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Forbes
29-04-2025
- Forbes
Samsonite Winfield 2 Review: Lightweight, Durable And Spacious
One of the benefits of being a consumer tech and electronics editor is that I travel—a lot. From checking out the latest gadgets at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas to getting a first look at upcoming releases at Samsung Unpacked in San Jose, California, I'm always going on business trips, so it's important to have a suitcase I can rely on. While searching for a checked suitcase that was both durable and lightweight, I began traveling with the Samsonite Winfield 2. After several months, I was impressed by its thoughtful features and spacious packing capability—though there were some caveats. I tested the Samsonite Winfield 2 across multiple transcontinental flights. A trusted luggage brand, Samsonite makes suitcases that have popped up on several of Forbes Vetted's guides to the best luggage. To get a true sense of how the Samsonite Winfield 2 held up in multiple situations, I traveled with it on months' worth of transcontinental flights, including trips from the East Coast to San Francisco and Las Vegas. Aside from my many work trips, I also took it back to my hometown in Illinois to get a sense of how well the suitcase functioned after four months of wear and tear. Read my full review of the Samsonite Winfield 2 below. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 31 x 20 x 12.7 inches | Weight: 11.5 pounds | Material: Polycarbonate | Capacity: Brand doesn't disclose Best for: Skip if: The Samsonite Winfield 2 is built with a lightweight polycarbonate shell. But don't let the thin exterior sway you from this suitcase. Although it experienced a plethora of permanent scuffs and scrapes, I didn't see any cracks in the luggage, and it bends rather than dents. This showcases the durability of the luggage while also revealing one of my biggest issues with it: It's prone to scratches, so if you prefer your suitcase to look pristine, this is not the luggage for you. The branded tag also didn't hold up to rough handling, and it broke a few months in. Still, the colors and patterns can mask some of the scuffs—but not many. The expandable handle feels comfortable to hold. Note the other handle, which expands ever so ... More slightly too. Just off to the left of the side handle, you'll find a TSA-friendly lock, which was easily one of my favorite features about the suitcase. It helped bring peace of mind when traveling with my tech, and it placed the zippers in an easy-to-access spot when I needed to pull out a sweatshirt in a pinch. Because it's so large, the suitcase has three different handles: two on the top, with one that's expandable to help you stroll through the airport, and one on the side, which I used to to haul the luggage upstairs like an old-fashioned suitcase. Oftentimes, with other luggage, my hands feel like I scraped sandpaper after hauling a heavy suitcase around. The Samsonite Winfield 2 is comfortable, thanks to its rubbery grip handle. When you pick it up and drag it upstairs, even with the handles that aren't 'expandable,' there's still some give. They extend just a bit, which I felt was a mixed bag in practice. On one hand, I loved it because it gave me extra breathing room when I wore gloves in the dead of winter, but on the other hand, every once in a while, that give 'popped' at an inopportune moment, and I was forced to reorient myself against suddenly shifting weight. Note all the scrapes around the branded tag. While the suitcase has an expandable 1.5-inch zipper to pack extra everything, what left me impressed was its interior design. On one side, you get a cross strap to keep larger items like sweatshirts, sneakers and more secure; the other has a privacy curtain with zippered organizational pockets. The pockets are a nice addition to keep smaller trinkets like toiletries, a purse or a Tile tracker securely tucked. For one of my weeklong trips, after a small shopping spree at home, I was able to pack five sweatshirts, 12 shirts, undergarments, five pairs of pants, one pajama set, one hardcover book, one massive toiletry bag, two small purses, a leather tote bag, one Lego box, a pair of shoes and a coffee mug. The suitcase is large enough to hold a lot of my clothes and other gear. I still had space to spare without using the suitcase's zipper extension—but since the suitcase was clocking in at 46.5 pounds, I didn't want to risk packing more books and going over my airline's weight limit. After landing, I was also pleasantly surprised at just how well the suitcase's straps, curtain and organization system kept everything in place. With other suitcases I've tested, opening it up after a flight can reveal a chaotic interior that looks like I haphazardly tossed all my gear in and zipped it shut. Despite finding a number of new scuffs on the suitcase after my trip, all of my gear looked the same as when I meticulously packed it. A suitcase must have smooth wheels for easily maneuvering through busy airports, cobbled streets and more: This is a requirement for me. The Samsonite Winfield 2 ticked that box. The wheels are large enough to support the general bulk of the suitcase, but more importantly, they're large enough to roll over large cement cracks and brick pavement with ease. The Quad Cities International Airport in Moline, Illinois, has brick pavement in the main lobby area of the airport, and with my previous suitcases, it felt like I had to physically drag my luggage through this airport section. Comparatively, the Winfield 2 does a great job of smoothing out a lot of those bumps. It was significantly easier to maneuver through this section of the local airport. If you're seeking a suitcase with large enough wheels to traverse pretty bumpy pathways, the Winfield 2 will work for you. If you plan to haul around a lot of gear, the Samsonite Winfield 2 is a great option. The 28-inch suitcase can pack a surprisingly large amount of clothes and gear with plenty of room to spare (and if you don't need that much space, it also comes in a 24-inch option). I particularly loved the privacy curtain with the zippered compartments—it was nice to shove my purses into those spots and know the leather wouldn't get scratched. The Samsonite Winfield 2 is a great choice if you're seeking an affordable, yet durable, suitcase. While it doesn't hold up well to scuffs and scrapes, the suitcase for the most part is sturdy enough to withstand rough handling. Don't expect the branded tag on the front to last for a long time, as mine came off quickly. Otherwise, I was pleased with this suitcase after using it for travel for a few months. At around $200, it's a more affordable option that promises to last a long time.
Forbes
21-04-2025
- Forbes
The Best Underseat Luggage To Use As A Personal Item, Based On Testing
The best underseat luggage is lightweight and easily able to fit underneath the seat in front of you on a plane or a train. Typically classified as a personal item, these cabin bags can help you stay organized, and since some basic economy tickets only allow for one personal item in place of a carry-on suitcase, they may also help you avoid extra baggage fees. Our panel tested over a dozen underseat bags and chose the Thule Subterra 2 27L Backpack as the best overall pick thanks to its ideal size, functional design and many interior pockets. For fans of wheeled bags, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Underseat Bag also scored high marks from our panel due to its durability and removable hanging organizer. The best underseat luggage is lightweight, well-organized and easily fits into tight spaces. When evaluating different options, pay close attention to the dimensions, durability and additional features, such as padded compartments for your laptop or tablet. 'I recommend looking for products that can universally fit under seats across various airlines,' says Georgene Rada, vice president of design for Briggs & Riley. 'Having organized compartments and padded pockets for electronics is essential to make the travel experience less stressful and to keep your valuables from being damaged.' Domestic airlines often have different size restrictions for underseat luggage, so be sure to check with your airline before you begin packing. Ahead, the best underseat luggage of 2025. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 13.4 x 8.7 x 18.9 inches | Weight: 2.1 pounds | Colors: 3 total, including Black and Vetiver Gray Best for: Skip if: This well-designed backpack is crafted from highly durable 800D nylon with a water-resistant finish and a padded air mesh back panel for breathability. The bag features two side pockets for a water bottle and an umbrella, and the many interior pockets help keep you well-organized while traveling. Two standout features include the padded interior sleeves for storing your laptop and tablet, as well as an organizational panel for pens, keys and smaller items. 'After traveling with this bag on multiple trips, I appreciated its functionality on long flights and protected storage for my computer,' says our tester. 'It has enough space to hold plenty of other essentials, like chargers and a book, and the resilient exterior helps combat spills and crumbs.' Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 17.5 x 8.5 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 5.5 pounds | Available colors: 7 total, including Burgundy and Orchid Pink Purple Best for: Skip if: Having a bag with wheels helps you move around the airport with ease, no matter how heavy your bag may be. This underseat bag from Travelpro, a popular brand among flight attendants and frequent travelers, features a durable frame and high-performance wheels that glide smoothly across any surface. It also comes with a removable hanging organizer and a padded laptop sleeve to keep your tech safe. 'Since I don't travel with much formalwear, I liked that I could remove the bag's interior garment pocket and have an open cavity to put in clothes and a pair of shoes (which I would place in a packing cube),' says our tester. 'It leaves more than enough real estate for potentially a second full change of clothes.' Briggs & Riley Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 10.5 x 16.5 x 11.5 inches | Weight: 2.8 pounds | Colors: 4, including Olive and Navy Best for: Skip if: Briggs & Riley is a well-reviewed brand that consistently earns top marks from our travel team, with the Briggs & Riley Baseline 22-Inch Carry-On being our top choice for the best softside luggage. The Baseline Underseat Duffle is no exception. It's one of the most spacious bags on this list, and it has several helpful exterior pockets for when you need to grab something quickly. Other useful features include a trolley sleeve, a monogrammed nameplate and an adjustable shoulder strap. 'Of all the options I tested, this bag's ample interior access really stood out to me,' says our tester. 'It was incredibly easy to grab or remove things as I went through security. And despite having such robust storage space, the bag still maintained a stylish look, even as I stuffed it to the brink. Also great: Briggs & Riley products come with a lifetime warranty.' Béis Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 8 inches | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Available colors: 8 total, including Atlas Pink and Beige Best for: Skip if: If you're heading on a quick trip and need a bag to hold the essentials, this compact bag is an excellent pick. The main compartment can fit a change of clothes and several personal items (such as deodorant, a book and a phone charger), and there's a separate bottom compartment for storing your shoes. The trolley sleeve slips over the handle of your suitcase, and it has enough structure that it won't fall over as you're trying to pack or unacpk. 'I think the Mini Weekender is the perfect underseat bag,' says a flight attendant at a major airline, who always travels with this bag. 'It slides under the seat smoothly and has different compartments for more fragile items like a laptop, or more malleable things like snacks, chargers, toiletries, etc. As a bonus, it also looks and feels very chic and refined.' Away Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Dimensions: 17.9 x 15 x 9.1 inches | Weight: 8.4 pounds | Available colors: 4 total, including Coast Blue and Olive Green Best for: Skip if: This petite suitcase resembles Away's best-selling Softside Carry-On, but it has a smaller size that glides under your seat while you're in the air. It's best suited for trips from one to three days, and it's constructed from a durable, water-repellent nylon with 360-degree smooth-gliding spinner wheels. This bag offers all of the great features of an Away carry-on, including an interior compression system that I found to be very helpful (I'm a chronic overpacker). I also enjoyed its spacious front pocket, where I was able to store my boarding pass, wallet and other items that I needed on hand. I deducted a half of a point off of my final rating only because I wish the bag were a tad lighter—it comes in at just under ten pounds before it's packed. The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of in-depth roundups on luggage, including the best luggage, best carry-on luggage and best lightweight luggage. We relied on expert advice, independent reviews, research and personal experience to select our top recommendations for the best underseat luggage. Although size is admittedly the first thing to consider, durability and additional features (such as a padded tech sleeve) should also be taken into account. Here's what to look for when shopping for the best underseat luggage. Every airline has different standards for underseat carry-on sizing, so check the airline's requirements before packing to ensure your bag is the correct size. If your bag doesn't fit underneath your seat, you'll be asked to place it above you in the overhead bin, and you won't have quick access to things you may need during your flight. When in doubt, opt for a smaller bag than you may need to ensure you have enough space to stretch out comfortably. While both hardside and softside luggage have distinct benefits, experts agree that softside options are an excellent choice for smaller spaces, such as under an airline seat. 'Space is limited beneath seats, so having a soft bag that can be compressed into a tight space is one way to make your travel experience easier and stress-free,' says Rada. 'It also allows one to maximize your packing capacity.' Popular materials include ballistic nylon (which Briggs & Riley uses for most of its underseat luggage), polyester and coated canvas. Rada notes that the material should be easy to wipe down, because your bag might get kicked around and pushed into the seat in front of you. Underseat luggage, like other pieces of luggage, needs to withstand frequent handling and being tossed around. Hardside bags are generally most resistant to rough handling and turbulent conditions, but a thicker woven fabric (for example, ballistic nylon) is just as durable and an excellent choice for flying. Many suitcases come with helpful extras that can make traveling more seamless, such as a padded tech sleeve to store your laptop or a separate, water-resistant compartment. Another worthwhile feature is an expansion option, which can add several extra inches of packing space. Consider which features you will use the most and find the most helpful before making a purchase. After extensive research and hands-on testing, the Thule Subterra 2 27L Backpack is our pick for the best underseat luggage. It has a compact, streamlined appearance with plenty of pockets to store tech, personal items, a change of clothes and more. It also works well as a commuting or work bag, and our tester appreciated the protective storage pockets and resilient exterior. If you're a frequent flyer, investing in underseat storage is a good idea. 'I do believe [underseat luggage] is worth it when there's limited space on the aircraft,' says Ricks. 'There may be times when it's your turn to board and there's no more overhead space left, so you'll want a bag that's small enough to fit smoothly under the seat. You just never know when checking bags these days; things can happen. Carrying on is always the best option.' Every airline has different standards for underseat carry-on sizing, so it's essential to check the requirements for the airline before packing and heading to the airport. American Airlines requires underseat luggage to be a maximum of 18 inches long, 14 inches wide and 8 inches high. In comparison, United Airlines has underseat dimensions of 17 inches long, 10 inches wide and 9 inches high.
Forbes
04-04-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The 6 Best Dog Beds, Tested And Approved By Our Editors' Pups
Even the most active dogs spend a large part of their day sleeping, so where they snooze matters. 'Choosing the right dog bed is not just about comfort,' says Dr. Brian Hamm, a board-certified veterinary internal medicine specialist. 'It's a fundamental part of supporting a dog's health and quality of life.' The best dog beds are well-made and specifically designed for the way dogs rest, so your pup will actually want to use it. That's exactly what made the Casper Dog Bed a clear favorite in our testing. It's structured enough to support larger breeds, comfy enough for everyday naps and sturdy enough to last for years, according to several of our editors whose dogs have used it at home. The best dog beds are more than just a comfy place for your pup to snooze. But, of course, not every dog needs or likes the same thing. That's why we also included a range of options with different types of pups in mind, like the Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed, designed especially for aging joints, and a low-profile BarkBox bed that fit snugly inside a crate. All of the beds in this guide were tested for months or, in some cases, years, by Forbes Vetted editors and their dogs. We looked for models that felt genuinely comfortable and supportive, held up to everyday wear and tear and were easy to keep clean in homes with drool, dirt and the occasional accident. Some picks proved especially useful for pups who spend a lot of time outdoors; others won us over because in addition to being a reliable option they were more affordable or looked surprisingly good in our living room. What they all have in common is that they've been lived in, slept on and loved by real dogs who also gave their approval. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Bolstered rectangle | Sizes: 3 | Colors: 3, including Blue and Sand | Outer material: Polyester microfiber, nylon and olefin weave | Inner material: Memory foam | Washable cover: Yes Best for: Skip if: We've tested a lot of the best dog beds, but this is the one our dogs keep coming back to. After more than a year of daily use in multiple Forbes Vetted editors' homes, the Casper still holds its shape, looks good and gets snoozed on every day. It's not the softest or fluffiest option, but the firmer feel gives dogs of all sizes a stable and supportive place to rest—which every vet we spoke to said is one of the most important things a dog bed can offer. The two-layer foam base features a good mix of cushion and structure, especially for medium to large breeds who might need a little more support. Even after long-term regular use, the bed continues to maintain its shape and firmness; larger dogs stay elevated off the floor, and smaller ones don't get swallowed up by too much loft. The large size easily fits a 60- or 70-pound dog, with enough room for them to stretch out or curl up. (Even the smaller sizes comfortably fit two small dogs at once.) And the bolstered edges are firm but comfortable, so they create just enough of a boundary for dogs who like to rest their heads without making the space feel confined. The Casper Dog Bed is comfy enough for two Shi Tzus to cuddle up. The Casper's cover is soft to the touch and easy to remove for cleaning, though it doesn't quite live up to its 'stain-resistant' claims in our experience; fur, dirt and slobber tends to show more easily on the lighter colorways. That trade-off didn't bother our human testers, who found the material washed nicely and still fit well after drying. The zippers are hidden in sewn-in pockets to prevent floor scratches and keep the bed looking clean and finished. Another interesting feature of this bed is that its cover isn't entirely taut, but instead is designed with a little excess material to engage—and withstand—dogs' natural instinct to dig before they find the perfect sleeping position. (Forbes Vetted managing editor Emmy Favilla often finds her dog taking advantage of this, happily digging away before snoozing.) 'The Casper dog bed has an understated high-quality look that can work well in any room,' says Bridget Chapman, Forbes Vetted's senior mattress and sleep editor. 'Its cover and foams are still just as durable as day one, and my dog loves cuddling up on it every night. It's been a great bed that's standing the test of time.' FurHaven Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Bolstered rectangle | Sizes: 4 | Colors: 3, including Granite Gray and Celadon Green | Outer material: Micro velvet and faux fur | Inner material: Orthopedic foam (various types) | Washable cover: Yes Best for: Skip if: I bought this bed four years ago, and my dog still uses the original every day. Since then, I've repurchased it three more times—not because I had to, but because it's become our go-to for all the places my pup frequents, like my parents' house. I also recently got a second dog and bought her the same bed, simply because I already knew it worked. (Plus, I didn't want to invest in something more expensive that a puppy might destroy.) The large size gives my 50-pound dog enough room to curl up or stretch out, and it fits easily inside her crate when needed. It's also roomy enough for my second dog, who now weighs 40 pounds, to sneak in and share the space. There are several foam options to choose from: convolute orthopedic foam, solid orthopedic foam, memory foam and cooling gel foam. I've tested both the cooling gel and convolute orthopedic, and while I didn't notice a dramatic difference, every version we've tried has felt supportive and comfortable. The foam base has compressed slightly with time, but it hasn't gotten so thin that you can feel the floor beneath it. The cover is soft, durable and, at this point, has survived literally hundreds of washes without showing any wear and tear. It also does a great job of disguising fur in between cleanings. Reassembling the bed takes a bit of patience, but I've found that this true of most dog beds. For under $100 (for the medium or large size; there are two larger sizes as well that will run you a bit more), the FurHaven holds up better than any other bed I've tried in this price range. Chewy Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Bolstered rectangle | Sizes: 3 | Colors: 4, including Charcoal Gray and Burgundy | Outer material: Microfiber | Inner material: Orthopedic foam | Washable cover: Yes Best for: Skip if: It didn't take long for one of our arthritic senior dogs to claim this bed as her favorite. Our editor describes the orthopedic foam base as feeling more like a real mattress than a typical dog bed. (Yes, she laid in it.) It holds its shape and distributes weight evenly, giving dogs the support they need to stay off the floor—something Dr. Hamm says is especially important for aging pups and those with arthritis or joint pain. The bed itself feels thick and sturdy; it kept our four-legged testers lifted rather than 'in' the bed, and the raised headrest adds a little extra comfort. The microfiber cover is velvety to the touch and, while it's not fully waterproof, it wasn't ruined by slobber, fur or the occasional muddy paw. After a few months of use, some subtle stains were visible, but nothing that didn't come out in the wash. Assembly takes a little extra effort, especially aligning the headrest panel with the cover, but once it's zipped on, the bed looks polished and clean. The minimalist shape also blends in well with any home décor. Even the large size feels massive compared to most beds on this list, with enough room for a 70-pound dog to fully sprawl out. The XL easily fits two large dogs, and the Giant is built for Great Danes, Newfoundlands and other oversized breeds. That scale makes it a smart pick for long-term use too; buy it for a growing pup, and it'll likely last well into adulthood. Plus, the 10-year 'no flatten' warranty adds peace of mind for pet parents making a bigger investment. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Mattress-style | Sizes: 5 | Colors: 3, including Navy and Espresso | Outer material: Soft polyester blend | Inner material: Memory foam | Washable cover: Yes Best for: Skip if: This is the bed that lives in both of my dogs' crates, and it's the one they sleep on every night. There's nothing fancy about it—it's just a thick, supportive slab of memory foam with a snug-fitting, soft cover. But that simple design is exactly what makes it so useful for crates. The sizing is spot-on: Each bed is just a little smaller than standard crate dimensions, so it fits neatly inside without bunching or leaving big gaps. For example, my dog's large crate measures 36 by 23 inches, and the large-sized bed is 35 by 22 inches. It feels like it was made to slide right in. The BarkBox Orthopedic Dog Bed fits perfectly inside a crate. The foam is dense and supportive without being stiff, making it comfortable enough for pups to sleep on it for long stretches or overnight. And the snug cover doesn't wrinkle or bunch like some dog beds; my younger dog, who usually likes to dig and burrow, leaves this one alone because there's nothing to pull at. It has held up for years with nightly use and weekly washes, and it still fits cleanly around the foam without stretching out. The bed is also lightweight, easy to move and packs flat in the car for travel. And while it doesn't have bolsters, there's plenty of room to layer in a blanket or pillow if your dog prefers a little more structure. Plus, it's surprisingly durable: Forbes Vetted managing editor Emmy Favilla also used this dog bed with her previous pup, and it held up well for many years. Barney Bed Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Bolstered rectangle | Sizes: 5 | Colors: 1 base, 20+ optional cover styles | Outer material: Microfiber or upgrade materials (sold separately) | Inner material: Orthopedic memory foam | Washable cover: Yes Best for: Skip if: I splurged on this bed after moving to a small apartment and realizing my dog's old bed didn't quite match the vibe of my living room. (It was the FurHaven, which we still love—but in a 500-square-foot space with a white couch and carefully chosen décor, I wanted something more cohesive.) The Barney Bed ended up being exactly what I hoped for. It's the best-looking dog bed I've ever owned, especially after I upgraded the basic gray cover to the cream-colored boucle version, which is sold separately. The fabric blends right in with the rest of my living room and, even though it's such a light color, does a surprisingly good job hiding fur from my light-coated Labrador (plus any small stains). But it's not just about looks: Similar to the Big Barker bed, the Barney's thick orthopedic foam base feels more like a human mattress than a typical dog bed. The foam is firm enough to support bigger or older dogs, but still comfortable for everyday naps. My 50-pound Labrador uses the large size, and I can easily snuggle on it with her. (Looking back, we could've gone with a medium, but I was thrown off by the brand's suggestion of that size as a fit for a French bulldog or Dachshund.) This bed has a similar structure to the Casper bed, with slightly raised bolsters on all sides that offer head support without taking up too much space or getting in the way of a good sprawl. Petmate Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Bolstered rectangle | Sizes: 1 | Colors: 1 | Outer material: Polyester blend | Inner material: ComfortSelect fiberfill | Washable cover: No (wipe clean only) Best for: Skip if: This indoor/outdoor dog bed will look right at home next to your patio furniture. The indigo herringbone fabric is more stylish than most outdoor-friendly designs, but it's also practical: The exterior is UV- and fade-resistant, water-repellent and resistant to mold and mildew, so it can handle being left outside full-time. Forbes Vetted managing editor Emmy Favilla keeps this bed on her porch and says it has already survived several rainstorms. Plus, it's comfortable. 'It has enough fluff to seem quite supportive for outdoor lounging,' she says. 'My dog Gizmo laid right down on it as soon as I put it on our porch.' Despite being available in just one size, it's surprisingly accommodating for larger dogs (Favilla's dog is 75 pounds, for reference), but it will be far too small for extra-large and giant breeds like mastiffs or Great Danes. Its fiberfill gives the bed a supportive and cushy feel that's comfy enough for long outdoor naps. A bolster that wraps around three sides provides a soft edge for dogs who like to lean, which our tester pup took advantage of right away. Just note that the cover isn't removable, but it's easy to wipe clean with a paper towel. The Forbes Vetted home team has tested hundreds of pet products, from litter boxes to fresh dog food, to help readers make smart and confident purchases for their pets. Every recommendation in this guide to the best dog beds is backed by hands-on testing, real-world use and insights from trusted veterinary and pet care experts. To find the best dog beds, we combined long-term testing, expert insights and in-depth product research to figure out which ones are actually worth buying. At its core, a dog bed should be a supportive place for your pup to rest, especially as they age or develop mobility issues. According to Dr. Hamm, high-density memory foam is one of the best options for relieving joint pressure and supporting musculoskeletal health. 'It distributes weight evenly, alleviating pressure on joints and reducing the risk of pressure sores,' he says. That kind of support is particularly helpful for large breeds or dogs dealing with arthritis. Orthopedic beds often use layers of memory foam or eggshell foam to mold to your dog's body for more even support, while bolsters can provide ergonomic support for the neck and spine. Dr. Liza Cahn adds that a bed should be 'large enough that your dog can turn around, stretch out and sleep in their preferred position.' (Whether that's curled up in a donut or sprawled out on a mattress-style pad is up to your pup.) For dogs who run hot, look for cooling gel layers or breathable fabrics that help regulate body temperature. As Shalom Marantz, founder of luxury pet brand Noah & Paw, notes, overheating can disrupt sleep, just like in humans. Breathable fabrics or cooling layers can help your dog stay comfortable while they rest, especially during warmer months. Durability doesn't just mean the cover can survive a little digging or chewing. It also means the foam maintains its shape, the zippers don't break and the whole bed doesn't start to sag after a few months. 'The best beds resist flattening over time and hold their shape under your dog's weight,' says Marantz. He recommends looking for designs with firm, high-density foam cores and hidden, heavy-duty zippers that won't snag during reassembly or get chewed off when you're not looking. For the outer cover, synthetic fabrics like polyester blends and microfiber are most popular and usually hold up the best. Dr. Hamm suggests looking for options marked as hypoallergenic and antimicrobial if your dog has sensitive skin or you're concerned about odor buildup. Some beds also feature waterproof or water-repellent linings that protect the inner foam from spills, drool or accidents, which may come in handy if you have a senior dog or puppy.
Forbes
02-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
The Best Press-On Nails, Rigorously Tested By Our Editors
The best press-on nails fit well, look natural and allow you to experiment with different looks without harming your natural nails. Most options require a non-damaging glue that keeps nails in place but can be easily removed by soaking your fingertips in warm, soapy water. Over several weeks, our team tested versions from top nail brands, and we found Olive & June's The Instant Mani Press-On Nails to be the best overall option. This beginner-friendly kit comes with 21 different nail sizes and detailed instructions, making the application process smooth and efficient. We also like the Glamnetic Press-On Nails, which have an extensive range of nail art designs to choose from. The best press-on nails allow you to try different shapes, lengths and styles without requiring a ... More visit to the salon. These are the best press-on nails according to our testing. 'The first thing you should look for is your preferred style and shape of nails,' says Tara Haye, a freelance nail artist based in NYC. 'Then focus on size, fit and a good adhesive like nail glue or sticky tabs.' Once you find a style you want to try, you can shape your press-ons just as your natural nail using nail clippers and a file. When choosing the right length, consider your lifestyle and daily activities, as you want to ensure your nails don't get in the way of everyday chores. Here are the best press-on nails, according to editor testing. Olive & June Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Number of designs: 95+ | Reusable: Yes | Size options: 21 per hand | Adhesive: Glue Best for: Skip if: Regardless of your skill level, Olive & June's press-on nails are an excellent option; they're easy to apply, long lasting and look incredibly natural. Each mani kit includes 21 sizes for each hand, the most extensive size range of any brand we have tested. Thanks to this, during my testing I found it easy to find the right fit for each nail, and the application process was smooth. (If you're new to press-on nails like I am, I suggest reading through the instruction manual before you begin.) The Olive & June set lasted six days and looked natural and elegant. The press-ons lasted for six days, and I didn't experience any chips or visible wear, which is consistent with the experience of another tester. At the six-day mark, I switched out these nails for a different set I was testing, but I think they would have lasted for at least two more days had I not removed them. Beyond the extensive size range and durability, I thought the final look was polished and elegant. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Number of designs: 90+ | Reusable: Yes | Size options: 15 per hand | Adhesive: Glue Best for: Skip if: If you're looking for a specific color or design, Glamnetic offers over 90 options ranging from solid colors to shimmery, novelty looks. Beyond the designs, these press-ons stand out for their durability and thickness. Our testers agreed that the nails felt thicker than other brands', although applying them took a bit longer, as she had to hold them in place for longer to ensure they stuck properly. 'Once applied, the press-ons felt sturdy and durable, with a thick quality that gave me confidence they would last," says one testers. "They also looked like I got Gel-X done at the salon—I don't think anyone could tell they were press ons.' The Glamnetic set felt strong and durable, and the nail thickness was impressive. Both testers appreciated the durability of their Glamnetic set and noted that they didn't experience any chips or signs of wearing down, despite being quite active throughout the week. One tester had a single nail pop off, but that was the only incident during the week-long test. Like the Olive & June set, this includes the nails (15 sizes for each hand), buffer and nail file, prep pad, wooden cuticle pusher and nail glue. Kiss Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Number of designs: 60+ | Reusable: No | Size options: 14 per hand | Adhesive: Glue Best for: Skip if: Kiss press-on nails are affordable and chic if you want to try press-ons for the first time and don't want to spend much on a set. The nails have numbered indicators to match up to both hands, which is helpful for first-time users, and the glue was easy to work with and provided a strong hold. There are only 14 size options per hand, which is less than most other brands, but our testers were still able to find the right fit. 'Kiss does have a good amount of larger nails for folks with bigger hands like myself,' says one tester. The Kiss nails have an affordable price, fun designs and felt sturdy after application. Both testers were happy with the durability of this set, with the nails lasting for a whole week despite everyday tasks like doing the dishes, making the bed and cooking. 'I found these press-ons very comfortable and was really happy with them overall. I didn't feel them start to lift and budge until about a week into wearing them, which is pretty good for press-ons,' says our tester. One thing to note: Certain styles might look more natural than others, as one wearer noted that her nails looked like press-ons rather than a gel manicure done at the salon. Chillhouse Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Number of designs: 37 | Reusable: Yes | Size options: 12 per hand | Adhesive: Glue Best for: Skip if: Chillhouse nails are easy to apply (the whole process took about 15 to 20 minutes for both testers) and reapply as needed, making this a great choice if you are looking to reuse your press-ons. The box includes 24 nails (12 for each hand), a dual-sided buffer and file, wooden cuticle stick and gentle nail glue. If you have wider fingernails or just want more size options to find your best fit, it's worth noting that Chillhouse offers the fewest amount of sizes. However, these nails are comfortable, natural and easy to cut and file down. Our testers liked the length and shape of the Chillhouse Chill Tips. Our testers liked the length and shape of the press-ons, although one of the designs started to wear off by the sixth day. This set lasted exactly one week and felt durable right out of the box. We did have to use a bit more glue than the directions suggested to get them to affix properly. At Forbes Vetted, we've researched and written dozens of nailcare stories, including those about the best nail polish brands, best fall nail colors and more. We tested seven brands of press-on nails, and three didn't make our final list. Here's more on what we liked and didn't like about them. PaintLab Press-On Nails, from $10: Our two testers had differing experiences with the longevity of these nails. One tester said her PaintLab nails held firm until she manually removed them on day nine (the design on the tips did show obvious signs of wear), while our other tester said her nails started falling off on day three. Dashing Diva Magic Press Premium, $12: These pre-painted, pre-glued nails are great for last-minute manis and short-term wear, but our tester doesn't recommend them for long-term wear. The sticky backing has some bulk, which means they sit slightly off the nail, and she experienced some lifting at the cuticle. Static Nails Reusable Pop-On Manicures, from $18: Unfortunately, the glue doesn't dry clear like other brands we tested, so it doesn't clean up well, is messy to use and leaves a chalky white finish everywhere. These nails also fell off after just four days. While the nails' design, shape and length are largely up to personal preference, we focused on ease of use, fit and wear longevity when evaluating the best press-on nails. Our testers began by reading the instructions that came with each set and then applying the nails, noting how user-friendly the process was and how long it took them. They also indicated whether each kit had everything they needed and whether the press-ons needed to be filed down or reshaped. Our testers began by reading the instructions and noting how user-friendly the application process ... More was. As everyone's nails are different, each set should have a wide range of sizes. Our testers noted the number of nail sizes in each set and whether they had trouble finding a comfortable fit. Olive & June was the most size-inclusive brand, with an impressive 42 nails in each set. Our testers put the press-ons through the rigors of daily life and evaluated how long each set lasted, whether the design faded and if there were chips or signs of visible wear. Through daily activities like cooking, cleaning, walking the dog and working out, our testers determined each set's longevity and durability. Although fit and performance are two of the most crucial factors, there are other factors to consider. After consulting with our experts, here's what to look for when shopping for the best press-on nails. Like salon manicures, you can choose a shape that best fits your needs and preferences. Common shapes include square, round, almond and oval. There's no right or wrong shape, so don't be afraid to experiment with different options and file the shape to your liking. Press-on nails come in several different lengths, ranging from short to long. When choosing the right length, consider your lifestyle and daily activities. If you use your hands frequently—whether for cooking or typing on a computer—extra long nails might make those activities more difficult. Again, you can always cut your press-ons down with nail clippers and reshape the tips if you want to customize the length. Press-on nails come in many styles, from solid colors to more elaborate designs with glitter. Some sets also have embellishments like rhinestones, metallic accents and raised 3D shapes that can provide an unexpected texture to your nails. Glamnetic in particular has a wide variety of designs to choose from. After extensive testing, the Olive & June's The Instant Mani Press-On Nails were our pick for the best press-on nails. The brand is great for beginners and more advanced users alike, and each set comes with 21 sizes for each hand, making it easy to find the best fit. There are also many designs, ranging from solid colors to artful looks. Press-on nails that come with a strong glue should last the longest. All the options highlighted in this guide come with an effective glue that keeps nails affixed for at least a week. Press-on nails won't ruin your natural nails if correctly applied and removed. It's important to follow the removal instructions and not wreak unnecessary havoc on your nails. To keep your natural nails healthy, it's also a good idea to hydrate your hands and cuticles or use a nail strengthener. 'Practicing good habits like moisturizing regularly and maintaining a balanced nutritional diet also helps,' says Haye.
Forbes
01-04-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The Best Sunscreens For Babies, According To Testing And Expert Insight
Whether you're heading to the park or beach, you'll want your baby to be properly protected from the sun. Along with sticking to the shade as much as possible and dressing your little one in UV-protective clothing and accessories, using the right sunscreen on exposed skin is key. The best sunscreens for babies are easy to apply evenly, gentle enough for their delicate skin and provide broad-spectrum coverage that's a minimum of SPF 30 (ideally SPF 50). Along with my own in-depth evaluation, I enlisted a panel of parents to test 14 versions from top brands over the course of several months; La Roche-Posay's Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 came out on top thanks to how evenly it applies and how it feels softer and less sticky than any other option I tested. My best value pick is the Blue Lizard Baby Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ because it also has a nice texture that doesn't feel greasy or oily the way other drugstore options can. The best sunscreens for babies are easy to apply evenly, gentle enough for their delicate skin and ... More provide broad-spectrum coverage that's a minimum of SPF 30. Here is the best baby sunscreen, based on our testing. Interestingly, not all sunscreen is alike, and it's worth noting the differences between sunscreen for babies and adults. Dermatologists recommend mineral-based sunscreen for babies rather than formations based on other chemicals—mineral sunscreen is less likely to irritate infants' much more sensitive skin than sunscreen featuring zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Experts also suggest looking for water-resistant and unscented formulas. Ease of application is also crucial for parents and caregivers, as you want to be able to apply and reapply frequently and evenly. For more information, read our in-depth reviews of the La Roche-Posay and Blue Lizard sunscreens. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Mineral | Price per fluid ounce: $8 | Active ingredients: Titanium dioxide 5%, zinc oxide 15% | Water resistance: 80 minutes | Scent: None Best for: Skip if: This mineral sunscreen from La Roche-Posay is our overall winner for a number of reasons. It's a cream formula with just the right amount of thickness to avoid being excessively runny or leaky—helpful when you're applying on a baby on the move. Even if you've nursed a bottle over the course of months, as I have, it never separates in the tube. Going on, it feels like a moisturizing lotion without any greasiness or stickiness, as I found to be common with other contenders we tested. It dries to a soft, almost matte finish and for those with light to medium skin tones any initial white cast blends in seamlessly. Our testers and I have been using this sunscreen for over a year now on our babies, kids and even ourselves, which is a testament to how much we consistently like it and reach for it over other options. I also appreciate that it's fragrance-free and truly neutral smelling. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Mineral | Price per fluid ounce: $3 | Active ingredients: Titanium dioxide 8%, zinc oxide 10% | Water resistance: 80 minutes | Scent: None Best for: Skip if: The formula of this Blue Lizard sunscreen has been updated, with the most noticeable changes being that it's a thicker, less runny formula (like our best overall pick) and also more hydrating thanks to the inclusion of calendula extract and organic aloe. Dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy, who specializes in treating youth skin, is a fan of this formula; it goes on smoothly and blends to practically clear, leaving skin soft and with a slightly dewier finish than the La Roche-Posay sunscreen. It's also completely free of fragrance, which is pleasant compared to some overly scented versions marketed to babies and kids. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Mineral | Price per ounce: $11 | Active ingredients: Zinc oxide 20% | Water resistance: 80 minutes | Scent: None Best for: Skip if: Packaged in convenient stick form, this sunscreen glides on smoothly and is great for touchups (experts all recommend frequent reapplication) and covering hard-to-reach areas. It does leave a faint white cast on my medium tone skin, but for applying sunscreen on babies and kids—especially in stick form where you're swiping it as much as you can before blending—I don't mind this as much because allows you to see where you're applying it. Although some stick sunscreens can be a bit drying, this one is pretty creamy going on. It's free of synthetic fragrances but has the slightest hint of powder when you really sniff it—not especially noticeable, though. Amazon Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Type: Mineral | Price per ounce: $6.33 | Active ingredients: Zinc oxide 20% | Water resistance: 80 minutes | Scent: None Best for: Skip if: Much like our top pick, this sunscreen from Baby Botanicals has a thick, creamy consistency that is still very easy to apply. One tester found it to be on the dewier side when first smoothing it on. However, it ends up feeling soft and not at all greasy. Another tester says, 'It rubs beautifully into the skin, so I have the feeling that it's really getting in there and doing what it's supposed to do—and not leaving my son sticky or uncomfortable.' This one is also completely unscented. One tester says, 'I can't get over how many clean baby products have a scent—even a natural one—so I love that this is truly fragrance-free.' We tested several top baby sunscreens. Here's why some of them didn't make the cut. Mustela Mineral Baby Sunscreen Lotion: We liked this creamy formula but it felt a bit greasy (although not sticky) and had a faint chemical smell. Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen: A good drugstore option with a floral scent, our tester liked how it felt on her skin but preferred the Blue Lizard sunscreen overall. Pipette Mineral Sunscreen: This is another completely unscented option, but it's not water-resistant, which is something our experts recommend. It can also separate in the bottle, and required some shaking to reincorporate the oils. Sun Bum Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen: This thick lotion had a faint chemical, was on the oily side and caused minor irritation on our tester with sensitive skin. Sun Bum Baby Bum Sunscreen Stick: Our tester found this solid version more irritating on her skin than the lotion, plus it took more work to rub in. Badger Baby Sunscreen Cream: While we liked its subtle, naturally derived herbal-floral scent, this was by far the oiliest sunscreen tested, and it separates easily in the tube, resulting in an unpleasant application. Bare Republic Baby Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen: Another sunscreen that was on the oily side, it left our tester's skin a little itchy. At Forbes Vetted, the beauty and grooming team covers a wide variety of skincare topics, which includes evaluating a variety of sunscreen formulas and SPF products. When researching the best sunscreens for babies, we relied on our market knowledge and personal experience with various formulas and sunscreen brands while sifting through online reviews, product awards and retailer ratings. There are enough baby-related decisions to make; choosing the right sunscreen can be simple thanks to our guide. Here's what to look for based on our research, in-depth testing and expert insight. All of the experts I interviewed agree that for infants, it's best to go for a mineral sunscreen rather than a chemical or hybrid version. 'Babies should only use a physical or mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and as few added ingredients as possible," says dermatologic surgeon Dr. Howard Sobel. Compared to adults, babies have a much higher ratio of skin surface area to body weight so their skin can absorb more of the chemicals, and experts tend to recommend avoiding them. Also, the likelihood of an allergic reaction on sensitive baby skin is another reason to stick with mineral SPFs for little ones. As dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Dr. Jane Yoo says, these formulas are much less likely to cause contact dermatitis. Mineral sunscreens are also less prone than chemical versions to potentially burn or sting the eyes. It's best to avoid scented formulas, as fragrance can commonly be the cause of allergic flare-ups. 'It is recommended to avoid fragrances, dyes and perfumes in sunscreen for babies as they can trigger reactivity in sensitive baby skin,' says Yoo. This includes added scents of any kind, no matter the source. 'Synthetic versus naturally derived fragrance does not matter; both can cause irritation or allergy,' says dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy. 'I would look for products that say they are fragrance-free. I would also avoid any products that contain essential oils and extracts.' There's also the potential for a photoallergic reaction that's more likely in individuals with sensitive skin, including babies. 'Fragrance of all kinds can cause sensitivity, especially in the sun,' says Sobel. Experts generally recommend going for water-resistant sunscreens for babies. In our testing, we eliminated any formulas that didn't feature this, and all of our winners are water-resistant up to 80 minutes. In our testing, we focused mostly on sunscreen lotions and creams because they're easiest to apply and give the most consistent protection. It should be applied 30 minutes before going outside. 'The best protection is shade and sun-protective clothing, and that should be the focus for babies and honestly all of us," says Jeffy. 'Sunscreen should be used on areas that can not be covered by clothing, hats and sunglasses. When we are relying on sunscreen, be generous with application and reapply every two hours or after swimming.' Yoo's rule of thumb is: 'Even some covered areas can get sun exposure, so I would recommend applying sunscreen everywhere—don't forget ears, noses, hands and feet. Be generous with sunscreen and cover your baby up with a UV-protective onesie swimsuit.' Jeffy suggests moving straps around and applying sunscreen underneath them for extra protection. 'Keep in mind that babies overheat very easily so be aware of how long you are out with them,' she says. "Be sure they are hydrated and shaded, and if they seem fussy or you see redness of the skin, take them indoors immediately.' Out of all the various formula types, sprays are least popular due to how they can aerosolize and not stay on the skin. 'If you have to use a spray, apply to your hand and rub onto baby's skin. I would not spray in a way that could get inhaled by baby or in eyes,' says Jeffy. A soft, smooth feel and finish tends to be most comfortable for babies as well as parents and caregivers applying sunscreen on them—and then picking them up and holding them on and off. A lot of options tend to feel greasy or oily even a half hour after you apply them, which is not ideal because there's more likelihood of it being rubbed off or rubbed into eyes and causing discomfort. You might think that you don't want to see a white cast on your baby's skin after applying sunscreen, but it can be reassuring to see it and know you've covered everything. Also, any mineral SPFs become less visible after the first ten to twenty minutes. A broad-spectrum, water-resistant mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is the safest option for babies over 6 months old. For infants under this age, the FDA, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Skin Cancer Foundation recommend waiting to introduce sunscreen and instead focusing on keeping babies in the shade and dressed in UV-protective clothing. Their skin is so delicate and sensitive. 'There's a risk for irritation and allergy from sunscreen in a baby's thinner and more sensitive skin," says Jeffy. 'Protection should be with sun-protective clothing, shade and avoidance of exposure.' Don't forget the hats, glasses and blankets that are UV-protective. According to Yoo: "This fabric uses a rating system called ultraviolet protection factor or UPF (rather than SPF). As of May 2025, The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a minimum UPF 50 for effective sun protection.' No, 'zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are considered safe in sunscreen for babies older than 6 months old,' says Yoo. These are mineral sunscreen filters that are less likely to irritate a baby's more sensitive skin.
