Which Map? How to Choose the Right Ordnance Survey (OS) Map

The walk location is decided, you know how long you want to be out for and you've brushed up on your map reading skills. It's time to get a map and plot the route. In the UK this means using an Ordnance Survey map which shows all the footpaths, features and topographic detail you will need to complete any forray into the countryside safely and successfully. There is not just one Ordnance Survey map for each area however but a choice of different series of maps, all showing different levels of detail, scales or usages. So how do you select the right Ordnance Survey map for your walk? Here are a few pointers to help you choose:

Select the correct map for your walk:

You have two main choices of paper map - the Ordnance Survey (OS) Explorer or the Ordnance (OS) Landranger. Other maps are available such as street atlases, historical or specialised activity maps but for hiking or walking you will need one of the above in order to provide enough detail to navigate from.

The OS Explorer map series is the most popular choice and an essential for longer or more complex walks or those going off the beaten track. It is highly detailed and shows all rights of way, footpaths, landscape and interest features and contours. Every house, public facility or point of interest is covered giving you all the tools you need to locate yourself as well as finding that nearest pub for a drink after a hard days walking! The scale is 1:25000 - that is 1cm on the map equates to 250m on the ground (4cm per km or 2 1/2 inches to a mile)

The OS Landranger map series covers a wider area with a scale of 1:50000 (that's 1cm on the map to every 500m on the ground, 2cm per km or 1 1/4 inches to the mile). This makes it handy for planning a day out over a broader area and for getting a good picture of where you are going and it shows the main footpaths and rights of way as well as tourist information and points of interest. However it doesn't contain as much detail as the OS Explorer range and if you are going off into the wilds you will need the detail of the Explorer map to navigate with confidence.

There are other options worth knowing about: firstly the Active Maps which come in both Landranger and Explorer ranges and have a laminated, waterproof cover to protect your map from the rain and elements when out and about; secondly there are the custom-made maps which allow you to choose where the centre of your map will be. These are particularly handy if the route you want to follow will require buying 2 or more maps or you want maps of the countryside surrounding one central point on all sides e.g. the area around a campsite or accommodation or even your house! Both types of map are more expensive than basic OS Explore and OS Landranger maps.

Check your whole walk area is covered:

Select the type of map you require and then check on the map detail that your whole route is covered. The last thing you want is to realise that half your intended route is missing when you set off for your walk! If necessary you will need to get additional maps for adjoining areas. Each map has a number in the top right hand corner of the cover which along with the name is the reference you will need to select the correct map to purchase.

Buy/borrow a map:

That's it - the hard work and research is done. Now you know which map or maps you need you can order them online or buy from an outdoor shop. All you need is a compass, your hiking gear and a good day for the walk! Happy hiking!

Baby Routes is a website for outdoor parents looking for walking routes and information about getting out and enjoying the Great Outdoors with kids. For more information on hiking, walking with children, walking routes or outdoor gear and product reviews visit babyroutes.com

Want to find out about walking access rights and map reading in the UK? Go to http://babyroutes.co.uk/map-reading-countryside-access/

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Best Materials for Inflatable Kayaks: Finding the Kayak That's Right for You

There are 3 main materials inflatable kayaks are made from today that makes them more durable and long-lasting than versions produced a decade ago. Modern inflatables are made from Nitrylon, Hypalon or PVC, each with unique advantages. Some people prefer one material over the other, but all are very tough.

PVC Kayaks

Of the three, PVC kayaks are probably the most common. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, a vinyl polymer that is flexible and durable. PVC inflatables have many advantages. They are much cheaper than other materials, thus they make a great kayak for a beginner. These kayaks are also very portable, convenient and known to last a long time. Unlike some other materials, PVC can also come in a huge variety of colors. It's also very easy to patch with repair kits and can be welded for a very solid construction. Other materials may only be assembled with glue, which slowly breaks down over time.

Unfortunately, PVC inflatable kayaks have a couple of disadvantages. They aren't incredibly resistant to extreme temperatures, sunlight and chemicals. They may also be damaged by UV rays from the sun unless they're treated with a protectant spray.

Hypalon Kayaks

Hypalon is a patented synthetic rubber that's resistant to chemicals, sunlight and temperature. Hypalon kayaks are probably the most long-lasting styles available today with the ability to stand up to environmental conditions like mildew. Hypalon boats are actually used by the United States military and Coast Guard due to their reliability.

Downsides to the hypalon inflatables include their high cost and the need to use glue to assemble the boat.

Nitrylon Inflatable Kayaks

These kayaks are newer on the market and came about after the controversy surrounding PVC. Nitrylon is seen as a more eco-friendly material for kayaks and is actually a lamination of natural and synthetic rubber over 1200-denier polyester fabric. Advantages to this material include its ability to easily withstand punctures and cuts and the way it can perform in even the coldest environments. It's also very easy to patch. Because this material is so heavy, it's usually reserved for very cold use or in environments that require a very tough kayak.

If you're thinking about buying a new inflatable kayak, it can help to consider the different materials available to choose the right kayak for your needs. If you're going to very cold environments like Alaska or want something ultra-durable, Nitrylon is the best bet. PVC is a good choice for most people, however, due to its affordability and durability.

Christine Layton is an outdoor enthusiast who works with Boats To Go, the best source for inflatable kayaks, boats and rafts. With the lowest prices in the country, Boatstogo.com is the first stop for kayakers who want a quality vessel.

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Mentally Tough Athletes Can Open and Close Their Mind at the Right Times

Those with confidence issues have their information scattered throughout their mind and have a difficult time finding the information they need to accomplish successful goals. This happens when they are too enticed by outside stimulates and have little power to go within and think at a deeper level. The ability to think at a deeper level is the foundation of confidence and mental toughness.

Athletes or coaches come across some very good information that can help them and their team out, but are too close minded to see the possibility of that information or tool. Confident people always ask the question of 'how can I get better?' They are prone to doing their research and taking advantage of good opportunities that cross their path.

Being too open-minded on the other hand is a sign of someone with issues with confidence as they may be easily influenced and are led from one place to the other without thinking about consequences.

The skill of keeping your mind open to things that can help, and closing your mind to things that cannot benefit you, is a skill that most cannot master. The key to getting to that balance is a great trait to have for the confident player or coach. Being open to things that come your way and being discerning enough to make a plausible decision on whether the tools that cross your face are for you, is the key.

A Confidence trainer or mental toughness coach can help get teams to achieve a team's goals designated by the coach. Once satisfactory results start to manifest, then confidence levels rise and the team can gain momentum. At this point the team must be open to minor adjustments to help them get into the zone and get consistent results.

Many teams and individuals are finding the importance of using a Confidence Trainer as sports professionals are starting to find that the mental part of sports is just as important than the physical training. Some coaches have opened up and have resorted to more team building activities to get players to believe in themselves and the team dynamic. Athletes seem to get more of a life-learning experience when they see their coach have an open mind and is willing to try new techniques that help with team's over all confidence.

Overall, athletes should be open to find physical and mental techniques that work for them and can help their team. If the coach feels the same way, then the easier it will be for the athlete.

About Mike Huber: Team Mental Toughness and Confidence Training. Coach Mike Huber speaks and teaches courses to travel, high school, college, and professional sports teams. He teaches teams and organizations certain simple, and powerful tools to help athletes SEE, BELIEVE, TRUST, CONTINUE, and FINISH.

His book, The Ultimate book on Confidence and Mental Toughness ( Volume 1 For Athletes and Coaches)
This book will be the most powerful, short, and to the point book about developing confidence and mental toughness in sports you will ever read. Book availability http://www.secure-ebook.com/ebook.jsp?book=THEU-BHVT05-234

Press Inquiries: Mike Huber is available for television, radio, newspaper, magazine and on-line interviews, articles and speaking engagements.
Contact: Mike Huber
Email: hubiemagic@aol.com
Phone: (847) 312-1061
Website: http://www.hubiemagic.com/confidence-training.html

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How to Choose the Right Jodhpurs

Jodhpurs are an essential part of horse riding. They are designed to be flexible and comfortable. Some are made from a cotton and synthetic materials. The spandex in them helps the pants to stretch and mould to your body. They are long in length and go right down to the ankle. Some finish with a cuff, or have an elastic strap at the bottom. This fits like a stirrup and stops them from riding up. The long length goes great with a long or a short boot.

The jodhpurs have a bit more material added to the seat and inner knee. It is usually made out of suede or a synthetic suede. This stops chafing and stops your knees from slipping forward when riding. Some jodhpurs have more cushioning than others, so you will have to choose according to the type of riding that you do.

The stitching has also been cleverly designed. They either have a flat stitch or no stitching at all. The stitching is designed to stop rubbing and to prevent chafing. Doing this gives you a lot more comfort when you ride. Most jodhpurs feature a standard front hook and a zip closure, whilst others, in particular children's sizes, you can just pull them up.

Jodhpurs come in two different styles, the high waist and the hipsters. To measure properly, first you need to decided what style you prefer. Then get a tape measure and measure around your waist for the high waist design. For the hipster style you need to measure around your hips. You then measure the inseam of your leg to get the correct length for you.

Jodhpurs are a very tight fit, so whether you buy online or from a shop, you need to make sure you go one size bigger in your waist measurement and for your pants size, I always go one size bigger than my standard jeans size. Another thing to watch out for is when you try them on, check there is no gap at the waist and the patches fit right over your inner knee.

You can choose a variety of colors, which is great because the darker colors are fantastic for every day use and easy to keep clean. Make sure you check with your clubs first, because you may also need the traditional cream or lighter colors because they still are the choice for competition work.

When you first get them home they will be quite tight and a bit stiff. So give them a wash using manufacturers instructions and wear them a couple of times, you will find they will mould to your body and will start to stretch.

I also have been told by friends and other riders that are a bit bigger in size, that the jodhpurs are not very flattering on them. So if you are a bit hesitant in trying them, maybe start with a darker colors, they are a lot more slimming and also with boots they tend to balance out.

There are a lot of different styles out there as well, so you need to do a bit of research, ask other riders what brands they like and try a few pairs on. I am sure you will find a pair of jodhpurs that are comfortable and that suits you.

Some people worry about how they look in jodhpurs, it is all about comfort and to stop chaffing while you ride. People passing by don't even look at what we are wearing, the horse usually gets all the attention. So don't stress just have fun and be comfortable. Enjoy the ride and have a few different pairs of jodhpurs in your wardrobe.

Jodhpurs come in two different styles, the high waist and the hipsters. To measure properly, first you need to decided what style you prefer, then get a tape measure and measure around your waist for the high waist design and around your hips for the hipster design. For more information on jodhpurs go to. Jodhpurs

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Standard or Slim Dart Flights? Choosing the Right Shape and Texture for Your Style

Are you new to the game of darts and confused by the huge variety of shapes, sizes and textures of dart flights? Trouble finding the flights that will help you perfect your game? The following article is for you! All the variations in flight style serve a purpose and picking the right ones can really help improve your score!

So, why different dart flight styles? Generally speaking, smaller and smoother flights will allow darts to cut through the air faster with less drag, yet they will be less forgiving to variations in angle of attack. Conversely, bigger, more textured flights will make darts fly slower through the air with more drag and they will be more forgiving to variations in angle.

Let's take a look at the two most common flight shapes, standard and slim...

Standard

Probably the most common shape and also one of the largest. Standard flights should be used if you throw with less force or like to "lob" your darts at the board. You may also want to use standard flights on steel tip darts, if your darts are heavier, or if they have longer shafts. Heavier darts require less force to stick in the dart board and larger flights will help keep darts aloft for longer with a lighter throw.

Standard flights can also help to straighten and stabilize the path of a dart in the air. If your darts are consistently sticking in the board with the flight angled to the floor, you may want to increase the size of your flights. The added drag from larger shapes will push the shaft of the dart upwards, helping to correct a downward angle. Ideally, you want your darts to hit the board at a perfectly flat angle, or with the flight pointing slightly upwards, not more than 5-10 degrees. Additionally, as longer shafts can have a tendency to "fish-tail" through the air, darts with longer shafts may benefit from the stabilizing effect of larger dart flights.

Slim

Smaller than standards, slim flights are good if you like to throw harder, want to avoid "lobbing" your darts, if you use lighter darts or short shafts. Soft tip darters may benefit from using slim flights because soft tip darts are generally lighter, thus requiring a harder throw to stick in the board. Additionally, if your darts stick in the board at a high, upward angle (greater than 10 degrees) you may want to switch to slim flights. Smaller flights will help reduce drag in the air, allowing the end of the dart to drop slightly when thrown. Finally, slim flights will help reduce the chances of bounce-outs and damaged flights from tight groupings, especially if your darts have short shafts.

Other Shapes

Beyond the common standard and slim shapes, there is a large variety of other shapes including pear, butterfly, vortex, fan tail, etc. These shapes range from larger than standard to smaller than slim.

When choosing from the less common flight styles just remember -

Larger flights are better for:

softer throws or "lobs"heavier dartslonger shaftssteel tip darts

Smaller flights are better for:

harder or straighter throwslighter dartsshorter shaftssoft tip darts

Smooth vs. Textured Flights

Smoother flights will drag less through the air while textured flights will drag more heavily through the air. If you find that your darts are flying just a tiny bit differently than what you want, you might try changing to a coarser or smoother texture while staying with the same shape. Flight texture can help serve as a "fine adjustment" to really dial in your game.

Spreading Your Flights

Remember to properly spread your flights before throwing your darts. You want the fins of all your flights to stand at exactly 90 degrees to one another, otherwise you will not enjoy the full benefit of the flight!

One of the best ways to keep your flights perfectly spread is to use aluminum flight protectors. They will also help prevent damage to your flights and you won't have to spread your flights before each throw, allowing you to concentrate more fully on your game.

Keep in mind that you do not necessarily have to follow these guidelines! Many advanced, talented darters play with a combination of light barrels, short shafts and standard flights. If you are trying to find the best configuration for your playing style, try several combinations of flights, weights and shaft lengths. Experimentation will help you discover the perfect set of darts for your style!

Thomas Schude is the owner of Dart Brokers, an online dart supply store with a physical store in Aurora, IL, just outside Chicago.

You can buy dart supplies from Dart Brokers online store and learn more about darts with our dart techniques, tips and tricks articles.

Can't find the information or dart supplies you're looking for? Visit the Dart Brokers website and drop us a line! Thomas has been a dart player for over 20 years and takes pride in his unmatched degree of customer service, low prices and large selection.

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Choosing the Right Gibbon Slackline

I recently spent some time looking at the slackline products that Gibbon makes and wanted to share what I discovered. Being somewhat new to the sport I ended up buying the Classic. I've had it for several months now and am very happy with my choice.

Gibbon makes several different slacklines. Their main product is the Classic. The other options are the Jibline, the Surfline, and the Funline. They are all 2" wide but some vary in the type of webbing material, which makes them more or less bouncy. They do sell 1" webbing, but a lot of people prefer the 2" webbing and I think it's definitely a little easier to balance on.

After checking out their different slacklines and owning one myself, I can recommend choosing the Classic. It's really their main product, the most basic and the best price.

It comes in a 49 ft or 82 ft length. I went with the 49 ft length and have not found that I needed it any longer. If it's shorter, it's a little easier to balance on. You can make either length as short as you want with the ratchet mechanism.

The Classic can be used by beginners and experienced alike. It's very strong and like I said, pretty easy to set up. You can even use it for skateboarding or snowboarding as a portable rail slide. It comes in two colors, red or yellow, with the Gibbon logo on it.

The Funline is very similar to the Classic. Really, the only differences are the color and the length. It is blue with some bright pictures on it and is 40ft long. Since it is more expensive but shorter it's not really as good of a value, unless you really want blue.

The Jibline is made out of stretchier, bouncier webbing but it is still plenty strong. This webbing makes it more dynamic, like a trampoline, and enables you to do more tricks by jumping on it. It is grey, yellow, and black in coloring and comes in a 49ft length.

If you're new to slacklining, the Jibline can be a little harder to balance on and you will be plenty busy just learning the basics on the Classic. The Classic is bouncy enough to do some jumping on.

The Surfline is much like the Jibline, having more dynamic, bouncy webbing. It is 100 ft long and their longest line. It has a longer handle on the ratchet, to enable you to get enough tension on the line. The longer the line is, the harder it is to get enough tension, but this ratchet is up to the job. Its color is purple.

I can definitely recommend going with the Classic if you're just getting started. It will keep you busy for a long time and you will not be disappointed.

I hope this overview of Gibbon Slacklines was helpful and that you give this sport a try. It's a lot of fun and it's something you can take with you almost anywhere. Let the slacking begin.

Ray Peters is a writer who specializes in outdoor activities and sports products. You can check out his latest website where he reviews Gibbon Slacklines and a range of other slacklines.

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Golf 101 - Get the Basics Right With a Laser Golf Range Finder

101 means 'Basic introduction' and when one says Golf 101 it means the basics of the game of golf. When you start learning how to play you should know the basics first before you become a master of one of the most challenging games in the world.

Golf 101, including A-Z knowledge of golf deals with art of playing, the essential equipments needed, etiquette and the best and advanced technology that comes to your help-you should know it all. Talking of advanced technology (integral to Golf 101) one of the premium devices that comes to mind is an advanced laser golf range finder.

Golf Range Finder- An Essential Part of Golf Kit

Along with the basic golf kit one should also keep a golf range finder with him or her. Golf 101 suggests that you should keep your nervousness at bay. You have a solution in your hand because newer and advanced golf range finders are at your disposal. They help you to make correct and accurate estimates of the distance from the hole as well as the location of hazard. It helps in better practice too.

Avoid Mistakes with Golf 101

Golf is an addictive game and Golf 101 also teaches you how to avoid pitfalls. One of the most common mistakes that amateur golfers make is to rush to a shop and buy a brand new, shining golf club set. You need to buy the right equipment but it does not mean that you have to buy the most expensive because as a beginner mastering the game is more crucial than splurging dollars on an expensive golf set.

But definitely invest in a good model of golf range finder because you can be more accurate in yardage calculation and make no mistakes, whatsoever.

The Essential Benefits of Golf 101

Golf is a mental game which also involves athleticism. As you begin to learn the basic rules and regulations of the game you should also work out on certain aspects related to Golf 101 to better the game in the future. It has numerous benefits:

* Always be in complete command of the course you are playing in.

* Failures will come but they are always the stepping stones of success. So, do not get affected by a bad shot.

* During pressure situations try to control your calm and play better. Master the techniques of how to stay cool and composed.

* Do not let distraction come in your way.

* With each and every progress you make, gain more and more confidence.

* Always focus on your goal and gain extra motivation for practice.

* Ensure that practice is fun and more effective.

* There are many non-technical aspects related to this game; you need to master them too. You should follow golf etiquette.

* Maximize your potential with constant practice and tips from experienced instructors and champions.

* You should also learn how to manage your way as you are traversing the golf course like a professional.

Start playing golf and stick to the basic guidelines and rules of the game. Follow Golf 101 and be the master champ of the game. Golf 101 also stresses that you should have the right golf gear that includes buying the best laser golf range finder available.

Dr. Craig Denton is an avid golfer and represents Bushnell, Sonocaddie, and Opti-Logic golf range finders. Visit our website and receive a free golf e-book of Golf Tips to improve your golf game.

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Beginner's Guide on How to Choose the Right Size Backpack

Once you have decided on the type of backpack you want to purchase the next decision is to know what length your backpack should be. This article will cover the main points of how to choose the right size backpack in length, capacity and support.

Measure Up

Before choosing the right length backpack, you will need to perform the following exercise with the help of a friend.

First locate your seventh vertebra; this is the small bony hump at the base of your neck located between your shoulders. Place a piece of tape to mark this point.

Second, locate the point at the small of your back that is level with the top of your hips and mark that point with a piece of tape.

Now get your friend to measure the distance between the two marked points and note the measurement. Your torso will fall into three backpack categories, small (under 18 in/45 cm), medium (18-20 in/45-50 cm) and large (21 in/52 cm upwards).

If your length is just on 18 in/45 cm for example, then choose the medium size pack as this will allow more room for adjustments. With the length of the backpack now sorted, the next consideration is the volume or carrying capacity of the backpack.

Carrying Capacity

This decision is dependent of what type of hiking you will be involved with. A day pack ranges from 945 to 2206 cubic inches or 15 to 35 liters.

A midsize pack range is from 2206 to 4412 cubic inches or 35 to 70 liters and may be used for overnight camping. Finally the expedition backpacks start from 3781 cubic inches or 60 liters and upwards.

The larger expedition backpacks can carry enough gear to allow you to stay on the trail for many days.

Backpack Straps and Belts

Simple shoulder straps will suffice for lighter loads but for heavier loads choose the wider and well padded shoulder straps to prevent discomfort to the shoulder area.

A Chest or Sternum Strap helps to prevent your shoulders from being pulled back and assists with load distribution.

Upper stabilizer straps do just that, stabilize the upper part of the backpack.

The hip belts of a backpack should cup your hips and when they are tightened should not touch or overlap each other.

Shoulder straps should be secured to the backpack just below the 7th vertebra and near the top of the shoulders. They should be comfortable but securely wrapped around the shoulders with the strap padding not being less than 5 inches or 12.5 centimeters below the armpits.

If you are purchasing a small-sized, day backpack they usually do not have a hip belt but as your load capacity requirement increases so does the need for a hip belt. A hip belt assists in load distribution from your shoulders to your hips.

Make sure the padding of the hip belt is soft and of a decent width to provide comfortable support and that it goes full circle under the lumbar pad and is not just attached to the sides of the backpack.

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