As the dog days of Summer hit, we are soaking up the last bit of seasonal sun with our selection of clothes, gear, and other healthy living products that keep us fit and fuelled — and most of all, cool!
Muse 2: The Brain Sensing Headband
"Meditating is something I've been trying to be more consistent with, which is still a work in progress. One tool that has made meditating easier is the Muse 2 Brain Sensing Headband [2] ($250). When I got a pitch to try Muse, I wasn't 100-percent sold, but I'm happy to say that I'm now a fan of it. The band tracks your brain's electrical activity, which leaves you with data that lets you know how much time was spent in the active, neutral, and calm sates. The best part about the Muse headband, in my opinion, are the audio alerts when I get distracted because it helps me regain my focus." — Tamara Pridgett, assistant editor, Fitness
Nike Swim Ear Plugs
"It seems like every time I start swimming laps again, my ears go into panic mode and completely forget how to deal with water. These Nike Swim Ear Plugs [3] ($13) are simple, comfortable, and effective. They keep water from getting clogged in my ears and can lessen the chance of getting earaches. And I love how they come with a small, waterproof carrying case, because I am exactly the type to lose them in my gym bag." — Maggie Ryan, assistant editor, Fitness
Saalt Soft Menstrual Cup
"After using a menstrual cup for one month [4], I became a cup convert! I didn't think life could get any better in the period department, but then I tried this Saalt Soft Menstrual Cup [5] ($29). It's softer than the cup I was using, which means it's easier to insert and remove. I couldn't feel it at all while running, doing CrossFit, swimming, or yoga, and I had zero issues with it leaking, which meant no pantyliner required. If you've been thinking about trying a cup, this is the one to try." — Jenny Sugar, staff writer, Fitness
Lululemon x Barry’s Stronger as One Tights and Long Line Bra
"I've been on the hunt for a red workout outfit to wear because nothing says, "I'm here, I'm ready to burpee" like bright red leggings. I was thrilled to discover that within the Lululemon X Barry's collab [6] were the Stronger as One Tights [7] ($128) and Long Line Bra [8] ($68) in Bootcamp Emboss Dark Red. I love the vivid colour and the fit of this outfit that shows a sliver of my waist without exposing my belly button. Made from Lululemon's buttery soft Luxtreme, this set is going to be my go-to when I want an outfit that will make me feel bright, strong, and confident." — Genevieve Farrell Roston, senior video producer, Fitness
Ladder Vanilla Plant Protein
"I'm not big on protein powder, but I recently tried the Ladder Vanilla Plant Protein [9] ($50 for 15 packets) and really enjoyed it. It's great for the days when I have to rush from the gym to the office and don't have time to grab breakfast or don't want to spend $15 on a meal." — TP
JBuds Air Sport True Wireless Earbuds
"I have to run outside to music, but the cord to my headphones is cumbersome and I don't trust myself with AirPods. Enter these JBuds Air Sport True Wireless Earbuds [10] ($69). They sit comfortably on my ears and don't move while I'm working out. Plus, the sound quality is good without being noise-cancelling; I still like to hear background noise, especially when I'm outside." — CS
Dr. Motion Mild Compression Knee-High Socks
"My calves have been tightening up on runs and just generally giving me sh*t for months. Recently, my ankles started swelling, too. It's been a fun Summer! You can see why I jumped at the chance to try these Dr. Motion Mild Compression Knee-High Socks [11] ($8). I've been wearing them on runs, and though they haven't loosened my tight calves overnight (I'm going to need a lot of yoga and/or a new pair of running shoes to get to that point), I could've cried at how well they relieved my swelling. The stockings also helped the blood flow in my legs, which helped them stay energized and warm (so to speak) when I took breaks." — MR
Lululemon Hotty Hot Shorts
"During my steamy hot Summer trail runs and intensely sweaty CrossFit classes, these Lululemon Hotty Hot Shorts [12] ($58) have been my absolute favourite bottoms to wear. The band is wide and snug but not too tight, and the inseam is four inches, so I feel fully covered. They're super lightweight and I love the little zippered pocket on the outside; it's way more comfortable than the zippers you often find on the back." — JS
Alo Joyful Bra
"Summer is here and I've been on the hunt for a cute crop top that I can wear to a low-impact workout like Pilates and also looks stylish to wear the rest of the day. Alo's Joyful Bra [13] ($72) will be a staple of my wardrobe on the weekends during these warmer months. The mesh makes this top super feminine and the moisture-wicking fabric is essential for these scorching days." — GFR
Lenny & Larry's Protein Cookie
"When I'm craving sweets but also want to make a dent in my daily protein, I've recently enjoyed snacking on Lenny & Larry's The Complete Chocolate Chip Cookie [14] ($19 for 12). Each cookie has 16 grams of plant-based soy protein, and I highly approve of the taste. There are other flavours, though you can never go wrong with chocolate chip." — Sam Brodsky, assistant editor, Fitness
Puma LQDCell Shatter XT Women's Training Shoes
"Puma's Puma LQDCell Shatter XT Women's Training Shoes [15] ($90) propel me forward when I'm on the treadmill and walking through life; it's like they put more pep in my step. And, the sneakers are equal parts cushioning and supportive. I also love wearing them on my commute to work (they scream "get out of my way"), around the office, and to run errands. Oh, and the design is kickass, don't you think?" — SB