How To Wear And Buy The Best Men’s Cologne
Chances are you’ve caught whiff of that distinctive Old Spice aftershave scent in the wind, and had it bring back some past memories. Perhaps it was your fathers or grandfather’s, or maybe you remember something else like the scent of leather in a car you rode in for years. Whichever it may be, it’s that power of fragrance which triggers one of our five senses.
While our sense of smell might not be as well developed as the other four body senses, it still deserves some recognition. In fact, our sense of smell is the only sense that’s directly hardwired onto our brain. Not to mention it’s so strong it can actually alter a massive list of things including: Our brain chemistry, mood, sleep, confidence, and our physical and cognitive performance.
There’s a ton of research already out there, here’s one study that puts things into perspective. Researchers took oils from sandalwood and frankincense and were able to examine its effect in increasing the brains oxygen levels by 28 percent. Yet what that equates to is a dramatic change in emotions, learning and attitude.
Plus when it comes to fragrance having an effect on our memory, which is often the most notable, here’s how it works. When you get that first drift of scent up your nose, you start to form nerve connections. These nerve connections in the brain link together scents with emotions. Since both smell and emotion reside in limbic system of our brain, they both operate together on the same network. Not to mention there’s another part of the brain called the hippocampus which is also located in the limbic system. What makes this part so unique is that it plays the role of forming new memories in our brain.
1/ Why Do Men Wear Cologne And What Is It?
For men cologne is simply another fashion accessory, yet it’s one that’s unknown to the eye. And while it might appear invisible, it creates an aura around us to clarify our own personal style. These scents create attraction and mystery as we often force ourselves to discover certain smells and indulge in more.
Perhaps you’ve noticed the effect is almost universally the same as with women. Chances are you’ve had women walk up to you in the past and give you some form of compliment on your cologne choice. However if you consider that the medium of cologne is a market largely dominated by women, wearing the right cologne as a man can create a strong appeal. Not to mention, when men wear pleasant fragrances it creates an enjoyable experience that women can also share and take part in.
Yet there’s more to it than just having a distinctive scent that makes people gravitate towards you. The right fragrance will rebrand you as a person as you gain a sense of enjoyment from wearing it. You’ll develop feelings of confidence and strength, similar to the emotions you get when you’re playing with a great hand of cards.
Consider that when you’re playing cards no one can see what you have, however you know what you’re holding, and in this case it’s a strong hand. In return you feel confident, powerful and a winner by all means, even if no one at the table can recognize it from solely what they see from your outer appearance.
2/ Understanding Men’s Cologne And The Differences
With so many choices out there how do you pick the right men’s cologne, or even one that suits you? Shopping at the store might give you a ton of new options; however what you’ll often find is there’s never a fragrance counter just for men. So while you begin your hunt to chase down some samples, let’s talk about what makes each man’s fragrance different. Keep in mind aside from the initial smell, there’s actually quite a bit more to it.
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Cologne Composition: For starters there’s the composition of a men’s cologne. You might have come across the word “notes” in the past such as “sandalwood or bergamot”. Or perhaps you’ve heard the word Gourmand in the past, which refers to scents with food-based notes. Things like mint, cherry, coffee, vanilla, and even chocolate can certainly all be notes that taste edible. Yet what these notes refer to the distinctive breakdown of what is actually smelled within a fragrance, and it happens in three stages. First there’s the top note, followed by the middle note, and finally the base note. The top note which is often the most notable, tends to last anywhere from a couple of minutes to as along as a half hour. Once the top note fades the middle notes take over the spotlight, and rightfully so as they stick around for the longest period. Yet once the middle notes dissipate you’ll be left with the base notes, which are light but cease the cologne’s projection. |
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Cologne Longevity: The oil content determines how long the cologne will last, or otherwise known as the longevity. With Eau de Toilette blends or EDTs, you’ll find these don’t last as long due to their typically 4% to 10% make up of perfume oil. On the hand if you opt for an EDP or Eau de perfume it will last longer thanks to it having 8% to 15% perfume oil. |
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Cologne Projection: The term projection can be summarized as how far the cologne travels, or how far you can walk away from the bar, and still have the woman at the stool sense it. However keep in mind, while you might not be able to smell it anymore, it does not mean she can’t. Yet we’re bringing this up briefly, because Olfactory Fatigue is your nose getting accustomed to the scent, but it doesn’t mean the strength has vanished. |
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Cologne Strength: Some fragrances are very light and remain near the skin, while others project extremely well. With heavy colognes you’ll find yourself needing at the very most one or two sprays. But on the other hand if you have chosen a lighter cologne you’ll want to be more liberal with two of three sprays. However in the end just remember that a handful of sprays may knock out the people around you. So start small, work your way up, and always keep in mind that cologne is something you should experiment with. |
3/ How To Try On, Shop And Buy Fragrances
Most people are overwhelmed by the number of choices when it comes to men’s cologne; however we like to think about it in a different angle. Sure there are thousands of fragrances and scents to smell, but perhaps that’s what makes the art of wearing cologne a great hobby. There’s always something to new to discover and fall in love with.
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The Best Men’s Cologne: Before you head on out and start adding new fragrances to your cologne shelf, make sure you check out our own handpicked collection. We covered the best men’s cologne for 2013, and sniffed our way into selection 15 top picks. |
You’ll also need to know where to shop. The most common problem you’ll run into when buying men’s cologne is shopping for a niche versus designer choice. What you’ll often find is that designer colognes can be found at any retail store, and in return are usually more popular. On the other hand niche colognes tend to be harder to track down, and when you do run across them, their typically only for sale online or at boutiques.
Let’s assume you’re keeping your search within the range of the local department store or mall for the moment. For starters, you might be curious to try every fragrance within sight on, yet it’s best to limit this to four, although two would be our ideal recommendation. Remember you can always take home seven samples, and try them each on for everyday of the week.
Keep in mind if you leave with those tester paper cards you’re only going to smell the top notes of the fragrance. And since it’s not being applied to the bodies’ skin, you’re not going to have the real impression you’d have from actually wearing it.
If perhaps you’re interested in walking away and taking a $150 bottle of cologne home, there are a few tips to make it a safe decision. Once you’ve narrowed it down to two fragrances you’d like to wear, simply spray each one on the wrist and inner elbow. Proceed to refresh your palate while in between taking whiffs of different colognes. Typically you’ll want to use an unscented skin surface, or simply smelling some fresh air.
We’ve seen others recommending coffee beans, which are often provided, however the problem is that scent of coffee can get trapped inside of your nose. Not to mention, how often do you think they change out the coffee beans for fresh ones at the fragrance counter? It’s not as frequent as you’d like to think. However moving on down the line, you’ll want to walk around the store and take a moment to indulge in the scent at random times. Usually this falls under the one minute, five minute, thirty minute, and one hour marks.
4/ How To Apply And Wear Cologne For Men
So you’ve got your favorite fragrances picked out, but how do you wear them properly? Everyone knows there’s a fine line between over doing it and not using enough. And no matter how much you may fall in love with your cologne’s scent, the other people in room might not share the same enthusiasm. Remember that wearing cologne is just like the business world, you start slowly and work your way up to the perfect job, or in the case the perfect amount. However let’s get started with a few simple tips so you can master the art of applying cologne.
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Where To Apply Cologne: You’ll want to apply cologne anywhere where the body produces the most heat. Areas such as the wrist, chest, neck, behind the ears, inner elbows, etc all have the most sweat glands which makes them ideal locations. Yet it is always best to simply apply cologne on the wrists and neck, because typically two or three points are more than enough. If you personally prefer it, you can apply it directly to your chest. |
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How To Spray Cologne: Ever see someone spray cologne in front of them and then walk through the mist? Please don’t ever do that, as it will only fall onto the ground and the amount that gets left behind on your hair and clothes is marginal. Yet while it may technically last longer if it’s applied directly to your clothes, you’re going to run into two issues. First there’s the chance of staining your clothes, and secondly it’s not being applied to the bodies’ skin, which makes it similar to keeping a paper tester card in your pocket. Instead spray it directly on your skin while keeping a distance of 3 to 6 inches away. While spraying also try to avoid “splashing”, it’s one of the worst ways to overdo it, and could make those feel the need to run away. Just simply glide your index finger over the bottle’s opening, press into it gently and you’re set. |
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Cologne Best Practices: One helpful piece of advice we’ve always liked is to gently rub your wrists together after spraying. Then move your wrists up to your neck and lightly dab them into the jaw. But remember if you create friction while rubbing it will cause evaporation, which can ruin the experience, so keep it light. In the same regard, if you’re just hopping out of the shower keep in mind that the water will also play a factor in affecting the oils on your skin. So it’s always best to apply it to a dry area on the body. And speaking of the shower, since there are so many shampoos and shower gels out there, make sure you choose one that doesn’t mask the cologne’s scent. The same thing goes with deodorants and aftershaves, so choose your combinations wisely. |
5/ Picking The Right Scent For The Right Occasion
Before we talk about wearing the right cologne per each season, let’s first briefly discuss how to choose a men’s cologne for certain occasions. Because perhaps a spicy and sexy cologne might be perfect for that night out, however it’s certainly one you wouldn’t want to wear in the office. As a general rule for the evening, weekends and when you head out on dates aim for a fragrance that’s sensual, mossy, or oriental. In return for everyday uses, try to find cologne that’s light yet still refreshing such as citrus or lavender. However perhaps you’re looking for a few examples, no problems we’ve got you’ve covered.
6/ The Best Men’s Cologne For Office And Business Meetings
Your goal is to be the leader, and if you can look the part, well you’ve got the first base covered. But how about smelling like one? Consider the barbershop, it’s a place of camaraderie and power among men and what often comes to mind is lavender. You’re going to want to use a fragrance that’s based on nature, things like water, wood, and plants are excellent choices.
The perfect men’s cologne for the office will going right along with a relaxed or aggressive appearance, making it a win-win for all office situations. However if in the chance you’re a on-the-go traveler often found looking out of the airplane window, you’ll want to choose a scent everyone can agree on. Perhaps the most neutral and pleasing scent to most people traveling along side you, would be a light citrus.
And as a bonus if you read our scientific report earlier on, you’ll have read about scents being able to increase oxygen levels for better mental and critical thinking. Which is why we recommend trying to add something with a mint note, it will keep you energized and focused.
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Notes To Put Your Nose On: Lavender, cedar wood, grey amber, sandalwood, nutmeg, cypress, basil, grapefruit, rose, lotus, patchouli, cardamom, and mint. |
7/ The Best Men’s Cologne For The Bar, Nightclubs And Date Nights
Now assuming your personal favorite is one you don’t wear to the office or to the gym, go ahead and wear it. Chances are if you’re curious to see a woman you meet a second time, you’ll want her to be around your signature scent. Too many men’s magazines talk about having this ultra-sexy fragrance that will somehow magically lure any woman your way. Sure it helps, but let’s face it personality, charm, and being a real, powerful, and confident guy are still the number one way to close women.
With that said, there’s no harm in creating curiosity and attraction with women through you cologne. You’ll want something sweet, masculine, and spicy. For the sweet aspect look for colognes with notes like citrus, cocoa, or honey. Now move onto the wooden notes, you’ll want a musky scent that’s both manly and pleasing. And finally there are the spicy notes which we classify as being more or less just interesting, and within the oriental family like spice or vanilla. However keep in mind, whatever you plan on wearing should be strong enough to get past all of the smoke, booze and sweat in the air.
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Notes To Put Your Nose On: Sandalwood, cedar wood, white pepper, cloves, anise, juniper, musk fine lavender, ginger, nutmeg, mandarin leaves, peppermint, fig wood, pear, vanilla, cold spices, pear, citrus, and amber. |
8/ The Best Men’s Cologne For The Gym And Sports
Chances are if you’re pumping iron with friends, the only thing you should be worrying about it adding a decent aromatic boost. There’s no need to fine tune what you wear, in fact deodorant body sprays work well enough. However in the event you’re going directly to the bar afterwards to grab a drink, you can always choose to go with a citrus or an oceanic scent. Yet if perhaps you still want to fragrance that can keep up while you play sports, you’ll want to find something on the lighter side, that’s crisp, fresh, energizing and invigorating.
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Notes To Put Your Nose On: Lemon, tonka, lime, orange, mint, marine, coriander, cedar wood, bergamot, grapefruit, neroli, atlas cedar, ginger, sea water, juniper berries, and white musk. |
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The 10 Best Portable Speakers in 2021
For those on the go, regular speakers simply aren’t going to make the grade. They often don’t have the durability required for travel and the speakers may not be powerful enough to cope with an open environment.
If you love music and the outdoors, then you need a speaker that is able to cope with your lifestyle. That means an ability to protect itself from water, dust, and drops. It also needs sound that can cut through the open air.
Thankfully, you don’t need to look very far to find speakers to match those criteria. We’ve done the hard work to find 10 speakers that we think are perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors.
Read on to find the perfect portable speaker for you. Let’s go!
Best Buy
1. Bang & Olufsen Beosound Explore
For the perfect combination of durability and sound quality, we picked this Bang & Olufsen speaker as the best overall choice. It has an excellent array of qualities and will never let you down.
The design of the speaker makes it look very tough and that’s exactly what you get. Its body is made from anodized aluminum and it can take a lot of punishment. This includes the speaker being both dust and waterproof.
While we adore the durability of this speaker, the feature we are most impressed by is the runtime. It can play for an incredible 27 hours before it needs to be charged. That’s usually enough time for most outdoor adventures.
There are many other aspects to love about this speaker such as the 360-degree sound, its solid Bluetooth connection, and the stylish earthy colors. While this speaker is great for any outdoor adventure, it’s brilliant in dusty or sandy environments where most other speakers suffer. It’s the perfect outdoor speaker, which is why it took our top pick.
2. Vifa Oslo Bluetooth Speaker
While the Bang & Olufsen speaker is perfect for those in more extreme environments, the Vifa Oslo is ideal for those who will be traveling in a bit more comfort. It’s a stunningly stylish speaker that comes in a choice of five vibrant colors.
It has two connection options of either Bluetooth or Aux, which are both very easy to use. The speaker itself is quite bulky, which is ideal for those looking for a larger speaker but not for those who need something compact.
The most impressive aspect of this Bluetooth speaker is the sound quality. The balanced woofers give you a premium level of sound at all ranges. It works well in any setting to give you exceptional performance.
There is also no doubting the level of durability and craftsmanship you get here. It’s extremely well made and has a soft feel. It looks great, sounds great, and is fantastic for premium sound quality on the go.
3. Anker Soundcore Flare Wireless Speaker
With the Anker brand, one thing you can always expect is excellent value for money. This speaker is able to produce premium sound while coming in at a lower price point, making it our best value product.
It has all the durability that you need for an outdoor speaker. It comes with an IP67 rating which not only means it can be briefly submerged in water but that it also has great dust protection.
For a small speaker, it also packs a punch. The bass especially stands out but the overall clarity is very impressive and it can deliver 360-degree sound. It’s able to run for 12 hours and is easy to charge back up.
A customizable light show is also available, which can be dialed back if you need to save power. That customization also extends to the EQ, which can be controlled via an app. It looks very good in either black or blue and is exceptional for a budget speaker.
4. Sonos Roam
A brilliant option for your outdoor adventure is to get a speaker that also has smart functionality for voice control. That’s exactly what you get with this Sonos Roam speaker which is packed full of exciting features.
It can be connected to a wide range of devices through either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which are both very easy to use. You can also control the speaker from their App, which adds to the usability.
As with most Sonos speakers, it looks stylish and will complement any room or outdoor space. It lasts for 10 hours, which is a little less than some rivals but is still a decent runtime.
You’ll find the music to have plenty of clarity with precision sound, even in an outdoor setting. Part of the reason for that is due to its ability to automatically adjust to its surroundings. We loved it and with the IP67 rating, it can easily cope with anything the outdoors throws at it.
5. Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3
If a company decided to call their speaker the MEGABOOM then it has a lot to live up to. You’d expect the volume to be great, even in outdoor settings. Thankfully, this outdoor speaker delivers on those promises.
The long cylindrical shape is very easy to carry and is able to deliver 360-degree sounds. This makes it ideal for the likes of a campsite where you can put it in the middle of your group and all enjoy the music.
You don’t have to worry about breaking it either. With its IP67 rating, the speaker can take a lot of punishment. That rating means it can be submerged in water and is highly resistant to dust ingress.
There are other features we love here such as the fabric covering, wireless charging, and drop resistance. It’s the ideal solution if you want a tough speaker that can deliver booming sound.
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6. JBL Charge 5
JBL is another brand name that you can trust. For these outdoor speakers to make this list, they needed to be very tough without compromising on sound quality. The JBL Charge 5 is a great example of that.
It’s able to produce a sound that is rich and clear. This is true even in challenging outdoor environments. If another member of your group has a JBL speaker with “Party Boost,” then you can connect it up for stereo sound.
It has 20 hours of run time, which is one of the highest available. If you use it for a few hours a day, then it has the potential to last for quite a long trip.
It’s another that has an IP67 rating but a standout feature is the built-in power bank that can charge your devices. It can be a lifesaver if your phone dies when you’re outdoors.
7. Sony Extra Bass Speaker
Sony is another company that has made an exceptional outdoor speaker. This stylish model comes in either blue, black, or taupe and will look great wherever you put it.
You’ll also be delighted with the sound quality. It’s both deep and punchy which can help to cut through any noisy outdoor environment. It also has a bass boost feature which can really boom.
The runtime is exceptional at 24 hours so you’ll be able to get plenty of enjoyment from it between recharges. It also has a lightshow feature that will sync up to the music that is playing.
The IP67 rating means it’s great for outdoor life but the fabric covering still adds style and a premium feel. The speaker is beautifully balanced and you’ll be impressed by the vocal clarity.
8. Urbanista Brisbane Wireless Speaker
When it comes to an outdoor speaker, style isn’t really that important. That being said, most people still want their devices to look great. It’s an area where this Urbanista speaker shines with its sleek rectangular design.
Looks aside, this speaker also performs brilliantly in both outdoor and indoor settings. It’s able to produce plenty of driver power which gives it a loud and deep bass. The vocal clarity is also excellent.
It’s highly compatible with many devices and you can also connect it with other speakers for surround stereophonic sound. It has a 10 hours runtime but only takes around three hours for a full recharge.
It isn’t quite as tough as other speakers we’ve looked at here as it has an IPX5 rating, making it splash resistant. That will still be more than enough protection for most uses.
9. Bose Portable Smart Speaker
If you want to have the ultimate in simple portability then you can easily get that here with this Bose portable speaker. It has a wide handle that makes it very easy to carry, along with it being lightweight.
It’s available in either black or white and both of them look great with the cylindrical design. There are many connection options here with Aux cable, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth all available.
It has an IPX4 rating which gives it decent splash resistance and a 12 hour runtime. You may also love the smart functionality, making it simple and easy to be controlled via voice.
10. Tribit StormBox Micro Bluetooth Speaker
For those wanting something a little more compact, this could be what you’re looking for. It’s only small but it can still pack a mighty punch in terms of volume and sound quality. The IP67 rating means it can cope with all tough environments and can easily manage rain, dust, and drops.
It will easily fit in any backpack and with the weight of just 0.64 lbs, you’ll hardly feel it. The eight hours of runtime isn’t the longest but you’d expect it to be a little lower with the smaller size.
The versatile speaker can be taken anywhere and your friends will be shocked at how much power can be delivered from this little thing. The bass can thump and it can cope with windy outdoor settings.
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Outdoor Speaker FAQs
Indoor speakers don’t usually need to worry about water, dust, and being dropped. An outdoor speaker is made to be much tougher and can cope with all these issues. An outdoor speaker also needs to be loud enough to cope with large open spaces.
Outdoor speakers need to have a high level of water and dust resistance, have enough power, and a long runtime between charges. After these key features, you can look at the connectivity, usability, and size. It’s important that you can easily carry it with you, so portability is also important.
We’ve looked at many great brands here such as JBL, Sony, and Bose. You can trust them all to give you a quality product. We’ve also looked at some lesser-known brands which often provide better value for money. It’s always a good idea to look beyond the brand and just get a speaker that perfectly matches your needs.
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The 10 Best Fashion Combat Boots for Men
The first pair of combat boots I purchased were a pair of black canvas Dr. Martens. Not to age myself but it was the 90s and I was in high school and they were essential in boosting my fashion confidence. I lived in Kentucky at the time and I stuck out like a sore thumb and I did not care.
Those boots made me feel invincible. And the best part? I still have them and I still wear them. Read the list below to find your next (or first!) pair of combat boots that you will be sure to have for years, nay, decades to come!
Best Buy
1. Dr. Martens 1460 Smooth Leather Lace Up Boots
This is the original Dr. Marten boot. Named the 1460 because they were born on January 4, 1960 (01.04.60) this 8-eye work boot is iconic and a must-have for every closet. Each pair stays true to the original design with a Trans colored sole and the classic black and yellow AirWair heel loop.
The Goodyear-welted lines are heat-sealed at 700 degrees celsius and reinforced with the brand’s signature yellow welt stitch. New colors are introduced every season but smooth black never goes out of style. The leather can be polished to shine or scuffed-up depending on your preference and style.
2. Thom Browne Tricolor-Stripe Brogue Combat Boot
Two words: Thom Browne.
Three more words: Add to cart.
These Thom Browne black books are a mix of a traditional brogue shoe and a combat boot. These sexy-ass boots are crafted in Italy from pebbled leather and have perforated wingtip accents, chunky rubber soles, a tricolor pull tab, tricolor toebox stripes, and a cutout heel groove that twists around the edge. I cannot stress enough the cool factor associated with these. Trust me. They are in my cart.
3. Clarks Batcombe Hi2 Boot
Lined with sheepskin, these dark olive suede lace-up ankle boots were crafted with your comfort in mind. Made with Clarks Cushion Plus™ technology, the unique dual-density foam technology reduces strain on the ball of the foot and supports your natural movement, keeping your feet comfortable all day long. The durable yet lightweight cleated rubber sole ups the ante with an unbeatable grip making for a versatile boot that works for all aspects of life.
4. Thursday Boot Co. Captain Rugged
If you know, you know… and if you own a pair of boots from the Thursday Boot Co. you know that they’re a company that makes handcrafted and hand-stitched boots designed to complement your look from business casual to everyday wear.
These boots are made from genuine leather with a fully lined supple leather interior, studded rubber outsoles, and cork-bed midsoles that form to your feet for added comfort in order to give a clean, rugged, yet sophisticated look.
5. Moncler Black Vancouver Boot
These buffed black leather ankle boots are built for cold weather and then some. They feature a round toe, tonal lace-up closure, tonal hardware, and black leather lining. These boots also have a Vibram® black rubber outsole, a padded nylon tongue with a logo patch, a pull loop, and a tricolor rubber midsole. Moncler sells luxury and this boot is no exception.
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6. Timberland 6 Inch Premium Boots
Timberland boots. Need I say more? Oh… I do? This is awkward… Ok, then, for the few of you who do not recognize the original Timberland waterproof “yellow” boots from a mile away, let me give you some more information.
This classic boot was born in 1973 and features PrimaLoft® ECO insulation and waterproof leather sourced from a sustainable tannery. With premium leather uppers, rustproof hardware, seam-sealed waterproof construction, and exclusive anti-fatigue technology that provides all-day comfort and support, these boots have proven they will be in style for years to come. And did I mention that they’re waterproof?
7. Diesel Lace-Up Combat Boots
These Diesel black, goat skin blend lace-up combat boots feature contrasting panels, a logo patch at the tongue, logo to the back, a pull tab at the rear, a round toe, a chunky low heel, and a ridged rubber sole. At the time of publishing, if you use this link, they are also 40% off!
8. Wolverine 1000 Mile Axel Boot
Handcrafted in America since 1914, the 1000 Mile boot still maintains the same attention to detail with the finest materials and craftsmanship as it did over a century ago. The uppers are made from premium leather from Chicago and flat waxed laces from South Carolina. The sole is made from Goodyear™ welt construction that’s durable, flexible, and allows the boot to be resoled for years of wear.
9. Alexander McQueen Military Boot
Hands down, no contest, Alexander McQueen is my most favorite and can do no wrong. But that’s just my humble opinion. You can decide for yourself. Inspired by the military (as most combat boots are) these boots are crafted from genuine calf leather and they secure to your foot with an eight-hole lacing system. The edgy aesthetic is completed with a chunky lugged sole and printed branding pull tabs.
10. Red Wing Shoes Heritage Iron Ranger
No list of boots is complete without a pair of Red Wing Heritage boots. The Iron Ranger was originally built for iron miners in the 1930s. The six inch boot’s signature is a distinctive leather toe cap. These boots are built with a Goodyear welt, Puritan triple-stitch construction, and brass speed hooks that provide precision lacing and a visual hit of hardware.
The Iron Ranger is anchored with a Vibram® 430 Mini-lug outsole. As you wear the footwear, the full-grain leather upper, insole, and cork midsole will mold to your feet, creating an increasingly personalized fit over time.
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Combat Boots FAQs
Historically, combat boots were a tactical boot style designed for the military to wear during literal combat. In the 70s they became a symbol of the anti-establishment, most popular amongst British punk rockers.
Combat boots really gained traction in the 90s with the emergence of the grunge scene. Today, combat boots don’t have the same anti-establishment appeal as they did in decades past but they still ooze cool. There are a variety of modern styles, including traditional lace-ups in black and brown, as well as more bold colors like green and blue.
Combat boots became mainstream in the 90s when grunge was both a music genre and a fashion trend. Band members and fans of groups like Nirvana, Garbage, Hole, and Alice In Chains started rocking the utilitarian tactical boot style and by the turn of the century, combat-style boots became a part of mainstream fashion.
Combat boots look great styled with skinny jeans, flares, straight leg, cuffed jeans – basically, they look good with pants. If your pants are too long, tuck them in or roll them up. Or pair your boots with shorts. A longer short looks better but with confidence, you can pull off almost any look.
The 12 Best Beaches To Visit in the U.S.
There’s really no such thing as a bad beach, right? Sand, sun, and glistening, refreshing water to play or cool off in – what’s not to love? Thinking about what makes a beach exceptional, though, is a whole different story. It’s a very subjective thing, as the best beach might mean calm water and powdery white sand to some, while to others it may mean excellent surf and plenty of opportunities for adventure.
Whatever your personal definition of the best beach is, America has lots (and lots) of them to choose from. With two very different coasts and three major bodies of water, the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and the Gulf of Mexico, there’s a beach for everyone here.
Do you prefer iconic, broad, sandy, palm tree-dotted beaches, hidden ones requiring a hike to access, or maybe even beaches where wild horses live? Whatever your beach style, you’ll find the perfect one for you on this list of the best beaches in the U.S.
1. Secret Beach, Kauai, Hawaii
For most people, Hawaii immediately comes to mind when they think of the best beaches in the U.S. Kauai’s Secret Beach, which is officially named Kauapea Beach and often referred to as simply “Secrets,” is the epitome of a pristine Hawaiian beach. It’s exceptionally large in terms of both length and width and features golden sand, shimmering turquoise water, and lush green rainforests.
To get to Secret Beach, you’ll need to find the unmarked, steep trail between Kilauea Point and Kalihiwai Bay. You can actually see the beach from the Kilauea lighthouse, so if you get stuck searching, try visiting there first. Secrets is large enough that it’s always easy to find a secluded spot for yourself to layout and relax.
Note that the far eastern end of the beach has a reputation for being a go-to spot for nude sunbathers. There’s also a waterfall toward the east end of the beach and at the west end, there are a few lagoons that form natural calm swimming holes. The strong ocean current here makes it difficult to swim at Secret Beach most of the time, so stick to these lagoons for swimming and enjoy simply relaxing on one of the best beaches in the U.S.
2. Miramar Beach, Santa Barbara, California
Technically five miles from Santa Barbara proper in Montecito, Miramar Beach is somewhat of a hidden gem. This beach is very quiet and calm, with gentle, clear waters and sugar-fine soft sand, making it ideal for everything from surfing and swimming to sunbathing and walking the shoreline.
Miramar Beach’s calm waters are attributed to the fact that it’s situated in a south-facing cove. It’s pretty well-sheltered, which also allows for leisurely exploring the crystal-clear water. At low tide, several tide pools are also revealed. Thanks to its location just outside Santa Barbara, Miramar Beach is rarely crowded, yet it’s less than an hour from Los Angeles. Talk about the best of both worlds!
3. Crescent Beach, Cape Elizabeth, Maine
Fun fact: Maine has more coastline than the entire state of California. It’s true! So it comes as no surprise that some of the best beaches in the U.S. are in Maine. Located about eight miles from Portland in southwestern Maine, Crescent Beach is a classic, postcard-perfect New England beach.
The beach itself, as you may have guessed, is a one-mile crescent-shaped swath of soft sand. It’s surrounded by saltwater coves, sand dunes, woods, and granite rock ledges. Swimming and sunbathing are popular activities at Crescent Beach, of course, but there are also plenty of opportunities for fishing and paddling, plus several hiking trails.
4. Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Alabama
Orange Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Gulf Shores, and for good reason. The superfine, sugar-white sand is so soft that it’s said to squeak under your feet and the calm waters are an almost unbelievable turquoise blue.
Adjacent to Perdido Key in the Florida panhandle (which is another spectacular beach), Orange Beach spans eight miles. It’s also fairly wide, so even on the most crowded days, it’s not difficult to find a patch of sand to make your own and stretch out comfortably. There’s a waterfront park, plenty of opportunities to fish either from the pier or aboard a boat with a guided outfitter, and even a shipwreck, The Lulu, to explore on a scuba diving expedition.
5. Moonstone Beach, Cambria, California
Part of Hearts San Simeon State Park and situated just off the world-famous Highway 1 (aka the Pacific Coast Highway) in central California, Moonstone Beach is one of the best beaches in the U.S. The coastline here is punctuated by rocky cliffs and several coves with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the beach. Spend some time combing the beach for several varieties of beautiful sea glass and impossibly smooth stones, including jade, jasper, agate, and of course, chalcedony – also known as moonstone.
Up above the beach, a boardwalk spans exactly one mile between the Santa Rosa Creek and Leffingwell Landing day-use areas, both with plenty of parking. A lookout near the boardwalk is perfect for spotting gray whales, dolphins, sea lions, and otters.
6. Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, Florida
Since 2015, TripAdvisor has named Siesta Beach America’s #1 beach a whopping three times on its annual Traveler’s Choice Awards. The soft, fluffy white sand is cloud-like, with hardly a shell or other debris in sight. And thanks to its composition of nearly all quartz-crystal, the sand doesn’t get hot on even the sunniest days – an impressive feat on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida summers.
The largest of Siesta Key’s beaches, Siesta Beach has shaded playgrounds, volleyball courts, picnic areas, and plenty of free parking. Dolphins are frequently seen playing in the turquoise waters just off the shore, and the sea here is calm, shallow, and clear, making it one of the best U.S. beaches for families.
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7. Jack’s Bay Beach, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Often overlooked, the U.S. Virgin Islands are a group of three main islands nestled into the Caribbean. Each of the islands – St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix – is stunning and, interestingly, very different from one another.
One of the best beaches in the U.S., Jack’s Bay Beach, happens to be on St. Croix and it’s well off the beaten path, which means you’ll likely have it all to yourself. Located near the far eastern end of the island, Jack’s Bay Beach is directly below Point Udall.
Fun fact: Point Udall is the easternmost point in the United States and sees America’s very first sunrise every morning. You’ll need to hike downhill from Point Udall to get to Jack’s Bay Beach and while it’s not a long hike, it is steep. The reward is well worth it, though, as there’s rarely more than just a few people at the beach.
8. Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Outer Banks, North Carolina
North Carolina has dozens of fantastic beaches to choose from, but one of the best is Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Technically a narrow, 72 mile long strip of several barrier islands between Nags Head and Ocracoke Island, Cape Hatteras National Seashore has a little something for everyone.
Enjoy broad sandy beaches dotted with seashells and framed by towering sand dunes, lots of water and beach activities, and a couple of lighthouses. In fact, the tallest lighthouse in the United States is here, 196 foot tall Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Standing just 40 feet shorter, the Bodie Island Lighthouse is also nearby. Both date back to the 1870s and visitors can (and should!) climb both. Allow a full day for visiting the beach and lighthouse, and keep your eyes open for sea turtles sunbathing on the beach.
9. Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur, California
No list of the best beaches in the U.S. is complete without a mention of Big Sur. Arguably one of the most iconic stretches of coastline anywhere in the world, the Big Sur area is defined by dramatic rugged sea cliffs, crashing waves, and pristine beaches. Because of the rugged cliffs, Big Sur beaches aren’t necessarily the most accessible and visiting many of them requires a bit of effort.
That’s actually not the case with Pfeiffer Beach – it doesn’t require a hike or even an admission fee, but it is somewhat hard to find, thanks to the unmarked road connecting it to Highway 1. Once you do manage to find it, you’ll be treated to large unique rock formations (including Keyhole Arch, a natural rock arch) just offshore, tide pools at the north end of the beach during low tide, unbelievable sunsets, and sand that’s unmistakably purple, thanks to manganese garnet in the cliffs above.
10. Assateague Beach, Assateague Island, Maryland & Virginia
In the heart of the east coast, Assateague Island is truly unlike any other. The barrier island sits in both Maryland and Virginia and features a rugged landscape dotted with wind-swept sand dunes, grasslands, and warm, shallow bays. Oh, and it’s also home to hundreds of wild, free-roaming horses. Legend holds that they’re descendants of a handful of domesticated horses that survived a shipwreck sometime in the 17th century.
The horses are, of course, one of the main reasons that Assateague Beach is one of the best beaches in the U.S. However, it’s far from the only reason. Each side of the island is unique, with 12 miles of quiet sandy beaches on the Maryland side and the interior bayside being more recreation-oriented.
Here, there are numerous opportunities for kayaking, clamming, and crabbing, plus the waters are warmer and calmer – perfect for swimming. If you want to go for a horseback ride, head to the Virginia district.
11. Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia
Situated on one of Georgia’s four Golden Isles, Driftwood Beach is widely considered one of the best and romantic beaches in the country. Due to years and years of erosion on the northern end of the island, hundreds of weathered, warped, and bleached trees dot the beach.
It may sound a little odd if you’ve never seen it in person, but it’s strikingly beautiful and truly memorable. In fact, Driftwood Beach is one of Georgia’s most photographed landmarks!
Aside from being picturesque, Driftwood Beach has tons to do. Georgia’s coastline is notorious for its excellent fishing, there’s a great network of bicycle trails, and you can even camp on the beach here. Another must-do activity at Driftwood Beach is visiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, an interactive experience for every member of the family!
12. Wai’anapanapa State Park, Hana, Hawaii
Wai’anapanapa State Park, along the famous Road to Hana, is the epitome of a Hawaiian beach. Its black sand was created by basalt lava flow several centuries ago, and it’s framed by lush green rainforest and indigo blue ocean.
The dramatic scenery is postcard-perfect and absolutely pristine. Being a stop along the Road to Hana, Wai’anapanapa State Park takes a bit of effort to reach. Those willing to put in the work are rewarded with a big payoff, as the beach is rarely crowded – something increasingly hard to find anywhere in Hawaii.
In addition to the beach itself, Wai’anapanapa State Park features large black boulders, sea caves, a natural sea arch, a blowhole, several small swimming holes, and a blowhole. Visitors can cliff dive, explore the sea caves, or hike to explore the boulders and inlets.
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