The ‘Dad Bod’ Trend Is Giving Normal Men Some Hope

May 22, 2020 by Oldskool

A short time ago I had no absolutely idea what a ‘dad bod’ was. The ‘dad bod’ is a new infatuation with bodies that state, “I workout in the gym fromtime to time, but I also drink a lot and like to eat ten pieces of pizza at a time.”

It all began with Clemson University’s The Odyssey, via Mackenzie Pearson‘s piece “Why Girls Love The Dad Bod.” The basic premise is a “physique characterized by undefined muscles beneath a light layer of flab, usually topped off with a beer belly.” That effectively means anyone who played sport in school then started eating pizzas for lunch – within reason – and has some chance with girls who like this kind of thing.

The reasons Pearson provided for her attraction to the dad bod were:

It doesn’t intimidate us.
This is always positive, and we’ll take what we can get .

We like being the pretty one.
I haven’t been called pretty…ever. And we’re OK if that don’t change.

“Better cuddling.”

Well Yep…

You know what you’re getting.

Well ok – BUT – guy with dad bods will pack weight on down the line and maybe hit the morbidly obese benchmark. It’s all relative.
It’s interesting to see this online and see a bunch of females (and a large percentage of the net) appreciating this reality of life.

Tall Men Shoes – Deals

March 2, 2020 by Oldskool

These shoes will invisibly add 2-5 inches in height without losing any comfort.

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The Not So Humble Crotch Rocket

February 13, 2020 by Oldskool

We all know them: those guys on the Japanese motorcycles, usually garishly-colored, and usually speeding down the road. They are lovingly-referred to as crotch rockets. These motorcycles elicit a wide range of reactions, ranging from “Damn, what a schmuck” to “Seriously nice ride.” So here are a couple of arguments for the opposing sides following.

The case for manly: Cars are the epitome of masculinity. Big engines, ignition, rubber and metal…it’s all present. Men have worked on making their vehicles quicker, sleeker, and basically, cooler, since the invention of the car. The crotch rocket is continuation of this never ending pursuit for speed, and it’s one of the manliest around.

Crotch rockets are the Lamborghini of motorcycles–sleek and fast. There’s nothing unmanly about the Lamborghini so why would this not transfer over to crotch rockets?

The case for not manly: Riding a motorcycle, in and of itself, is definitely manly, if not safe. When a guy chooses to ride something other than some classic bike, like for example a Triumph or Indian is where the issue lies for some. Now, not everyone can pay for or locate such awesome pieces of machinery. The focus is that if you’re embracing your masculine wish to work on a machine that will go fast and get you oily, try to focus it on something less fast and more poppy. There are a large number of affordable motorcycles out there that fit this category.

Crotch rockets are the Jägermeister to a Harley Davidson’s 12 year old scotch. They have the same end, but the former is for your indulgence, the latter is for real passion.

Improve Your Gin and Tonic

February 13, 2020 by Oldskool

A Simple, Easy (but not necessarily cheap) Trick to Improve the humble Gin and Tonic

For many years, I didn’t think I liked the humble gin and tonic. For quite a while, I thought it was the gin that I detested, but some smarter friends helped me with some really amazing gin-focused cocktails, and I very quickly moved away from the staple of vodka in favor of gin’s truly special aromatic qualities. At that point I figured I just didn’t care for standard tonic water.

The results of this investigation? One, I really like gin. Two, I like tonic. And three, I do like them together. So what was the issue with all those early drinks that sent me into disgust?

It wasn’t the brand of gin, but actually…the type of tonic water. The syrup-sweetened (and commonly available) Schweppe’s just doesn’t hit it for me. It’s far too sweet, almost like lemonade.

So, if you wish to instantly improve the gin and tonics, invest in superior tonic water. Or at the very least, try a few brands to determine which you prefer, rather than just go with what you can find at the store. Some tonics to look for: Q Tonic and Fever Tree. Or, if you’re feeling specially ambitious, you could make your own tonic syrup and mix it with plain soda. There are recipes online.

Make Your Own Tonic Water

The point being, a gin and tonic is a truly basic drink with two distinctive elements, So, don’t skimp on the tonic.

To finish the article….I do still find most tonics overly sweet, even the better brands. Try my trick of cutting the tonic with soda water. I like to do equal club soda and tonic and bulk up the aromatics with two dashes of orange or lemon bitters.

Favorite Summertime Gin and Tonic:

2 oz. London dry gin
2 oz. Fever Tree Mediterranean-style tonic water
2 oz. club soda
2 dashes Fee Brothers orange bitters
Garnish: lime wedge or cucumber slice

Best Film Car Chases Ever

January 10, 2020 by Oldskool

The famous chase scene The Bourne Identity is instantly memorable as one of the handful of occasions a little Cooper dominates in a chase (see: An Italian Guy , Job (1969), a film which would show on this list, were it longer). Matt Damon and Franka Potente, using the streets (and pathways and paths) of Paris, evading their pursuers at each and every turn, causing mayhem and destruction in their wake.

The main element is using the Mini’s advantageous small size in the narrow Parisian streets; in addition to the short wheelbase and low center of gravity, enabling impressive handbrake turns and quick maneuvering. This scene is really a memorable clip in a memorable movie.

How not to be a jerk online

October 13, 2019 by Oldskool

There’s something about those inter-webs that spins a relatively mild-mannered guy into a ranting moron. In a place where openly sharing your opinions is so straightforward, many guys these days massively “over-share”, usually via the political rant, ongoing sports commentary, or everyday updates about life. We all know about the breakfast intagram.

To me, the most annoying occurrence of oversharing on the internet is the political rant. I like a decent political debate just as much as anyone else, but unfortunately there isn’t much actual debate going on, and most of it is mindless zombie-like blathering. Sure, there are certain crannies and nooks on the net where intelligent debate thrives, but for the most part it’s idiots voicing their views and opinions as facts with one underlying theme: “if anyone disagrees, they are wrong.” Here’s how to not be a jerk if talking politics on the web:

1. Don’t say a thing. Maybe sharing a provocative URL is all you need to do. Leave your own commentary off and let your link speak for itself.

2. Accept opposing views, and thank the person for providing them. “Great. Thanks for your feedback Uncle Bob!” While you might be seething internally, just accept that others see things in different lights and move fofrward.

3. Engage with your dissenters, but engage with their ideas, not with them personally. When you start to label your opponent you’re going into dangerous territory, and this is where internet debates always go astray.

4. Exchange places. Consider, “If what they’re saying is correct, what ramifications would there be?” If you place yourself in their shoes, you might realize they have a decent point…or maybe they don’t.

5. Use correct grammar. Once you start TYPING IN UPPER CAPS AND BOLDING WITHOUT REASON, people cease reading. Nothing makes you look like a moron faster than engaging caps lock.

6. Keep it minimal. No one really wants to read your 20 links a day about African children. Yes, it’s really sad, but consider about how much information you disregard on the net every day. Why? Because it’s commonly from a source that showers you with data that you don’t really want. The people who Tweet, Facebook, or share the least that you should probably pay the most attention to.

7. Joke. Jokes are perfect teaching methods. If you can condense a tough concern into a funny joke (like political cartoonists do), you are adding value to the information and people appreciate this.

Remember that you are interacting with a real person not the computer; if you wouldn’t say it to their face, you probably shouldn’t type it online (this generally works for most people). There’s no need to let fly with every thought that runs through your consciousness.

The Eternal Question: Are Sandals Ever Manly?

September 10, 2019 by Oldskool

Sandals. Basically everyone owns a pair, but only a select few wear them on the reg’. So the question is: are sandals manly or not?

They are manly: Would you question the manliness of this Roman warrior group — Praetorian. Guards? It would not be wise.

These warriors were amongst the most elite soldiers of their time. What did they wear on their feet? Sandals. What’s more manly than feeling blood, earth, wind, and rain on your feet? Wearing sandals is not only practical for maintaining cool feet in the summer, but it’s a timeless style of shoe that historically predates any sneakers, boots, or whatever else you crazy kids are wearing these days. Sandals allow the feet to callous up and get tougher, rather than stay soft and pretty in those nice Italian leather shoes. Be a real man and get some sandals on.

Absolutely not manly: While it’s true that some manly guys have rocked sandals in the distant past, there’s something truly effeminate about showing off your feet. If you want to some callouses – walk around barefoot. There’s no need for sandals. I’m not advising you need to go Nixon-on-the-beach, but at the very minimum please limit the sandal use. Going to the beach – use Sandals. Going anywhere else and need some real shoes? No sandals. The utilitarian use of sandals is necessary – fair enough. But the world doesn’t need to see your nasty man feet.

How to Keep the Wife at Bay

August 28, 2019 by Oldskool

I know – I know. This is not strictly related to men’s stuff…but it affects the happiness of the other half – so yes it is relevant.

So the little wifey’s birthday is just around the corner once again. (She will not be a happy camper with this phrasing!) But what to get as a gift? She’s a hippy at heart so needs something made for her. But she also likes new clothing – dresses actually. As she’s no a spring chicken anymore I don’t buy them where teenagers shop. This women’s clothing site I have found invaluable at times like these.

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The James Bond Tie

August 26, 2019 by Oldskool

How to tie a classic Windsor tie like James Bond or go for the for the Four-in-Hand. Simply check it out below, and begin practicing in with the help of a mirror. Real men do wear ties on occasion.

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How to Create Your Own Style

August 2, 2019 by Oldskool

So you finally made it. You got a date with a woman who doesn’t spend her spare time in the bottom of a Wine bottle or shout “Wooooooo!!” when one of her friends arrives. You’re on your way to being a big boy now.

However now is the time to take hard look at your wardrobe. While most guys have a go-to date outfit, she’s not the type who’ll stick around a guy who always dresses like the homeless. And I’m not even mentioning backwards baseball caps and cargo shorts at dinner. Plus you can add pleated khaki pants and anything by Ed Hardy to the list.

Problem is, we don’t usually have a fashion role model to follow. So we tend to dress like our friends. This can be unwise.

The issue with this lack of direction we get when it comes to clothes is: Dressing well is almost as important to impressing a woman as being well educated and knowing what to order while dining.

Good and Bad Fashion Role Models

Have you ever really taken a look at how they style those poor bastard male models in fashion magazines? High style suits the average guy would never wear, or can afford, and layers and layers of clothes and accessories that are out of place in most social situations. It’s a rare sight to see someone dressed in a bold plaid suit, bow tie, and a scarf at a grocery store.

The tip here is to use what you see as concepts and style them to your own personal taste. See what cut of pants are in style (hint: lose the pleats and wide bottoms), what patterns are popular on dress shirts (checks and stripes still rule, but dots and tight patterns are moving up), and adopt what works for you.

Mirror A Celebrity

Many celebrities have a far more natural style. (movie star, not rock star.) Clooney always looks good whether he’s at a premier or just out grabbing a bite. If Goerge’s style is a little overly mature, check out Justin Timberlake. JT makes an impression even in a tshirt and jeans. You can also search Google images or visit celebrity blogs to get an idea of how top male celebrities dress.

Stick to Big Brands

There’s another solution to keeping it classy, and that’s to find an brand you like, that fits your day to day life, and stick with it. When it comes to quality apparel brands, there’s no end to the choices available: Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Tom Ford, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Hollister are all really popular, and give you choice at both ends of the price spectrum. Lately, preppy brands are back, with a “dash” of California or West Coast style (aka, West Coast Prep), that could also really help a guy who wants to dress to impress but still wants to keep a sense of kicked back, west coast lifestyle. You can impress without looking too uptight.

Putting it Together

It really isn’t that hard to dress better, with a sense of style. The trick to putting it all together is to have a look in mind, borrowed from your favorite celeb or adopted from magazines, make it feel authentic to you, and wear the hell out of it.