Women Gone Surfing

Whether you are a novice surfer or you've been catching waves for years, women's surf gear has evolved over the past decade. Choices for women surfers in the past were at first non-existent. Many women had to use men's surf clothing and just make do. Then women's surf gear was developed but it was just like the men's - all black with not a touch of style.

Even though records show Polynesian women riding waves as far back as 1819, surfing has mostly been thought of as a man's sport. Surfer "dudes" canvass the waves every chance they can always hoping to catch the big one. But the number of women taking up the sport has increased throughout the years and today, women from 6 to sixty are hanging ten with their peers. With the number of women surfers steadily increasing, surf gear for women recently had to play catch up.

As the demand for surf shorts, board shorts and accessories for women grew, styles and colors have evolved. The clothing had to be adjusted to properly fit a female's body. One of the most important pieces of surf clothing that has become a "must have" for women is the wet suit. Shorty wet suits help protect women surfers from the chill of unsuspecting frigid waters.

Nikita Women's Intimate Rash Guard Straight from the art of Sweded Erik Dolk, this bold and coral printed graphic Nikita Women's Intimate Rash Guard is rooted surf clothing style and full of comfort and surf -ability. The same material as Nikita bikinis, the Nikita Rashguards will have you feeling up top as good as your suit on the bottom. Bold purple and blasts of pink with geo patterns and Nikita style.

The wet suit is made up of neoprene so a rash guard is vital. Just as its name implies, the rash guard can be a long sleeved or short sleeved top and bottom that is worn under the wet suit to prevent a rash from the suit rubbing against the skin. There is also a spray available that is used by triathletes, surfers and divers that will also prevent chafing and rashes from the suit. You spray the inside of your wet suit - sleeves, legs, neck - and it helps you get in and out of your suit more easily.

Board shorts are another popular item among women surfers. These shorts have an even broader use of color and patterns and are available for the tiniest swimmers to plus sized woman. Not just for surfing, board shorts can be used for swimming, water skiing or even just as casual wear. They are available in short short styles - 1 ½" inseams to 5" in length. If you are in the market for women's surf clothing, there is an online directory that will give you access to a selection of shops that specialize in the latest clothing and accessories for women.

Rip Curl Poster Cap Lycra Rash Guard Women's It's time to take down that signed poster of John Stamos wearing cut-off jean shorts and get with the timesmaking out with a glossy picture of Full House's sexy uncle is so 1990s. Hitting up a secret surf break in the Rip Curl Women's Poster Rash Guard is where it's at. The Poster offers full UV protection so you won't look like an overripe tomato when you spot a three-dimensional flesh-and-blood hottie at the bar after a mid-summer session. The lightweight Lycra fabric hugs your body and moves with you as you paddle and the raglan cap sleeves and low neck give you more style than Stephanie Tanner. Not that that's super hard to pull off but you get the picture. Note Rip Curl's women's surfwear runs small. If you usually wear a size four you might wear an eight this time. Check the sizing chart. View Sizing Chart Bottom Line Pull your head out of the '90s and get into the Rip Curl Poster Rash Guard. Product Features Material Lycra Insulation Lightweight Recommended Use Surfing wakeboarding Country of Origin United States

Elizabeth Pepin, a surfer herself since the 80s, saw more and more women riding the waves. Looking through the popular surf magazines, she only noticed women featured if they were wearing bikinis. While she has nothing against bikinis or the women who wear them, she began taking photographs of serious women surfers. With more and more women becoming professional surfers, its nice to know they will be able to ride the wave of this exciting and growing trend. They will finally be able to compete in the water and in the surf shops.

I am a Boomer Baby, Sandra A. Greenberg, semi retired in Maui, Hawaii. I build niche websites and teach self defense for women. My articles are related to the particular web theme that I am working on. I choose my niche sites based on my personal and professional experience, and a whole lot of research. When I choose a niche site based on my personal experience, it is because I hope I can share what I have learned, and someone else can benefit from it and pass it on. I write from my heart and like to think that I live my life the same way.

By Sandra Aileen Greenberg

My Hawaii niches and water sports are close to home!
WomensSurf.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandra_Aileen_Greenberg
http://EzineArticles.com/?Women-Gone-Surfing&id=2442391

Technorati Tags: board shorts, rash guard, Wet Suits, women surfing, women's surf gear, womens surf clothing

What is the Best Toddler Swimwear For Sun Protection?

What is the Best Toddler Swimwear For Sun Protection?

Toddler swimwear is important for those hot summer days. I always make sure that I keep plenty of trunks on hand for the pool. What about beach vacations? I had to do my research and find the best suits for not only comfort but also protection from the sun. My toddler was picky and needed to be comfortable. You have to look out for suits that are loose or will untie easily. That can be a pain. Remember that if they are not potty trained yet the swim diapers are fantastic and do not absorb the water.

We sometimes want to just buy our children the "cutest" swimsuits. These may not be the best for them. It is important to find all the components in one. It is possible to do this. Which leads me to discuss the new sun protection suits that are so popular these days.

Sun Protection Swimwear

If you're concerned about your baby's sun exposure the sun protective swimsuit is a great way to be sure your toddler has SPF 50 sun block on most of his or her body when you're at the pool or beach. The extra cost of these suits are made up in the comfort and durability of the fabric and the extra peace of mind you have knowing that you don't need to reapply sunscreen to prevent a baby sunburn. Add a matching swim hat and your toddler will be protected nearly from head to toe!

The pros and cons of these suits:

Pros:

• Sun block stays on your toddler since it is part of the swimsuit. No need to keep re-applying.
• The two piece design allows for easy diaper changes.
• Thick, durable fabric stands up to baby and toddler water play.
• Breathable and comfortable fabric with built-in SPF 50 sun protection.
• Wide range of baby and toddler sizes and styles with coordinating accessories.

Cons:

• Costs more than average baby swimsuits

The truth is my toddler would not wear this type of suit. I had to buy him trunks and a matching surf shirt or rash guard shirt. This is another option for girls and boys who do not like the sun protection suits. They are great for sun protection but my toddler did not like the comfort.

Quiksilver Toddler S S Rash Guard Protect him from harsh solar rays and irritating chafing during a day at the beach with this Quiksilver rashguard. Nylon Lycra raglan short sleeves allow full range of motion for paddling and swimming. Hand wash in cold water and dry in shade. View our full selection of Rash Guards and Dive Skins

When you are purchasing toddler swimwear you should ask yourselves a few of these questions:

How Is The Suit Made?:

• Where are the straps located?
• Is it an elastic waist or drawstring?
• Are the trunks too long or short?
• Is there pockets?
• What material is the suit made out of?

How much am I willing to spend on toddler swimwear?

How many suits should I buy?

The answer to that question is buy enough. I usually purchase 6-7 a season for my son. He gets sick of them being wet and always wants to change. You decide what is best for you and your toddler.

Another special hint: You may want to buy extra pools too! Especially the blow up kind. It may just be my toddler, but he finds a way to put holes in his pools. I need "back up pools" as well....:) Have a Great Summer!!

By Ingrid Lee

Ingrid Lee is a Work At Home Mom and has a 3 year old son. She is the author and web site creator of http://www.Toddlers-Are-Fun.com where you can find more information on parenting toddlers and fun activities. Learn great toddler health tips, nutrition advice and even how to save money while dressing your child. Her site is a great resource for parents with toddlers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ingrid_Lee
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-is-the-Best-Toddler-Swimwear-For-Sun-Protection?&id=2424202

Technorati Tags: rash guard, Rash Guards, sun protection suit, sunblock, toddler swimwear

Five Shopping Tips For Buying a Rash Guard

Author: Tyler Collins

Are you on the market for a rash guard? If you're shopping for rash guards there are some very important factors you need to consider before you make a purchase. Maybe you need a rashguard for surfing, sports, martial arts, grappling, or just spf sun protection. Whatever your reasons for buying this type of garment, you need to make sure you're shopping decisions are smart ones because this purchase is sensitive to your health. There are very important things to evaluate before spending any money on a rashguard, such as the fabrics used, the comfort and protection guarantees, pricing considerations, the origin of the manufacturer and several other important variables. Read on and this short buying guide will help you become an expert rash guard shopper in just a minute or two.

1. Materials and Fabric
The best rash guards are made with Lycra and Nylon, which are two fabrics that when blended together provide the optimum rash protection and flexibility. The proper composition of fabrics is about 80% Nylon and 20% Lycra, which has been scientifically tested by various rash guard manufacturers. Some companies create a garment made of spandex, or blend of spandex and cotton because those materials are cheaper than good quality Lycra. These "knock offs" of real rash guards are often poorly crafted and fall apart easily. Not to mention the limitations in SPF protection!

Solaroo Aloha Rash Guard Uv Blocking for All Ages

2. Comfort, Sizing, and Satisfaction Guarantee
Clothing items are probably the most challenging products to shop for on the internet, especially form fitting rash guards. If you order a rash guard online, or any clothing for that matter, you'd be wise to make sure the company you're dealing with offers and exchange program. When you receive your rash guard, try it on and check for any bothersome areas, scratchy surfaces, and any areas that might cause irritation. After all, we want to prevent rash not create it.

3. Rash and SPF Sun Protection
Quality rash guards offer both rash protection and a strong SPF protection. "SPF" stands for "Sun Protection Factor" which is commonly measured as a percentage of how much of the harmful UV/UVA sunlight rays are blocked. You want a rash guard with at least 95% SPF rating because this allows you to wear it without having to worry about sunscreen. The company promoting the garment should be able to guarantee the SPF rating with certification from a radiation testing laboratory.

4. Affordable Price and High Quality
Rash guard prices on the internet generally range from about $20 to about $40 in most cases. Well known brands try to charge the higher amounts because they print their logos all over them and make them look more appealing to shoppers. However, these bigger surf brands are not offering any better materials, protection, or comfort guarantees than the smaller companies who focus on quality rashguards rather than branding. If you want to pay $10-15 more for a 'logo' that's okay, but if you are just interested in a high quality rash guard with a nice color, optimal comfort, and total protection, there are companies who offer that value without the big price tag.

Neosport Juniors' Unisex Uv Rash Guard Dive Shirt

5. Origin - Is It "Made in USA"?
If you buy a rash guard that was manufactured overseas in places like China, you are likely signing yourself up for disappointment. Specialty Lycra fabrics and professional "flat lock" stitching is required for achieving the sun protection, durability and flexibility you want, especially if your shopping for surf rashguards. Most overseas operations have goals to mass produce rather than use careful quality control in their manufacturing. Make sure the company you buy your rash guards from displays a "Made In USA" promise.

Now that you know what to look for in a rash guard and the company selling the rash guards, feel free to begin shopping. There are many good companies out there, so how do you know where to start? Well, like any online shopping experience you can start with any references that friends have provided you, and follow the resources provided by people offering quality information around the product. Shopping for a rash guard can be fairly easy if you're using the guidelines I've just provided you, so keep your eyes open and shop smart.

Tyler Collins is Vice President of Surfing Smooth Inc, Orange County, CA. a company specializing in surfing apparel, beach wear, and sun protection technology in clothing. For rash guards and more information on sun protection, visit website: http://www.myrashguards.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/five-shopping-tips-for-buying-a-rash-guard-32497.html

About the Author:

Tyler Collins is the Vice President of Surfing Smooth Inc., a company specializing in beach wear and sun protection clothing. Collins is experienced in the sport of surfing; An industry leader of breakthough sun protection technology. He has aligned himself with revolutionary manufacturing techniques and sciences that improve garments with more advanced fabrics and stitching. Collins is extremely passionate about surfing, and he is dedicated to providing premium quality rash and sun protection apparel.

Technorati Tags: clothing, guard, kids, lycra, rash, rash guard, rashguard, rashguards, spf, sun, sun block, sun protection, surf, Surfing, wetsuit