7 Best Snowboard Boots Reviews

Snowboarding is a sport that offers an adrenaline rush and has the potential to become a lifelong passion for those who try it. Investing in quality gear is crucial to make the most of your snowboarding experience, with the most important component being your boots. Your boots will be in close contact with your feet for hours at a time, making comfort and responsiveness key factors in your selection.

When looking for snowboard boots, consider factors such as support, flexibility, and warmth. A good pair of boots should provide enough support to stabilize your feet and ankles, reducing the risk of injury. At the same time, they should be flexible enough to allow for proper movement and control over your board. Finally, warmth is important as snowboarding often involves being in cold conditions for extended periods.

It’s essential to keep in mind that investing in quality snowboard boots is a long-term investment that will greatly impact your snowboarding experience. For example, poorly fitting boots can cause painful blisters, discomfort, and a frustrating experience on the slopes. On the other hand, a good pair of snowboard boots will significantly improve your performance and provide a comfortable, enjoyable experience on the mountain.

It’s also worth mentioning that the fit of your boots is crucial. Try on multiple pairs of boots and take the time to find the right fit for your feet. Your boots should be snug but not too tight, with enough room for your toes to move freely. Remember that snowboard boots will often feel tighter than other types of shoes or boots because they need to provide ample support for your ankles.

In conclusion, finding the best snowboard boots is essential in enhancing your snowboarding experience. A good pair of boots will provide comfort, support, and responsiveness, allowing you to focus on the thrill of the sport. So take the time to find the right pair of boots for your needs, and enjoy the ride.

So, what are the best snowboard boots on the market right now?

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Here are Our Full Reviews of the 7 Best Snowboard Boots for 2023

DC Snowboard Boots


DC Men’s Control ’18

  • Get a fully customized fit every time you get dialed-in with the DC Control snowboard boot!

DC is a reputable brand in the snowboarding industry. It’s known for producing the best of the products, and the DC Phase boots are no exception. These boots are made from a refined leather and usually come in three colors.

With a middle flex rating, they make a good choice for intermediate borders. The soft insole and removable inner liner might not win you awards, but at least they’ll make you comfortable and feel dry all day long.

PROS

  • comfortable to use

  • feel dry all day

  • good choice for intermediate borders

CONS

  • not for pro-boarders

  • not so much insulation

  • will require thermal socks for best experience

Salomon Faction BOA Snowboards Boots

Salomon boots are popular for their great fit and feel on the feet. Even with their budget boots, Salomon always brings its A-game. While they are newcomers to snowboarding boots, they are proving to be a force to reckon with.

The Faction BOA boasts of its advanced features including a single dial coil system, an Ortholite C1 foot bed, as well as a D-light outsole. While they may not be the perfect full custom shoes, they are probably the most comfortable boots you can buy.

Salomon pegged these boots on medium flex, making them a great choice for beginners and intermediate boarders.

PROS

  • Budget boots

  • Good shock absorption

  • Great choice for beginners

CONS

  • poor adjustability

  • average traction

  • intermediate heel hold

Adidas Acerra ADV


thirtytwo Men’s TM-2 ’18

  • Be ready for every ride with the thirtytwo TM-2 ’18 boot.

The Acerra ADV is designed to conquer the mountains, dishing out unrivaled levels of control, comfort, and support. Its dual BOA closure system properly keeps the foot in place with the upper and lower zones providing an excellent fit.

Combine that with its heat-moldable, dual-density foam liner, and you get all-day comfort. Moreover, for heavy landings, it has a BOOST midsole that provides extra cushioning than the standard EVA foam in most boots.

PROS

  • design for heavy landings

  •  extra cushioning

  • keeps the foot in place

CONS

  • cost

  • little improve on traction

  • expensive for most users

Burton Ruler Step-On


Burton Moto Boa Snowboard Boot – Men’s Black, 11.0

  • LACING: Boa System Featuring Coiler Technology, Powered by Burton Exclusive New England Ropes with the Boa Guarantee
  • FLEX / RESPONSE: 1:1 Soft Flex Tongue
  • COMFORT: Total Comfort Construction, Snow-Proof Internal Gusset

These boots not only utilize the BOA lacing system but also doesn’t require any strapping – just step in and you are good to go. And you also don’t have to worry about the fit, the lacing system works like a ski binding boot system.

In addition, the three-point lock-in design has tremendously improved the board’s feel and response. The Burton Ruler Step-Ons also come in two options – stiff and soft boots. Thus, it offers you the flexibility to meet your preferences.

PROS

  • on and off ease

  •  very comfortable

  • great flexibility

CONS

  • poor adjustability

  • reduced footprint 

  • cost

K2 Taro Tamai


System APX Men’s Snowboard Boots (10)

  • Liner: Thermofit Heat Moldable Get the perfect fit from your boots, eliminate pressure points, and ride in comfort all…
  • Lacing: Reenforced Traditional Laces The APX uses traditional lacing to allow riders to easily keep the boot tight in…
  • Warranty: 3 Years A three year warranty against manufacturer defects guarantees that this will be one of the longest…

Taro Tamai is known for bringing surfing into the snowboarding world. With a rugged double BOA construction and smooth flex, these boots are perfect for flowy snowboarding and powder surfing.

PROS

  • extremely comfortable and warm

  • excellent flexibility

  • softest high end boot

CONS

  • BOA Needs Constant Adjusting

  • not design for riding

  • Poor Adjustability

Adidas Tactical ADV


Adidas Skateboarding Men’s Tactical ADV Snow Boot ’18

  • Inspired by the iconic turf shoe, the adidas Snowboarding Samba ADV snowboarding boots deliver authentic style and…

PROS

  • extremely comfortable and warm

  • excellent flexibility

  • softest high end boot

CONS

  • BOA Needs Constant Adjusting

  • not design for riding

  • Poor Adjustability

Choosing the Best

Snowboard Boots

There are various factors that go into choosing the best pair of snowboard boots for you.

Terrain/style

Choosing the right snowboard boots all depends on the type of terrain that you snowboard on. Do you snowboard on the rough hills or on a groomed track?

If you plan on boarding and carving down slopes, you’ll want a pair of all-mountain snowboarding boots.

If you will be doing tricks and will be in the park most of the time, you’ll want to choose a pair of freestyle boots.

Boot flex

This is one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing the right pair of boots.

If you are a beginner snowboarder, you’ll want to choose a pair of soft and flexible boots. These are more comfortable and will be more forgiving for a beginner.

If you’re an advanced snowboarder, you’ll need less of a boot flex. This will allow for more aggressive turns and harder landings.

Lacing system

There are three different lacing systems for snowboard boots:

  • Quick pull – Quick-pull lacing is the neutral option, it is fairly easy and can be done while wearing gloves.

  • Traditional – Traditional lacing is the most difficult lacing option. It’s tough on your hands, and almost impossible with gloves on. However, it offers the best custom fit because you can choose where the laces are tightest.

  • Boa – This is the easiest lacing option. It uses a dial to adjust the laces, which of course can be done while wearing gloves. 

Fit

When you’re trying to figure out the best fit for your new snowboard boots, they should be pretty snug and tight for the first few days that you use them.

You’ll want your toe to gently touch the tip of the boot, but you don’t want them to be squished.

Your heel should stay in place when you bend your knees, and your toe should slightly move back.

Be sure to try on the boots with socks on so you can get the best idea of how they will fit.

Materials

Most snowboard boots are made from synthetic material, but you can find leather boots.

The leather ones will be much more durable and will last longer if you take care of them. However, they’re definitely more expensive.

Soles of the boots are made out of rubber.

A lighter rubber will be best if you stick to the park and a heavier rubber will give better durability for those who hike up the mountain to make fresh tracks.

Liner

The liner that is inside a snowboard boot will give you insulation, comfort, and padding for your feet. There are three different types.

  • Moldable lining – These use your body heat to conform to your foot shape.

  • Stock lining – These are standard liners that don’t mold to your feet, other than what will happen when you use them for a long time.

  • Heat-moldable lining – These offer the best in customization. This is heated up and you then place your feet in them and stay there so that the lining molds in that time. You don’t have to wear them for any extra amount of time.

Final Thoughts:

Which Snowboard Boots are Right for You?

There you have it, the best snowboard boots currently on the market.

When it comes to snowboard boots, there are various options available in the market, but it’s essential to choose the one that suits your needs. Before making a purchase, you should consider your budget, the snowboarding you do, and whether you prioritize aesthetics or quality.

Your budget will help you narrow down your options and ensure you spend your money wisely. The type of snowboarding you do will impact the type of boots you need. For example, if you are into freestyle snowboarding, you’ll need boots that offer more flexibility, while for more aggressive riding, you’ll need boots that offer more support.

When it comes to aesthetics versus quality, it’s essential to strike a balance between the two. While a good-looking boot is important, quality should always take precedence. A snowboard boot that offers adequate support and comfort, but doesn’t look great, is still better than an aesthetically pleasing boot that doesn’t perform well.

In conclusion, when searching for snowboard boots, you must consider your needs and priorities. Expensive boots are only sometimes the best option, so look for boots that suit your specific requirements and help you improve your performance. Make sure to compromise on quality for aesthetics, and vice versa, and find a boot that offers the right balance.

Featured Image via Pixabay

6 Best Electric Skateboard Reviews

Electric skateboards are a big purchase for a lot of people. You’ll be putting your safety at risk. When choosing the best electric skateboard for your needs (whether commuting or just for fun), it is always recommended to go for a totally safe e-board. 

Some of the important features to look out for include:
  • Durable build: Being something that you depend on your daily commute, you won’t want to end up with a broken piece of wood in the middle of the road.

  • Reliable battery range: This feature will determine how far your skateboard can take you. Depending on how far you commute, choose an e-board with a battery range that you can rely on.

  • Good acceleration and speed: If you are a professional speed junkie, go for a fast electric skateboard. If not, choose something moderate.

  • Good brakes: In case of an emergency braking you wouldn’t want to be thrown off the board. Always, go for a skateboard with hard, responsive brakes.

6 Best Electric Skateboards

With that in mind, here are some of the best electric skateboards to buy right now:

1. Boosted Mini X


Boosted Mini X Electric Skateboard

  • Exhilarating top speeds of 20 mph gets you there faster
  • Climb the steepest hills of your commute without breaking a sweat
  • 3 ride modes specifically tuned to the Boosted mini. Brakes- Regenerative Brakes.Power- 1,000 Watts

The specifications of the Boosted Mini X clearly shows why the skateboard is highly rated. With a speed of 20 mph, it’s quite fast.

It has a huge battery capacity that can take you up to 14 miles when it’s fully charged. What’s more, it’s two hub motors are powerful enough to tackle even the steepest of terrains. 

2. Evolve Carbon GT


Evolve Skateboards – Carbon GT All-Terrain Electric Longboard…

  • RANGE – Up to 12 miles. Varies depending on rider weight, terrain and riding style.
  • TOP SPEED – Approximately 22-25 mph. This may vary depending on rider weight and terrain
  • HILLS – Up to 25 percent gradient in GT mode.

When it came out in 2016, the Carbon GT revolutionized the e-skateboard world with its stunning design. And in 2019, it’s still a force to reckon with.

With a top speed of 27 mph (also fastest in the world) and a dual motor design that outputs 3000W, this skateboard is powerful and reliable. It also features a dependable battery that can last up to 31 miles.

3. Boosted Dual Plus


Boosted 2nd Gen Dual+ Standard Range Electric Skateboard

  • Get around with incredible speed and ease on the most powerful electric skateboard
  • Standard Range Battery – 6 to 7 miles
  • Light enough to carry anywhere – powerful enough to go everywhere

With a speed of 22 mph and a 25% climbing grade, this is the perfect out-of-the-city skateboard. Its controller is easy to use, the brakes are impressive thanks to its dual-wheel drive, and the overall construction is stunning.

You don’t have to be intimidated by the sharp specs of this skateboard because it comes with four different riding modes, from beginner to pro. With the beginner mode, the skateboard limits your speed to 11 mph. But with the pro mode, you can hit the full specs. This mode should, however, should be left to the professionals.

Its battery capacity is good, but not as good as most of the skateboards on the list. It will get you up to 12 miles on a full charge (but this will depend on the mode used).

4. Teamgee H8


Teamgee H8 31″ Electric Skateboard, 15 MPH Top Speed, 480W Motor, 8…

  • Thinnest E-skateboard–Teamgee hides a high-performance battery inside the deck, which makes it look like a regular…
  • ADJUSTABLE SPEED REMOTE– With its intuitive ergonomic wireless remote control,Cruising mode, 3 speed…
  • EASIER TO CARRY– Only 11.6lbs, throw away the bulky boosted board. H8 electric board reach speeds up to 15mph, and 15…

The Teamgee H8 is not your ordinary e-board – it’s a beast. The board is super thin, making it super-light. In fact, it’s one of the thinnest electric skateboards you’ll come across. 

It also features an adjustable speed remote, coming in at a top speed of 15 mph. On a fully charged battery, you can go as far as 12 miles. 

5. SKATEBOLT Longboard


SKATEBOLT Electric Skateboard Longboard with Remote Controller, 25 MPH…

  • HIGH PERFORMANCE – 25 mph top speed and 25% grade hill climbing, high quality ride at a great choice for both beginners…
  • LONGER RANGE WITH EXTENED RANGE BATTERY – Hurricane Electric Skateboard with 6600mAh, 36V Lithium Samsung battery, more…
  • Durable & Stable – High density 8 layers maple wood skateboard with cover grip tape across top of deck provides a…

This electric board can reach a top speed of 25 mph and has an extended battery range, meaning you can go further for longer!

Practical for both the daily commuter as well as the true skateboarder.

6. Spadger Longboard


Spadger Electric Skateboard D5X Plus 37’’ Boosted Longboard, 25Mph…

  • Super Flexible Skateboard: 85% Explosion-proof material, improving the impact resistance up to 10 times, very flexible…
  • Strong Power and Fast Response: 900W super power motors, 97mm PU wheels, up to 23mph speed, 165 lbs only need 3.5…
  • From The Beginner to The Pro: Skateboards wireless remote control 4 speed modes, the Beginner mode: 0-9mph,the Eco…

With a speed of 23 mph, the Spadger Electric Longboard is one of the fastest electric longboards in the market. If you are not so much into speed, you have the option of switching from Eco Mode to Beginner Mode that will offer you a sedate speed of 11 mph. 

When fully charged, the battery range is about 15 miles. It is also light, durable, and can hold over 264 pounds of weight.

Choosing the Best Electric Skateboard

When you choose the best electric skateboard for yourself, there are multiple factors to take into consideration.

Brand

There are brands out there that are known to be unreliable. We haven’t included any of them in our list of the best ones of course, but if you opt for one outside of this list, make sure to do some research first.

Recalls

Electric skateboards are known to get recalled from time to time. Be sure to stay up to date on these, because you don’t want to be using one that is recalled. This doesn’t just include the skateboard itself, it also includes motors and other parts.

Average lifespan

Nothing will last forever, including your electric skateboard. However, certain ones will last longer than others. 

Customer support

You want to make sure you choose a brand or store that has good customer service. If you should run into any problems, you’re going to need someone to guide you through it.

Warranty

Keep an eye on the warranty. If one isn’t offered, or if it’s a short warranty, you may want to look into a different board.

Maneuverability

Your skateboard needs to be easy to control and ride. If it’s not, it’s not worth your time at all.

Value

If you’re choosing an inexpensive skateboard, make sure it has good quality. Also, just because a board is expensive, doesn’t automatically mean it’s of good quality.

Try to choose a board within your budget that has everything you’re looking for.

Specific Features to Look For

There are specific features to look for in a skateboard. These include: 

  • Speed: Single vs dual motor

  • Size: Choose the best sized board for your height and weight

  • Connectivity: Handheld controllers

  • Battery life: Tested in miles rather than standard runtime

  • Brakes: Test them out

  • Wheel quality: High-density rubber is best

  • Portability: Weight and size

  • Weight: 12 to 16 pounds is standard

  • Material: Composite wood is best

  • Water resistance: Look for ratings from the manufacturer

  • Warranty: Average from one to two years

What Deck Size to Choose

Your deck size will depend on your height. You’ll want to get the best performance possible. 

  • Mini board: Best for those taller than 3’5″, with a U.S. shoe size of 4 or higher

  • Mid board: Best for those taller than 4’5″, with a U.S. shoe size of 7 or higher

  • Full board: Best for those taller than 5’3″, with a U.S. shoe size of 9 or higher

Always Go for Reputable Brands

Whatever you use your electric skateboard for – daily commuting or fun – be sure you get it from a reputable skateboard brand. This is because no matter the quality or material, electric skateboards do break down.

And when that happens, you’ll want to deal with a brand that has readily available spare parts and brilliant customer service and support. The above 6 picks are great choices to consider.

Featured Image via Flickr

10 Best Tennis Shoes Reviews For 2023

best tennis shoes

Tennis is a demanding game. Players need more than just skills and practice to perform well. Tennis rackets, bags, and possibly most important is tennis shoes. They need shoes that can increase their endurance and performance as well as support their quick motions on the court.

However, a lot of players tend to buy normal trail shoes for their game. These type of shoes aren’t recommended for playing tennis as they absorb running impact and produce sudden forward motions. They’re also not designed for sidestepping which is important in tennis.

Whether you play daily of just during the weekends, wearing the best tennis shoes should never be underestimated. There is a wide range of tennis footwear available on the market, offering different reliability, stability, comfort, and breathability.

Your best tennis shoes will depend on the style and type of surface you play on.

So, what are your ideal tennis shoes?

Best Tennis Shoes to Consider

1. ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 8

tennis shoes


ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 8 Tennis Shoes

  • Re-engineered outsole lugs for better off-road traction
  • Reduced amount of overlays around the forefoot without sacrificing durability
  • Comes in a plethora of colors

Versatility is the name of the game with the ASICS Gel-Ventures. Because of their durable grip pattern that works for a number of different surfaces, these tennis shoes are incredibly adaptable. The re-engineered outsole lugs only add to these traits by providing better traction for players. And the cherry on top and the place they get their name, the gel technology! The gel that’s inserted just below the heel provides a level of shock absorption that is like no other.

The Gel-Venture 8’s are specially designed to provide a snug(but comfortable!) fit around the forefoot. And the mesh used for this is rather breathable and keeps you cool and comfortable as you play.

2. adidas Women’s Gamecourt

women's tennis shoes


Adidas Women’s Gamecourt Tennis Shoes

  • Sock-like fit; Snug feel
  • Cloudfoam midsole for step-in comfort and superior cushioning
  • Mesh upper for breathability

The Adidas Gamecourt tennis shoes are made to provide a “sock-like” fit and do so better than almost any other. Because the majority of the shoe is made with a super breathable and flexible mesh, it conforms to the foot so well you might forget you’re wearing shoes! This paired with the Cloadfoam midsole creates a feeling of almost airy support without feeling restricted as you might with other shoes. It is these qualities that landed it a place on this list.

3. Nike Air Vapormax Plus


Nike Air Vapormax Plus Tennis Shoes

  • TPU cage provides enhanced stability
  • Bouncy feeling because of the Tuned Air Technology present in the sole
  • Stylish look comes in a wide range of colors

If your gameplay is a little rough, you’ll need comfortable, well-made tennis shoes that provide stability when you’re on the court. The Nike Air Vapormax Plus is durable and easily conforms to your foot. It has a TPu exoskeleton that gives you maximum stability with a stylish look, perfect for all-around tennis players.

The shoe also features Nike’s Tuned Air technology that is designed to provide maximum shock absorption and gives the shoe a bouncy feeling. Because this is paired with the neoprene mesh upper, it makes the entire shoe feel almost plush.

4. adidas Men’s Barricade Clay

Tennis footwear


adidas Men’s Barricade Clay Tennis Shoes

  • Textile upper is durable and comfortable
  • Made with a series of recycled materials, this upper features at least 50% recycled content.
  • Adiwear outsole offers the ultimate in high-wear durability

The adidas Barricade series are widely known to be some of the best tennis shoes on the market and with good reason. Because of their Adiwear outsole and tough textile upper, Barricades are some of the most durable shoes you can buy. And durability isn’t all they have going for them.

They are made of 50% recycled material so you can help the planet and look good while doing it.

5. ASICS Gel-Resolution 6 Tennis Shoes


ASICS Women’s Gel-Resolution 7 Tennis Shoe, White/Silver, 9.5 M US

  • 6-Month Outsole Warranty: Warranty against excessive outsole wear up to 6 months.
  • Gender-Specific Cushioning: Women’s models feature a lower-density top layer in the midsole, allowing female athletes to…
  • Flexion Fit Upper: Proprietary upper which provides form fitting comfort without sacrificing support.

This latest model of the Gel-Resolution features an external heel counter that offers more stability and midfoot support. Its Flexion Fit construction extends to the midsole to offer better lateral support and movement.

With excellent traction on the court, great breathability, and lightweight, these are one of the most reliable tennis shoes on the market right now.

6. New Balance Men’s 696 V4

mens tennis shoes


New Balance Men’s 696 V4 Tennis Shoes

  • These New Balance tennis shoes come in bright, seasonal colors to refresh your game gear
  • A full-length NDurance outsole provides superior traction and durability
  • Outsole material designed specifically for hard court play

These shoes are designed with comfort in mind above all else. The New Balance 696 V4 features a perforated synthetic upper that makes the shoe super breathable and airy feeling. Paired with the REVlite midsole that cushions your every step and herringbone outsole pattern that grips the court makes the 696 V4s some of the most comfortable shoes money can buy.

7. Wonesion Womens Just So So

womens running shoes


Wonesion Womens Just So So Fashion Tennis Shoes

  • The sole Is made of hollow carved technology, providing stable support and optimal shock absorption for sport.
  • The insole adopt honeycomb hole design, Keep your feet balanced and protect your ankle ,tongues and feet from hurt.
  • Fashion knitted mesh material and lightweight support maximizes the upper and let your foot always keeps dry and cool.

Wonesion has perfected the art of mixing fashion and function and has used this blend to make these shoes. Whether on the court or for daily use, a wide variety of colors and patterns to pick from and a stylish design lets you put your best foot forward in any situation. And with their hollow carved outsole and fashion knitted mesh, you’ll be comfortable while doing it.

8. Slazenger Lifestyle Tennis Shoes


Official Slazenger Lifestyle Tennis Shoes Mens Sports Footwear…

  • Trainers
  • Lace-up – Shaped / cushioned heel
  • Reinforced TPU arch shank – Herringbone grip pattern

If you are an amateur player on a budget, the Slazenger shoes are a great choice. Available for both men and women, the shoes have smooth molded soles for traction and an inner footbed for long, tough matches.

9. Nike AirZoom Pegasus

running shoes


Nike Womens Air Zoom Pegasus 34 Black/White/Dark Grey/Anthracite…

  • Dynamic Fit technology delivers a one-to-one fit.
  • Engineered mesh upper offers lightweight ventilation.
  • Zoom Air units provide responsive cushioning.

When it comes to serving the tennis ball, you’ll obviously want to sock it up to your opponents. A sock-like pair of shoes will be perfect for this job.

The state-of-the-art AirZoom Ultrafly boasts of a “sock-lite” feature that will give you improved mobility and secure fit.

It is lightweight to help players move, jump, and make more accurate shots. The shoe also features strong Flywire cables to lock down the mid-foot at the perfect position. It comes with a Zoom Air unit for supported stability and extra cushioning.

10. K-Swiss Hypercourt Express

hard court shoes+--


K-Swiss Women’s Hypercourt Express Tennis Shoes

  • Draggaurd Rubber & Aosta Rubber Outsole
  • Molded Ortholite x40 Sock Liner
  • EVA midsole

K-Swiss have really outdone themselves with these shoes. The Hypercourt Express tennis shoes achieve a level of durability far above others like it by crafting it using their Seamfree™ technology that allows them to fuse layers of TPU and breathable mesh without any stitching. This prevents any stress points in the shoe that could weaken and tear over time.

These are also a great pick for anyone with ankle problems because of the heavily padded ankle collar and a die-cut EVA sock liner that adds responsive cushioning underfoot.

Choose the Best Tennis Shoes

Tennis is a very fast sport, so it demands a lot from your feet. Because of this, it’s crucial to choose a pair of shoes that will completely support your feet while playing.

Up to 70 percent of mistakes on the tennis court are due to mistakes with footwork.

Your toes are the region that are going to take the hardest hit, so it’s necessary to have a pair of shoes with a lot of support there.

You will want to look for a pair of sneakers that’s both comfortable and supportive.

How to break in tennis shoes

An important part to buying a new pair of tennis shoes is breaking them in, or stretching your tennis shoes.

You could take them to a professional to do this, but it’s really not necessary.

A simple way to stretch your tennis shoes is to fill a freezer bag about halfway with water, remove all air from the bag, and seal it.

You’ll want to put the bag in your shoe, as far forward as you possibly can. Then you’ll put the shoes in the freezer and leave them there for eight or more hours.

You can repeat this until you’re completely satisfied.

Lacing your tennis shoes

Honestly, this doesn’t have as simple of an answer as you might think.

Different types of feet require a different type of tying method. But, what are they?

Wide feet

Of course, if you have wide feet, you’re going to need some extra room.

To give your feet some extra room to move around, use the eyelets that are closest to the tongue of the shoe.

Narrow feet

When you have narrow feet, you need to ensure that your shoes are tight enough to properly fit you.

When tying them, pull the laces tight to the sides by using the eyelets furthest from the tongue of the sneaker, then lace them up and pull tightly.

Heel issues

If you have heel issues, you’re going to want to use all the eyelets of the sneaker and tie them tightly at the top to give your heels optimal support.

How to Stop Tennis Shoes from Squeaking

Many tennis shoes have a problem with squeaking, which can be very annoying to players on the court.

There are a few different things you can do to prevent the squeaking, or at least make it less noticeable.

One way is to use baby powder on the insole of your shoe, and always wear socks.

Another way is to fix any loose soles if you have any. This could be causing the squeaking.

You also will want to clean and dry your sneakers after using them, because that could also be the cause of the squeaking.

How should tennis shoes fit?

Obviously, tennis shoes need to give you complete support and comfort.

There should be 3/8 to half an inch between your big toe and the end of the sneaker when it is sized properly.

Bottom Line

If you are shopping for new tennis shoes, keep in mind that tennis is a technical sport that requires more than just skills – you need to have the best tennis shoes. Having the right shoes will tremendously improve your game. These 10 picks are great choices to consider.

Featured Image via Pixabay

How to Serve in Tennis: Instruction for a Better Serve

Tennis is a beautiful sport. It helps you to stay active, have fun, and enjoy the great outdoors.

With that said, however, it is far from being a natural sport. Tennis is a very competitive, challenging sport to master, especially for those who are just starting out.

You might think that the only way to truly learn the game is to hire a professional coach or instructor. And, while this indeed can be helpful, it is also expensive and far from being your only option.

Thanks to the internet, you can now watch videos to learn things like how to serve in tennis or how to improve your swing. Whatever you want to learn, you probably can just by heading to YouTube.

In addition to what you learn from videos, you can also follow a few helpful tips to learn how to serve in tennis.

Remember the Importance of Stance

A lot of people are under the impression that learning how to serve in tennis is all about what you do with your arm and the ball.

And, while these things indeed are important, other, smaller things are equally important and work together to help you perfect your serve.

One such “small thing” is your stance. If you are not standing correctly, then you are going to have a tough time serving the ball accurately.

To serve correctly, you will want to position your feet in such a way that your front foot points toward the right net post. Your back foot should be next to the baseline. This stance, of course, will be reversed if you are a left-handed player.

Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to stance is to keep the toes of your back foot aligned with the heel of your right foot. This will help to increase stability as you serve and will make for a smoother, more powerful serve.

While stance may seem simple, if you can master it, you will find that serving is a whole lot easier.

Grip can be everything

How you hold your racquet can determine a lot about the final way you serve and how effective it will be. This technique is crucial, and one of the most important things you can learn immediately.

The continental grip is the grip used by pros and is considered a “proper” tennis serve grip.

Looking up a description of this serve could prove confusing. There are a lot of different descriptions for how to hold this grip. Here are some basic descriptions to help you determine if your grip really is a continental grip.

Hold the racquet as if it were a hammer with the side edge perpendicular to the court, or the ground.

Clasp your hands together around the racquet with your right hand on the bottom and your left hand over your right. With your left index finger resting between your right thumb and index finger, align the fingers on your left hand in the valleys of the fingers on your right hand.

Your right index finger should be pointing to the top left corner of the racquet handle.

How to Serve in Tennis:

Practice Makes Perfect

Something else you will want to keep in mind as you work to perfect your serve is that repetition and a lot of practice are both vital to your success.

Top tennis pros will recommend that, on a daily basis, you fill a basket with 100 balls (or more if you can manage it).

Once your basket is full, you’ll want to take it out to the tennis court and then serve until your basket is empty.

If that seems like a lot of work, it is, but it’s the kind of work that is going to allow you to improve your serve honestly, so don’t shy away from it.

Master Your Toss Before

Anything Else

As mentioned earlier, a lot of little things go into determining the strength of your serve.

One other “little thing” is your toss. The full serve is built around that initial toss, so it does need to be perfect.

An easy way to master the toss is to take some balls out to the court. Then, stand in the serving position and toss the ball. Your goal will be for the ball to land right in front of your body. This is trickier than it sounds and takes some practice to master.

Once you are consistently getting the ball to land where you want, however, this is a good indicator that you’ve got the toss down pat and are ready to move into more demanding drills.

Give the Platform Serve Stance a Try

In addition to general practice, you are also encouraged to try out different types of stances. This will enable you to find the serving position that works best for you.

After you have mastered the basic stance, try the platform serve stance.

With this simple stance, you want to keep your feet in the same position as you serve. Thus, instead of moving your feet, you bend your knees, tilt your body, and push into the serve with an upward motion.

This simple stance works well for a lot of people, so it is worth a try.

Focus on Building Up Your

Serving Muscles

All of the practice and hard work in the world isn’t going to help you if you don’t have strong serving muscles.

Your upper arms, your legs, and your wrists all need to be healthy, firm, and capable if you are going to excel at serving.

One way to build up these muscles is through practice. They will get naturally stronger the more you practice your serving.

However, little extra work at the gym targeting these areas also doesn’t hurt.

As you can see, learning how to serve in tennis isn’t easy, but it is possible. You have to commit to doing the work!

Featured Image via Pixabay

75 Funny Crossfit Team Names

Crossfit is all the rage lately. Everyone wants to jump on the band wagon and get in shape like they never have before. If this sounds like you, then crossfit is definitely the place to get started. Across the United States there are crossfit teams forming so they can compete against one another and challenge their strength, endurance and ability. Joining a crossfit team is as simple as signing up on the proper webpage and filling out all the required registration. With this done, you are now ready to join a crossfit team, or grab a couple buddies and make your own team. Now is where the real work begins. This is where you challenge yourself, as well as your teammates to give all they have and make your crossfire team the best it can be. You do, after all want to dominate the competition and be known for being the best!

Why Do You Need a Crossfit Team Name?

Your crossfit team is only as good as your name and here is why. Part of competing in the challenges involves having a great crossfit team name. This could possibly be one of the more important aspects of competition. Your crossfit team name is what your competitors hear first and what makes them weak in their knees or laugh out loud when your team comes to compete. Having funny crossfit team names can really add a bit of humor to the challenges faced when competing. Lets face it, crossfit is challenging and not for the weak. They challenge your endurance, as well as your strength. But if you are up for the challenge get ready to be in the best shape of your life! When looking for crossfit team names remember to try to find something that will inspire you and your teammates or just make them laugh when the task seems to difficult. Make it a name that incorporates all the hard work and challenges your team has faced. There is really no bad team name out there, but quit a few funny ones!

List of 43 Team Names

If you are looking for a little inspiration for your team, or just something to make help encourage you to put your best foot forward, check out some of these funny crossfit team names that could be used for your team.

  1. 1

    Jacked in the Box

  2. 2

    A Teague of their Own

  3. 3

    Drop It Like A Squat

  4. 4

    Stop Drop and Squat

  5. 5

    Bumpers and Bacon

  6. 6

    Pistols and PVC

  7. 7

    Barbells and Bros

  8. 8

    Dumbbells and Donuts

  9. 9

    Boxers and Beers

  10. 10

    Keep Calm and Squat On

  11. 11

    Meaty Divas

  12. 12

    My Pistols Are Clean

  13. 13

    Buns and Guns

  14. 14

    Paleo and Pukie

  15. 15

    Donut Droppers

  16. 16

    Flex Appeal

  17. 17

    Dirty Dealifters

  18. 18

    Perfect Posture

  19. 19

    Blood Sweat and Beers

  20. 20

    Beast Mode Babes

  21. 21

    Temporary Pain

  22. 22

    Lunging Ninjas

  23. 23

    2 Fit 2 Quit

  24. 24

    Rowing Pains

  25. 25

    Band of Mudders

  26. 26

    Mudder of All Hangovers

  27. 27

    The Mudstaches

  28. 28

    The Dirty Mudder Funkers

  29. 29

    The Slim Pack

  30. 30

    Pain Killers

  31. 31

    Baby Got Track

  32. 32

    Get ‘Er Run

  33. 33

    Between a Walk and a Hard Place

  34. 34

    Team Spanks

  35. 35

    Bringing Up the Rear

  36. 36

    Twister Blisteres

  37. 37

    My So Called Legs

  38. 38

    Nerd Herd

  39. 39

    Gym Class Heroes

  40. 40

    Dashing Divas

  41. 41

    Buns on the Run

  42. 42

    Go Go Passer

  43. 43

    Sole Mates

  44. 44

    Sole Train

  45. 45

    Excuse my Burpees

  46. 46

    The Press

  47. 47

    Chipper Chaps

  48. 48

    Carb-erators

  49. 49

    Eat em and Weep

  50. 50

    Cheeks

  51. 51

    Hulking Heros

  52. 52

    Mud Flaps

  53. 53

    Clean Freaks

  54. 54

    On the Ball

  55. 55

    Fire Breathers

  56. 56

    Hank and Fran

  57. 57

    Kettlebells of the Ball

  58. 58

    Paleo Punks

  59. 59

    Hungry for Pood

  60. 60

    Keep it PC

  61. 61

    Red Hot Pistols

  62. 62

    The Push Jerks

  63. 63

    Deadlifting Devils

  64. 64

    Cool Poods

  65. 65

    Record Setters

  66. 66

    Sumo Dudes

  67. 67

    Ain’t Dead-Weight

  68. 68

    Not Your Mom’s Crossfit Team

  69. 69

    Skinny Jeans

  70. 70

    Baby Face Baddies

  71. 71

    Wall sitting Wallflowers

  72. 72

    Stacked and Racked

  73. 73

    Snatch and Grab

  74. 74

    Honest Abs

  75. 75

    Sore Loins

Featured Image via Unsplash

Best Catchers Mitts

Choosing a new catcher’s mitt can seem like a daunting process considering how many mitts there are to choose from. You have to take into consideration the size of the mitt, the padding, how comfortable it is to wear, how easy it is to break-in, and the price. Keep in mind that while there are plenty of affordable catcher’s mitts available on the market, you do not necessarily want to choose the cheapest mitt.

Your mitt is what enables to catch incoming balls and scoop them up off the ground to stop the opposing team from scoring a run. Therefore, you want the best mitt possible, which means spending the money to get it. Fortunately, the list below provides you with some of the best catcher’s mitts available on the market that best suit a variety of budgets, and each provides its own list of potential advantages and drawbacks. However, you should find your purchase decision far easier thanks to this comprehensive review.

1. Rawlings | Heart of The Hide Baseball Glove Series


Rawlings | Heart of The Hide Baseball Glove Series

  • DESIGNED FOR PITCHERS, this Heart of the Hide 11.5 inch 1-Piece Solid Web glove was designed with a pattern…
  • WORLD-RENOWNED HEART OF THE HIDE BASEBALL GLOVE LEATHER is cut from the top quality steer hides
  • HIGH-END, COMFORTABLE FEEL thanks to the deer tanned cowhide palm lining and soft full-grain finger back linings

The Rawlings | Heart of The Hide Baseball Glove Series tops this list for many reasons. Not only is it made by one of the most recognized brands in the sports world, the glove itself is regularly used by professional, which means it must be a reliable mitt that performs well on the field.

Available in black/camel mesh, you can also order the glove in a variety of color options as part of the Heart of the Hide line, this mitt features:

  • 3.5 ounces lighter than a traditional glove

  • 11.5 Inch 200 Pattern – Pro I Web – Conventional Back, Deer-Tanned Cowhide

  • Pro Grade Leather laces – Padded thumb sleeve – Hyper Shell 15% Lighter

  • Thermoformed hand opening – Full grained fingerback linings

The Rawlings | Heart of The Hide Baseball Glove Series is available in a 33-inch and a 34-inch size for high school players all the way to the professional leagues. Made to the standards expected by MLB players like Yadier Molina and other catchers, you can bet that your hand will be in one of the best mitts possible.

2. All Star CM3000SBT Catcher’s Mitt

The All Star CM3000SBT Catchers Mitt is certainly the priciest mitt on this list, but considering that it is crafted to perfection, it is certainly worth it, especially if you want a long-lasting, high-quality glove. The thing is, you can either purchase a cheap mitt that you will end up having to replace perhaps several times throughout the year, or you can buy an expensive mitt that is sure to last for years to come.

This mitt provides the following features and benefits:

  • Japanese tanned steerhide leather

  • Fast, easy break-in

  • Extended life

  • Soft leather pocket that provides comfort and reduced sting when catching the ball

  • Extended pocket to ensure easier ball pickup and catching

Visually speaking, this glove is a sight to behold. Its blonde and block coloration make it look just as good if not better than something a pro baseball player would be proud to wear. In fact, this particular mitt is a go-to mitt for many professional baseball players. The fact that this mitt comes nearly ready to use straight out of the box is just one of the reasons why its design accommodates more serious ball players.

3. Mizuno Prospect GXC112 Youth Catchers Mitt


Mizuno Prospect GXC112 Youth Catchers Mitt

  • Professional Level Lace: Same Durable Lace That’s Offered In Our Professional-Level Gloves.
  • Outlined, Embroidered Logo: For A Rich, Premium Look.
  • Bio Soft Leather

If you are looking for something that is a little easier on your wallet, look no further than that Mizuno Prospect GXC112 Youth Catchers Mitt. This particular mitt does not require you to take out a second mortgage, amputate a limb, or sell your soul. It is a quality mitt for the price and offers several benefits for any baseball lover. If you want to give your kiddo a fantastic head start in baseball, this mitt is nothing to bat an eye at.

This mitt offers the following benefits:

  • Made from retro leather for durability and strength

  • Easy break in thanks to softer material

  • ParaShock finger channels to help absorb shock of catching the ball to reduce stress on the hand

This mitt is available in a 31.5-inch size and features a black on black look that is visually stunning. The palm pad ensures that your hand does not take the brunt of the ball’s impact when performing your duties as a catcher. Since this mitt comes out of the box in near game-ready condition, you can enjoy the benefits and overall performance of this glove immediately rather than having to take the time to focus on breaking it in.

4. Rawlings | Renegade Glove Series


Rawlings | Renegade Glove Series | Baseball/Slowpitch Softball | Multiple Styles

  • 32.5-inch first baseman’s mitt great for recreational games
  • All-leather shell construction for pocket formation and shape retention
  • Deep, well-formed pocket for ball security

The Rawlings Renegade Series Catchers Mitt is yet another budget-friendly mitt with several benefits. In fact, it is the most budget-friendly on this list. This glove is available in a 31.5-inch and a 32.5-inch size, which means it is certainly for an adult with a bit smaller of a hand compared to some of the other gloves. However, it is within the range of standard sized catcher’s mitts. One benefit of this glove is that you can purchase it for either right-handed throw or left-handed throw. Keep in mind that you will pay a little more if you opt for a left-handed throw.

This particular mitt offers the following benefits:

  • Visually appealing black features

  • Roomy opening above the wrist for added comfort

  • Palm and finger pads to reduce the sting of ball impact

  • Closed web and a deep pocket to allow for better ball control, catch, and scoop

  • 20% player break-in

If you are looking for a glove that you can play from the minute it arrives on your doorstep, this is the glove for you. The full-grain leather material provides this mitt with the durability needed to withstand several hours, days, weeks, months, and perhaps even years of gameplay.

5. Akadema AGC98 Prodigy Series Glove


Akadema AGC98 Prodigy Series Glove,32-Inch-RT

  • 32″ circumference Praying Mantis pattern
  • Spiral lock web
  • Open back

Yet another mitt available at the lower end of the budget spectrum, you can purchase the Akadema AGC98 Prodigy Series Glove. The price listed is for a right-handed throw mitt. If you wish to purchase the left-handed throw mitt, it too is available.

This glove offers a wide range of features including:

  • Deep pocket to help you capture the ball

  • Spiral web lock for better ball control

  • Open back for breathability to keep your hand cool

  • Praying Mantis style with two additional “finger hammocks” for firmer positioning of the hand

  • Shock absorption to reduce the sting of ball impact

This mitt also features a Grasp-Clasp wrist that ensures a comfortable and secure fit, which is of the utmost importance out of a quality glove. Part of what makes this mitt so incredible is that it was designed by MLB hall of famer, Gary Carter. If you are going to play with a quality mitt, why not play with one designed by a player that knows a thing or two about the overall design of a good mitt?

Final Thoughts

Each of the mitts featured on this list provide you with incredible benefits. They each accommodate varying budgets, which helps make your purchase decision that much easier. Whether you are looking to spend less for a quality mitt that might require a bit of break-in work or you are willing to spend a high-end price for a glove that is sure to last and game ready, you are sure to find what it is you need. Make sure you check out the youth catcher’s mitt reviews as well as our fastpitch catcher’s mitt reviews.

Featured Image via Unsplash

Funny Golf Trophies

It’s that time of year again when you have to begin organizing the annual year end rewards banquet for your golf league.

Knowing that you play with fun people who are not really into competition like some, there is no doubt that you have to make the evening as much fun as you have while you are on the course.

While you sit and try to form an agenda, you scratch your head wondering how you were elected to be in charge of this event in the first place.

You have so much to plan, and the only thing you are absolutely sure about is the venue, because of course, the club house was reserved long before you were even in charge of this shindig.

Now you remember why you were chosen, the easiest part was already complete and nobody else wanted the responsibility of planning the rest of the event.

Well, knowing you have the venue is a good thing, but now you need to plan everything else from catering to the entertainment.

Not to forget about the awards, you know you will need to get those ordered in plenty of time, so you should probably do that part first.

Keeping in mind that your group likes to have fun means that, unlike traditional trophies, you will want to find some funny golf trophies to hand out for the awards part of the night.

Here is a list of some of the best funny golf trophies that can help you to get the ball rolling:

Decade Awards Toilet Bowl Trophy


Decade Awards Toilet Bowl Trophy

  • Before you ADD TO CART, make sure that the trophy is Sold by DECADE AWARDS to receive your free engraved plate. If not,…
  • TROPHY DETAILS; 5” tall, poly-resin award; a gold tone plate with up to 3 engraving lines; each line can contain up to…
  • HOW TO ORDER THE FREE PLATE; Send request to the email address in our Frequently Asked Questions picture OR (on a…

For the golfer who is always fishing his ball out of the water, this is the perfect trophy choice for him.

Offered from Decade Awards, this trophy is 5 inches tall and replicates a toilet bowl.

When requested directly from Decade, you will receive a free engraved gold plate with up to three lines of text.

What better trophy to hand to the one that everyone laughs at all season long?

The next time he is wading in the pond chasing his ball, he will never forget the trophy he earned, that describes him well.

Decade Awards Sculpted Gold Putter Trophy


Decade Awards Sculpted Gold Putter Trophy

  • Before you ADD TO CART, make sure that the trophy is Sold by DECADE AWARDSto receive your free engraved plate. If not,…
  • TROPHY DETAILS; 4” tall, poly-resin award; a gold tone plate with up to 3 engraving lines; each line can contain up to…
  • HOW TO ORDER THE FREE PLATE; Send request to the email address in our Frequently Asked Questions picture OR (on a…

In the rough again? Another great trophy offered by Decades Awards, this is the best one for “that guy.”

A 4-inch-tall, bronze trophy that replicates a club and ball.

When requested directly from Decades, this trophy can be engraved up to the three lines on a separate gold plate.

The next time the recipient of this trophy hits it out of bounds, keep up the sense of humor by reminding him of his token trophy.

Frustrated Monster Golfer Trophy


Frustrated Monster Golfer Trophy

  • This trophy will be sent directly from Amazon WITHOUT a PLATE attached; the plate will ARRIVE SEPARATELY in a RED…
  • TROPHY & PLATE Details; 6.5” tall with a bronze finish plate; 3 engraving lines; up to 30…
  • HOW TO ORDER THE FREE PLATE from a desktop or tablet; in your AMAZON account > ORDERS, click on the ASK SELLER link….

This is the best trophy choice for the one that makes a habit of getting the ball to land on the bunker more than he gets it to land on the green.

Also offered from Decade Awards, this trophy will have the room roaring with laughter when it is presented to the recipient.

Made from bronze, this replica of an enraged golfer is 6.5 inches tall.

The gold plate can be engraved for free, up to three lines, when a request is made directly to Decade Awards, and it will be mailed separately.

Make the room poke fun at the winner of this award as he heads back to putting at the driving range.

The next time this trophy recipient forgets where the greens are, he will have a laugh while remembering that he is living up to his trophy.

Golf Monster Trophy with 3 Lines of Custom Text


Golf Monster Trophy with 3 lines of custom text

  • 6.75″ Golf “Monster” Trophy
  • This golf award is perfect for “longest drive”, best score, lowest round or best golfer
  • Made of brass

This is the ultimate trophy for the best golfer, or for the golfer that held the best score throughout the season.

Offered from Trophy Partner, this gold colored Golf Monster trophy is 6.75 inches tall and includes an attached gold metal plate that can be customized with up to three lines of text.

The monster replicates the look of the “Hulk” and stands behind a colorful circular disc displaying a picture of golf clubs and a flag that is placed on the green.

Make the winning golfer feel strong and proud to have earned this special trophy.

Every time he wins from here on out, he will forever feel like a comic book hero.

Funny Comic Golfer Duffer Trophy with 3 Lines of Custom Text


Funny Comic Golfer Duffer Trophy with 3 lines of custom text

  • 4″ Funny Comic Golfer Duffer Trophy
  • Great golf trophy for highest score, closest to the pin or worst golfer
  • Made of resin

Perfect for the worst golfer is this trophy offered from Trophy Partner.

This 4-inch trophy made of resin is made to replicate a golfer on the ground examining his distance.

Included with this trophy is a gold metal plate that can be customized with up to three lines of text.

As everyone laughs at the recipient of this award, he will have the incentive to win the title of best golfer next year.

Decade Awards Golf Monster Trophy


Decade Awards Golf Monster Trophy

  • Before you ADD TO CART, make sure that the trophy is Sold by DECADE AWARDS to receive your free engraved plate. If not,…
  • TROPHY DETAILS; 6.75” tall, poly-resin award; a gold tone plate with up to 3 engraving lines; each line can contain up to…
  • HOW TO ORDER THE FREE PLATE; Send request to the email address in our Frequently Asked Questions picture OR (on a…

This trophy offered from Decade Awards is another perfect choice to award the winner that could never quite find the hole, but it was always oh so close.

The 6.75-inch-tall, brass trophy replicates an enraged golfer swinging a club.

After making a direct request to Decades Awards, a separate engraved gold plate, with up to three lines of text will be mailed to the buyer.

This trophy will be sure to have the crowd in stitches, and they will continue to taunt the recipient long after the banquet is over.

Every time this golfer hits the ball, oh so close, he will remember how perfectly his trophy does represent his game.

All the preparation of this year’s banquet will pay off when everyone goes home happy, carrying one of these funny golf trophies. With your great job of planning, rest assured that the night will be filled with much laughter and many jokes.

Good luck and happy golfing!

Featured Image via Unsplash

Lacrosse Nets

Lacrosse is an exhilarating sport that is become more popular each year in the USA.  Not only is it a fantastic way to increase your fitness, it is incredibly fun to play and a great way to make new friends. If you are interested in competitive play or want to play lacrosse more often, buying your own lacrosse goal and lacrosse net is a great idea. Having your own lacrosse net will allow you to practice shooting, defending, and winning 1-on-1 matches in your own backyard.  You can also organize games with your friends or neighbors — providing you with hours of lacrosse fun!

You might already have a lacrosse goal, but the net is starting to fall apart and needs to be replaced.  If you are sick of chasing your lacrosse balls around the yard, it might be time for an upgrade!

This article will share some tips for purchasing your lacrosse gear, then share some of the lacrosse drills that you can use to improve your game.  After that, we’ll highlight a few of the best lacrosse nets on the market!

Choosing a Lacrosse Goal or Lacrosse Net

Here are a few of the factors you should consider before buying a lacrosse goal or net.

Are the lacrosse goal and net the correct size?

If you are purchasing a lacrosse goal with the goal of improving your game, you should make sure its size matches the official lacrosse specifications.  Some of the lacrosse goals and nets on the market are slightly smaller because they are designed for indoor play.  An official lacrosse goal should be 6 feet wide, 6 feet high and should extend back 7 feet.  Indoor lacrosse nets are 4 feet by 4 feet.

​Brand names aren’t that important

When shopping for a lacrosse goal or net, remember that brand names aren’t that important.  Instead of looking at the branding of the product, look at the quality of the materials.

If you are buying a goal — Is the frame solid metal?  What diameter are the tubes?  Is it a steel alloy or aluminum?  Are the welds high-quality?  Official lacrosse goals must use 1.5 inch frames (outside diameter 1.90 inches) that are made from metal.  They must also be painted orange.  If you are getting serious about lacrosse, consider choosing a goal that matches these specifications.

If you are just shopping for a lacrosse net — what diameter is the netting?  Lacrosse most often uses 2.5 mm or 3 mm netting that is made from polyester or cotton.  Does the netting look durable?  You will usually get better value-for-money by looking at the quality of the product instead of the branding.

Rounded corners or square corners?

Official lacrosse goals used in tournament play will have square welded corners on the top of the goal, thicker frames (up to 2-inches in diameter) and are usually very heavy.  Practice goals will have rounded corners, thinner frames and be much lighter.  Because of the different shape of the goal, can require different nets.  Make sure you buy the appropriate net for your goal. 

Where will you store the lacrosse goal?

If storage space is an issue, consider getting a foldable lacrosse goal.  You will be able to keep it in the garage when it is not in use, which will extend its lifespan.  If you know you will be moving the goal regularly, considering purchasing one that is also lightweight.

Useful Lacrosse Drills

Once you have your own lacrosse goal and net, you can begin to practice some drills at home.  Some of the best drills include:

Midfielders shooting drill

Set up a row of lacrosse balls (10 or more balls) approximately 25 yards away from the goal.  Run at full speed, pick up a ball, run to the left or right of the goal and take the shot.  Concentrate on landing all of the balls in the same part of the goal.  For example, do a run where you land all balls in the bottom right of the goal.  Perform the drill quickly, using all of the balls — you are trying to shoot accurately while moving at high speeds and breathing hard.

One v One shooting drill

This one requires a friend.  They are defending the goal while you try and attack.  You must be past them before you can shoot — testing your evasiveness and speed.

Net Targets

Place cones or other objects in the net.  Shoot from the 25 yard mark while moving and attempt to hit the targets in a specific order.

Run, Fake, Shoot

Run from the goal to a ball 25 yards away, then turn, fake a shot, then take a shot.  You can also set up some cones or obstacles that you must run around before taking the shot.

4 of The Best Lacrosse Nets

These 5 nets are all well-made, durable and guaranteed to provide you with many years of lacrosse fun.

Gladiator Lacrosse 6 mm Heavy Duty Replacement Lacrosse Net


6mm Heavy Duty Replacement Lacrosse Goal Net (Round Corners) 6’x6x7”…

  • 6mm with round corners
  • Fits 6’x6’x7′ standard sized backyard goals and collegiate level goals
  • Includes 2 lacing cords

Color:

White

Material:

90% Polyester / 10% Cotton

Thickness:

​6 mm

This 90% polyester and 10% cotton lacrosse net is classified as “high school grade”.  It is designed for practice goals and has rounded-corners.  It uses thick 6 mm string and includes lace cording for attacking to lacrosse goal posts.

Park & Sun Sports Bungee-Slip-Net Replacement Nylon Goal Net


Park & Sun Sports Bungee-Slip-Net Replacement Nylon Goal Net

  • Park & Sun 5 mm net
  • 32-ply braided knotless nylon
  • stretches over the goal frame; Velcro net ties

Color:

White

Material:

Nylon

Thickness:

5 mm

This is a lacrosse net from Park & Sun.  This net is made from thicker 5 mm nylon with 1-3/4″ mesh and a bungee cord frame. The netting material is highly durable, UV resistant and weather proof.

Gladiator Lacrosse Official Lacrosse Goal Net


Gladiator Lacrosse Official Lacrosse Goal Net

  • 5mm with square corners
  • Fits goals that’s are 6 Feet Wide x 6 Feet Tall x 7 Feet
  • Includes 2 lacing cords

Color:

White

Material:

Polyester

Thickness:

5 mm

This is a more lightweight net for regulation goals with square corners. It includes 2 triple stitched lacing cords for the goal. UV and weather resistant coating,

Aoneky Lacrosse Net Replacement


Aoneky Lacrosse Net Replacement

  • This is a heavy-duty, professional net made to fit backyard goals with rounded or square corners.
  • Use on 6×6×6 or 6x6x7 sized goals
  • Goal frame, lacing cord or other accessories not included

Color:

Black

Material:

Polyester

Thickness:

4 mm

This lacrosse net is made from a braided knotless polyester with 1-1/2″ mesh. Fit both round and squared corners. It is a durable net that is great value-for-money!

Featured Image via Unsplash

Cool Gifts for Yogis

It can be tough to find the best gift for everyone on your list. You want to show that you understand the person and who they are. You also need to make sure you do not spend a long time looking for that perfect item. Then there’s the task of paying the right amount. You have to find the best way to wrap the gift. It can be hard when you are not sure what to buy someone, but you want to make a great impression.

In this article, we will help you with finding the most amazing gift for the yogi in your life. All thirty-one of the presents we provide here will surprise your favorite yoga lover. We showcase products that help with the actual yoga experience, items that deal with the health aspect of the hobby, and more. You can be sure you will find the greatest gift for the one you love by reading list. We make it easy by providing a link to each one so you can look at more detail and easily purchase it if you like.

Kindfolk Yoga Mat Duffle Bag


Kindfolk Yoga Mat Duffle Bag Patterned Canvas with Pocket and Zipper

  • Kindfolk Yoga Mat Duffle Bag (MAT NOT INCLUDED) / Dimensions: Bag: 12.4 x 10.7 x 1.8 inches
  • DURABLE & CONVENIENT: Features two shoulder straps that allow you to easily access the compartments while on the go and a pockets with zippers
  • FITS STANDARD SIZE & THICK MATS – This bag is 26″ x 8″ x 8″ and will fit up to a 26″ wide mat. Also, it is perfectly suited for extra thick mats

This yoga mat carrier is a great option for any yoga participant. It comes in many colors, one of which is sure to be perfect for the recipient, and is environmentally friendly! The size of the bag is large enough to carry any standard mat with no problems. It also features zippered pockets to hold your keys, phone, or whatever else you need. On top of that, it is machine washable so you can easily clean it up if you have a spill.

The Yoga Bible


The Yoga Bible

  • Walking Stick Press
  • Brown, Christina (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)

This book by Christina Brown is one that is a staple for yogis. It has over 150 moves and positions from all of the leading schools of yoga. It has step by step instructions that make it just as useful for a beginner as it is for a more advanced yogi. In addition to poses, it also has information on breathing, meditation, and much more. You won’t go wrong with this book.

Hylaea Yoga Socks


Hylaea Yoga Socks for Women with Grip & Non Slip Toeless Half Toe Socks for Ballet Pilates Barre Dance

  • TOELESS TRACTION: Open-toe design allows for a better tactile feel and balance
  • HYGENIC ALTERNATIVE TO BARE FEET: Protects feet from exposure to foot fungus while the sock also prevents feet from…
  • USE WITH OR WITHOUT YOGA MAT: A great option for travel to toss in an overnight or carry-on bag or as a yoga mat…

Yoga can be a slippery form of fitness, especially when you are not using a mat. These grippy toe socks fix that problem. They give you incredible traction in the areas that you most need it. They are also comfortable and more hygienic than going with bare feet. A great gift for anyone who practices, especially away from their home.

Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray Kit


Yoga Mat Cleaner Spray Kit

  • UPLIFTING AROMA: Scented with Lavender, Fresh Roses, and Energy Citrus. Brings the good vibes back into your mat!
  • SAFE & PREMIUM INGREDIENTS: Made with safe ingredients and ZERO dangerous chemicals or additives.
  • Includes Micro Fiber cleaning towel.

Every yoga mat is going to get icky sometimes, it is just a fact of the practice. However, you can avoid this issue by buying your yogi the gift of yoga mat cleaner. It comes in lots of different scents, so you are sure to find one that is fitting. This stuff cleanses your mat in a natural way and gets rid of sweat, germs, and other nasties. A must have for anyone who does yoga regularly.

Sunyik Tibetan Buddhist

Mala Bracelet


SUNYIK Blood Sandalwood 108 Tibetan Buddhist Mala Bracelet Beaded…

  • Style:Tibetan Buddhist Mala 108 Natural Wood Prayer Bead Wrapped Bracelet Necklace
  • Size(Approx):Total Length:86cm/33.9″;Bead:8mm;Material:Naural Wood;Quantity:1 Strand;Weight:10-60 Gram
  • Ps:Measured with a caliper; The size may vary due to the nature of the seeds;package comes with a free buddha card by…

This beautiful mala bracelet will impress the yoga participant in your life. Malas are used for keeping count when meditating, chanting, or reciting mantras. A 108 bead mala is typical, and that is what you receive here. These beads are polished natural wood, and the bracelet itself is unisex so makes a great gift for anyone.

Essential Reiki


Essential Reiki: A Complete Guide to an Ancient Healing Art

  • Amazon Kindle Edition
  • Stein, Diane (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)

Reiki is an ancient healing that is derived from Tibetan Buddhism. This book gives information on the practice and provides all the knowledge a healer or teacher of this system will need. This book is written by Diane Stein who is a respected author with an emphasis on metaphysical healing, women’s spirituality, and alternative health.

YogaAccessories Yoga Bolster

This yoga bolster is round and comes in 28 inches by 10-inch dimensions. A bolster is used to provide support for many hard yoga poses. The bolster is sturdy enough to support but also offers comfort as well. This bolster is made of a cotton insert wrapped up with a cover made of 100% cotton. This is a great example of perfect gifts for yogis.

Gaiam Yoga Mat Band


Gaiam Yoga Mat Band (Sold Individually with Assorted Colors)

  • 1-Inch wooden bead with elastic and toggle closure
  • Functional and economic alternative to a mat bag
  • Allows mat to breath and air out after practice while keeping it securely rolled

This yoga mat band by Gaiam is a great alternative to the typical yoga bag. It features a one-inch wooden bead with an elastic toggle closure. This product lets your mat air out while keeping it rolled and easy to move. It is also quite cheap which makes it more affordable than a typical carrying bag, while still looking stylish and neat.

Magnetic Poetry – Yoga Kit


Magnetic Poetry – Yoga Kit – Words for Refrigerator – Write Poems and…

  • A meditative collection of words about the ancient practice of movement and breathing.
  • CONTAINS – over 200 themed magnetic word tiles in a cute, colorful, giftable 4.75 x 3 inch box. Rearrange the words to…
  • MIX AND MATCH WITH OTHER KITS – Tile height is 0.375 Inches, compatible with nearly all other Magnetic Poetry sets. With…

This magnetic poetry kit is fun and unique, sure to be loved by the creative yogi you know. This package comes with over 200 words that are themed to refer to yoga and meditation. Many of the words deal with movement and breathing. This is a great stocking stuffer and won’t break the bank.

Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Yoga Mat


Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Yoga and Pilates Mat, New Moon, 1.5mm,…

  • The 71”x 24″and 1.5 mm thick eKO SuperLite Mat is a superior travel yoga mat that provides excellent grip.
  • Wherever your practice takes you, the eKO SuperLite is the best yoga mat for yogis on the go!
  • Folds to fit in any travel bag or purse.

This travel yoga mat by Manduka is made from natural tree rubber. It is 99% latex free, and it is ideal for those who have sensitivities to the material. It also does not use PVC or any harmful plasticizers. It is said to be the most durable rubber mat on the market. It comes in a bunch of different colors so you can toss it up.

Dharma Objects Tibetan Relaxing Om Singing Bowl


DharmaObjects Tibetan Relaxing Om Singing Bowl/Cushion/Mallet (Yellow)

  • Relaxing Tibetan Yoga Meditation Singing Bowl
  • Approximately 350 Grams 4″ Diameter and 2″ Depth.
  • HandCrafted in Nepal By Tibetan Refugees

Many of those who practice yoga also enjoy the practice of Tibetan meditation. This singing bowl is just perfect for anyone who partakes in that practice. This set comes with a bowl, a mallet, and a cushion for the bowl to rest on. These bowls are made in Nepal and are hand-made for use in spiritual healing. The sounds coming from the bowl promote relaxation.

Making Space: Creating a Home Meditation Practice


Making Space: Creating a Home Meditation Practice

  • Parallax Press
  • Nhat Hanh, Thich (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)

Thich Nhat Hanh brings this book Making Space. The contents focus on providing easy instructions for setting up a breathing room, sitting, breathing, practicing walking meditation, and even more. It features beautiful illustrations that had to the relaxing feeling of the writing.

Lotus Weighted Lavender Eye Pillow

Lotus Weighted Lavender Eye Pillow

  • DRIFT OFF TO SLEEP – filled with flaxseeds and lavender buds, ideal for use as a spa eye pillow or to relieve tension in a busy day, this eye pillow delivers a subtle natural scent and the pure bliss of relaxation.
  • SOOTHES HEADACHES AND SINUS PAIN – Flax seeds deliver gentle pressure to the sinuses and eye area to help relieve tension
  • HEATED AND COOLING – use this microwavable eye pillow to make a warm eye mask compress to relieve dry eyes, or place the eye pillow in the freezer for a few hours or overnight. The chilled weighted eye pillow will act as a cool compress.

This eye pillow can help with sleep and relaxation when it matters most. This is great as one of the gifts for yogis. It has many health benefits while being comfortable and relaxing to use. Use it to relax your eyes, turn it into a heat pack, or simply enjoy the scent as you doze off. It is a great product for anyone who wants that extra help getting some shut eye.

Conair Waterfall Foot Spa with Lights, Bubbles, and Heat


Conair Active Life Waterfall Foot Spa with Lights and Bubbles, Blue

  • 3 toe-touch push-buttons activate bubbles, waterfall and heat
  • 3 attachments: scrub brush, pumice stone and soft-touch massager
  • Exfoliating loofah discs soften skin and provides rejuvenation

Enjoy the warmth, lights, and bubbles as you wash away pain from your latest yoga session. This will soothe aching feet and offer a massage when you need it most. It’s a great product for relaxing after a long day, for a yogi or anyone else.

Moleskine Wellness Journal


Moleskine Passion Journal, Wellness, Hard Cover, Large (5″ x 8.25″)…

  • MOLESKINE PASSION JOURNAL: Whatever your passion, plan your next steps & track your progress with a Moleskine Passion…
  • DURABLE COVER & ELASTIC CLOSURE: From tracking your workout goals & plans, to a reading log, recording recipes, or…
  • GIFT QUALITY NOTEBOOKS: Moleskine planners, journals and notebooks come in hardcover or softcover and colors like black,…

This Moleskine wellness journal is themed to help keep track of both mind and body. It offers sections about games, diet, exercise, goals, health, and inspirations. It’s a high-quality journal that will make a wonderful gift to the health fan you know best.

Chakra Wisdom Oracle Cards


Chakra Wisdom Oracle Cards: The Complete Spiritual Toolkit for…

  • Watkins Publishing
  • Hartman, Tori (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)

Chakra Wisdom cards focus on the colors and energies of the main Chakra centers to offer divination. It is intended to help you understand the energies in your life, as well as how to change them. It is a fun set of cards that will be a special treat for whoever is gifted them.

Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip Yoga Mat


Gaiam Sol Dry-Grip Yoga Mat, Purple, 5mm

  • EXTRA THICK YOGA MAT: Lightweight PVC backing, durable and extra-thick for additional cushioning
  • CLOSED CELL CONSTRUCTION: Mat works to seal out germs, odor and bacteria
  • GREAT FOR HOT YOGA: Stay-dry top coat wicks away moisture for ultimate grip

This one-of-a-kind yoga mat consists of a PVC material that keeps out odor, bacteria, and germs. It is a great yoga mat for any yogi but especially comes in handy for those who have allergies to latex. The mat has a cushioning layer to make it more comfortable. It is built to pull moisture away and provides a fantastic grip. In addition to that, it is free of many harmful phthalates which make it a green product that keeps you and the earth healthy.

The Wisdom of Yoga


The Wisdom of Yoga: A Seeker’s Guide to Extraordinary Living

  • Bantam Books
  • Cope, Stephen (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)

Stephen Cope writes the Wisdom of Yoga. He gives information on yoga that will be loved by beginners and experienced yogis alike. Everything from modern stories, helpful direction, and ancient texts comes together to paint a picture of modern yoga and how it can work in your life. A great book for a complete look at yoga. A great example of gifts for yogis that is useful.

Keep Calm and Yoga On Meditation T-Shirt


Keep Calm and Yoga On Unicorn Meditation T-Shirt

  • Featuring a cute Unicorn in a meditation pose – Keep Calm and Yoga On!
  • Great yoga and meditation gift idea. Keep calm and yoga on shirt makes a perfect gift.
  • Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem

This cute t-shirt comes in many different colors. It features an Om graphic along with the text in the title. It is a lightweight and well-made garment that can be machine washed. Sure to be a favorite for whoever you gift it to! They are going to love it.

Gaiam Yoga Mat Towel


Gaiam Yoga Mat Towel Microfiber Mat-Sized Yoga Towel for Hot Yoga

  • MICROFIBER SIZED MAT TOWEL: Fits perfectly over a traditional size yoga mat (68-Inch x 24-Inch)
  • SUPER ABSORBENT: Dries in half the time of a cotton towel (ideal for hot yoga)
  • DOUBLES AS YOGA MAT: Acts as substitute for yoga mat in a pinch

The Giama towel is made to give you a layer between your mat and your body. It is slip-free and absorbent, so there are no worries about sweat hitting your mat. This is a great gift for anyone who does hot yoga. Just wash and go, you won’t even have to rinse off your mat after a session.

My Zen Home Organic Kapok Filled Dhyana Meditation Cushion


Brentwood Home Crystal Cove Meditation Cushion, Buckwheat Zafu Oval…

  • Great for meditators and yogis of all skill levels and styles, or simply sitting and relaxing
  • Meditation pillow with modern, round design with removable outer cover for easy washing
  • A GOTS Certified organic cotton inner liner holds the buckwheat pillow fill, making it easy to remove and replace to…

The Dhyana cushion is intended to be used during meditation sessions. It supports your ankles, knees, and lower back with its unique design. This one comes with a bright cover that is available in many different colors. It gives you perfect posture for long meditation sessions. It is a great product to help someone get more regular with his or her yoga and meditation practices.

Up Circle Seven Yoga Wheel


UpCircleSeven Yoga Wheel – Strongest & Most Comfortable Dharma Yoga…

  • STRONGEST WHEEL ON THE MARKET: Able to withstand a WHOPPING 550lbs! Lower quality yoga wheels are made of PVC – which…
  • ULTIMATE COMFORT: Surpassing competitive products in both quality and thickness, the UpCircleSeven Yoga Wheel features…
  • SWEAT-RESISTANT: Free of moisture accumulation, thanks to its superior padding, you can use your new prop during the…

The yoga wheel is used to perfect your poses and add balance to your yoga. This wheel is the strongest available and is made to last. It has a layer of comfortable padding that cushions you where you need it most. In addition to that, it is resistant to sweat and eco-friendly. It also comes with a 100% quality guarantee. If your favorite yogi does not like it, you can send it back. Help your friend spice up their yoga sessions and improve their flexibility, whether they are new to yoga or a professional.

Blessed Yogi: A Coloring Book by Shades for the Soul


Blessed Yogi: A Coloring Book by Shades for the Soul

  • Trivedi, Anna (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 66 Pages – 09/15/2015 (Publication Date) – Shades for the Soul (Publisher)

The new craze is adult coloring, and that goes for yogis and others. This coloring book; however, is great for those who love yoga. It includes nature and spirituality into its artistic illustrations. These designs vary in detail and will be great for yogis of all ages. Relax with a pack of crayons and Blessed Yogi and your creativity will be given a chance to roam for a while.

Revolution 101 Balance Board Trainer


Revolution 101 Balance Board Trainer (Blue)

  • FIND STRENGTH THROUGH BALANCE: Drastically improve your balance skill, coordination and stability, all while getting a…
  • BUILT TO LAST: Both the 101 board and roller feature a lightweight yet heavy duty composite construction, and are built…
  • DURASOFT GRIP: The top of the 101 is cushioned and comfortable to use with or without shoes. Doesn’t scratch you or…

The Revolution Balance Board Trainer is perfect for anyone who plays sports. It offers a strong construction, sleek finish, and great design. It makes it fun to improve your balance and control while you strengthen core muscle groups like stomach, waist, legs, and hips. The board is ideal for all body sizes and provides a smooth rolling sensation that is comfortable with or without shoes.

Infuser Water Bottle


Live Infinitely 32 oz. Infuser Water Bottles – Featuring a Full Length…

  • FREE RECIPES INCLUDED –Enjoy our free infused water recipe eBook with 20 delicious & refreshing ideas
  • RESPONSIBLE- Our Fruit Infusers saved over 128 MILLION bottles from landfills last year alone!
  • BOOSTED WATER INTAKE- Industry first full length infuser ensures every drop is deliciously fruity

Make drinking water fun with an infuser water bottle. This is perfect for anyone who cares about their health and fitness. This bottle allows the addition of fruits, vegetables, or tea to your water. This allows you to get hydrated while enjoying a nice taste while you do so. It is perfect for bringing with you to yoga class. The bottle is leakproof and has a lifetime guarantee which makes it a bargain at its price. Grab one of these for your favorite health and fitness buff.

Meditations from the Mat: Daily Reflections on the Path of Yoga


Meditations from the Mat: Daily Reflections on the Path of Yoga

  • Anchor Books
  • Gates, Rolf (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)

Rolf Gates brings us Meditations from the Mat: Daily Reflections. This book includes reflections for every day of a full year. Each day includes a quote and information about a particular aspect of yoga and its philosophy. These daily reflections pull from real-life to show what meditation can do for someone who keeps up with it. A great gift for someone who is into yoga and interested in trying meditation.

BalanceFrom GoYoga 7-Piece Set


BalanceFrom GoYoga 7-Piece Set

  • Package includes: Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap, 2 Yoga Blocks, Yoga Mat Towel, Yoga Hand Towel, Yoga Strap and Yoga Knee Pad
  • 1/2″ ultra thick yoga mat with specially designed memory foam – Ribbed surface on one side with a smooth surface on other
  • Provide support and balance with our durable foam yoga blocks and deepen your stretch with the 6.5ft yoga strap

The BalanceFrom Yoga Set comes with seven different items to make your yoga easier and more comfortable. It includes a memory foam yoga mat that has a ribbed surface to grasp the floor and a smooth surface for your postures. It also includes a yoga mat towel which will soak up sweat and bacteria, rather than letting it ruin your mat. It is soft to the touch and easy to wash. In addition to these items, the set comes with a yoga strap which can aid in poses and stretch exercises. The last two items included are a hand towel and a pair of yoga blocks. Plus! The ever needed Yoga Knee Pad. These can make many activities easier and more comfortable.

InnoGear 500ml Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser

InnoGear Essential Oil Diffusers, 500ml Diffusers for Essential Oils Large Room

  • Natural Wood Grain Look: This aroma diffuser is a great addition to your workspace or home. It’s natural and classy look…
  • Perfect size with Adjustable Mist Output: This essential oil diffuser holds up to 500ml of water, neither too big nor…
  • 7 Colors Mood Lighting: The diffuser comes with 7 colors of lighting. You can keep them rotating or fix one of your…

This gift from Innogear is enjoyable for anyone who likes aromatherapy. This diffuser can be filled with any essential oils that the receiver enjoys. The design of the diffuser is sleek and modern, with a subtle wood grain pattern that makes it fit nearly anywhere. This diffuser has four different options for timers as well as two mist options. You can choose to have a weak or heavy mist depending on your preference. This diffuser also has seven mood lights which can be left on or turned off. The product is silent and relaxing, and the great scents only complement that.

YQ Park Namaste Lotus Door Mats

YQ Park Namaste Lotus Door Mats

  • Entryways’ “Namaste” doormat lets you welcome all of your visitors with the customary and respectful Hindu greeting…
  • Greet your visitors with this eye-catching door mat
  • Handcrafted of 100% all natural coir with fade resistant dyes.

This doormat is hand made with the word ‘namaste’ and a lotus flower graphic. The mat itself is made from all-natural coconut fiber which is great for trapping dirt and debris. It will make a great entrance piece that will have visitors talking. This is a lovely gift for the yogi who has everything.

Mie Creations Hindu Om Wall Hanging Décor with Rustic Bells

This piece of art is meant for the artistic yogi. It features an Om symbol and is adapted as a sort of windchime. Each is handmade and high-quality so you can be sure you are giving a gift that will be loved. A great unique gift for that yogi who likes the more authentic style of eastern culture.

Yoga Journal Magazine Subscription

If you have looked at all the other options and still aren’t sure, consider a magazine subscription. Yoga Journal is well-known and will keep your favorite yogi busy for a long time. It has great information and articles to keep your giftee up on the newest techniques and products. Excellent gift for a modern yogi.

This should give you some great options for gifts that a yoga lover will enjoy. Enjoy browsing the products and choosing something that will be perfect for your loved one. We hope that the perfect gift is just around the corner.

Featured Image via Unsplash

Winning Youth Football by Dave Cisar: A review

It is Saturday morning, and elementary and middle schoolers are suiting up for the big game across America. Helmet, check. Mouthpiece, check. Shoulder pads, check. Cleats, check. Your player is ready. The question, however, is your team's coach ready? 

The book and video series by Dave Cisar, called Winning Youth Football (WFY), is the answer to this question. Many dads have been talked into coaching their child's team, thinking it would be easy only to come to find out there is a lot more to the game than when they were playing in high school. What offense do we run and why–Winning Youth Football has the answer. What defense do we run given the minimum play requirements in our league–Winning Youth Football has the solution. What strategy do I use when the other team is more athletic–Dave Cisar has the answer. How do I communicate with parents-WYF answer this question and more? Dave has provided an A to Z when it comes to running a team. 

Bottom line up front:  We highly recommend the Winning Youth Football book & video series. Now is the time to plan for next fall. If your team had a losing season, purchase the series. First, read the WYF book from beginning to end to find out what is in the book. Then pick one of the questions below to develop the answer with confidence that the solution in the book will make your team better. Our teams have gone from average to compete for and winning championships. So again, we highly recommend it; see other coaches' reviews here.

As a dad new to youth football coaching, you probably don't even know what questions you should be asking. This article is written for you. Here are three questions from the three phases of the game:

  • What offense should I be running with my third-grade mitigate team?
  • What defense will stop the number one scoring play in youth football?
  • What will be our team's strategy when it comes to special teams?

We will answer these questions according to Dave's research and experience.

What offense in youth football provides a distinct advantage over the defense?   

There are a lot of items that are the same, and Eleven players are on both sides of the ball. Each team will receive a kickoff. Both offenses have to travel the same yards to get the first down. That said, there are many differences you as a new coach can exploit. Coach Cisar's system enables you to do just that. 

Advantage #1:  One of the main points to Deve's offense is you outnumber the defenders at the point of attack. Suppose you think about it from the vantage point of playing chess. When you have more pieces attacking a square than the number of defenders who win the exchange? You do, and you come away from it with a material advantage. The single-wing system Winning Youth Football employees can provide you with the numbers advantage on every play.
Advantage #2:  Often, advantage $1 above causes the other team coach to overreact. If not the coach, youth players often start to over purse to the numbers advantage side. When the coach or players start to adjust, the WYF system is just that, a system that allows you to take advantage of the adjustment. For each base play, there is a counterplay. These calls are often home run hitters and score a touchdown in that the defenders that should have stopped the play are looking and running to the wrong side of the field. Given these counter plays, we have had many 60, 70, and even 80-yard plays by average players for six. The system is real, and the advantage is yours as the offense.
Advantage #3:  Dave has spent years studying and researching the game, so you don't have to. Here he has discovered a gold mine. The way he has designed the single-wing snap creates deception and makes the defense guess who has the ball. If a defense is a step slow at recognizing who has the ball, there is no question who has the advantage. Test this, take your linebackers and line them up (both teams are at full capacity with lineman and defense lineman in three-point stances). Using Coach Cisar's system snaps the ball to any one of three quarterbacks in the system and asks them to call out who has the ball. If they get it wrong just one out of four times, you have an advantage, but frequently I see my best linebackers get 50% of the calls wrong. Again, test it for yourself and especially for your assistant coaches. When they see the players are essentially guessing, your defense coordinator will believe in the offense.

What defense will stop the number one scoring play in youth football?

Youth football is not the NFL, it is not the NCAA, and it isn't high school football either, especially in the younger grades. Therefore, taking and implementing the San Franciso 46ers offense in third grade is idiotic. The same is true when it comes to defense. In our experience, 95 to 98% of offensive plays are run plays. Therefore, having a Defense that shuts down the run is essential. Even more to the point, what is the number one scoring play in youth football? According to Dave, the most scored with play is the sweep or end-around. Coach Cisar mentions the second most scoring play is the reverse. Given this, having a defense that eliminates both of these plays takes away a team's home run plays and forces them to grind out a victory. Often, teams will become frustrated when not breaking chunk plays, and you see offensive coordinators attempting to add a new play or concept in the huddle. When you see this, you know you have won the battle. Read Winning Youth Football: How to Create a Dominate Defense to find the answer to what defense you should be using.

Note: Having your players understand the formation adjustments is critical. You can't just line up in one formation without adjustment and expect to do well. The defense is the same, but reacting to how the offense is aligned is critical. As a coach, your job is to put the players in the best position to win on every play. Coach the adjustments and how to react to adjust to motion. Again, the defense will be the same but alignment to different formations will be very different (read the chapter about scouting one opponent to learn how to set your team up for success during practice). Oh, and by the way, install defense-first!

Did you say Special Teams?

There are three phases of the game. On more than one occasion, I have seen coaches instruct their players about their special team formation and assignments during warm-ups of their first game of the season. Special teams play can win or lose you a game. The numbers have proved coach Cisar's strategy. We have used it to perfection and, on multiple occasions, have prevented a team's offense from touching the field for an entire first half. One coach said, "Thank you for allowing us to watch our defense play the entire game." 

Knowing how important special teams can be is one takeaway from the series, but probably even more important is the practice plans and objectives that have been laid out for you. You won't be that coach introducing special teams at the first game if you have implemented the system as recommended by the Winning Youth Football system.

Sample Page WYF

Sample Page WYF

Want to be a winning youth football coach?

After having purchased the book, read it cover to cover. Dave has done a great job covering every aspect of the game and the off-field team administration. In the beginning, you will have to pick and choose the chapters you study, but to fully grasp the impact that these insights and plans can have on your team, it will take multiple seasons. Coach has even added to the system over the years, but that is for another time. The offseason is the time to start preparing to win next year.

Good luck! I suspect if you install Coach Dave Cisar's system, you won't need luck to win, however.

Wide feet?  Check out our article about Best Football Cleats for Wide Feet.

This book is absolutely the best book around to help a youth coach learn his craft. Coach Cisar guides you through all the pitfalls from players selection, team building, offense, defense, drills, how to deal with parents, and most importantly how to have fun and win. After purchasing this book, I decided to check out Coach Cisars other products. I found his website  and decided to call to get some suggestions on different training materials. Coach Cisar got on the line with me and was very generous with his time and information. Without a doubt one of the best youth coach trainers in the world. You WILL NOT be disappointed!

Nathan and Tyler

Amazon Review