The thing is, the way your mum really wants to be appreciated this Mother’s Day is probably with some quality time. However, you can’t show up to a Mother’s Day brunch empty-handed, right?

Flowers are always a great option, and you can never go wrong with gifting a meal or a personalised gift card for her favourite restaurant. But, sometimes it’s nice to go a bit more personal or creative when choosing a gift for mum, your partner, grandma, sister or any other maternal figure in your life.

If you feel like you’re stuck on what to splurge on, you’re not alone. Shopping for gifts is hard. Luckily, we’ve gathered our pick of the best Mother’s Day gifts out there for all different types of mums.

Tech gifts for mum

Therabody Theraface LED Mask

Price $899

The Therabody TheraFace Mask is a breakthrough FDA-cleared, TGA-registered LED face mask that delivers full-face Red, Red + Infrared, and Blue light with added tension-relieving vibration therapy. Clinical studies showed it will give mum firmer, smoother, healthier-looking skin with a visible reduction in fine lines and dark spots in as little as 8 weeks.

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Google Pixel Watch

Price $549

The Google Pixel Watch 2 looks just like the original Pixel Watch and offers more advanced features via the Fitbit premium app. It’s not just a great-looking accessory but she’ll probably find it super useful, too.

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Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni Mopping & Vacuuming Robot

Price $2,499

The ultimate hands-free cleaning machine simultaneously vacuums and mops. And what better gift is there in the world than something to do her mopping and vacuuming for her? After all, time is precious for everyone!

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Sonos Move 2 Speaker

Price $799

Is mum still listening to that old radio? Is she streaming music through her terrible computer or tablet speakers? Time for an improvement. Pound for pound, Sonos produces some of the best sound out there, plus there’s a well-made app and the thing is built to last.

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Taily Solar Smart Bird Feeder with Camera Square

Price $167.99

Here’s a smart gadget mum will get a kick out of, especially if she likes taking in some nature in her yard. The special feeder snaps high-res images and video of our feathered friends, allowing her to get great views of all the different species that show up. Full disclaimer: She may get a little obsessed.

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LG Style

Price $2,899

Is Mum’s closet full of treasured statement pieces needing some love and care? Help her refresh her wardrobe staples and preserve timeless, delicate pieces by treating her to the LG Styler Steam Clothing Care System.

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Beauty and wellness gifts for mum

Dyson Rose Gold Airwrap

Price $849

For Mother’s Day the limited edition Rose Gold version of the Airwrap comes with a complimentary brush and comb gift set valued at $69 – plus complimentary case personalisation.

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Pure Mama Pregnancy Care Set

Price $165

The perfect gift for a new mum, this pregnancy care set is designed to provide her with moments of self-care, connection and nourishment. The products – a Belly Oil, Bump Scrub & Magnesium Body Rub – are made using natural and organic ingredients, to ensure only the best care for her pregnancy journey, through to motherhood.

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Sheridan Plush Robe

Price $79.99

I’m a mum and I can’t help but love Sheridan. The chances are your mum probably can’t help but love Sheridan, too. The outlet is not only the ultimate place for some really good prices, but a place you can score iconic pieces like their uber-plush bath robe.

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T2 Blooming Bouquet Blossoming Tea Gift Pack

Price $48

Here’s a heartfelt gift for the mum who tolerates coffee but LOVES tea. This blooming tea bouquet is filled with a melange of flavour-infused tea blossoms that slowly unfurl into a beautiful floral arrangement of marigold, jasmine and rose buds.

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Sentimental gifts for mum

Personalised Family Book

Price $59.99

Gifting a book to another person can be tricky, but this personalised kid’s story book is so thoughtful that it’s failsafe. They have options for first time mums, grandparents and a bunch of cool storylines that she will hold on to forever.

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Deja Marc Classic Fingerprint Necklace

Price $199.00

I received this one for Mother’s Day last year and I was (and still am) unbelievable obsessed. It’s a simple dainty necklace design that allows you to get the fingerprints of your children engraved on them. I mean…say less.

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Sarah & Sebastien Interlocking Heart Soldered Bracelet

Price $270

A sweet symbol to celebrate meaningful connections, these permanent bracelets are custom-fitted during a Soldered appointment and soldered together seamlessly with no clasp using the traditional jeweller’s flame. This one features two cut-out heart motifs interlocking together as one in 18-karat yellow gold and fixed onto a super fine chain for everyday layering.

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Fashion gifts for mum

lululemon Beyondfeel Women’s Running Shoe

Price $249

Have a runner on your hands? lululemon’s Beyondfeel shoes provides ventilation, stretch, and support where you need it – making powering the pavement that much more comfortable.

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Gymshark Training Jacket

Price $70

For the fitness-obsessed mum, a cool new workout jacket is the way to go. This one from Gymshark will not only last her years to come, but it’s designed to be slightly longer in the back, which means it’s flattering to wear with leggings.

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Ugg Slippers

Price $199.99

It’s starting to get pretty cold, so what better time than now to get mum a cosy pair of slippers. These Disquette Mules are incredibly soft and made with a genuine suede leather on the outside, and fluffy sheepskin on the inside.

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Homeware gifts for mum

Dinosaur Designs Pearl Tower Vase

Price $320

This colourful Dinosaur Designs vase doesn’t even need flowers to look beautiful. A handful of other designs are available on Farfetch as well just in case pink isn’t your mom’s thing.

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Our Place The Always Pan

Price $275

Speaking of gift-worthy kitchen products, maybe she needs a new one. Known as the pan that broke the internet, Our Place’s Always Pan does it all. With a modern design and gorgeous colours, it’s made to replace eight pieces of cookware. Your mom’s favourite frying pan could never.

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Green Collective Culinary Herb Garden Kit

Price $38.95

If she has a green thumb, check out Green Collective co, an online store that sells curated plant sets. The Culinary Herb Garden Kit has basil, thyme, chives and parsley seeds, along with planter pots, soil pellets, herb snips and more so all she has to do is plant and watch them grow in the windowsill.

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Glasshouse Fragrances Soy Candle & Care Kit

Price $109.00

No such thing as too many nice candles. This Mother’s Day, cult-loved brand Glasshouse is offering gift sets complete with their Enchanted Garden Soy Candle, a wick trimmer and candle snuffer – all in a limited edition blue velvet case.

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July Vanity Cosmetic Case

Price $125

If your mum’s collection of miscellaneous beauty products could use a more organised home, this travel-friendly cosmetic bag will do the trick. It features a removable organisation pocket and user zip compartment for brushes.

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For the mum that prefers an experience over a gift

Dining gift card

Price: variable

Not every mum wants a tangible gift for mother’s day. In fact, OpenTable research shows that 51% of mums would prefer an experience over a gift. With that in mind, you can’t go wrong with a personalised gift card for her favourite restaurant. Luckily, OpenTable can provide exactly that. And if you’re looking for the ideal setting to use that gift card, you can find OpenTable’s list of Australia’s best brunch and lunch spots here.

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The post The best mother’s day gifts to earn you favourite child status appeared first on Men's Health Magazine Australia.

According to a study by Dentalhealth.org, people who opt for an electric toothbrush have healthier gums, less tooth decay and also keep their teeth for longer, compared with those who use a manual toothbrush.

“Health experts have been speaking about the benefits of electric toothbrushes for many years. This latest piece of evidence is one of the strongest and clearest yet – electric toothbrushes are better for our oral health,” explains Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter OBE. “Electric toothbrushes, especially those with heads that rotate in both directions, or ‘oscillating’ heads, are really effective at removing plaque. This helps keep tooth decay and gum disease at bay. As the science behind the advantages of electric toothbrushes is mounting, the decision whether to invest in one becomes much easier.”

Unlike their manual counterparts, electric toothbrushes use strong vibrations and automated head movement to more effectively remove plaque and debris from your teeth. These days, many electric toothbrushes go beyond just a powerful clean and offer a bunch of fancy options: think interchangeable heads for sensitive teeth or deeper cleans, a 2-minute timer to let you know when you’ve finished brushing, and even built-in artificial intelligence to help track your brushing progress and offer suggestions on how to improve.

The good news is that you don’t have to shell out a ton of money to find a good, effective electric toothbrush. These are the best electric toothbrushes out there, no matter your budget or brushing acumen.

Best overall

Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige

If you’re after something that looks good and is a really good investment, this is for you. While it’s definitely on the pricier end ($399 at The Shaver Shop), you really do get what you pay for. Think 62,000 bristle movements (that get your teeth and gums way cleaner than you ever thought possible), a sensitive gum mode, and SenseIQ technology, which automatically adjusts to your brushing style and pressure to give you the best clean possible.

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Best affordable electric toothbrush

Oral-B iO Series 5

This electric toothbrush has all the same bells and whistles as some models three times the price, all in an easy to use and understand package. It features a pressure sensor which uses coloured light on the base to alert you if you’re pressing too hard, and the same rotary style head that your dentist uses, which may take some getting used to, but is great at cleaning all the nooks and crannies of your mouth.

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Best for travel

Ordo Soinc Lite Electric Toothbrush

This toothbrush is like the best of both worlds. It’s the size and shape of a manual brush, but features the sonic technology and brushing modes you want from an electric brush. It charges via USB-C, which makes it ideal for traveling. The bristles deliver a good, effective clean and the Smart LED indicator remind you when it’s nearly time to charge.

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Best splurge electric toothbrush

Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 Electric Toothbrush

If you’re going to invest in an electric toothbrush, this is one of the best out there (with a sky-high price tag to match). At roughly $500 in white or black, it’s one of the most expensive premium electric toothbrushes we’ve seen. But that admission price gets you five interchangeable modes and three intensity settings to fully customise your brushing experience. Interchangeable brush heads specifically designed for things like whitening or tongue cleaning also allow you to get optimal results with minimal effort. Plus the charging travel case allows you to take it with you wherever you go, and know your investment is protected along the way.

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Best flossing electric toothbrush

Waterpik Sonic-Fusion 2.0 Professional Flossing Toothbrush

As far as electric toothbrush features go, this one has something none of the others have: A built-in water flossing feature. The all-in-one design allows you to floss (with water) while you brush, saving you time and effort while giving your teeth an unparalleled, fresh-from-the-dentist clean feeling. The brush itself has basic features like two intensity modes and a timer, but the biggest draw is the integrated waterpik. You can brush with or without the floss feature, but why would you ever go without?

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Best for long-lasting battery life

FOREO ISSA 3

Not your average-looking toothbrush, this one is made from silicone, which is known for being more hygienic as well as hypoallergenic. The brush head combines polymer and silicone bristles too, making it tough on stains and bacteria but soft on gums. Its best feature, however, is that it only needs recharging once a year, so there’ll be no clutter around your bathroom sink.

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Best smart electric toothbrush for beginners

Oral B Genius

If a manual toothbrush has always been your go-to, this smart electric brush may be just what you need to make the switch. It isn’t overwhelming for first-timers, as testers found the vibrations weren’t too overpowering, but it still left everyone with a whiter smile. The pressure sensor was appreciated too, helping to remove plaque without causing discomfort.

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Best electric toothbrush for braces

Curaprox Hydrosonic Pro

This sonic toothbrush features just one button, which switches between seven different cleaning modes – ideal for those who like to keep it simply. The three different-shaped brush heads ensure you’re getting a deep clean, especially if you have braces, bridges or implants.

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Menshealth.com.au provides reviews and recommendations to help you find the right product. Products you purchase through links on this page may earn us a small commission.

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The post The 8 best electric toothbrushes for men appeared first on Men's Health Magazine Australia.

A quality winter jacket will pay dividends for years to come. Every time you step out the door for the next few months (oof.), you’re going to be throwing on some kind of top layer to keep you warm and protected from the elements. Depending on the weather, that top layer you reach for could change from a light fleece pullover to an arctic-proof parka in 24 hours. And then there are the in-between days when a leather jacket, bomber jacket, puffer jacket, peacoat, or raincoat will do the trick.

Unsurprisingly, comfort has become even more of a priority in recent years and menswear brands have responded quickly. The result? Puffers are still the biggest trend this winter, with ’90s-inspired parkas (basically, anything Oasis would have rocked) and sporty nylon overshirts falling closely behind.

Then there’s the office category, if you’re after something a little smart: investing in wool-tailored overcoats is always a good idea, so we’ve also included a few traditional numbers that are as timeless as it gets and will smarten up even the simplest of outfits.

Here, the 14 best winter jackets for men in every budget, for every occasion.

Best affordable winter jacket

H&M 3-layer Shell Jacket in StormMove™

Crafted from the brand’s technical StormMove™ fabric, H&M’s shell jacket is great for walking trips, ski holidays and rainy city outings alike. We love the cool teal shade option, too.

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Best puffer winter jacket

Lululemon Wunder Puff Jacket

With a balanced weight-to-warmth ratio, a fully windproof shell, and insulation to keep you warm, Lululemon’s Wunder Puff Jacket is a true gem. The exterior feels buttery-soft and effortlessly repels water, leaving you virtually dry even in the heaviest rain.

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Best down winter jacket

Kathmandu Frisco X Men’s Hooded Down Jacket

It’s pretty obvious that if you’re looking for a really good quality down that Kathmandu has your back (literally). This hooded down jacket is insulated with 600 fill power, which basically means it’s WARM. It’s also made with 26 recycled plastic bottles which is a nice touch.

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Best everyday jacket

Uniqlo White Mountaineering Recycled Hybrid Down Jacket

Uniqlo are the absolute best at making really cool jackets at a good price, and this jacket is no different. Made with recycled materials, you can wear it as an outer layer or even under a coat with too much bulk. The down padding helps retain heat, and it has a water-repellent finish, too.

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Best lightweight winter jacket

Arc’teryx Atom Jacket

Simple, effective, and stylish, the Atom jacket from Arc’teryx is a reliable every day option. The Coreloft™ Compact 60 insulation retains heat when wet and withstands repeated packing and unpacking the soft, durable Tyono™ 20 face fabric resists wind and weather, and the stretch fleece side panels improve ventilation and freedom of movement.

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Best parka winter jacket

Lululemon StretchSeal Down-Filled Parka

There’s cold mornings, there’s freezing mornings, and then there’s holy shit, I can’t feel my fingers, toes, or face mornings. Sometimes, nothing but a full-blown parka stands a chance at keeping you warm. To save yourself the aforementioned reaction when stepping outside this winter, invest in a waterproof, windproof, faux-fur lined, full-length parka made for the arctic-like days, like this one from Lululemon.

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Best winter overcoat

Saba Lucas Wool Coat

It can be tricky to look sharp and stay warm at the same time. Puffers are great and all, but they can really cramp your style if you’re going to any sort of formal function. That’s where the wool coat comes in. Classic and timeless, add one to your wardrobe and reach for it any time you need a dressy top layer.

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Best classic peacoat

MJ Bale Horatio Peacoat Acqua

Down Under winter gets chilly at worst, so a simple peacoat should get you through the season. MJ Bale offers an 100% thermo regulating Australian Merino wool, finished with an ‘Acqua’ water repellent finish. It has two large hand pockets, a double breasted front, and a big collar that allow you to bundle up when needed. Overall, it is just a little heavier than a blazer with the same level of style.

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Best winter denim jacket

Ksubi Oh G Jacket Sherpa Mid Blue

Denim jackets are unmatched for pure style versatility. When the weather gets cold, you can upgrade to a sherpa-lined jean coat for the same versatility with a nice cozy lining. Ksubi absolutely nail their denim jackets, and this one is ideal for Aussie winter.

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Best winter bomber

Alpha Industries MA-1 Flight Jacket

The bomber jacket is one of the most popular styles in men’s outerwear these days. Most options are limited to warmer temperatures, but the B-15 Flight Jacket is absolutely a winter coat. Based a real military issue jacket that Alpha Industries made, it is packed with insulation, has a wether-resistant shell, and a super soft faux fur collar to protect your neck.

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Best quilted bomber

Venroy Quilted Puffer Jacket

We love this puffer/shacket/bomber crossover. It’s made from Nylon with quilted stitch detailing, internal zip pockets, branded zipper and elasticated hem with adjustable toggles, and is just a really cool way to add that little bit more warmth this winter.

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Best shacket

Nana Judy Durant Shacket

Think of this Nana Judy front-zip jacket from as your favourite shacket’s big brother. When the air gets a little too cool for an overshirt but you’re not quite ready to pull out the big guns, this is a super-versatile top layer that pairs well with just about anything in your closetSHOP NOW

Best leather jacket

Rodd & Gunn Arrowtown Shearling Leather Jacket in Mocha

While on the pricier end, this jacket is nothing short of an investment. Made with 100% top grade lamb skin that’s incredibly soft to touch, it features a super warm shearling collar and interior and a really timeless fit. Take care of it, and it will last decades longer than the two-year guarantee.

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Metallic footwear is in – and these New Balance trainers are the ultimate buy

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The post These jackets and coats will keep you warm (and stylish) all winter long appeared first on Men's Health Magazine Australia.

Of course, there are comfortable white sneakers, chunky sneakers, and even sneakers made for the winter, but nothing adds dimension to an outfit quite like a shiny trainer. As a top 2024 sneaker trend, the style adds an elevated finishing touch to almost any outfit.

One brand that got the memo is none other than New Balance, who have announced that they are re-launching their iconic 1000 sneaker. Originally introduced in 1999, the New Balance 1000 sneaker made quiet strides as one of the brand’s chunky runners. The model even got a star moment in one of New Balance’s older running commercials.

First cool feature: the streamlined silhouette complemented by prominent overlay panels, a segmented sculpted sole unit, and nylon eyelets. 2024’s New Balance 1000 maintains much of the original model’s look down to the thick sole, but brought up to today’s speed with fresh colourways and improved materials.

Next, let’s talk comfort. Its midfoot features a stability web for lightweight comfort and support, while the “N” logo features a raised rubber TPU for added durability. To provide a secure, locked-in fit, the 1000’s collar features an internal foam heel pad, too.

“The reissued 1000 brings a turn of the millennium classic out of the archives,” the brand explains. “Originally released in 1999, the 1000 embodied the era’s bold, futuristic styling with a streamlined, yet intricately detailed design.”

Buy them for $250 at newbalance.com

The New Balance 1000 “Silver Metallic” drops on April 24, 2024, at select retailers and NewBalance.com. Stock in Australia is incredibly limited, so get your hands (or feet) on them soon, they will go quick

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The post Metallic footwear is in – and these New Balance trainers are the ultimate buy appeared first on Men's Health Magazine Australia.

Whether you’re looking to liven up your lunchtime 5k, add heat to your home workouts or overcome a training plateau (or all of the above), strapping on a weighted vest is one of the easiest ways to fast-track your strength and endurance. They not only allow you to increase the challenge of any bodyweight move, but training with weighted vests insures that you build body control and awareness while still introducing the new loads you need to spark muscle and strength gains.

With everything from lightweight, minimalist vests for beginners to heavy-duty rigs designed to supercharge muscle growth, these are our favourite weighted vests for adding resistance to your workouts.

What should I consider before purchasing a weighted vest?

Before strapping on the first vest you see, there are a couple of questions you should consider. For example, what kind of weighted vest do you need? What exercises should you be doing in one? And is it even worth complicating your workouts in the first place?

Weighted vests come in various styles, from minimal harnesses that provide a few pounds of extra load to large rigs designed to mimic the body armour worn by military groups that hold iron plates. The best options are the versatile ones that feature removable weights- allowing the wearer to adjust the load to make the training easier or harder.

Best overall

The WOD Life Tech Plate Carrier Weight Vest

Engineered to be lightweight and sit close to your body for an uninterrupted workout whilst also being durable and safely hold weight plates, this weighted best is designed to accomodate TWL Tech Plate- Velcro strap adjusts to fit athletes of most sizes. It’s perfect for a range of workouts like functional fitness, cross training, track and field, basketball, soccer, football, baseball and volleyball.

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Best for beginners

Celsius 20kg Adjustable Weighted Vest

The Celsius 20kg Adjustable Weighted Vest lets you quickly add resistance to any workout, whether you’re building strength and power, or toning and tightening. The adjustable straps offer a customised fit, while the sand weight system ensures ease-of-movement and flexibility, for a more varied routine. And when you’re training in low-light conditions, the reflective chest tabs will help increase your visibility and safety.

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Best for outdoor workouts

Cortex 20kg adjustable weight vest

Cortex Weighted Vests are designed with comfort in mind and comes with a quick and easy hook & loop fastener for a secure fit. They’re made with DuPont Fabric and Iron Sand traditionally reserved for militant wear, so you can expect similar durability and breathability – perfect for outdoor workouts.

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Best rucksack

Gymshark tactical backpack

Before weighted vests, there was another way to add some bulk to your body weight: rucksacks. This rugged option comfortably holds 25L, and has adjustable chest and waist straps, too. With plenty of pouches and zip pockets, you can pack your life into it – along with the optional dumbbell or plate. A good option for any expeditions or camping trips.

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Best for running

Goruck – ruck plate carrier 3.0

The Ruck Plate Carrier™ (aka RPC) houses a Ruck Plate® (sold separately) and is worn high and tight on your back for natural stability. Your chest stays open so you can breathe better to push harder during runs. It also has a padded top handle, padding on the top of the plate pocket, ergonomic lumbar support padding, and non-abrasive fabric used on the back panel and underside of the shoulder straps — so you can even wear it shirtless with no friction burn.

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Best premium weighted vest

GND Weight Vest

The GND Weight Tactical Vest is modelled on military grade gear so you can expect good quality. It’s one-size-fits-all and has been built for rugged durability, constructed from heavy duty 600D nylon.Thick breathable sponge pads on the front and back ensure that you’ll stay comfortable regardless how intense your workout gets, while the weight plates that are inserted into the vest are all made & powder coated in Australia from Australian steel.

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Best budget weighted vest

TODO 10kg Weight Vest Weighted

One of the lighter (and more affordable) options on our list, this Decathlon weighted vest sits on your back with a front strap, holding 10kg of non removable weight. The neoprene material is sweat resistant and super comfortable, while the reflective accents are great for night runners. Perfect for beginners.

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Best CrossFit vest

VERVE Tactical Vest Plate Carrier

The VERVE Tactical Vest Plate Holder is made from a military grade high-strength 500D nylon unlike low cost plate holders made using the less durable polyester. This tactical vest features a quick release system and woven velcro chest and back hooks for attachment of any universal accessories, and is perfectly weighted for CrossFit.

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Most ergonomic vest

GORUCK Training Weight Vest

The GORUCK Training Weight Vest is exactly what you think of, and want, when it comes to a weighted vest. With a padded panel on the body and shoulder straps for extra comfort when carrying the weights inside, this is well designed creation. It has been designed to spread the additional weight evenly across your back and sit comfortably during dynamic workouts.

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Most durable weighted vest

5.11 Tactical TacTec Trainer Weight Vest

Consider part of the 5.11 fan club. Everything in the brand’s catalog is built to exacting standards and designed to take a beating, and the TacTec Weight Vest is no exception.
The vest also has more storage options than most models we’ve seen. A Velcro admin pocket on the front provides quick access to your essentials, while MOLLE panels on the front and rear allow for even more storage. On the downside, this is a premium weighted vest with a premium price tag to match.

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The post The best weighted vests to add resistance to your workouts appeared first on Men's Health Magazine Australia.

But with promises such as tighter, firmer and brighter looking skin in just days, the skincare aisle can seem complicated and overwhelming – especially for men.
The good news? The men’s grooming industry is exploding. There are now plenty of brands out there for every guy, but cutting through the noise to find what actually works can be a hassle.

When in doubt, try home-grown brands that put a focus on sustainable ingredients and practices. Less is more when it comes to skincare, and it’s always best to opt for expertly formulated products that have some street cred to them.

To get you started on a path to clearer, brighter skin, check out one of these awesome skincare brands, all offering up simple yet realistic solutions for the biggest organ on your body.

Bulldog Skincare

Named after a man’s best friend, Bulldog Skincare focuses on using natural origin ingredients (like the aloe vera), and combining them with carefully selected, man-made ingredients to offer superb performance at an affordable price. They do awesome starter bundles so are a great for getting started in skincare.

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Hunter Lab Co.

Since 2015, Hunter Lab has redefined gender-inclusive skincare right out of Melbourne. Their range is formulated naturally and transparently without any synthetic or chemical ingredients, and offer a slew of products that feature essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

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SKiN by Gillette

Even if you know nothing about men’s skincare products, you probably already know the name Gillette. SKin by Gillette is the brand’s more curated men’s skincare line that leverages Korean skincare technology (that’s a great thing, trust us) to created some pretty badass formulas. On offer are a range of cleaners, facemasks, shaving essentials and more.

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Appelles Apothecary & Lab

Name ring a bell? Well, if you’ve stayed in just about any luxury hotel in Australia before you’d be well aware of Appelles. The premium Australian skincare based out of Sydney combines native botanical extracts, pure essential oils and powerful vitamins. They mainly focus on hand and body creams so you can care for the skin beyond your face.

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Antipodes

An award-winning plant-powered beauty and certified-organic skincare brand with products made in New Zealand, Antipodes formulations are good for your skin and for the planet. The clean beauty brand (meaning they only sustainable ingredients from renewable sources) have everything from toners to exfoliators and eye creams. Their website is also super helpful for finding the best product for your skin issues.

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Aesop

Vegan and cruelty-free, Australian label Aesop is loved by men the world over thanks to its impressively broad range of unisex products that cover everything from skincare and hair care to fragrance and home. We love their beard oils and cleansers.

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Patricks

Knowing he could do better than the calibre of products he was selling in his Sydney salon, founder Patrick “called a formulations lab, then his mum for a $5k loan, and started Patricks products.” With a simple and relatable motto that reads “fuck ups, failures and fortune”, it’s no wonder the local label has seen such success. They have an awesome diamonds scrub, and their anti-ageing products are some of the best on the market.

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Triumph & Disaster

If you love a rich, earthy aroma- this is for you. Triumph & Disaster is a cruelty-free skincare brand that has a bit of old-fashioned charm about itself. The brand aims to take you back to simpler times with its portfolio of must-have products including an awesome cult eye serum.

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Biology

Biology is an Aussie brand that is all about a laid-back lifestyle and passion for the ocean. Their great quality products are designed to complement your routine with uncomplicated yet effective clean formulations like their super light body lotion.

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Baxter Of California

Since it was first established in 1965, this celebrated California-based grooming brand has cemented itself as one of the more popular and accessible names when it comes to men’s grooming products. Standout products include their Super Shape Anti-Ageing cream (a unique gel-cream texture ft. vigna extract and apricot oil) and their Skin Concentrate BHA (a powerful and concentrated serum that visibly reduces acne-causing bacteria and blemishes).

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Grown Alchemist

Founded by brothers Keston and Jeremy Mujis, this ethical Australian skincare brand is certified organic, vegan, cruelty-free and non-toxic. Not only is the packaging elite, but products such as the Regenerating Night Cream and Age-Spot Corrector consistently get five-star reviews.

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Kiehl’s

Another super well-known brand in the skincare space, Kiehl’s was launched in 1921 by pharmacist John Kiehl and since then has been formulating a range of Uber-popular products. Their men’s-specific range is all about keeping your complexion clean, clear and firm in just a few basic steps. We love their eye cream and face wash.

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Mr.

Aussie Hugh Jackman might be a fan of the brand, but don’t let his debonair ways fool you. With natural ingredients derived from indigenous Australian plants these products are for the everyman. Try the chamomile cleanser, which reduces inflammation and removes any pore-clogging impurities that accumulated throughout your day.

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Charles + Lee

Australian-made and surprisingly affordable, Charles + Lee is a cruelty-free skincare brand that creates no-nonsense, easily accessible, vegan products that ease each and every one of your skin concerns.

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The post These are the best skincare brands for men in 2024 appeared first on Men's Health Magazine Australia.

High-tech hair removers are often specifically designed to make shaving your head easier, whether it’s through an ergonomic grip design (your hands will thank you) or close-cutting technology (or both).

So if you’re opting for the at-home shaving route (which is far easier than heading to the barbershop every few days, in our opinion), these electric shavers are meant to be used at home in the comfort of your own bathroom, and are damn good at their job.

So without further adieu, whether you choose to don going full bald, a buzz cut, skin fade, or to shape-up what’s left—these are our pick of the best head shavers available right now.

What do I need to consider when choosing a head shaver?

When it comes to picking a head shaver that works beast for you, there are three things you need to consider:

1. The number of shaving heads: While a higher number of razor heads will help hug the curves of your head, they can also help limit cuts.

2. Wet/dry design: Pretty much all head shavers can be used dry, which means as long as your hair is already short enough you can shave with no moisture or product. Waterproof options will allow you to shave in the shower, which is super easy to clean up. Plus, you can use most wet/dry shavers with shaving products, so if you prefer begin with a pre-shave oil to protect your scalp and then add a shaving cream or lotion to help with glide.

3. A cordless design: A good cordless head shaver can last up as long as 90 minutes. They also unlock the ability to shave in the shower or on the go without having to be plugged in.

Best overall head shaver

Remington Balder Pro Head Shaver

The pivoting shaver heads on the Remington Balder Pro will hug each curve of your head, and according to the brand, shave your entire head in just two minutes. There’s also a hair capture chamber, which collects hair for an easy cleanup, and a nonslip grip which gives you extra control when you’re mowing through your head.

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Best waterproof head shaver

Braun Series 9 Electric Shaver

Braun’s Series 9 shaver ensures a super close shave and is super fast-offering up to 40,000 cuts per minute. Thanks to its waterproof capability, you can use it in the shower for a refreshing shaving experience, and the portable charging case makes it super easy to throw in a bag and get quite a few weeks of shaves without plugging it in, too.

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Best head shaver for buzz cuts

Remington Shortcut Pro Self-Haircut Kit

If you don’t want a smooth shave, and prefer a close buzz without heading to the barber, the Shortcut Pro delivers. With multiple length options via interchangeable combs, this shaver allows you to try different buzz looks on your own. It’s also super compact, so great for taking on trips.

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Best head shaver for skin fades

Andis Pro Foil Lithium Titanium Foil Shaver

A go-to for plenty barbers, this foil shaver runs super quiet and won’t irritate your skin. It runs well on battery too, delivering up to 80 minutes of run time on a single charge—a duration that’s twice as long as others.

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Best corded clipper

Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding Clipper

The Wahl Professional 5-Star Balding Clipper promises an impressive 14,400 strokes per minute, which is something a cordless clippers might struggle to achieve. It’s designed specifically for balding and skin fades with even cuts, and is ideal for outlining and shape-ups.

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Best ergonomic design for bald heads

BaBylissPRO Double Foil Shaver

The electric shaver has an extremely powerful rotary motor that delivers an impressive 20,000 strokes per minute. Somehow, the battery also lasts 3 hours per charge. It’s also great for all of the areas around your hairline —neck, face, and sideburns, and the hypoallergenic gold double foil system is gentle on skin while still providing an ultra close shave.

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Best corded shaver

Skull Shaver Pitbull Gold PRO

This head shaver fits perfectly in between your fingers with four rotary shaving heads resting in the palm of your hand. The shape and weight allow for easy gliding across your head in especially hard-to-reach and see areas, while pivoting and contouring to the shape of your head meaning an extra close shave.

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Menshealth.com.au provides reviews and recommendations to help you find the right product. Products you purchase through links on this page may earn us a small commission.

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The post 7 of the best head shavers for men in 2024 appeared first on Men's Health Magazine Australia.

But the benefits of breathwork aren’t only limited to stress: mastering your breathing can make a big difference in your quest for better performance or faster fat burn. During exercise, your muscles require oxygen. It is their fuel: the more they receive, the further and faster you run and the more you lift. So, the way in which air is drawn into your body that determines how well your muscles are oxygenated.

Here, everything you need to know about breathwork, and some of the best breathing exercises to help you relax.

What is breathwork?

Most of us take breathing for granted. We breathe about 14 times every minute, more than 20,000 times a day, and no fewer than 526 million times during the course of an average lifetime. Nearly all of those breaths are automatic; respiration generally requires about as much thought as pumping blood or digesting food. Yet despite all that practice, most of us suck at it.

Breathwork revolves around deep, diaphragmatic breathing or belly breathing, which research suggests may trigger relaxation responses in the body, according to the Frontiers in Psychology study. It encompasses a range of breathing exercises designed to enhance physical, spiritual, and mental health.

Different breathwork techniques

While some types of breath work are designed to alleviate stress and induce relaxation, others can be used to boost energy and focus the mind. If you’re unsure which is best for you, ask yourself why you’re considering incorporating breathwork. Is it to tackle a specific problem? Has breathwork been advised to help with mental health problems, such as anxiety or stress? Or are you just seeking to grab a moment out of the madness, relax and unwind?

Once you have an idea of you needs, you can choose a type of breathwork from these categories:

1. Controlled breathing

Controlled Breathing (or Pursed Lip Breathing) involves disrupting the body’s natural breathing pattern. An example is box breathing where you hold your breath, exhale, empty your lungs and inhale for a count of four.

2. Diaphragmatic breathing

This type of breathing is best against stress and anxiety. With Diaphragmatic breathing (or Deep relaxation breathing) you focus on breathing using the entire diaphragm rather than just the belly.

3. Circular breathing

Used in meditation, circular breathing involves visualising each long, slow exhalation and inhalation to let go of negative energy and focus on your thoughts. When a person engages in a continuous flow of circular breathing this is called ‘Conscious Connected’ breathing.

4. Holotropic® breathwork

Developed by psychologists Stanislov and Cristina Grof in the 60s, Holotropic® breathwork is said to have a similar effect to a psychedelic substance. Involving deep breathing through the nose and mouth at an accelerated rate it reduces oxygen to the brain and unlocks a state of higher consciousness.

5. Pranayama breathing

With origins in yoga, pranayama breathing is used to control the breath in varying patterns to yield different results. Types of breathwork that fall under this umbrella include Lion’s Breath, in which a person produces an audible pant sound and alternate nostril breathing, which involves closing off one nostril at a time and inhaling deeply.

How to learn breathwork

If you’re wanting to try breathwork for the first time, you might be confused trying to figure out how to learn. A good first step is to attend a local breathwork workshop to test the practice out under the guidance of a trained facilitator. Other trained facilitators like counsellors and coaches offer private breathwork sessions, too.

If in person classes aren’t really your thing, virtual breathwork class are great option as you can practice in the comfort of your own home. The virtual setting also offers more flexibility, so you can participate from anywhere in the world at a time that works best for you.

Another great option is a breathwork app. Many of these apps include resources and guided sessions that will allow you to learn breathwork online for free. Several of them also allow you to access premium features for a fee.

Are there any risks associated with breathwork?

Although incredibly rare, if you’re new to breathwork, more challenging techniques may lead to hyperventilating. If you start to experience dizziness, tingling in your hands, arms, feet, or legs, an irregular heartbeat, muscle spasms or a change in vision stop what you are doing and seek medical help.

Who should not practise breathwork?

One group of individuals who should be cautious when practising breathwork are those with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These conditions can be exacerbated by certain breathing techniques, such as those that involve holding the breath or breathing rapidly – so it’s important to consult with your doctor before starting a breathwork practice.

While certain breathing techniques can increase the oxygen supply to the fetus, another group of people who should also be careful when practicing breathwork is pregnant women, as more intense techniques like holotropic breathwork may not be safe. If you’re pregnant, it’s best to consult with your obstetrician before trying any new breathing exercises.

Why is breathwork so powerful?

From holotropic hyperventilation to Wim Hof’s ‘power breathing’, manipulating your respiration has lately been sold as a way to enhance your exercise performance, quicken your mind, or even enter altered states of consciousness – but if you’re asking ‘why?’, that’s a fair question.

Research shows that different emotions are associated with different forms of breathing, and so changing how we breathe can change how we feel. For example, when you feel joy, your breathing will be regular, deep and slow. If you feel anxious or angry, your breathing will be irregular, short, fast, and shallow. When you follow breathing patterns associated with different emotions, you’ll actually begin to feel those corresponding emotions.

How does this work? Changing the rhythm of your breath can signal relaxation, slowing your heart rate and stimulating the vagus nerve, which runs from the brain stem to the abdomen, and is part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s “rest and digest” activities (in contrast to the sympathetic nervous system, which regulates many of our “fight or flight” responses). Triggering your parasympathetic nervous system helps you start to calm down. You feel better. And your ability to think rationally returns.

There’s another part to this story, too: When you breathe, air is drawn mainly into the upper part of your lungs, but the greatest concentration of blood is lower down. Proper breathing carries air deeper into the lungs to allow more oxygen transfer to the blood, improving oxygenation by up to 15 per cent. It sounds nerdy, but it’s impossible to think of a simpler tweak with a greater impact.

How to do breathwork by yourself

Here are a handful of meditative breathing techniques and how they may help benefit your body, no matter what’s going on around you:

The post Everything you need to know about breathwork appeared first on Men's Health Magazine Australia.