embellishments at Brandon Maxwell add an extra oomph.

10. Wonder Wraps

Wrap skirts are getting a soft, supple upgrade this season. Lambskin and suede have replaced lighter-weight fabrics for summer, as evidenced by Ferragamo, Miu Miu, and Ulla Johnson.

We know what you’re thinking: Leather in the summer? Trust us. It’s a risk worth taking. The visual juxtaposition of fine leather and light cotton creates the ultimate cool-girl look.

While we always prioritize our skin-care routines, we sometimes forget about our scalps. They need hydration just like the rest of the skin.

“Think about your scalp as an extension of your face,” says Gretchen Friese, MD, a trichologist at BosleyMD. “We need to keep the scalp moisturized to keep it healthy—and [keep] the follicles healthy for hair growth.”

Your individual needs will depend on the state of your scalp, but here’s everything you need to know about moisturizing the scalp and how you can maintain its health as part of your hair-care routine. 

The Importance of Scalp Moisturization

“It’s important to cleanse and moisturize the scalp, because you need to get rid of product buildup and keep the area from getting dry,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Anna Chacon. “Dryness leads to flaky skin and irritation in the area.”

Throughout the day, you can accumulate buildup in your scalp. This can be everything from dirt to the products you put in your hair, and even your own oils and sweat. The scalp produces sebum or oil to moisturize itself and hydrate the hair follicles, but the area needs to be cleaned, managed, and treated to help maintain its health. 

The dermatologists explain that a well-moisturized scalp can reduce and prevent dandruff, itching, and inflammation, promoting overall skin health. “Creating a healthy environment for hair to grow is essential for thick, healthy hair,” says trichologist Gretchen Friese. “Paying attention to your scalp health is as important as making sure your hair is healthy.”

How to Moisturize Your Scalp

There are many ways to take care of your scalp from the comfort of your own bathroom. You’re probably twirling a strand of hair, thinking about how to properly care for your locks. Here’s the 4-1-1.

Friese recommends using a scalp massager when you’re washing your hair. “Doing a scalp massage in the shower while your conditioner is on your head helps to moisturize the scalp as well as bring circulation to the hair follicles,” says Friese. “Just make sure to rinse out all of the conditioner before leaving the shower.”

If you want to take an extra step in your hair-care routine, you can use a hair serum or treatment to give your hair that extra moisture it needs. Friese also notes that you can use a hair serum or treatment right before you take a shower to open up your hair follicles. You can leave it on for around 20 to 30 minutes before shampooing the product out of your hair. 

Below there are some further steps to consider adding to your scalp routine.

Change Shampoo and Conditioner

“Shampoo’s main purpose is to cleanse your hair and scalp,” says Dr. Chacon. “Conditioners replenish and moisturize the hair and scalp.” While shampooing can clean your hair, you must also balance oil on your scalp using a conditioner, which can help you “avoid over-producing oil,” a phenomenon called “rebound oiliness.”  

Experts recommend avoiding shampoos and conditioners that have a strong scent or are formaldehyde-based and colored. “These products can actually cause more harm than good for those with scalp issues and may strip the skin of its natural oils,” Dr. Chacon says. “This would leave the scalp dry, irritated.” When shopping for shampoos and conditioners, find a product that has nourishing ingredients like keratin, vitamins, and oils that can clean, strengthen, and promote hair growth. 

Keep in mind that over-washing can cause the skin on the scalp to become dry and the hair to grow brittle. “Over-washing or using harsh hair-care products can remove the scalp’s natural oils, leading to dryness,” says Dr. Weksberg. “Additionally, certain skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis, can cause the scalp to become dry and flaky.” If you’re into clean beauty, make sure to find shampoos and conditioners that are sulfate-free, which can help weak, brittle strands. 

Add a Hair Oil and Serum to Your Routine

“A hair oil or hair serum is another great alternative that will keep the scalp nice and moisturized,” says Dr. Chacon. “You can apply it directly to the scalp.” If you’re investing in a high-quality hair oil, she recommends finding a product that has argan oil in it. “Argan oil is a great choice, especially oils that are fragrance-free, which is great for those that have sensitive skin in the area.” 

It’s extremely important to hydrate and moisturize the scalp to avoid breakage and damage to both hair and scalp. You can moisturize your scalp twice every two days if it’s oily, but if it’s dry, every two days. 

You should also always look at the ingredients for each product. “Product ingredients can be irritating or just not good for you,” says Dr. Chacon. “It’s important to read the labels and make informed decisions. How often you wash your hair and how often you apply products can also make an impact.” You might also have skin conditions that make yours more prone to irritation, such dandruff, eczema, or sensitive skin.

Use a Scalp Massager

When in doubt, give your hair that extra TLC with a scalp massager. This small hair brush will deeply clean away product buildup from the hair follicles, stimulate blood flow, and promote hair growth. Friese notes that you can do a scalp massage with conditioner, serum, or a hair treatment once a week to “keep the follicles healthy for hair growth.“

Weksberg recommends paying attention to how your scalp feels and adjusting how often you wash your hair. “If you experience persistent dryness or irritation, consult a dermatologist to tailor a scalp-care routine that meets your specific needs.”

The act of shaving the peach fuzz off your face is controversial. On one hand, it seems like everyone on TikTok is singing glowing praises of dermaplaning at home. On the other hand, some dermatologists and estheticians are begging skincare newbies to leave dermaplaning to the experts. But let’s be honest: you’re going to do what you want to do. So, if you’re thinking about DIY dermaplaning, there are a few things you should know.

For instance, you’ll need to know what dermaplaning is and how it works. You’d also be wise to learn the benefits associated with it and how to care for your skin post-dermaplaning. Plus, since you’re doing this at home, you’ll likely need to familiarize yourself with the best products for dermaplaning. This’ll help ensure smooth sailing and smooth skin.

We asked three skincare experts about all of this and more. Read on for their recommended protocol for how to dermaplane at home safely.

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning involves taking a small, razor-like tool and very carefully removing the top layers of your skin and superficial hair. “Dermaplaning helps to exfoliate the skin, as well as remove fine vellus hairs—a.k.a. peach fuzz,” says Catherine Chang, M.D., a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

The Benefits of Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is a popular treatment used in both spa settings and a doctor’s office that has many benefits. By removing all the peach fuzz and the dead skin cells, your skin will look and feel especially smooth and soft in the weeks following the treatment. But there are even better long-term results.

“Dermaplaning can also help with fading the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation by removing those dead skin cells on top of the skin,” says esthetician Renée Rouleau. And without all the peach fuzz in the way, your skin can receive and absorb your skincare products even better. With consistent treatments, Dr. Chang says that your skin texture and brilliance will also improve. 

Risks of Dermaplaning at Home

Dermaplaning still comes with its own risks. As dermaplaning is still an exfoliating treatment, it can be too aggressive for sensitive skin or those with conditions such as dermatitis or eczema. And since dermaplaning is performed with a blade, you’re at risk of possible irritation, discoloration, and acne.

When dermaplaning at home, you can accidentally nick yourself with the tool. As a result, you might see an in-grown hair or a new pimple because of trapped bacteria. Moreover, if you cut yourself while dermaplaning, this could lead to infection and scarring.

Dermaplaning at Home vs. In-Office

The biggest difference between dermaplaning at home and in-office is the level of safety in an office. “In the office, a professional is doing the treatment and has a better global view of your face,” says Dr. Chang. “The professional has more effective instruments, than at-home instruments that have been thoroughly cleaned minimizing change of infection.”

However, that’s not to say dermaplaning at home isn’t another great option. In fact, Rouleau says that she’s been dermaplaning at home for years and it has been just as effective as doing it in-office. You just have to learn how to do it correctly.

How to Dermaplane at Home

Prep Your Skin

Dr. Chang, Rouleau, and Dara Levy, founder of Dermaflash, all emphasize the importance of having clean and completely dry skin before you pick up your dermaplaning tool. Consider using a gentle cleanser like the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or the Osea Ocean Cleansing Milk.

Pick a Safe Dermaplaning Tool

“Open razor blades leave your skin vulnerable to nicks and cuts,” Levy points out. She recommends using her brand’s Dermaflash Luxe+ for optimal safety.

Get Close to a Mirror

To make sure you can see all the peach fuzz you want to target, Levy suggests situating yourself in front of a magnifying mirror in a well-lit area. Or you can use a magnifying mirror with a built-in light.

Dermaplane in the Direction of Hair Growth

“Use a finger from the opposite hand to gently hold your skin taut and hold the device at a 45-degree angle,” Levy instructs. “Use short feathery strokes over the surface of your skin, avoiding your lips, nose, and eyelids.” Furthermore, Rouleau advises only going over the same area a few times to prevent irritating your skin.

Apply Gentle Skincare

Keep your freshly exfoliated skin protected by applying a soothing moisturizer and sunscreen. We recommend Epionce Renewal Facial Lotion and ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion, respectively.

Aftercare

Since you’re slightly damaging your face when you remove the hair and dead skin cells, it’s important to give your skin a little extra TLC after dermaplaning. As the experts suggested, you should keep skincare gentle. Try not to use retinol, glycolic acid, or sugar scrubs as these can irritate your sensitive skin. You’ll also want to avoid sun exposure (yes, even if you wear sunscreen) as your skin is simply too delicate post-dermaplaning.

Moisture is key to keeping hair healthy and strong. But it takes more than just looking for the right ingredients that will keep your strands hydrated; you have to pay attention to your hair’s porosity as well especially if you happen to have low porosity hair. 

What is hair porosity? Different from your hair type, porosity just means how much moisture your hair can retain. Some people have high porosity hair, some have medium, and others have low. This doesn’t make one better than the other; it just means there are certain things you have to keep in mind when curating the hair regimen that works best for you. 

To break it all down for you, we turned to the experts. How to tell if you have low porosity hair? What products should (and shouldn’t) you be using? How to take care of low porosity hair? Below is your definitive guide. 

What is low porosity hair?

According to Philip Kingsley brand president and consultant trichologist Anabel Kingsley, low porosity hair means that it has low levels of absorption. Kingsley goes on to explain that moisture and hair treatments can take longer to penetrate the hair cuticle because the cuticle scales (which form the outer layer of the hair) tend to overlap each other and are tightly packed together. Since there is limited space between the scales, moisture and other ingredients have a harder time making their way to the hair shaft. 

“Low porosity hair acts like it’s waterproof,” adds Afro-textured hair educator and Curlsmith global brand ambassador Jennie Roberts. “High porosity acts like a sponge and can hold onto lots of moisture/water.”  

Having either low porosity or high porosity hair, which by comparison means that it has high levels of absorption, isn’t a good or bad thing. It’s just important to know what type you have so you know what hair products to use to keep it healthy. 

How to tell if you have low porosity hair:

Roberts says that low porosity hair is a natural genetic trait that can be found most often in Afro-textured hair and coarser hair types, such as those found in Asian hair. It can also present itself as very dry hair. Kingsley agrees and says that coarse and coiled hair textures tend to be more porous than fine to medium hair. 

One of the most common ways to test your hair’s porosity at home is through the float test. Kingsley says that you can pop a strand of hair into a cup of water for a few minutes to see if it sinks or floats. “If it sinks, it has high porosity,” she says. “If it floats, it has low porosity.”

Roberts adds that simply seeing how wet your hair gets when you shower is a good way to test its porosity. “If it takes ages to get it wet and feels like it repels water [and] hydration, then it’s low porosity (i.e. your hair is not good at absorbing water),” she says. “If your hair gets wet very quickly and holds onto water, then it’s high porosity (i.e. your hair soaks everything up like a sponge and holds onto it).”

Common concerns for people with low porosity hair:

Low porosity hair isn’t a problem; Roberts says this is something you don’t need to be overly concerned about and that knowing your hair type just helps when picking the right products for your routine. “Just remember the more waterproof your hair feels, the more water [and] moisture will be needed to keep the hair flexible and hydrated,” she says. “Products aimed to deliver lots of moisture starting from cleansing and conditioning down to styling should be considered to keep hair supple and moisturized.”  

Kingsley agrees and adds that those with low porosity hair should just know that it may take longer for their hair to get fully wet and products and treatments will take longer to absorb. 

How to treat low porosity hair:

With low porosity hair, Roberts says that it will need a good cleanse to soften the cuticle and make it more receptive to receiving moisture and other ingredients from your hair products. She recommends hair products that attract and hold moisture, such as the Curlsmith Essential Moisture Cleanser. With ingredients like andiroba seed oil, shea butter, and coconut oil, she says it helps deliver a great amount of hydration and flexibility. She advises against co-washing if you have low porosity hair and says to be diligent with a regular cleansing and conditioning routine at least every five days. 

Kingsley recommends opting for something that is lightweight so that product doesn’t just sit on top of the hair, which will cause buildup. She says to look for something water-based, like Philip Kingsley’s Elasticizer Deep Conditioning Treatment which will penetrate the hair shaft easily to deliver moisture. 

Despite what filters and Photoshop might have you believe, not everyone has even-toned underarms. Underarm darkness is completely normal and common thanks to “reasons that range from genetics to fluctuating hormones to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation due to waxing, ingrown hairs, and allergic reactions to detergents or body products,” says Robyn Gmyrek, MD.

Sometimes, it’s the simple act of sweating to blame. “Excess sweating predisposes the armpit area to get sensitive to its own sweat. We call this irritant contact dermatitis,” says Kseniya Kobets, MD.

It’s a personal preference should you decide to treat underarm darkness or let them be. Just like hyperpigmentation on the rest of your body, it isn’t generally harmful. It’s even possible that “if it’s a recent issue and not that intense, the hyperpigmentation might resolve on its own,” says Dr. Kobets. It might be preferable to wait it out since “underarm skin is delicate and thinner compared to the rest of your body—making it more permeable to topical products,” says. Dr. Gmyrek.

But, if you’re in the camp of wanting to speed up the process of lightening your underarms, it’s important to work with your dermatologist to treat the underlying cause to “rule out any medical conditions like pregnancy, eczema, psoriasis, or diabetes,” says Dr. Gmyrek. Meanwhile, consider how your everyday routine could sneakily affect underarm hyperpigmentation. 

Consider How You Shave

If you opt for a hairless look when it comes to your underarms, “physical rubbing and friction make the skin react by causing irritation and redness that can turn to brown discoloration over time,” says Dr. Kobets.

Don’t risk shaving dry or using water alone, as it can create friction: “Remember to use shaving cream to help the razor glide smoothly without damaging the skin,” she says. Getting an in-office laser treatment or waxing might help extend the time between hair removal sessions.

Introduce Exfoliation

When it comes to exfoliating your underarms, there’s good news and bad news: “Exfoliants can be beneficial, but they will be best for superficial hyperpigmentation — and will not completely remove deeply rooted hyperpigmentation,” says Dr. Gmyrek.

If your hyperpigmentation is indeed superficial, a chemical exfoliator is your best bet. “A big reason there is darkening of the skin is because of physical rubbing and inflammation, resulting in irritation and then darkness,” says Dr. Kobets.

Can you simply grab the exfoliator you use on your face to use on your pits? “Maybe if the exfoliator is very gentle. Look for ones designed for sensitive skin and decrease the frequency of use to once a week to see how your underarms react,” says Dr. Gmyrek. But since there aren’t any regulations around what qualifies a product as being good for sensitive skin, patch testing is important. As with any new product, “try a small test patch for at least three to five days first to see if any irritation develops. If you get an allergic reaction—you will likely get more post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation,” says Dr. Gmyrek.

To be safe, try a product specifically designed and tested for your underarm area, like Megababe Happy Pits Detoxifying Underarm Mask, which features glycolic acid. For quicker results, “you can have your dermatologist do light chemical peels in the office. Still, depending on the severity of the darkening, it will take several months to see improvement, and it needs to be combined with topical prescription medications,” says Dr. Kobets.

Here’s a quick 101 on figuring out which acid exfoliator might work best for you: 

Glycolic acid

“Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps exfoliate the skin by loosening dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. It can be effective for hyperpigmentation but may be too harsh for some individuals with sensitive skin,” says Dr. Gmyrek.

Salicylic acid

“Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that can penetrate the pores and help to exfoliate the dead cells on the skin’s surface, which may help remove superficial hyperpigmentation,” she says. 

Lactic acid

“Lactic acid, another AHA, can help exfoliate the skin gently and improve skin texture. It is generally milder compared to glycolic acid, making it a good option for the underarm area, which tends to be sensitive,” she says. 

Try Topicals — With Caution

Since your armpit skin folds into itself, “it leads to increased moisture and warmth in the area, which can also enhance the absorption of topical medications,” says Dr. Gmyrek. So, it’s important to be mindful of the products and ingredients you use on the area. Patience is the name of the game: Start slowly and use a very small amount. “When applying products to the area, you want to make sure all of the prior deodorant product is removed, your soap is fully cleaned off, and the area is completely dry,” adds Dr. Kobets.

“Overall, the enzyme tyrosinase is the main target when considering treatments that regulate skin tone and hyperpigmentation. This enzyme is very important in melanin or pigment formation, so blocking tyrosinase prevents melanin formation and decreases hyperpigmentation. I love azelaic acid because it is gentle and well-tolerated by most skin types. It is available up to 15% over the counter and 20% by prescription. Other ingredients that block tyrosinase are kojic acid, resveratrol, and tranexamic acid,” says Dr. Gmyrek. 

You can also focus on ingredients famous for their brightening properties: “While retinol and vitamin C are great lightening agents, they also come with quite a bit of irritation and need to be introduced slowly, especially since skin folds tend to be more sensitive,” says Dr. Kobets. “Niacinamide decreases the transfer of pigment to the skin cells, helps strengthen your skin barrier, and is anti-inflammatory,” says Dr. Gmyrek. 

Experiment With Deodorant

The world of deodorants and antiperspirants can be very tricky when you’re dealing with underarm darkness. For many people, fragrances in deodorant can irritate, leading to hyperpigmentation. “Be careful of those labeled ‘natural’ — fragrances from essential oils and lab-derived fragrances can both cause negative reactions on your skin,” says Dr. Gmyrek. Sometimes, aluminum could be the culprit to your underarm hyperpigmentation. “Native Unscented Regular Deodorant contains sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, and can be less irritating than aluminum,” says Dr. Kobets.

The caveat is that low levels of aluminum are great for eliminating odor but aren’t as helpful in combating sweat — also a big culprit of irritation. If you are using clinical-strength deodorants, they have a higher aluminum concentration. Dove Beauty Even Tone Rejuvenating Blossom 48-Hour Antiperspirant and Deodorant Stick features brightening niacinamide that tackles uneven skin tone while preventing sweat and odor but includes fragrance. 

The moral of the story is that some trial and error with deodorants might be necessary. Remember to use a deodorant for at least two to four weeks before switching to a new one as your armpits adjust to different ingredients. 

Remember Your SPF

Kudos if you’re diligent about your SPF, but many of us don’t apply it to less obvious areas of our bodies. Since your underarm skin is so delicate and more sensitive to sun damage when exposed to UV rays, it’s essential to protect your pits with sunscreen if you plan to be outdoors.