Bushnell The Truth Rangefinder Review

Are you looking for a Bushnell The Truth Rangefinder review you can trust?

A rangefinder is crucial for every serious hunter. Whether you’re a long-range rifle shooter or a bowhunter, you need one to give you a good look at how far your target is.

It keeps you from making unsound guesses and lets you go in for a quick, clean, and humane kill. If you’d rather not go looking for a wounded animal, you need to get your hands on a rangefinder.

Bushnell promises The Truth rangefinder can give you what you need. They’re setting a lot of high expectations naming their product The Truth. Let’s see if Bushnell can meet them all.

What Is The Truth Rangefinder?


Bushnell Team Primos The Truth ARC 4 x 20mm Bow Mode Laser Rangefinder

  • 4 x 20Millimeter laser rangefinder
  • Vertical range: 7-yards-850-yards
  • Angle compensation Arc bow mode

The Bushnell The Truth Rangefinder is a laser rangefinder made specifically for bowhunters. It has some features for rifle hunters, but, for the most part, The Truth serves the bowhunter best.

Bowhunting is very different from rifle hunting.

For one thing, you have to become a skilled archer. First, you have to master hitting a steady target. And then you can go out in the wild to practice going after a gazelle that can leap behind the bushes in half a second.

For another thing, arrows fly differently from bullets. The Truth compensates for this with Bow Mode. It measures the horizontal distance between you and your target while compensating for the arch in the path of the arrow.

Our Process: How We Researched for Our Bushnell The Truth Rangefinder Review

Before writing this Bushnell The Truth Rangefinder review, we checked out what other people had to say about this rangefinder. These are real people who actually went out and used this rangefinder.

We also looked at several videos of The Truth in action to see how it fares in different lighting and weather conditions.

The Truth About Bushnell’s The Truth

A Bushnell The Truth Rangefinder review needs a complete rundown of its most important features, so let’s take a look at them.

A look through the lens

The Truth is a lightweight, compact rangefinder with a 20-mm objective lens. It gathers enough light to give you a clear, bright image of your prey, even in low-light conditions.

Focusing is easy enough. You simply turn the lens to get the image you want.

The 4x magnification is decent for a rangefinder of its size. It’s more than enough for a bowhunter. Unfortunately, rifle shooters may not be happy with the magnification power, especially when shooting over long distances.

How far it goes

The Truth delivers line-of-sight readings from 7 to 850 yards for a reflective target, such as the steel practice targets at shooting ranges. That’s pretty impressive, considering the size of this rangefinder.

When you’re using the rangefinder’s Angle Range Composition (ARC) technology to compensate for inclines and declines, you get a good range of 7 to 199 yards. That’s more than you need for bowhunting.

What matters most, however, is how it performs when you’re trying to calculate the distance between you and a non-reflective target, such as a deer or a tree.

When scoping out a deer or other moving prey, you can be sure to receive accurate readings up to 200 yards. For trees, rocks, and other landmarks, The Truth can go as far out as 600 yards.

Put your Bow Mode on

a man looking through a monocular

Image Source: Pixabay

The Truth’s Bow Mode has settings adjusted for bowhunting.

It turns on ARC to measure the distance between you and your target while taking into account the angle from which you’re shooting.

When you’re shooting from a tree stand or when your target is sitting on a ridge above your head, ARC becomes really useful. It eliminates the guesswork and gives you a clear idea of exactly how far your target is and how to shoot.

It’s easy to go from line-of-sight mode to Bow Mode. There’s only one button for both modes.

To get a line-of-sight reading, push the button once. If you’re shooting at an angle, press the button for another two seconds to get a readout that compensates for the incline.

Hits it right on the head

We can’t write a Bushnell The Truth Rangefinder review without discussing accuracy. A rangefinder with all the bells and whistles is useless if it can’t provide accurate readings.

The Truth has extremely accurate readouts, give or take a one-yard margin for errors. That’s pretty standard will laser rangefinders.

If you’re interested in something more precise, Bushnell has a new model of The Truth. It has all the same specs and features but comes with a feature called ClearShot.

ClearShot calculates the highest point in the path of the arrow. It shows you if there’s anything in the way between you and the target, like a tree branch or tall bush, so you can move to another shooting spot.

The little rangefinder that could

The Truth is a small rangefinder. At 3.8 inches by 2.4 inches by 1.4 inches, it’s not any larger than an Altoids tin.

It fits easily in your pocket when you’re out hunting. It also comes with a neck strap so you can hang it around your neck while waiting at the tree stand.

The ergonomic, sleek design makes it easy to wrap your fingers around it. It also has a non-slip body that ensures it stays snugly in your hand while scoping out your prey.

It also comes with a carrying case to protect it when not in use.

No more power struggles

a man using a rangefinder

Image Source: Pixabay.com

This rangefinder is powered by a 3-volt non-rechargeable CR2 battery that comes in the box.

CR2 batteries are more powerful than regular batteries. A single CR2 battery can give you at least tens of thousands of readings without losing power anytime soon.

Unfortunately, CR2 batteries are pretty hard to find. When you happen to chance upon one, it’s best to buy it instead of waiting for your battery to die out.

That said, The Truth has an indicator that will let you know if you need to replace the battery soon.

It also comes with a battery-saving feature that automatically shuts the rangefinder down when it hasn’t been used in 30 seconds.

Too much screen time

If there’s any complaint that people have about this rangefinder, it’s the screen.

The readout is displayed on a black LCD screen with no backlight.

For most people, that may not be a problem. But for people with vision problems, it can make the readout hard to see.

If you’re hunting at dusk or early in the morning, squinting at the screen may take more of your precious time than you’d like.

Rain puts a literal a damper on it

Bushnell advertises The Truth as being waterproof, but that’s not entirely the truth.

This rangefinder doesn’t do well in damp and foggy situations. On a misty mountaintop, for example, the lens fogs up and essentially becomes useless.

It also takes a while for the lens to clear up. If the wait takes too long, you can dry it with a blow-dryer or hang it over a stove at home.

This is what happens with optics that aren’t filled with nitrogen. Nitrogen prevents moisture and allows the lens to remain clear, even in rainy weather.

PROS

  • Maximum range of 850 yards

  • ARC with Bow Mode with a maximum range of 199 yards

  • Compact, lightweight, and easy to carry around

  • Provides readings with +1/-1 yard accuracy

  • Angle range of +90/-90 degrees

  • Easy to use and intuitive

CONS

  • Not water-resistant as advertised

  • Readout display has no backlight

How The Truth Compares

This Bushnell The Truth Rangefinder review wouldn’t be complete without a comparison with other similar products.

Let’s see how The Truth matches up to some of the most popular laser rangefinders on the market.

TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder


TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder – 6×24 Laser Range Finder for…

  • HUNTING LASER RANGEFINDER; Tired of cheap rangefinders with short ranges of measurement? Our PROWILD Laser Rangefinder…
  • SPEED, SCAN and HUNT TECHNOLOGY; Provides fast measurement with +/- 1 yard accuracy.
  • THROUGH THE LENS DISPLAY; Premium, ultra clear, multilayered optics with easy read, through the lens display with…

The TecTecTec ProWild rangefinder has a maximum range of 540 yards. This is much less than that of The Truth, but it’s still more than enough for bowhunters, who typically don’t have to shoot beyond 200 yards.

It has a 24-mm objective lens with 6x magnification power to provide a clear view of your target.

Like The Truth, it has a black LCD display with no backlighting, which doesn’t make it any easier to read.

It does have a continuous scan mode, which scans the landscape for several seconds to get a readout for prominent landmarks in the area.

There’s also a built-in speed meter that tells you if your target is moving away from you and how fast it’s going.

What it doesn’t have is angle compensation. Downhill or uphill shooting is still possible, but you’ll have to take into account the angle of incline yourself.

The TecTecTec ProWild rangefinder is small, compact, and lightweight. It has a rainproof body and a lens that will not fog up when exposed to moisture.

It also promises to provide accurate readings, with a +1 /-1 margin of error.

However, many people say that’s not entirely the case. While this rangefinder provides good readouts for longer ranges, it isn’t as accurate when you’re shooting at a distance of 50 yards or less.

For rifle hunters, that’s not much of an issue, but bowhunters need something that can provide accurate readings at shorter ranges. This could potentially be a deal-breaker.

Also, you want to be careful if you plan on ordering the TecTecTec ProWild. It seems the company isn’t able to keep up with the demand for its product, which has led to a rise in the number of defective rangefinders being shipped out.

PROS

  • 6x 24 mm objective lens

  • Maximum range of 650 yards

  • Continuous scanning

  • Built-in speed meter

CONS

  • No angle compensation

  • Not accurate at less than 50 yards

  • Plenty of defective units on the market

Where to buy

Nikon 16224 Arrow ID 3000 Bowhunting Laser Rangefinder


Nikon 16224 Arrow ID 3000 Bowhunting Laser Rangefinder

  • Nikon’s advanced ID (Incline/Decline) Technology provides the horizontal distance to the target, even when ranging at…
  • Incredibly long, 20.3mm eye relief makes viewing and ranging your target fast and easy
  • Displays in 1-yard increments with a 6-550-yard ranging capacity

Just like The Truth, the Nikon Arrow ID is a true bowhunter’s rangefinder.

It provides line-of-sight measurements and compensates for slopes when shooting from an incline or decline. It also promises accurate readings, give or take one yard for errors.

The Nikon Arrow ID also comes with continuous scanning, a feature that isn’t available on The Truth. This lets you scroll across the landscape for eight seconds. The rangefinder then measures the distance between you and various features of the landscape.

The 20-mm objective lens allows plenty of light for clear images. It can be magnified up to four times, which is similar to The Truth.

Unfortunately, this rangefinder doesn’t do well in wet conditions. The lens tends to fog up when exposed to moisture, and it’s almost impossible to remedy it save by abandoning the hunt altogether.

It’s also not the ideal rangefinder for targeting small things past 200 yards. If you’re out hunting on goose season, for instance, you may want to use something a little more helpful.

PROS

  • 4x 20-mm objective lens

  • Line-of-sight and angle compensation readings

  • High accuracy, +1/-1

CONS

  • Fogs up in wet conditions

  • Inaccurate readings for small objects

Where to buy

WoSports Hunting Rangefinder


Wosports Hunting Range Finder, 650 Yards Archery Laser Rangefinder for…

  • Multi Functions: Laser Range Finder for golf and hunting sports, with Distance Measue, Normally Scan…
  • Golf Mode: accurately ranges from 5 to 650 yards and 150 yards to a flag lock. if you used on M2 Mode, Flag pole locking…
  • Scan Mode: Hold down “Power/Start” button while ranging to activate the continous measurement scan mode.The data on the…

Another bestselling rangefinder is the WoSports rangefinder.

It’s promised as a bowhunter and rifle shooter’s rangefinder, although it only works well up to 250 yards if you’re a rifle hunter. For bowhunters, the maximum range is 650 yards. That’s less than The Truth but still more than enough for shooting with an arrow.

The 25-mm objective lens can be magnified six times. It’s particularly small, about half the size of other comparable rangefinders.

Although it claims to have an accuracy of +1/-1 yards, the WoSports rangefinder doesn’t compensate for inclines. If you’re shooting uphill or downhill or from a tree stand, the measurements will actually be slightly off. You’ll have to compensate for the angles yourself if you want to take down your prey in one clean go.

It’s also not water-resistant, even though the display has a fog-proof mode that makes it easy to read during foggy weather. The lens still fogs up and distorts your measurements when exposed to the slightest bit of rain.

This rangefinder also has a huge problem with its carrying case, which has a Velcro strap that opens loudly and can startle your target away. If you have an alternative case with a magnetic snap that opens quietly, use that instead. Otherwise, just do away with the carrying case.

PROS

  • Minimum range of 650 yards

  • Very accurate

  • Fog mode for display screen

  • Small and lightweight

CONS

  • No angle compensation

  • Not water-resistant

  • Velcro case scares prey away

Where to buy

The Bottom Line on the Bushnell The Truth

Rangefinder Review

Bushnell Team Primos The Truth ARC 4 x 20mm Bow Mode Laser Rangefinder

This Bushnell The Truth Rangefinder review concludes that it is a reliable piece of equipment for bowhunters.

It’s effective at what it promises to do, which is to provide accurate distance measurements between you and your prey, with the ability to account for angles in its readout.

It’s also compact, lightweight, and easy to use with its one-button operation.

Although The Truth has some flaws, such as the less-than-impressive optics and lack of water resistance, it’s a more-than-decent rangefinder that you’ll find a lot of good use for in the wild.

So what do you think about the Bushnell The Truth rangefinder review? Let us know in the comments section below!

Featured Image Source: Amazon

Simmons LRF 600 Review: A Rangefinder You Can Depend On

If you’re a hunting enthusiast in search of an affordable and reliable rangefinder, you’ve probably come across a Simmons LRF 600 review or two that swears by this model. This offering from Simmons is not only pocket-friendly but also has a great reputation for being accurate and reliable.

But let’s face it, it’s highly unlikely that a lower-end rangefinder will have the advanced features you get in high-end models. And this begs the question, what makes the Simmons LRF 600 special and does it pack everything you need in a good rangefinder? There’s only one way to find out.

 About Simmons LRF 600

The Simmons LRF 600 targets the everyday hunter. The manufacturer advertises a 600 yards range on a highly reflective target. And a quick overview of this equipment’s features says that it’s compact and effective.

However, since it’s among the lower-end models on the market, you shouldn’t expect some of the features you get from high-end models. But unless you need all the bells and whistles, these everyday rangefinders may be all you need.

But the real reason you’re here is to find out if this rangefinder will deliver in practical settings. So let’s get this Simmons LRF 600 review started and find out.

  Design

If you’re looking for a rangefinder that will impress your friends and make you stand out, the Simmons LRF 600 is not the one. At first glance, this range finder looks simple and doesn’t have much going on in terms of design. But that’s the beauty of the Simmons LRF 600 laser rangefinder.

This rangefinder weighs about 7.7 ounces and has a compact and efficient vertical design. Not to mention, it’s pocket-sized, and the manufacturer doesn’t waste any of the space on features that don’t boost its functionality.

In simple terms, the Simmons LRF 600 is made to get the job done. And if you don’t like carrying a lot of stuff on your hunting trip, this is something you’ll appreciate.

We also love that this rangefinder doesn’t feature menus and settings. The LRF 600 features an LCD system that only requires pressing the power button to activate it. And when you need to aim the device at a target, hold down the power button until the readings display on the screen. Not to mention, the LCD features illuminated indicators for better visibility.

Overall, the LCD is clear and easy to read. The only disadvantage is that LCD can be hard to read in low light conditions.

We also didn’t like the camera battery compartment. The Simmons LRF 600 4x rangefinder features a camera that uses a 9-volt alkaline battery. To access the battery compartment, you need to unscrew it, which isn’t very convenient.

  Usage

catch-dog-field-gear

image by pixabay

The single-button operation of the Simoons LRF 600 makes it hassle-free to use. By pressing the power button, you instantly get the range to the target. The fact that this rangefinder is feature-poor is another factor that makes it easy to use.

Since you don’t have to fumble with features like angle measurements and equivalent horizontal distance, among others, you won’t have trouble using the device.

This rangefinder only provides you with a line of straight distance to your target. It’s up to you to estimate the actual range if your aim is up or downslope from you.

  Power

As we mentioned, the rangefinder uses a single 9-bolt battery. I know wham/5-best-rangefinders-for-bow-hunting/t you’re thinking. Do 9-volt batteries still exist? Yes, they do. But like CR2 batteries, you may have a hard time finding them.


Simmons 801405 Rangefinder, 4x20LRF 600

  • 4x Optical magnification
  • 5-600 yard capacity, accurate to +/- 1 yard
  • Simple one-button operation

It would have been great if the manufacturer used AA batteries instead, but this shouldn’t be a problem. The Simmons LRF 600 has an excellent battery life. By the time you need new batteries, you’ll have used it a couple of times.

   Features

The Simmons LRF 600 has a 4x magnification and a range of 600 yards. It’s also accurate to within about one yard. However, most people have found that they can only reach the 600-yard range with very bright or reflective objects.

For this reason, you should expect a range of about 400 yards for objects like trees and even less for something like a deer. It’s possible to get rangefinders with higher magnification and range, but you’ll have to dig deeper into your pockets to afford them.

However, if you’re a beginner, this may be one of the best rangefinders for bowhunting and other activities because it gives you a line of sight distance to your target.

You’ll, however, have one challenge. Because it doesn’t feature an inclinometer, you may have a hard time determining the equivalent horizontal distance of objects that aren’t level to your position.

  Light gathering capability

The Simmons LRF 600 rangefinder lacks fully multicoated optics. For this reason, you shouldn’t expect superior light gathering capability. The rangefinder does an excellent job in bright sunlight, but it’s not the best in low lit conditions.

In fact, the LCD is almost impossible to read in low light conditions. Therefore, if you’re looking for a rangefinder you can use in the early morning hours or late at night, the LRF 600 laser rangefinder may not be the best one for you.

  Simmons LRF 600 optics and focus

One of the disadvantages of this rangefinder is that you can’t adjust the focus because it’s fixed. Nonetheless, we appreciate the fact that objects appear crisp and clear from 10 to 600 yards.

Not to mention, the magnification doesn’t interfere with the clarity in any way, which is a bonus. This rangefinder also offers an excellent field view.

How We Reviewed

animal-bird-catch-dog-field-gear

image by pixabay

Our goal is to give you the most honest Simmons LRF 600 review to help you make an informed decision. For this reason, we left no stone unturned when gathering information about this rangefinder.

We began by analyzing its features paying close attention to durability, functionality, efficiency, ease of use, and overall value.

Afterward, we went through online customer reviews to get an idea of how the rangefinder performs in real settings. And we didn’t stop there. We also compared the Simmons LRF 600 to three of the top brands in the market to determine whether or not it’s the best rangefinder in its class.

Simmons LRF 600 Review: Our Thoughts

This rangefinder checks a lot of boxes in our books. It may not have all the bells and whistles you get in high-end models, but some incredible factors make it a leader of the pack.

It’s efficient, easy to use, and most importantly, get’s the job done. We believe it would be an excellent rangefinder for beginners who do not need sophisticated features.

One of our favorite things about this rangefinder is its simplicity. Although it has a cheap-looking plastic housing, it’s fairly rugged. Not to mention, it’s lightweight and offers an excellent grip.

We also love that it’s weather-resistant, which means you can enjoy hunting even in the rain and snow. Unfortunately, the Simmons LRF 600 fogs up in cold weather because the optics-barrel is not nitrogen-filled.

All in all, if you’re looking for a rangefinder for your occasional hunt, the Simmons LRF 600 will get the job done.

Simmons LRF 600 Review: What Are

 Customers Saying?

hunter

image by pixabay

This Simmons LRF 600 review wouldn’t be complete without including buyers’ experience. While exploring the rangefinder’s features is essential, customers’ experience gives you a real picture of what to expect.

Online shoppers love this rangefinder, and the majority of customers agree that it’s one of the best rangefinders for bowhunting.

One of the things customers are raving about is this rangefinder’s ease of use. Buyers love that they don’t have to fumble with a lot of features, and they can operate the device by the touch of a button.

Some buyers also rave about the rangefinder’s accuracy and simple interface. However, the majority of users aren’t crazy about the battery compartment. Most people have complained that it’s difficult to open and only makes it easier for the device to run our of power if they don’t manage to remove the battery.

Furthermore, buyers don’t like that they can’t use this rangefinder late at night or early in the morning due to the hard to read LCD. Here’s a summary of their pros and cons.

PROS

  • Ergonomic

  • Lightweight

  • Excellent eye relief

  • Incredible field of view

  • Easy to use

CONS

  • The accuracy dramatically decreases after 300 yards

  • Fogs up easily

  • Without an inclinometer, you don’t get angle measurements or equivalent horizontal distance


Simmons LRF 600 Review: How Does It Stack

up to the Competition

A good Simmons LRF 600 review will also tell you how this rangefinder compares to the competition. We selected three of the most popular options and compared them to the LRF 600 4X rangefinder.

Let’s find out if this rangefinder is the best option.

Wosports Rechargeable Hunting Rangefinder


Wosports Rechargeable Hunting Rangefinder, 800 Yards USB Charging…

  • Convenient USB Charging: Equipped with 3.7V 750mah rechargeable lithium battery, A micro USB cable (included) could be…
  • About the reflectivity of the measured object varies: High reflectivity (such as street signs),moderate reflectivity…
  • 800 YARD HUNTING LASER RANGEFINDER – Features the latest technology, it can measure up to longer distance of 800 yards;…

If you think the Simmons LRF 600 is too simple for your hunting needs, you may want to consider the Wosports Rechargeable Hunting Rangefinder.

This rangefinder falls in the same class as the Simmons rangefinder. However, it has better and more features compared to the LRF 600.

For starters, you get a wider range of up to 800 yards. Also, the rangefinder features a 6x magnification. What’s more, the rangefinder features a convenient USB charging port, which saves you the need to replace the battery every time it runs out.

Not to mention, the Wosports range finder is water-resistant and has a measuring time of 0.5 to 1 second, which means you’ll be getting results instantly. Also, customers have nothing but good things to say about this range finder.

We believe it would be an excellent option for anyone looking for something with more modern features.

PROS

  • Water-resistant

  • Excellent field of view

  • Efficient

  • Clear

  • Rechargeable

CONS

  • Doesn’t feature angle compensated distance

  • Fogs up

Where to buy

TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder


TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder – 6×24 Laser Range Finder for…

  • HUNTING LASER RANGEFINDER; Tired of cheap rangefinders with short ranges of measurement? Our PROWILD Laser Rangefinder…
  • SPEED, SCAN and HUNT TECHNOLOGY; Provides fast measurement with +/- 1 yard accuracy.
  • THROUGH THE LENS DISPLAY; Premium, ultra clear, multilayered optics with easy read, through the lens display with…

The TecTecTec ProWild Hunting Rangefinder is quite similar to the Simmons LRF 600. It has a range of 540 yards, it’s water-resistant, lightweight, and doesn’t include the bells and whistles you get with the higher-end models.

The only reason we’d prefer this rangefinder over the LRF 600 is due to its unique design. If you like standing out, the unique exterior design will, without a doubt, make you the center of attention.

However, with a maximum range of 540 yards, you may not be getting results close to what you get with the LRF 600.

When it comes to these two, it’s a matter of personal preference.

PROS

  • Easy to use

  • Incredible design

  • Lightweight

CONS

  • Has a limited range compared to Simmons

  • May not be the most durable

Where to buy

TACKLIFE MLR01 900 Yard Laser Rangefinder


Hunting Rangefinder 900 Yards 7X Laser Range Finder with Pinsensor,…

  • 900 YARD/7X MAGNIFICATION – Features the latest technology, it can measure up to longer distance of 900 yards; 7x…
  • RANGE/SPEED/SCANNING/ PIN MODEL – Four model can be changed freely. It is capable of straight line…
  • CONVENIENT USB CHARGING – Equipped with 750mah rechargeable lithium battery, it can measure more than 30000 times after…

TACKLIFE MLR01 900 Yard Laser Rangefinder is an excellent option for the hunter who looking for some incredible features.

With a range of 900 yards and a magnification of 7x, you can rest assured you’ll have an easy time spotting your target.

This rangefinder can also measure straight line distance, vertical height, angle, and horizontal distance. And that’s not all. The Tacklife rangefinder also features USB charging, which means you won’t have to keep replacing your battery.

Not to mention, it’s water-resistant so you can use it all year round. When it comes to Tacklife vs. Simmons LRF 600 review our bet is on Tacklife. You get so much more from this rangefinder.

PROS

  • Water-resistant

  • Wide range and magnification

  • Easy to use

  • Efficient

CONS

  • Sensitive focus adjustment

  • The display is hard to read

Where to buy

Simmons LRF 600 Review: Verdict

If you’re looking for a lightweight rangefinder that’s compact enough to fit in the palm of your hand and light to carry in your pocket, you won’t go wrong with the Simmons LRF 600.

This range finder is extremely easy to use. It may not have the features you expect in high-end models, but it gets the job done. However, if you’re looking for a rangefinder with more features and functionality, this may not be the best option.

Was this Simmons LRF 600 review useful? What do you think about this rangefinder? Let us know in the comments section. We’d love to hear from you.

Featured image by: Amazon

How to Break in Football Cleats for a Comfortable Game

It’s common for new players to wonder how to break in football cleats before a game. Cleats are an essential piece of equipment for football players and having them as comfortable as possible affects performance. As a result, learning how to break in football cleats before you play your first game is essential.

After all, football players need a lot of traction to get up to top speed quickly. They also need their cleats to be comfortable so that they don’t have any issues when they start to sprint.

But before you can learn how to break in football cleats, you need to understand what they are in the first place.

What Are Football Cleats?

kicking football

Image via Unsplash

Cleats are a type of shoe worn in many different sports around the world. Soccer, football, baseball, and lacrosse players all wear cleats. There are even variations of cleats for cyclists and track athletes.

Although there are differences between cleats in every sport, they all have similarities. Cleats are shoes with protrusions on the sole of the shoe. These protrusions from the cleats provide extra traction for athletes that would otherwise struggle to push off on soft and slippery surfaces.

Without cleats, football couldn’t be played on turf as easily, at least not at the speed it’s played at right now. Instead, it would need to be played on grass, and even then, athletes wouldn’t get the type of traction they get from cleats.

How Are Football Cleats Different from Soccer Cleats?

As we mentioned above, athletes wear cleats in many different sports. One of those sports is soccer, and cleats worn by soccer players are very similar to football cleats. However, some distinct differences make it necessary to get different cleats for soccer and football.

Different cleat types

gold cleats

Image via Unsplash

Firstly, not every football player wears the same kind of cleats. That’s because there are so many positions in football, and players are doing vastly different things depending on their position. The quarterback, linesman, and wide receiver have different skill sets.

There are three different types of football cleats, whereas there is only one type of soccer cleat. Soccer cleats all have a low-cut style that gives players the ability to maneuver and change direction with greater ease.

Conversely, football players have low-cut, mid-cut, and high-tops. High-top cleats provide extra support for the ankle and are preferred by linesman. They provide support for lateral movements needed for the position.

Mid-cut cleats only surround a small portion of the ankle. These cleats provide a little support, but they give the athlete a lot more maneuverability. Defensive backs, running backs, wide receivers, and quarterbacks prefer mid-cut.

Low-cut shoes are the last common cleats worn by football players, but defensive backs sometimes prefer them. This is because they are very light and enable them to reach their top speed quicker.

Weight

You might have picked up on it when we were describing the different cleat types, but soccer cleats are generally a lot lighter than football cleats.

They need to be lighter because soccer players are constantly running throughout the game. As a result, they need cleats that will help conserve their energy.

Toe stud

The last significant difference between football and soccer cleats is the toe stud. Football cleats usually feature a stud near the big toe that is absent in soccer cleats.

This stud gives players a little more grip when pushing off from a hunched position. Since soccer players are usually standing up, the toe stud wouldn’t provide any extra traction.

What Should You Look for in a Pair of Football Cleats?

white yellow color cleats

Image via Pexels

Before you learn how to break in football cleats, you need to buy a pair first. When purchasing a pair of cleats for your kids or yourself, remember that comfort is more important than cost.

We know that not everyone can afford the most high-end cleats, and you don’t need to buy them. However, you should consider investing a little more in a comfortable pair of cleats. Comfortable cleats will fit better and last longer than unfitted cleats, and as a result, they’ll last longer.

Furthermore, you need to know what position you or your child will play.

If you’re more of a skilled player, lightweight cleats will be best for you so that you can show off your fancy footwork. If you’re a linesman, you’ll need cleats that provide a lot of support.

Finally, you need to remember that cleats are not sneakers. Sneakers are meant to be comfortable and flexible. They are good shoes for going to school and running around with friends.

With that in mind, although cleats should be comfortable, they should not be nearly as flexible as regular sneakers. They should keep your feet in place, and they should fit more like a pair of dress shoes rather than sneakers.

Why Do You Need to Break in Your Cleats?

woman tying her cleats

Image via Unsplash

Although you may be ready for us to explain how to break in football cleats, you also might be wondering why you need to in the first place.

When you purchase a pair of football cleats, they’re going to be moderately stiff, which can be dangerous. That’s because when you’re playing football, your foot will be flexing and bending in ways it doesn’t in everyday life.

If your feet are stuck in position, you’ll be more likely to roll an ankle or hurt your foot. So, learning how to break in football cleats before you step out onto the field is essential.

How to Break in Football Cleats

Now it’s time for us to teach you how to break in football cleats. We’ll take you through several methods that are proven to be effective. Follow our instructions carefully, and you’ll be ready for a game in no time.

Walking

Flexing

Soaking

Steaming

Start Playing After Learning How to Break in Football Cleats

After reading, we hope you have a better understanding of how to break in football cleats. All four of the methods we discussed above should be effective, so you can choose whichever you prefer. As long as you follow our instructions carefully, you shouldn’t have a problem.

Are you a new or experienced football player? Do you understand how to break in football cleats? Let us know in the comments!

Featured image source: Pexels

How To Set Up A Tent In A Matter Of Minutes The Easy Way

Camping is one of life’s greatest pleasures. However, you can’t enjoy this amazing outdoor activity if you don’t know how to set up a tent.

While straightforward for some, learning how to set up a tent is often more challenging than it looks. And this fact is especially true if it’s your first time. When you’re all alone at your campsite, it could be a struggle to pitch your tent. If you don’t do it right, you will not have a decent place to sleep and relax.

Fortunately, even a beginner can set up a tent. All you need to know are a few key steps. Soon enough, you’ll be enjoying the beauty of nature instead of crying over a tent pole you don’t know where to put.

​What Is a Tent?

It would be logistically impossible to take your home while camping. Although you can’t have your plush bed, comforter, and pillow in the middle of a clearing, you can have something that comes close — a tent. A tent is made up of sheets of fabric and other materials attached to poles and frames.

Tents have been used as portable homes for many years, especially by nomads, disaster victims, soldiers, and campers. The main purpose of tents is to provide users a temporary shelter.

Given the popularity of tents for recreational purposes, we focus on small and light types of tents, which are usually used by backpackers. Most of these tents are so compact they can easily fit in any bag.

​Types of Tents

​There are many different kinds of tents available that offer distinct features and limitations. Here are the most common types of tents you can find on the market today.

​Dome tent


Coleman Sundome 4-Person Tent, Green

  • Dome tent with spacious interior allows you to move comfortably
  • Easy setup in only 10 minutes
  • WeatherTec system with patented welded floors and inverted seams to keep you dry

One of the most popular types of tent follows a dome structure. Knowing how to set up a tent is crucial if you have this type of tent. This tent is known for its flexibility thanks to its pole that can easily bend into a half-circle.

The flexible poles of this tent cross in the middle. Its sides are more vertical, which gives better headroom space and a bigger floor area.

​Basic ridge tent


Paria Outdoor Products Breeze Mesh Tent – Ultralight 2 Person Mesh…

  • ULTIMATE PROTECTION – The 30 Denier rip-stop silnylon floor has a silicon/PU dual-coating and fully taped seams,…
  • LIGHTWEIGHT – So light, you won’t even notice! Our mesh tent comes in at only 24 ounces, which also includes the line…
  • VERSATILE – Pair the Breeze mesh tent with our Sanctuary Siltarp to get the perfect shelter every time! During clear…

When you think of a tent, this type of tent may be the picture that comes to your mind. Basic ridge tents have a pole at every end, and some models have a cross pole or ridge which holds its shape.

This type of tent is a popular choice for campers thanks to its incredible stability, especially in harsh conditions. Although it is stable, you may not like the space that it offers. There is limited headspace to allow you to stand, so it’s not a top choice for family holidays.

​​​​Geodesic and semi-geodesic


Hubs Geodesic Dome Kit

  • Simple to snap together connectors that make durable geodesic domes quick, fun and easy to build.
  • The kit contains everything you need except for the sticks.
  • Scaleable – choose the size that suits you

The term geodesic refers to the shortest route between the world’s two points. This idea applies to a tent whose pole crisscrosses over its surface to form triangles. This structure helps balance the stress to make it more stable in extreme weather conditions.

Geodesic structures are the best tent to take while mountain climbing. So if you plan to pitch your tent in more extreme climates, keep an eye out for this tent.

​How to Set Up a Tent the Easy Way

Sleeping outdoors doesn’t have to be tough. Now that you know the importance of this camping must-have, it’s time to learn how to set up a tent.

When setting up your tent, always take your time. While an experienced camper may be able to set up a tent in a few minutes, someone just learning how to set up a tent may need close to an hour.

If you rush any of the important steps, you may end up with an unsecured temporary home. Just make sure to pitch your tent before night falls so you can have shelter to protect you from the wind.

​Before setting up

Setting up a tent is an art form. When learning how to set up a tent, keep in mind that you will get better in time. You are bound to run into some troubles on your first try, but that doesn’t mean it would be a bad experience.

Don’t set up your tent just yet. You first have to complete these preliminary steps before you can successfully pitch your tent for the night.

​Ensure you are carrying all supplies

​Check your tent

​Examine the campsite

tent pitched in a campsite

Image Via Pixabay

Before setting up your tent, observe your campsite first. Check to see if the ground is flat enough to be your base. Pick a wide and open space where you can pitch your tent. If you’re camping in a national park, ensure that you are setting up in a designated area. If not, double-check to be sure you’re not pitching your tent on private property.

Remove all rocks and debris from the site you choose to pitch your tent. If you’re somewhere with pine trees, you may even use the leaves to serve as a soft layer underneath your tent. Never set-up your tent where there are hollow areas since water may accumulate there if it rains.

You should also check out where the sun casts its light and which way the wind blows. Also, be on the lookout for beehives, cobwebs, and trees around your site. The last thing you want is to have a tree branch fall on top of your tent.

​​​​​​​​Placing the tarp

​The first step in learning how to set up a tent is to place the tarp on the ground. This step will serve as the protective layer between the ground and your tent so that it won’t gather moisture. Fold the tarp until it reaches a smaller size than your tent, just enough so it won’t hang beyond your tent’s edge. If your tarp is larger, it may accumulate rainwater.

​Laying the tent

man teaching young guy how to set up a tent

Image Via Flickr

​Now, you’re finally ready to break out your tent. Put all the components of your tent on the ground, including poles, stakes, and the fabric itself. Then, lay the bottom side of your tent on top of your tarp. Check to find where the door and windows should be positioned.

​Moving on with tent poles

This part may be intimidating for some people, but it’s actually very easy. Depending on which tent you have, connect it to your tent poles or bungee ropes. Ensure that you connect every single one. Then, lay the poles together across your flat tent.

Most tents come with two poles that connect to form an X in the middle. Insert the pole through the flaps on the corners and the top of each tent. Then, attach the clips to secure it. If you’re unsure of how to do this, you may check the instruction guide that came with your tent to see how the poles fit the proper way.

​Raising the tent

After you’ve inserted the poles, the next step in learning how to set up a tent is raising it. This step may be hard to do if you’re on your own, so if you have friends or family with you, ask for their help.

When the poles are inserted in the right spots of your tent, they will bend. This effect makes your tent stand up tall so you can sleep in it. Pull the tent’s corners apart and ensure that the poles are untangled until it aligns with your square tarp. Attach the necessary structural components of your tent, such as plastic hooks, to make it stand up.

​​​​​​Securing your tent

man pitching a tent

Image Via Flickr

Now that you’ve gotten your tent perfectly aligned with your tarp, insert the stakes on the flaps near the ground and push it firmly. This step is particularly easy to do, but when you find yourself in hard ground, use a good hammer. Keep in mind that some stakes bend with pressure, so be careful. You don’t want to break it.

The next step to secure your tent is to add a rain fly. This sheet will cover your tent to protect you from any rain that comes your way.

​After Camping

tents pitched in a campsite

Image Via Pixabay

Part of learning how to set up a tent is knowing what to do after you’ve used it. In this section, we’ve gathered everything you need to know about how to care for your tent.

​Drying your tent

​Packing up your tent

​Airing out your tent

​​​​​​Ready to Go Camping?

woman sitting beside a pitched tent

Image Via Pixabay

​See? Learning how to set up a tent isn’t as challenging as you thought. Even if you’re not an outdoor person, you can easily do this when the situation calls for it. Whether you need a tent for an overnight music festival or a weeklong camping trip, knowing how to set up a tent allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Once you’ve got your tent ready, you can finally toast some marshmallows, listen to the calming sounds of nature, and sleep soundly.

So do you have any additional tips on how to set up a tent? We’d love to read your thoughts in the comments below!

​Featured Image Via Pixabay

The 8 Best Tent Stakes For Keeping Your Shelter In Place

Staking a tent may seem like a no-brainer, but if you find yourself camping on terrain that is less than optimal, it can be frustrating. Rocks, hard-packed earth, or even soft earth like sand can lead to bent stakes, loose lines, and stress. This kind of pressure does not pair well with getting close to nature. You need to have the best tent stakes on hand that are suitable for your camping situation.

Tent stakes are often an overlooked afterthought, but they shouldn’t be. There are a ton of varieties of tent stakes out there.

With different weights, materials, and gripping ability, the best tent stakes are just waiting for you.

​table of comparison

​What Is This Madness?

​Having the best tent stakes on had means your tent is always secure. The tent stake that is best for you comes down the ground to which you are securing your tent.

Furthermore, you must consider how you plan to camp. Destination camping has different considerations compared to backpacking.

If camping and tent stakes are new to you, that’s OK. We found a video that walks you through how to secure your tent with stakes. As you decide which stakes work for you, it helps to visualize them in action.

​But My Tent Came with Stakes

​Not all tent stakes are the same. The tent stakes you receive with your tent tend to be on the cheap side. They may bend easily, break, or become lost.

There are plenty of tent stake options on the market that will suit your camping style and the conditions in which you prefer to camp.

For a video that walks you through some of the considerations in play when contemplating which is the best tent stake, watch this video.

​How We Reviewed the Best Tent Stakes

​In our review section, we are going to check into options for the best tent stakes given the situation you plan to camp. Usefulness and value of all of these camping stake options were balanced out before presenting, as well.

We viewed the tent stakes’ features and reviewed reviews of verified customers. We understand the reviews of others with hands-on experience with the stakes you are considering are valuable.

Also, video reviews of tent stakes gave us a comprehensive overview of what best tent stakes are available.

​Introducing the Stake-Off

​One of these may be the best tent stake set for your camping adventure.

In no particular order, we highlight the length and surface area of the stakes. We also present information regarding the weight of the stakes and the soil conditions in which they work best.


Eurmax Galvanized Non-Rust Camping Family Tent Pop Up Canopy Stakes…

  • 10 – pack with Bonus 4 10ft Ropes & 1 Green Stopper
  • Heavy-duty set of peg stakes,Approx. ¼”, ( 8 mm )
  • Material: galvanized steel for corrosion resistance

Euromax tent stakes are heavy-duty and made of galvanized steel. The galvanization process ensures they will resist rust and will not easily corrode.

The pack comes with 10 stakes that are 10 inches in length and include a large head for effortless driving. The tabbed head means it is easy to remove as the claw end of the hammer can quickly lift the stake.

They include milled points making them easier to drive into the hard or rocky ground. Also, they feature eyelets at the top for ease of anchoring.

Reviewers noted how heavy duty they are and discussed the stakes’ success even in high winds.

Others observed these stakes work rather well but are very large. The combined weight of several stakes may make them heavy compared to other tent stakes. Campers who backpack will want the weight the pros and cons of this type of stake.


MSR Groundhog Tent Stake Kit, 6-Pack, Mini – 6-Inch

  • 6-pack of lightweight, durable, and versatile camping and backpacking tent stakes that stay put
  • Three-sided Y-beam design offers superior penetration and holding power in a variety of soil types
  • Notch at top for securing guy lines; attached reflective pull loop allows for easy removal

MSR tent stakes come in packs of 6. These rugged stakes are each 6 inches long and are 7000-series aluminum.

The stakes are a three-sided Y-beam design making them very light and strong. They feature a notch at the top for guy lines, and the loop at the top of the stake is reflective, which makes them easy to pull out.

Reviewers noted how strong they were and tended to be surprised by their durability and function, even in strong wind. Despite being lightweight, these stakes work well in a variety of soil conditions, making them some of the all-around best tent stakes.

The following video gives you a good overview of these stakes. The stakes in the video were used regularly for a couple of years, so you can see the condition of the stakes after some real-world wear and tear.


IUMÉ 10 Pack Black Heavy Duty High Strength Steel Camping Tent Stakes…

  • PACKAGE – 10 Pcs tent stakes.
  • SIZE and WEIGHT – 11.8 inches (30cm) in length and the diameter of the stake is 0.39 inch (10mm). 5.7oz/160g yet heavy…
  • FIT HARD OR ROCKY GROUND – High tensile steel construction makes these tent stakes easy to penetrate the roughest…

IUME stakes come in a pack of 10 and are almost twelve inches long. Their diameter is 10 millimeters, and they are said to be unbreakable. They are made from high tensile steel and are made to work well with rough terrain. Also, the stake is entirely steel. There are no plastic parts to worry about breaking.

The heads of these tent stakes are flat, making them easy to pound into the ground. The stakes also have tie-off spots at the top for easy use.

The weight of these stakes is nearly 6 ounces each. While not as lightweight as other tent stakes, these stakes impress reviewers with their holding power in a variety of soil situations. Bear in mind how much weight in tent stakes you are willing to carry when considering this option. 10 of these weigh almost 4 pounds. That doesn’t sound like much until you’re backpacking 30 miles up a mountain.

The Coleman steel spike stakes come in a pack of four. These stakes are 10 inches in length and include polypropylene tops that can handle the impact of being driven into the ground. These tops have a spot where the guy lines run, and a hook for the stakeout points.

These stakes work well in stony ground or similar terrain, and reviewers rave that they are reliable and substantial.

Reviewers do not recommend them for beach use, but they did very well in real-world situations of strong wind with no issues. Some reviewers discussed the tops do break and speculated that dry air and regular use makes them more brittle. Due to the value and sturdiness of these tent stakes, reviewers had no problem replacing them with the same brand.


All one tech Pack of 12, 7075 Aluminum Outdoors Tent Stakes Pegs

  • An ultra-light, three-sided, Hhigh-strength 7075 aluminum tent stakes metal that securely anchors your tent without…
  • 7 inches long camping stakes – Enough to make your tent firmly grasp the length of the ground
  • Our “Y” design aluminum tarp stakes penetrate and hold firmly in a wide range of soil conditions

All one tech’s tent stakes are seven inches long and are three-sided to create surface area for grip while in the ground.

They are lightweight aluminum, which is a consideration for backpacking campers. They come in packs of 12, as well.

Reviewers liked the looped top and commented on how reflective they are. The reflective surface saves you from having to add something bright to prevent tripping as they are easy to see and avoid. The loops at the top make retrieving them from the ground painless, as well.

Reviewers noted pounding them into the hard ground caused these stakes to break or bend but had great luck with other ground conditions. Others stated these stakes strike a nice balance between strength and weight.


Orange Screw: The Ultimate Ground Anchor | Small 4 Pack | Made in USA

  • Lifetime Breakage Guarantee – If you break it, we will replace it!
  • Manufactured in the USA from 100% recycled materials
  • Lightweight, easy to use and nearly indestructible

The Orange Screw tent stakes are manufactured in the United States and are nine and a half inches long. These stakes consist of recycled materials and come in packages of four.

This tent stake is very lightweight and durable. The company does have a lifetime warranty for breakage, so you can check these out without lasting disappointment if there is an issue. These screw into the ground, which makes them quite reliable even in the wind.

Reviewers note they work fantastic in the sand, but a couple struggled with hard ground and breakage when being used in this ground situation.


Lakesstory Strong Tent Stakes on Amazon-12 inch Galvanized Tent Pegs…

  • crafted of QUALITATIVE STEEL, these anchors tarp stakes won’t bend or broken, even when you hammer them;
  • The GALVANIZED FINISH prevents rust – ideal variant for an outdoor use;
  • A special design of these Lakesstory screw tent pegs tarp stakes provides a STRONGER HOLDING POWER;

Lakesstory’s tent galvanized stakes are qualitative steel. They are twelve inches long and come in a pack of twelve. Furthermore, the tips are sharp enough to make pounding into even frozen ground easy.

Their surface is anti-slip and is suitable to grip in mud and sand even in high winds. The stakes feature a unique form at the top as they have a bend that is not a closed-loop. You can tread rope easily. The hardened bend means you can hammer without worrying about breakage when using a hammer.

Reviewers noted these stakes are heavy duty and high quality. They may not be suitable for campers needing to carry their gear, though, given their weight. But if you’re driving and you need stakes that can withstand a lot of abuse, these might be the best tent stakes for you.

This video gives a fantastic overview not only of these stakes themselves but also an overview of the company.


Coleman 12-In. Steel Tent Stakes

  • Durable, heavy-duty plated steel construction
  • Perfect for camping on hard ground
  • Package includes 4 stakes

These Coleman tent stakes are a little different than the other Coleman stakes mentioned here. They are twelve inches long, and their design enables them to break through the tough ground.

Made of heavy-duty plated steel, they come in packages of four. These stakes have a one-year limited warranty directly from Coleman.

Reviewers note these stakes work well in hard soil and hold up nicely in high wind. Campers point out these stakes are not meant for trekkers, as they are heavy and large. Collectively they weigh a lot and take up some space.

​​What’s at Stake?

tent pitched by the mountain view

Not all tent stakes are created the same. While this is true, it does not mean different is lousy.

The weather and ground condition of your camping trip, coupled with your destination, should determine the best tent stakes for your needs.

After you factor in if you will be backpacking or driving up to your campsite, you can consider the weather and ground.

If you are doing cold-weather camping, you may end up pounding stakes into cold and hard ground.

If the weather forecasts wind, you will want to consider a longer and heavier stake.

But whatever your destination and means of getting there, we know something on our list will be perfect for you!

Which of these best tent stakes kept your tent secure? Let us know in the comments!

How Long Should I Run My Above Ground Pool Pump?

If you’ve sprung for a new model, you may be wondering, “How long should I run my above ground pool pump?” It takes some math, but the easy answer is: It depends. First, you’ll need to figure out the volume of water your pool holds as well as your pump’s capacity to figure out how long your pump needs to run to ensure a clean pool.

How Do I Figure Out How Long Should I Run My Above Ground Pool Pump?

Pool Pump on the ground

Image via pixabay.com

There are a couple of ways to figure out how long to run your pump. But keep in mind that there are a few factors that influence optimal run-time.

Along with knowing how much water your pump filters, you’ll need to keep an eye on the weather, temperature, and the chemical balance in your pool.

There is a minimum run-time, which makes it easy to establish a baseline for scheduling your pump.

Pool Pump Math

If you purchased the correct size pump for the volume of your pool, then you’re in luck. You can find the answer in your owner’s manual. However, if you purchased them separately, you may not find easy answers.

First, calculate the volume of your pool. Because above ground pools only have one depth, it’s easy:

  • For rectangular pools, the formula is: Multiply length by width by depth by 7.5 to get the volume in gallons

  • With circular pools, the formula is: Multiply diameter by the diameter by depth by 5.9 to get the total gallons.

  • For oval pools: Multiply length by width by depth by 5.9 to get the volume in total gallons.

You can also use an online pool volume calculator.

Calculate GPH

Once you know how much water your pool holds, you’ll need to figure out how fast your pump can run that volume through your filter. Knowing this will allow you to calculate how long it will take for your pump to process the entire pool.

The easiest way to find this information is to check your owner’s manual and look for its gallons per hour (GPH) rating. If you don’t have the manual, you may be able to find it online by searching for the make and model. You may be able to find it at an online library of pool equipment manuals.

Finally, if necessary, you can contact the manufacturer.

Minimum Turnover

When you’re researching “how long should I run my above ground pool pump,” you’ll find some conflicting information.

Some experts recommend running your pump long enough to turn over the water at least twice a day. Others recommend just running it through once.

Once again, the correct answer really just depends.

If your pool sees heavy use, it’s going to accumulate more debris. The more people in your pool, obviously, the dirtier your water will become.

However, if you’re not using your pool every day, one turnover will ensure that pool chemicals get distributed, and no algae build-up occurs.

The Secret Formula

Once you know your pool’s volume and your pump’s GPH capacity, the formula to figure run-time for one turnover is simple:

Pool volume divided by GPH = turnover time.

So, if your aboveground pool holds 12,000 gallons of water, and your pump’s GPH is 2,600, then you’d need to run your pump for 4.6 hours to perform a complete filtration of all the water in the pool.

So, still, the answer for “how long should I run my above ground pool pump” really depends on the capacity of your pool and the capacity of your pump.

For example, we’ve had two above ground pools in the last 15 years, with differing sized pumps. While both pools held 10,000 gallons, the GPH on the two different pumps meant running them for different lengths. The 2-horsepower pump was able to turn over the entire pool in about four hours. However, the pump that accompanied our second pool needed six hours of run time.

How Much Does Running My Pool Pump Cost?

Indoor pool

Image via pexels.com

If you’re wondering “how long should I run my above ground pool pump,” you may also be concerned about the cost of running it.

Depending on the size of your pump and the length of your swimming season, electrical costs for maintaining your pool can really add up.

One determining factor for answering the question of “how long should I run my above ground pool pump” might depend on how much it costs you to run it.

Pool maintenance can be time-consuming and expensive. Running your pool through two turnovers a day might be more or less efficient than increasing the use of chemicals or risking a complete algae takeover. You’ll need to weigh the costs vs. the time involved, while also taking chemical sensitivity and environmental impact into consideration.

So, let’s figure out the cost in dollars:

Here are the average electricity use of running a pump by horsepower:

  • 3/4-horsepower pump: 1.26 kWh average

  • 1-horsepower pump: 1.72 kWh average

  • 1.5-horsepower pump: 2.14 kWh average

  • 2-horsepower pump: 2.25 kWh average

  • 2.5-horsepower pump: 2.62 kWh average

  • 3-horsepower pump: 3.17 kWh

Find the horsepower of your pump and multiply that by the hours you need to run it for a complete turnover.

Then, compare it to the chart of average electrical costs per state from the U.S. Energy Information Administration to do the math.

For example, if you need to run your 2-horsepower pump for 4.6 hours per day for a complete turnover, and you live in Ohio, you’ll pay about $1.29 each time you filter your pool. To run it twice during the day, it will cost you $2.58.

Assuming your swimming season lasts from June to August, you’ll spend a total of about $238 over the summer to run two turnovers a day. If you only run it once, it will cost you about $119 for the summer.

How to Decrease the Cost of Running a Pool Pump

Once you’ve found the answer to “how long should I run my above ground pool pump,” you may be wondering how to reduce the cost of that runtime.

Right size

The simple solution to lowering the cost of running your pool pump is to ensure that your pump isn’t bigger or more powerful than you need. As seen above, the higher the horsepower, the more energy it consumes.

Increased efficiency

If you find you have an undersized or oversized pool pump, you may want to consider an upgrade. Choosing a more energy-efficient model best suited to the size of your pool is a good option.

You may also want to opt for a two-speed or variable speed pump. According to Florida Power and Light company, a dual-speed pump can result in an average savings of 24 percent, while a variable speed pump can deliver up to 72 percent savings when compared to a single-speed pump.

Adding a larger or more effective filter is another option. Diatomaceous earth, for example, is more efficient than a sand filter. In some cases, a better filter medium means you only have to run your pump through one turnover to keep it sparkling regardless of how much you use it.

A balanced approach

Making sure that you keep on top of your pool’s chemical profile with regular testing also means you won’t have to run your pump longer than strictly necessary.

Reduce debris

While debris itself only serves as a minor nuisance, it’s the side effects of that debris that increases your pool pump run time. Falling leaves and sticks carry organic matter that can result in increased algae in your pool.

Use a pool cover when you’re not actively using your pool. Not only will it cut down on debris entering the water, but it will also keep sunlight from depleting the chlorine. Pool chlorine degrades rapidly in sunlight.

It will also help prevent rapid evaporation. Why let perfectly clean and conditioned pool water evaporate into the ether?

Swimmers also carry organic matter into the pool with them, including plant matter, oils, and dead skin. Provide a tub for rinsing feet and encourage swimmers to shower before entering the pool.

The magic of moonlight

While swimming under the moon is both romantic and heavenly, night-time is also the best time of day to run your pool pump. And there are several reasons behind this.

First of all, many power companies offer reduced rates for electricity used at night. If you have a pool, contact your provider to find out more.

Secondly, your pool pump disperses chlorine when it’s running. So, to preserve the life span of your pool chemicals, add them at night while running the pool pump. This gives them all night to work without degrading in the morning sun.

Splitting the runtime is also a good option.

Many pool pumps come with timers installed, but if yours did not, you’re in luck. You can find an efficient and inexpensive pool pump timer and connect it directly between your pump and your outdoor outlet.

While you may be tempted to set it for the very small hours, remember that night time is the best time for adding your pool chemicals. And you’ll need to run your pump for several hours afterward. So, you may want to set it to start in the evening before you head off to bed.

Keep It Clean

Pool Cleaning machine

Image via pixabay.com

So, now that you know the answer to the question “How long should I run my above ground pool pump,” you can set your pump timer with confidence. Remember, however, that factors like weather and sun exposure means that you’ll still need to monitor your pool.

Most importantly, stay on top of your testing and conditioning schedule. While filtering goes a long way in keeping your pool clean, the water’s chemical balance still heads the list of priorities for pool owners.

How many hours do you run your pool pump every day? Do you find that you need to adjust it on occasion? Tell us about your pool care routine in the comments.

What Is Racquetball? The Origins and History of the Court Sport

What Is Racquetball?

Racquetball, sometimes called paddleball, is a super fun racquet sport played on an indoor court with a hollow rubber ball. Unlike most racquet sports, racquetball is played without a net or out of bounds areas. All four of the court’s walls along with the floor and ceiling are all legal playing surfaces in racquetball.

​The Origins and History of Racquetball

​While we’re answering the question of what is racquetball, it is important that we talk a bit about the origins and history of the sport.

Racquetball is a relatively new sport. It was created early in the 1900s by combining several popular sports like handball, tennis, squash, and jai alai. The game first appeared in the United States in the 1920s.

A professional handball, tennis, and squash player from Greenwich, Connecticut named Joseph G. Sobek has been credited with the invention of modern-day racquetball. He was working at a rubber factory in the 1940s when he designed the first rubber ball used in the sport today.

In 1952 Sobek founded the Paddle Racquet Association. From there he distributed rules for the game to all of the YMCAs in America. Racquetball quickly gained in popularity. In fact, by 1969 racquetball had become so popular around the world that a man named Robert Kendler founded the International Racquetball Association. That’s when the name of the sport was officially changed to racquetball.

Racquet and the blue ball

                                                      Image Source: Flickr

​Today there are more than 20 million people worldwide competing in the sport.

There has been a world championship held every year for the sport since 1981. And in 1995, the International Olympic Committee approved racquetball as an official Pan American Games sport.

Racquetball enthusiasts have high hopes that one day it will be an official Olympic sport too.

The rules of racquetball are established now but they can vary slightly by region or country. Australia, for example, plays the game in a standard international squash court which measures 32 feet by 21 feet. But Americans play in a court that measures 40 feet by 20 feet. The Australians also consider the ceiling to be out of bounds. In America, the ceiling is legally in play.

​The Objective of the Game

As we answer the question of what is racquetball, let’s talk a little about the game’s objective.

In racquetball, your objective is to win rallies by returning the ball or by serving so that your opponent can no longer keep the ball in play.

A rally will be over when a hinder is called. A rally is also over when a player or team doesn’t hit the ball before it bounces twice or when a player or team is unable to return a ball in a way that it hits the front wall before it hits the floor.

​Types of Racquetball Games

You can play racquetball with either two players (singles) or four players (doubles). There is also a variation of the game that you can play with three players called cut-throat.

When you play cut-throat, one of the players serves to the other two opponents. If the server wins a rally, they earn a point. However, if they lose the rally, then one of the other players becomes the server.

​Points and Outs

You score points in racquetball only when you are serving. A point is earned when you serve an irretrievable shot, called an ace, or when you win a rally.

If you are playing doubles, then when the first server loses his serve, the second player on the team will then serve. It’s side out when the second server loses his serve.

​Match, Game, Tiebreaker

You win a match in racquetball by winning two games.

In racquetball, you play the first two games of the match to 15 points. You only need to win the game by one point. If each player wins one game then you will need to play a tiebreaking game. The tiebreaking game goes to 11 points, and you need to win by at least 1 point.

​Equipment You Need for Racquetball

While we’re discussing what is racquetball, you should be aware of the equipment required. One of the things that we love about this sport is that it doesn’t require a bunch of expensive gear and equipment.

Basically you just need four things:

​Health and Fitness Benefits of Playing Racquetball

While we’re talking about what is racquetball, it’s important that you know that there are many health benefits to playing the game.

For one thing, it burns a ton of calories. On average you will burn between 640 and 822 calories per hour of play.

Another thing that we love about the game is that it works nearly every muscle in your body. Because you are using large muscle groups for sustained repetitive motion, you will burn more fat and calories.

Throughout a typical game, each player works at a constant rate of 75 to 85 percent of their maximum heart rate.

An average racquetball game takes about 20 minutes. And in that 20 minutes each player will run a distance of around 3,650 feet. That means you’ll run more than two miles in one hour!

You will get both aerobic and anaerobic benefits from playing racquetball. You will benefit from the sustained high-level heart rate along with the quick bursts of energy.

​Racquetball Tips for Beginners

Here are a few tips to get you started.

Take advantage of your opponent’s weaknesses

In order to be successful at racquetball, you are going to have to learn how to diagnose your partner. Take time during your warm-up to find out your opponent’s weaknesses. Are they weak in backhand shots? Do they have trouble with low shots?

During the warm-up make sure that you offer a wide variety of shots and speeds so that you can find where your partner’s weaknesses are. Then take advantage of those weaknesses during gameplay.

​Try to stay in the center of the court

​Avoid your opponent

​Hit to the back court

​But avoid the back wall

​Stop hitting balls into the ground

​​Learn from experienced players and videos

​What Is Racquetball? The Bottom Line

Now that we’ve answered the question, “what is racquetball,” hopefully you have a better understanding of this exciting sport.

Before you start practicing you should read through all of the rules of the game. It’s also a good idea to pair up with a more experienced player so that you can learn the proper techniques from the beginning. It’s a lot easier to learn how to hit the right way than to later have to unlearn bad habits.

Now we want to hear from you! Let us know in the comments section below what you think about racquetball. Are you new to the sport? Do you have any great tips for other newbies? Share those with our readers too.

Best of luck with your game!

​Featured Image Source: Unsplash

What Is Lacrosse? The Origins and History of the Sport

What is lacrosse? While it might just seem like any other sport to somebody who isn’t really into sports or the history behind them, it’s not. Lacrosse is a sport rooted in tradition, which we seem to have forgotten over the years.

What is Lacrosse?

lacrosse game

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Lacrosse is a game where the players divide into teams. Though it is popular worldwide, lacrosse is most common in the United States. Over the past few decades, lacrosse has made gains in popularity.

Today, people play lacrosse in most schools around the U.S, whether as an extracurricular activity or a gym class requirement. Even if you’re not positive what lacrosse is, you probably have some rough idea.

How lacrosse is played

Though original lacrosse and lacrosse in the modern-day do have their fair share of differences, the basics are the same. Lacrosse involves teaming up, a ball, some kind of carrying stick, and a goal.

The objective of the game is to get the ball, which is smaller than a soccer ball, into the other team’s goal. You can’t use your hands, though: That’s what the lacrosse sticks are for. You stick the ball in the netted end and throw it to your teammates and, eventually, into the goal.

The History of Lacrosse

One of the earliest accounts of lacrosse comes from a document written in 1612. You can describe the game as similar to field hockey, a popular game in Europe at the time. Interestingly enough, adults originally played the game, but today kids represent the largest demographic among players.

As life evolves, we tend to forget the origins of common things in our lives. For example, do you know where ketchup originated? Do you know why?

The answer is most likely no. It’s not your fault; as things become more widely used and accepted, we naturally stop putting emphasis on their roots. That habit we have is nothing to be proud of, and it’s definitely something to work on, but that’s for another day.

The Native American origins of lacrosse

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If you know the bare bones of the sport, you probably know that it has a Native American origin story. More specifically, lacrosse was first played by the Algonquians and the Powhatans. The two founding tribes were prevalent in and around eastern Virginia, where European settlers first arrived in their efforts for colonization.

Given that fact, it makes sense that they were the first seen playing lacrosse. It’s also why we associate them with the game even though there could definitely have been other tribes who played first. However, original lacrosse and the lacrosse we know today are not as similar as they might seem.

What was the original lacrosse like?

First of all, the game wasn’t originally called “lacrosse.” A French missionary named Jean de Brébeuf provided its current name. The game was actually called “stickball.”

The game involved a stick and a ball if you couldn’t guess. The sticks evolved as the game grew in popularity, going from simple tree branch mechanisms to more complex instruments made from bones, deer sinew, and fishing nets.

The balls had their share of evolution, too. Originally, they were just wooden balls. However, they became balls of sticks and fur, wrapped in deer hide to keep them together.

The original rules

lacrosse girls

image by unsplash

The original rules of lacrosse and the rules today actually aren’t terribly different. Players may not touch the ball with their hands. However, lacrosse players today have boundaries they need to stay inside, unlike the original version.

The ball couldn’t touch another player’s hand, but a player could touch another player. While there are still some allowances of contact in lacrosse, it’s nowhere near what it was. There were very few boundaries as far as gameplay and contact.

Though not technically a rule, the warm-ups for lacrosse were also different Today, players jog around and do exercises before a game. However, that was not always the case.

The players had a celebration the night before the game, complete with dancing and food that was thought to help them win. All in all, the sport was more focused on the community aspect rather than the logistics and best ways of winning.

What is lacrosse about today for the most part? Winning and following the rules, like a lot of sports have become.

What is lacrosse today that it used to be? It’s a great way to build leadership skills; it takes a good leader to win.

The cultural role of lacrosse in Native American traditions

Lacrosse brought people together. People used it as an act of communion, allowing them to play and have fun while exercising. In fact, the crowded games allowed a wide range of players to participate.

Though the game is recreational, it is also great to tone its participants, making them more apt for the hardships of hunting and gathering. Gaining the ability to chuck a ball was training for things like throwing spears or knives.

Players painted their faces and bodies with charcoal. That would help to differentiate between the teams, which would otherwise be too large and confusing to keep track of. Overall, lacrosse was a symbol of union, a symbol of joy, and it has remained that way.

Lacrosse in the Modern World

adult-athletes-athletics

image by pexels

Lacrosse in the modern world differs from lacrosse in the old world. The sticks are more advanced, the balls are made of a different material. In today’s lacrosse, especially for women, referees won’t let you play without proper gear, and they are enforcing safety rules with an iron fist.

Lacrosse underwent name changes, rule changes, and societal changes. However, something that still hasn’t changed is the fact that lacrosse still brings people together. People connect over their love for the sport and form lifetime bonds while they play together.

The modern benefits of lacrosse

Besides being an extremely physical sport that will help to keep you healthy, lacrosse has several different benefits. When you’re trying to choose a sport to play, lacrosse should not be overlooked.

Colleges give out tons of sports scholarships. When you think of them, you may not necessarily think “lacrosse.” You probably think about football, because everybody thinks about football.

In reality, it’s sports like lacrosse or rowing that are in demand with colleges. The sports that students overlook because they’re not as common are the sports with fewer team members. Fewer team members mean more open spots, which could translate to lower tuition.

Another benefit is the extreme amount of self-control lacrosse takes to play. What is lacrosse? A sport that looks like it should be extremely violent, but it just…isn’t.

lacrosse

image by pixabay

What gameplay is like today

Lacrosse still uses a stick and a ball. However, now, there are specific guidelines the players have to follow, such as safety and boundaries as far as gameplay. Lacrosse today is done in teams of no more than nine, while there was no limit in the game’s original version.

Today’s version of the sport is also able to be played indoors. Often times, you’ll see lacrosse players joining teams year-round, even though the game is technically a spring sport. That helps them stay in shape and capable of performing well in the spring season.

lacrosse-college-game

image by pixabay

Lacrosse in pop culture

Lacrosse has had its fair share of influences on pop culture. Everyone knows “Mean Girls.” At the end of the movie, when Regina George decides to start disposing of her anger in a healthy way, what does she play? Lacrosse.

Granted, the game Regina plays is absolutely not what real lacrosse is like; that level of violence in a girls’ lacrosse league is unheard of. If she tried that in real life, she’d be dismissed from the team.

Lacrosse is also compared to Quidditch — the fictional game played by Harry Potter. The resemblance is definitely there; there are sticks, and some type of ball, and goals. However, if you call a Quidditch player a lacrosse player, do not be surprised when you get throat-punched by a superfan.

A Game of Sticks

Lacrosse is a timeless game. It’s an amazing way to release aggression and form friendships, and it has some practical benefits, too. Colleges don’t take sports lightly.

Remembering the game’s origins is important, and yet, it is so often forgotten. The times of old-school stickball seem so far gone, and they definitely are, but what is lacrosse without stickball? It’s nonexistent.

What is lacrosse? It’s yet another sport that has become so widely loved by the American public, especially. It is a sport that has ended up slowly losing touch with its heritage.

It’s time to remember.

What is lacrosse to you? Have you ever played? Let us know in the comments!

Hit the Court with the 8 Best Racquetball Shoes

Racquetball is a very technical sport, and having the best racquetball shoes could drastically improve your performance. It’s a sport where you usually play one on one against another person, so there’s no one to rely on but yourself. As a result, getting every edge you can from your equipment is necessary.

To succeed in racquetball, you need a balance of endurance, speed, and coordination. All three attributes are essential for someone to succeed as a racquetball player. However, you won’t be able to rise to the next level without the best racquetball shoes.

Finding the best racquetball shoes may seem complicated, but if you do the research, you can find a pair that lasts you a long time. As you dig into the variety of available shoes, you may have questions you want to have answered, and many more may arise. So, before you make a purchase, make sure you have all your most pressing questions answered.

Answering Your Most Pressing Questions to Help You Find the Best Racquetball Shoes

You may have a lot of questions about what makes the best racquetball shoes. Having those questions answered correctly could save you money in the long run. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of several questions that we think you should have answered before you buy a pair of racquetball shoes.

What is racquetball?

Racquetball is a cross between tennis and squash, and as a result, it’s often forgotten with many other racquet sports being more popular. However, it’s easier to play than those alternatives, and it’s an ideal sport for the winter. Luckily, if you’re interested, racquetball is a sport you can learn to play in less than five minutes.

Racquetball is played on a squash court, but you use a bigger and bouncier blue ball. You also use a racquet that has a larger head and shorter handle. This makes it easier to use than standard squash or tennis racquets.

Racquetball is an excellent game for people of all ages. Additionally, there is the option to play singles or doubles.

The basic premise of racquetball is that two players each take turns hitting a ball with a racquet into a wall within a large defined area. A red line represents that area at the top and bottom of the wall. Hitting the ball outside the red line is considered out of bounds.

A rally starts like any other racquet sport, with one player serving the ball. If the serve is successful, the opponent will then attempt to return the serve. When striking the ball, it must hit the front wall, but it can hit the side walls first.

However, the ball cannot go out of court, hit an opponent, or touch the floor before reaching the front wall.

A standard game of racquetball consists of three games, and each game is played to 15 points. You play all three games, and the person with the most points over three matches wins.

Conversely, you can play a best of three. In this format, the games are to 21 points. The first person to win two games wins the match.

What’s the difference between racquetball shoes and regular shoes?

The most significant difference between regular tennis shoes and racquetball shoes is a result of the court surfaces. In tennis, the shoes need to provide stability and toe protection on the harder service. Conversely, in racquetball, there’s a lot more starting and stopping, and as a result, the best racquetball shoes will provide extra control and movement.

Both sports have different requirements for player’s shoes to avoid scuffing the court. Tennis players are required to wear shoes without a dark sole. Racquetball players need to wear gum-soled shoes that won’t leave black streaks.

Furthermore, tennis shoes have stronger edges for lateral movement and a blunter toe for stopping after charging the net. Alternatively, racquetball shoes have a breathable rubber on the sole to give players more traction on the slicker racquetball courts.

Finally, injuries are a problem athletes try to avoid in every sport. In tennis, knee and ankle injuries are common because of the quick side-to-side movements, so tennis players wear shoes with more lateral support.

In racquetball, there’s a lot of hard impact from starting and stopping so frequently. As a result, athletes wear shoes with more heel and forefoot cushioning.

What should you look for in the best racquetball shoes?

Before you purchase what you think are the best racquetball shoes, you need to know what you’re looking for in the first place. Racquetball is a sport that requires you to switch from lateral, to forward, to backward movements regularly. As a result, you need shoes that help you in that area.

Running shoes are the worst type of shoes you can wear in a racquetball court. That’s because manufacturers design running shoes for forward movement. As a result, they have minimal ankle support, which is essential for a racquetball player.

Some manufacturers make shoes specifically for racquetball, but you don’t need to wear those shoes. You can also wear basketball and volleyball shoes as they play on a similar surface as racquetball. Additionally, players from those sports move in a similar way to racquetball players.

When looking for the best racquetball shoes, you’ll want shoes that provide a lot of ankle support. You’ll also want a pair of shoes that provides a lot of cushion for the constant impact. Finally, racquetball shoes should have a lot of traction to compensate for the slick surface of a racquetball court.

What other equipment do you need to play racquetball?

The things that are essential to play racquetball are a pair of shoes, a racquet, and a ball. However, there are a few other pieces of equipment that you might appreciate if you plan on playing frequently.

Firstly, eyewear is essential for any racquetball player. Even if you don’t think you’re the strongest person in the world, you’d be surprised how fast the ball can get going. It doesn’t help that the ball fits perfectly into your eye socket.

You won’t need the eyewear until you do, but when you do, you’ll appreciate you had it. No one wants to go blind playing a game of racquetball, so wear your eyewear.

Furthermore, you may also want a pair of gloves. Gloves aren’t essential, but they are useful. They provide extra grip to make your racquet more secure in your hand.

They also help you avoid blisters and calluses that will inevitably form on your hands without gloves.

How We Reviewed to Find Some of the Best Racquetball Shoes

When you purchase a pair of shoes, you’re making an investment. This is especially true when buying racquetball shoes. As a result, we wanted to make sure we only featured some of the best racquetball shoes on the market.

To ensure that we only had high-quality shoes on our list, we looked at professional reviews from websites such as Runrepeat and Dailybadminton.

We also value the opinion of consumers, so we only considered shoes that received high praise from the people that use them the most.

8 of the Best Racquetball Shoes Available

Here we’ll look at eight of the best racquetball shoes on the market. You should note that although this is a numbered list, we did not rank the shoes. Instead, the shoes are listed in alphabetical order.

1. ASICS Gel-Rocket 9

This attempt to create the best racquetball shoes is from ASICS. These shoes are made from synthetic-mesh, and they have a rubber sole. They have a traditional lacing closure to provide enhanced cushioning and shock absorption.

Additionally, the shoes are lightweight and have a foam-padded collar and tongue. The shoes also have a breathable mesh lining and a cushioned footbed for extra cushioning.

2. HEAD Men’s Grid 2.0

These shoes from HEAD are synthetic, and they have a rubber sole. They are made explicitly for racquet sports, including racquetball.

The shoes have an air mesh upper to provide extra breathability. They also have a non-marking gum rubber outsole. This is a requirement for many racquetball courts.

3. HEAD Men’s Sonic 2000

This attempt to create the best racquetball shoes is also from HEAD. These shoes have a non-marking gum rubber, which, as we mentioned earlier, is a requirement on many racquetball courts.

They also have a comfortable EVA midsole. Additionally, the HEAD Heel Energy Frame provides you with extra support.

Finally, the shoes are lightweight, weighing only 11.6 ounces.

4. Huacud Mens Walking Athletic Shoes

These shoes by Huacud are extra comfortable with its soft, breathable upper. The upper is knit for extra comfort. The shoes are also lightweight and have excellent bounce-back and durability.

These shoes also have the added benefit of having a unique design for athletic shoes. This design makes them a viable option for shoes to wear off the court.

The outlook and outsole are specially engineered to keep you feeling fast and light with every step. Finally, the shoes come in four colors.

5. La Moster Men’s Athletic Running Shoes

This attempt to create the best racquetball shoes is from La Moster. The shoes have a rubber sole for extra cushioning. Additionally, the shoes are breathable, lightweight, and comfortable, making them an excellent option for any athletic event.

These shoes are a good option for casual wear so that you can go straight from work or school to the racquetball court. La Moster also has a 24-hour response time if you have any issues with the shoes.

6. LI-NING Men Badminton Training Professional Badminton Sports Shoes

These shoes come in a plethora of colors, and they’re an excellent option for a pair of racquetball shoes. The manufacturer made these shoes with technology that provides breathability and extra traction.

LI-NING also promises that all shoes are made to be high-quality. If the size isn’t right or you aren’t satisfied with the quality, you can send the product back and get your money back.

7. Mishansha Men’s Athletic Court Tennis Shoes

This attempt to create the best racquetball shoes comes from Mishansha. These shoes are synthetic and have portions that are made from mesh. They also have a rubber sole for extra comfort.

The upper is made from composite breathable mesh and synthetic leather to keep your feet dry. The shoes also have a padded tongue to provide you with extra comfort.

Furthermore, the shoes have arch support inside, and a smooth, skin-friendly fabric lining. The midsole is also flexible and cushioned, which helps with shock absorption.

This shoe is an excellent option for racquetball and almost any other sport.

8. PUMA Men’s Cell Surin 2 FM Cross-Trainer Shoe

These shoes from PUMA are 100 percent synthetic. They come in four colors to give you a few customization options. Consumers also found the shoes to be comfortable.

The synthetic upper of the shoes have perforations. This provides you with a little bit of breathability.

Lace-up with the Best Racquetball Shoes on the Market

After reading through our list of eight of the best racquetball shoes on the market, we hope that you’re a little bit closer to finding the best shoes for you. We know that it can be overwhelming, and there’s a lot to consider, but don’t buy the first shoes you find out of frustration. Purchasing a good pair of shoes now will save you money in the long run.

When looking for the best racquetball shoes, remember that you want shoes that provide ankle stability, traction, and cushioning. All factors are essential for a racquetball player. If you find a pair that offers all three, you might have a good pair of racquetball shoes.

We want to tell you what the best racquetball shoes are, but we can’t. Everyone has different needs, so to declare one pair as the best racquetball shoes for you would be irresponsible. However, we can say with confidence that all shoes featured on the list above were received well by consumers.

Have you played racquetball before? What do you think are the best racquetball shoes on our list? Let us know in the comments!

How to Train for a Spartan Race and Come out on Top

man crawling in spartan race

It spans 30 countries, features over 200 events, and is an ordeal consistently sold as something that will change your life. If you haven’t heard of it, this is the Spartan Race. And, if you have and you’re trying to learn how to train for a Spartan Race, you need to understand that it’s both a mental and physical game.

People have competed in these obstacle course races for years, and many new competitors are signing up every day. Consisting of a variety of obstacles like rope swings and crawling through mud, the competition tests people’s mental and physical limits.

With a variety of race types and gear available to tackle them, you have quite a broad range of choices, and it might seem overwhelming.

Break Through the Confines of Your Mind and Body

So, how do you prepare for something like this?

If you break down the Spartan Race into two components, you begin to realize that there are a couple of facets that you need to focus all of your attention on.

First, build up your mental capacity. You can train your body to lift 200 pounds and squat 200 more, but none of that matters if you don’t have the mentality locked down.

You have to have confidence and a strong will to compete in a race like this, so building that mental toughness is half of your battle.

The other half is the physical side, and this takes time, effort, and energy.

Depending on how fit you are, you may need more or less preparation for the race. Either way, physically bracing your body isn’t an easy task.

However, if you have the mental stamina, the physical part should be a lot easier.

First, let’s take a look at some of those mental points you need to master when learning how to train for a Spartan Race.

Consistency

When learning how to train for a Spartan Race, you undoubtedly will get hit with a wave of emotions.

With a whirring mind, it’s essential to focus on practicing your techniques, exercises, and even eating consistently.

It’s easy to say that you’ll enter a Spartan Race six months from now. And it’s even easier to start going to the gym every day. But, how long does that consistency last?

After that first week, what typically happens? You miss one day at the gym because your kid’s soccer practice ran late, or you had to stay at work an extra hour. Then, that inconsistency begins snowballing.

Only a month in, and you’re not even sure you want to compete anymore. Setting a goal and then not keeping up with it is damaging to your mind. It destroys confidence, so make sure that you stay consistent.

You’ll probably have to make sacrifices in other areas of your life.

They may not be significant sacrifices, but they’re present none the less. Work toward your goal every day, and you’re sure to compete to the best of your abilities once race day arrives.

Prepare mentally

mentally prepared

Image via Pixabay

Yes, a Spartan Race is about performing physical feats that you once thought were impossible. However, there’s much more to it than building your muscles and losing some weight.

There’s an entire mental side to the race, too.

Even outside of endurance events like these, athletes mentally prepare for their respective sports in several different ways.

For example, many endurance participants are going to encounter multiple obstacles and unexpected challenges along the way. When they prepare mentally, they must understand that unexpected things will happen.

It may rain the day of the race, and some competitors will lose their cool when this happens. But, if the competitor reframes the event into a challenge they can overcome, they have a much better shot at doing their best.

It’s also vital to think about the process while training, but not to analyze the result. Focusing on the present, performing to the best of your abilities, and just paying attention to the processes of your workouts can significantly help.

Set attainable goals

Understanding how to train for a Spartan Race requires knowing what exactly your goals are. Some people want to prove to themselves that they can finish no matter the placement while others come in with a “win or go home” mentality.

That’s why it’s crucial from the start to set goals that are realistic and attainable.

If it’s your first Spartan Race, odds are you’re not going to win. So, it would benefit you to focus on just finishing it the first time around.

There’s a system called SMART goals that helps people focus on what their goals really are. The acronym stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound.

A goal with no clear end in sight does you no good. However, if you set a significant goal that’s achievable and measurable, you’ll feel much better about yourself and know exactly what you have to do to get it.

You can even use SMART goal-setting for smaller goals like training exercises you want to complete on a particular day or reading a chapter about mental preparation for the race out of a book.

Create good habits

man-and-woman-doing-workout

Image via Pexels

Besides staying consistent, another aspect to consider when learning how to train for a Spartan Race is the vital component of habits and good habit-building.

Often, no matter what area of life you look into, people form habits. Whether it’s for a job, relaxing activities, or exercising, people create both good ones and bad ones.

Creating good habits is sometimes tricky for several reasons. For instance, forming a habit of drinking water over soda is hard when your refrigerator is full of soda and hardly any water.

The same type of thinking applies to habits you can build in preparation for a Spartan Race.

Much like consistency, making it a habit of going to the gym every day or every other day is crucial. Start thinking positively. If you start thinking positively all the time, it soon becomes an automatic action that you don’t even have to think about.

This could help if you fall behind during the race. Instead of negative thoughts bogging you down, positive ones will automatically bubble to the surface and give you the confidence you need to succeed.

When learning how to train for a Spartan Race, there may be nothing more important than maintaining good habits.

Push Your Limits

It’s a broad concept, but it’s one that needs addressing if you’re going to do well in a competition like a Spartan Race.

Getting outside of your comfort zone and pushing your limits are two healthy ways that you can grow mentally and physically.

You don’t know what you’re capable of until you get out there and see where your beginning thresholds are.

So, it’s best to find what your limit is and then exceed it just a little bit. Gradually, your limit stretches, and you slowly begin to grow.

This falls in line with things like consistency and habits. Once you push yourself mentally, your physical body is sure to follow.

Understanding how to train for a Spartan Race is all about pushing limits.

More Than a Mental Game

So far, you’ve got down the mental preparation part. You’ve made sure that you’ve pushed your limits and that you have confidence going into the competition.

But, understanding how to train for a Spartan Race is much more than a mental game. That’s only half of the equation. You also have to be physically capable of performing feats an average human couldn’t.

That begs the question of how in the world do you physically prepare for something like the Spartan Race? It turns out that there are a few exercises out there that whip your body into shape and prepare you for greatness.

Pull-ups

Bear crawl

Burpee

Ninja jump

Walking lunge

Change Your Life

Today is as good a day as ever to start training for one of these races. There are many Spartan Race dates available throughout the year, so finding one that fits within your schedule shouldn’t be too difficult.

If you’ve been thinking about a Spartan Race, it’s time to make a decision. Do some research today and, if it sounds like fun or you know you want to challenge yourself, then do it.

However, the first step toward all of this is learning how to train for a Spartan Race. Jump into the unknown and change your life forever.

Do you know someone who competed in a Spartan race? What was their experience like? Let us know in the comments below.

Featured image source: Unsplash