Mens fashion tips: 10 must-knows for teenage boys

Mens fashion tips: 10 must-knows for teenage boys

Teenage boys have enough to deal with without having to stress over fashion do's and do not's. Following ten simple rules will help to make sure that fashion slip-ups are avoided.
Growth spurts...acne...squeaking voices...teenage boys have enough to deal with without stressing over the do's and don'ts of fashion. Adhering to a few simple rules will make the road to manhood a little smoother by eliminating a few of the questions that teenage boys harbor regarding fashion.

The following ten tips are general rules of thumb that should always be followed to ensure the avoidance of fashion slip-ups:
1. The first rule to being fashionable is to find clothing that fits into your comfort zone. If you don't feel good in it, chances are that you won't look that good in it, either. Next, find a signature style. If you have a certain outfit that you feel you look your best in, stock up on other pieces in that style.
2. Don't be afraid to break away from the norm every once in a while. If you usually wear jeans and a tee-shirt to school every day, mix it up once a week by wearing khakis and a polo shirt. Wearing the same style every day will cause you to blend into the crowd, but varying your style just a little will keep it interesting.
3. Don't follow trends too closely. A trend is defined as what is popular at a certain time, but that time is usually a short one. Chances are, those lime green cargo pants that were super hot this month will be out of style in two month's time.
4. Always dress appropriately for the occasion and situation that you are in. While jeans and a tee-shirt might be suitable for school, they won't necessarily fly when attending a church service or club banquet. Khakis and a button-down shirt would probably be a more appropriate choice. On the flip side, don't overdress for more casual affairs. It will seem as though you are trying too hard. You wouldn't want to show up to a pre-game tailgate party in a jacket and tie because it would most definitely look out of place.
5. Matching is very important. Make sure that the colors of your clothing match. Don't mix patterns. For example, don't wear plaids and stripes together. If you are wearing a patterned shirt, always pair it with plain pants to avoid clashing. Also, match your belt to your shoes, generally brown with brown or black with black.
6. Don't be sloppy. Make sure that all clothing items, even tee-shirts, are wrinkle-free. Also, always tuck in your shirt tails when wearing a tie. Sagging pants are not attractive. No matter how fashionable it may seem, no one - not even teenage girls - wants to see your underpants. Invest in - and wear - a belt.
7. For special occasions, find an oxford or button-down shirt that fits correctly in the neck. Ask an associate at your local department store to measure your neck to get a good fit. The top button of your shirt should always be buttoned when you wear a tie. Also, choose a tie that falls to the top of your belt line. Styles that fall short of this point tend to look silly. When tucking in shirts, be sure to pull them out just a bit so that they blouse slightly over the waistline of your pants.
8. When wearing shorts, wear ankle socks or slouched higher socks. Do not pull longer socks up the calf. Also, don't pair sandals with socks...ever. This is a big fashion faux pas.
9. Stay away from tapered-leg pants. They usually tend to look outdated and old-fashioned. Choose wide-leg or boot-cut styles for a more up-to-date look. Find jeans and other pants that sit at the base of your natural waistline. Pants that are hiked above the waist bring about images of world-famous nerd Steve Urkel.
10. If all else fails, ask a female. Your sister, girlfriend, and yes - even your mother - are great resources for fashion advice.

Biking tips: mountain biking apparel

Biking tips: mountain biking apparel

Properly selcting mountain-bike specific clothing will enhance your riding experience greatly, reducing discomfort and adding to your overall enjoyment.
In any sport, the proper selection of apparel can add greatly to your enjoyment and comfort; mountain biking is no exception. As the sport has grown, mountain bikes have become better designed, and the same is true for mountain biking apparel. There is a wide variety of outerwear available, and choosing it wisely will greatly add to your overall riding experience.

From the top down, you?ll need a helmet, a jersey, shorts, gloves, socks and shoes. We?ll discuss some common options for selecting each of these items.

Helmet: Since 1999, all bicycle helmets in the U.S. market must meet or exceed the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standard; a helmet that carries this seal will provide the currently approved level of head protection. Helmets come in a variety of fit systems, styles and colors, and should be fit and adjusted by a competent professional. Some options you?ll find will be the size and number of vents in the helmet itself, the comfort and adjustability of the strap system, and the choice of a removable visor. All these options are up to personal preference, so you should test several models to find the one that suits you best.
Jersey: Many people choose to mountain-bike in a simple cotton t-shirt, but this option is far inferior to some of the inexpensive and comfortable fabric choices currently available. Cotton becomes damp quickly, and does not dry well, which can result in you finding yourself cold and damp, even while exercising. Also, the fit of a cotton t-shirt can lead to chafing while exerting yourself on your bike. A better choice is a loose-fitting jersey made of a wicking material such as CoolMax. Such jerseys are light and comfortable, durable, and allow moisture to dry quickly, which keeps you cool. Numerous stylish choices exist, and long-sleeved versions are available for cooler autumn or early-spring rides.
Shorts: Mountain biking requires freedom of movement on the bike, but rough patches in the trail mean that padded shorts are an excellent idea. Choose a pair of shorts that has a loose-fitting and durable outer shell (usually tough nylon), with a separate, padded inner liner, typically inside a Lycra inner short. These will prevent chafing and will cushion most riding impacts, while allowing you a good range of motion. Most shorts also feature cargo pockets for carrying snacks or repair tools, which are always a good idea to have with you.
Gloves: Select a close-fitting and well-padded set of riding gloves. Gloves that are too loose will cause blisters, while an overly tight fit will be uncomfortable. Thick pads for the heel and palm will ease the effect of a bumpy trail, while a fingerless glove will let you maintain a good feel for the grips and brake levers.
Socks and shoes: Choose a light, wicking sock to keep your feet cool; usually ankle-height is preferred. Shoes are a matter of individual preference and the pedal system on your bike. Pedals without specialized cleats allow a great range of choices; the most important features are stiff sole for efficient pedaling, and a good, aggressive tread for those times when you?re off the bike. A secure, firm fit is desirable, similar to a well-fit athletic shoe. If you have chosen clipless or cleated pedals, make certain you select a compatible shoe. Your local bike shop will be a good resource to assist you on your purchase.

With properly fitting, comfortable mountain-biking apparel, you will ensure that you?re well prepared to hit the trails, and that you?ll feel good doing it!