You may find it hard to believe, but one thing many of my male clients ask me about is body-hair removal. Generally, in the male mind, depilation is best reserved for women, professional cyclists, swimmers and drag queens. Even in the playground, the first signs of body hair are the making of a man among his peers. However, think of unquestionably too-furry men such as Burt Reynolds and David Hasselhoff, and no more needs to be said.

How much hair is too much? Well, things are starting to change. How often nowadays do you see a hairy Premiership footballer? There are even several noticeably smooth rugby players. The Daniel Craig version of James Bond is markedly less hairy than the Sean Connery one. Being groomed is now far more acceptable, and fuzz removal for men is something women seem to be embracing. When questioned, most women say they find their other half’s excess hair unattractive, but only a few are prepared to confront them, lest they hurt their feelings.

So, what are you waiting for? Now is the time to start defuzzing those problem areas, even if that simply means clipping off the excess rather than going for ultra-smoothness.

ARMPITS If, when your arms are hanging down by your sides, you can see hair, trim it with scissors.

BACK The back rug has to be completely removed. Get it waxed, either professionally or by your ecstatic wife or girlfriend.

BUTTOCKS You may need some help with this. Don’t try to shave it yourself – the consequences are far too horrific. Again, wax it or get your other half to use clippers.

LEGS Clippers on a No 2 setting will reduce your fuzziness and make your legs look better. There will still be hair there, but far less of it.

CHEST AND STOMACH Do not shave this area. It will itch as it grows back, and there is a real danger of slicing into a nipple. Do not wax your chest or stomach: it is far too painful. Clippers used on a No 2 setting are, again, best.

PUBIC REGION There is something of an urban myth about creating more size by reducing the rug. Personally, I think it is best left alone, for fear of either overdoing it or causing injury.

For professional hair-removal treatments, visit www.the-refinery.com or www.wholeman.co.uk. Clippers are available at www.shavers.co.uk

RUN, BOY, RUN

If you’re a dedicated runner who hasn’t yet tried linking your iPod Nano to Nike’s specially designed trainers, where have you been? At the end of your run, a Paula Radcliffe voice-over tells you if you’ve topped any personal bests, and, by logging on to the website, you can compete with enthusiasts all over the globe.

Nike+ sensor and receiver, £20, and Air Zoom RS+, £65; www.nike.com

SHOULDER SWING

A canny way to beat the shoulder-burn from lugging your clubs, and a great buy if you frequently jet off for golfing weekends, Puma’s new golf bag can not only be propped up when you’re taking your swing, but can be worn like a rucksack while you’re getting from A to B.

£100; www.puma.com

DESIGNER BARGAIN

The Armani Exchange fashion line is a pricing coup. It delivers the Italian house’s low-key, modern style at a fraction of the cost. Look out for dress shirts (from £40), trousers (£70) and an excellent peacoat (£125). Having been tested on those label connoisseurs the scousers, the store opens in the metropolis in November.

Armani Exchange, 240 Regent Street, W1; 020 7479 7760