Each new year feels like a fresh start. For a healthy and productive 2020, these are the must-have appliances, gear, and accessories that our editors are loving in January.
Kopari CBD Extra Strength Deodourant
"I know, I know — CBD deodourant sounds pretty woo-woo. I'm not sure if the CBD aspect of this deodourant does anything extra, but it's supposed to soothe sensitive underarm skin. All I know is that this Kopari CBD Extra Strength Deodourant [1] ($18) goes on smooth and keeps me smelling fresh during even the toughest of workouts. Kopari is plant-based, vegan, and doesn't have aluminium or bicarbonate of soda. In my past experience, most natural deodourant either doesn't work for me or leaves a gnarly rash under my arms. So far, so good with this Kopari CBD Deodourant!" — Christina Stiehl, editor, Fitness
Crossrope Get Lean Set
"The Crossrope Get Lean Set [2] ($88) comes with two jumpropes of different weights. You can jump around with them for some quick cardio or open Crossrope's app for hundreds of workouts, including HIIT, strength, and more cardio. Crossrope sent me the set to try out, and the few workouts that I've done so far were fast, fun, and great for cold days when you want a workout without leaving the house." — Maggie Ryan, assistant editor, Fitness
Breville Waffle Maker
"As I embrace intuitive eating in the New Year, I'm saying yes to all the decadent foods I used to avoid for fear of weight gain. Intuitive eating is reminding me how food has the power to bring people together and be a source of happiness, and it's inspired a new tradition in my family to make an elaborate breakfast for dinner — we're talking tofu scram, hash browns, and waffles, and I'm in love with the Breville Smart Waffle Pro [3] ($200). It makes perfectly thick and fluffy waffles and does all the work for you. You choose the type of waffle you want to cook and the automatic timer lets you know when it's ready. I've already made regular waffles, Belgium waffles, cinnamon blueberry waffles, and next on my list is banana pumpkin waffles!" — Jenny Sugar, staff writer, Fitness
Gaiam Lavender Lower-Back Wrap
"I really like using the Gaiam Lower-Back Wrap [4] ($16, originally $20). It's microwave-safe and smells like lavender, which is extra soothing. The day that I get my period every month is always less-than-fun because I suffer from shooting cramps in my pelvis, so I've also used this as a heating pad during that time. It's definitely brought relief to my unbearable period cramps and helps me take moments of rest before getting back to any tasks I have to do that day." — Sam Brodsky, assistant editor, Fitness
Pink Sherpa Cardigan
"If you're on the hunt for a sherpa jacket that won't break the bank, prepare to be obsessed with this Sherpa Cardigan [5] from Pink ($30, originally $80.) This sweater feels like I'm wearing a blanket and I love to wear it as outerwear or an additional layering piece in the cold. It's perfect for feeling cosy and relaxed" — Genevieve Farrell Roston, Fitness & Wellness Director
SPRI Xertube Band
"When I lift weights, I use dumbbells and kettlebells mainly. But, I also like to change it up with different resistance equipment, which is why the SPRI Xertube Band [6] ($15, originally $18) has found its way into my workouts. I use the blue one for heavy resistance (the other colours indicate the varying resistance levels) in bicep curls, upright rows, and more." — SB
Kos Plant-Based Protein Powder
"I love trying new vegan products and I'm loving this Kos Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder [7] ($44). The base is pea protein, flax seed, quinoa, pumpkin seed, and chia seed, but also contains coconut milk (which adds to the creaminess). And I love that it's sweetened with coconut sugar, stevia, and monk fruit extract, but still tastes perfectly sweet. One 170-calorie serving offers 20 grams of protein plus tons of other vitamins and minerals, such as B12 and iron. Even just mixed with water and ice, the chocolate flavour is deliciously rich and smooth." — JS
Culinary Edge 2.1QT Compact Electric Small Air Fryer
"I have always wanted an air fryer, but the popular ones on the market were always too big for my tiny New York apartment counter space and storage. I was so excited to get this Culinary Edge 2.1-Quart Compact Electric Small Air Fryer [8] ($50) for Christmas. So far, I've found it makes the crispiest brussels sprouts with just a tiny bit of oil, and can take Trader Joe's cauliflower gnocchi from frozen blocks to fully crispy and cooked in just 15 minutes. I can't wait to try out more recipes!" — CS
Hypervolt Plus
"Personal massagers are all the rage, and it makes such a difference for sore muscles. As much as foam rolling helps, I've found the Hyperice Hypervolt Plus [9] ($449) targets deep muscles better than any foam roller or lacrosse ball could. I like the varying speeds that the Hypervolt Plus has (I don't like it be too fast) and the five different interchangeable head attachments targets different muscle groups in various ways. It has been a game-changer for my sore hamstrings and quads after my runs and indoor cycling classes. Hyperice sent me this Hypervolt Plus, but I love it so much I bought one for my fellow fitness-enthusiast sister!" — CS
Zicam Cold Remedy Rapidmelts
"During cold season, my trusty pack of Zicam Rapidmelts [10] ($10) is never far from hand. This cold medicine comes in the form of tablets that melt in your mouth. Each one is packed full of zinc, which has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of a cold [11] if taken early on. As soon as I feel a cold coming on (scratchy throat, pounding head, stuffed-up nose), I start taking Zicam every four hours. It's my first and best line of defence during cold season." — MR
Caraway Cookware Set
"The kitchen is my happy place, and although I've had the pleasure of using the same pans since my wedding almost 12 years ago, I was excited to switch up my stainless steel set for ceramic. This Caraway Nonstick Ceramic-Coated Cookware Set [12] ($395) allows me to cook with less oil, and the food heats evenly and tastes delicious. The ceramic coating is safer than other nonstick coating (like Teflon) because even if I accidentally overheat the pan, it won't release toxic chemicals into my food [13]. These pans are perfect for cooking on the stovetop and are also oven-safe — the dutch oven is probably my fave. As a bonus, it comes with a magnetic pan rack and hanging lid holder so I can keep my pans organised." — JS
The Now Jasmin Coconut Candle
"I've made it a resolution to take more time to relax, especially before going to bed. I'm loving The Now Coconut Jasmin Candle [14] ($48), which smells like a holiday. I light it a few minutes before I want to go to sleep, mediate, and have definitely noticed myself having a better slumber as a result. " — GFR