Smart clothing is a type of wearable technology that is still being explored by various markets. Its fabric is implanted with interactive technology which is primarily used for tracking fitness goals. And even though it’s not mainstream as yet, it undoubtedly has a lot of potential to be the next decade’s most sought-after product. Therefore, thrilled with the possibilities of smart clothing, several manufacturers today have come up with their original products.
If you are wondering how this such kind of wearable technology can be beneficial for you, then read further.
- Ease – For some people, wearing a fitness tracker around the wrists or the arm can be extremely uncomfortable. This is because it can retain a lot of sweat around the area and cause skin irritation. On the other hand, smart clothing comes in various apparel forms which are highly inconspicuous and light. The best part about these is that brands have scaled several heights to make them incredibly comfy. So, you won’t even notice the difference between regular and smart clothing.
- Accurate numbers – Typically, statistics projected on most wearable technology products are correct. However, at times devices can process faulty information which always fuels the debate about how reliable they can be for fitness monitoring purposes. Smart clothing has an added advantage, i.e., the sensors within are much closer to the body so that they can offer precise data about exercise regimes and pulse rates.
- Additional data – Apart from the standard heart rate and motion tracking, currently some smart clothing brands are trying to take a comprehensive approach by monitoring the respiration rate as well. This can be extremely valuable as it gives you an insight into how you should manage your workout schedules as well as time-outs. For instance, if you do yoga exercises daily, smart clothing can be used to observe your breathing patterns, so that you can get better at executing complex postures.
- Healthcare applications – Not just for tracking your workout regimes, such wearable technology is also making its way in the healthcare sector. It can be used for keeping an eye on the infant’s breathing patterns and heart rates. Similarly, a few companies have come up with apparels that could help detect cardiovascular diseases.
- Convenience – Most smart clothing variants have to be washed by hand after detaching the monitoring devices from it. However, you can find products that have washable sensors, but at this point, this feature is only offered by a handful of brands. However, there is a good chance that brands in future will manufacture waterproof apparels to accommodate such consumer preferences.
- Connectivity – Like fitness wristbands, even smart clothing effortlessly connects to your smartphone. Not just for stats, some products can also utilize a social media space for active sharing. Some brands have also incorporated the feature of GPS tracking.
These products also termed as e-textiles, and are available in the form of shoes, bras, running shorts, suits, dresses, socks, trousers, jackets, etc. Besides fitness, smart clothing is increasingly becoming a subject of intrigue for ultra-modern fashion. So, in the coming years, they might be regular apparel to be seen on the store racks.
Hexoskin, Samsung NFC suit, Owlet Smart Sock 2, Nadi X yoga pants, SUPA Powered Sports Bra, Lumo Run, Levi’s x Google Jacquard Jacket, MyZone Sports Bra, Athos, Sensoria running socks 2.0, Neopenda smart baby hat, etc. are some of the popular products that you can consider buying. All of the wearable technology products mentioned vary according to the purpose and budget.
Apart from smart clothing, you can also explore different forms of wearable technology such as smart jewelry, intelligent wristbands and headbands, and smart watches, etc.
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4 ways to protect your kids from cold and flu
Read moreDue to their relatively weaker immune systems, children are most susceptible to cold and flu. This is especially true when the season is a bit chilly, and there is a slight nip in the air. Here’s what you can do to ensure your child safe from viruses and infections that can cause cold and flu.
- Eat a healthy diet: Make sure that your kid’s immune system is strong enough to fight infections and viruses. A healthy diet is crucial. Also, don’t forget that they should keep themselves hydrated by drinking sufficient water. Boil a liter of water, cool it and then give it to your kid. When it comes to diet, add a lot of fruits and veggies to the diet. This should include food items that have a high content of vitamin C.
- Maintain hygienic habits: It is necessary to maintain habits of utmost cleanliness and hygiene to stay away from cold and flu. Ensure that you child follows a daily routine of having baths on time, washing hands, and drinking clean water.
- Beat the mosquito attack: If your kids love playing outside, they might be at the risk of being exposed to mosquitoes and other bugs and insects that can potentially carry cold and flu viruses. Ensure that you maintain a clean environment to keep these insects and bugs at bay.
- Try home remedies: When you notice the first signs of cold and flu in you child, use home remedies such as ginger juice and honey to treat sneezing and other early symptoms of cold and flu. If the symptoms persist for more than two days, consult a doctor. Along with doctor prescribed medications, you can follow certain natural remedies that can make your child’s immunity system strong.
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Why prefer an All Wheel Drive (AWD)?
Read moreLet’s get this straight. All-Wheel-Drives (AWD) are not for all.
The AWD is a design and function where all four wheels spin all the time which gives an added traction to the automobile. Unlike the 4WD where you can shift from a two wheel drive to a 4 wheel drive, the AWD vehicles operate on a permanent drive. AWD’s made their first appearance during the late 1930s when General Motors first introduced them. Today, the AWDs have decked up a lot of technological improvements ranging from advanced traction controls to electronic systems and bold vehicle design. They have earned a separate genre among automobiles making them a necessity in certain types of terrain and climate. However, for anyone thinking of buying one, there are a set of pros and cons to consider.
Traction
Upside: The extra traction is needed for an efficient drive over the rough and slippery terrain. The AWD is usually preferred in places of harsh winters and slippery terrain. During times of a sudden snowstorm, one can feel safer in getting back on an AWD.Downside: Experts say that good traction help in moving over slippery surfaces and cutting corners but is not enough. A set of good snow tires and suspension are the fundamentals of the physics of optimum vehicle control.
Design
Upside: The AWDs design offers a huge space for at least 6 passengers and their luggage. Some of the AWD’s can carry up to 8 passengers and luggage efficiently. The vehicles are designed to drag weight across rough terrain ensuring safety to passengers. The modern all-wheel-drive design offers electronic stability control which gives more control to the vehicle.Downside: Due to the heavy weight and complex engineering, the AWDs are not fuel efficient. The AWD gain more power by during more fuel than the two wheel drives.
Money
Upside: The AWDs have a good resale value than the two wheel drive cars. You cannot me promised of a 100% resale value but your car will easier to sell for a better price than a two wheel drive. People living in the northern climate do not have to think about resale.Downside: The reason why the AWDs have a good resale value is due to their high cost of purchase. Many AWD manufacturers charge a premium between $1500 and $3000. The AWD are expensive to maintain as they have a more complex engineering.
The final verdict is that you need an all-wheel-drive if you are living in harsh winter storms and have to travel through slippery roads. But if you are in places with milder climates, the AWD might not be the right fit.