Our Favorite Products to Stay Healthy and Fit While Waiting For Spring to Finally Arrive
While we are all praying for sunnier days, Winter weather is still upon us as March comes in like a lion, roaring with its unpredictable weather patterns. We've set our sights on camping in milder weather but still feel a deep chill in the air on our early morning runs. To satisfy both our hopes for Spring, as well as the realities (raise your hand if you've run in a hail storm in March) of the season, we've rounded up our favorite gear, from fitness to caffeine boosts to sleep, to celebrate the changing of the seasons.
Nike Epic React Flyknit Running Shoe 2
"I didn't need another pair of running shoes, but I couldn't resist. I love the Nike Epic React Flyknit Running Shoe 2 ($150) for my quick and light runs. It's lightweight and has the perfect pop of color. If you don't like running, they're also super comfortable for just walking around in." — Tamara Pridgett, assistant editor, Fitness
Vital Proteins Peach Matcha Collagen
"I have been on a major matcha kick lately; it's the perfect afternoon pick-me-up I can enjoy when that 3 p.m. slump hits without interfering with my sleep that night. I've been loving Vital Proteins Matcha Collagen in Peach Matcha ($49) because it gives me a boost of satiating protein (nine grams) along with the natural caffeine (50 milligrams). Plus, the peach flavor makes it a little more palatable than standard matcha." — Christina Stiehl, editor, Fitness
BioLite HeadLamp 330
"I used to make fun of headlamps . . . I thought they looked silly. That was before I started camping. The BioLite HeadLamp 330 ($50) is the best for reading in a tent (seriously, I am the envy of my entire family) or for strapping onto a bike helmet for an after-sunset ride. The headlamp is incredibly comfortable and incredibly bright, and the strap is made of wicking fabric, should you choose to run or hike vigorously while wearing it. Plus, you can recharge the battery with a micro USB. I can't wait to read in my tent this Spring." — Susi May, senior content director, Fitness
Kite Hill Almond Milk Ricotta Cheese
"I don't follow a strict dairy-free diet, but let me tell you: Kite Hill Almond Milk Ricotta Cheese ($10) is delicious. I came across it one day at Whole Foods and was curious, so I bought it. It tastes just like regular ricotta cheese, and if you have a sensitive stomach, you won't get a stomachache after eating it!" — TP
ColdGear Fleece-Lined Mock Neck Top
"I've been wearing the same ColdGear Fleece-Lined Mock Neck Top ($50) for about 10 years, and I have no intention of swapping it anytime soon. My favorite part is the mock neck. On a freezing predawn run, it covers just enough of my neck to keep me from feeling too chilled, without getting restrictive, hot, or sweaty. Under Armour offers other colors, but I prefer the white, which makes me feel like a badass polar goddess as I wheeze my way through my five-miler." — Maggie Ryan, assistant editor, Fitness
Outdoor Voices Studio Collection
"Outdoor Voices' new Studio Collection is made for classes where you want to stand out! We used the FreeForm shorts ($45)and bralette ($45) in tangerine in a recent Class FitSugar video, and the bright and cheery outfit that can't help but make you smile when you see or wear! We also used the bright chartreuse color, which was the most flattering shade of yellow you can image." — Genevieve Farrell, senior video producer
Chike High Protein Coffee
"I first found this Chike High Protein Coffee ($28) while doing research for an article about coffee protein powders and shakes. It looked good, so I decided to order it, and I'm so glad I did! I blend it with almond milk and ice in the mornings for an energy boost. Two scoops contain 20 grams of whey protein and caffeine equivalent to two espresso shots! I highly recommend the Vanilla Iced Coffee flavor." — Sam Brodsky, assistant editor, Fitness
Under Armour Athletic SoLo Socks
"Between my morning workouts and my everyday footwear, I go through at least two pairs of socks a day. Usually, I just grab whatever is cheapest at Target, but I noticed a huge difference after buying these Under Armour Athletic SoLo Socks ($15 for a three-pack). They are a little thicker, which keeps my foot cushioned and supported, but also moisture-wicking, so my feet aren't sliding around in my shoes. Plus, the pink logo keeps it easy to match them up after I've done laundry (unlike the sea of my other logo-less black socks)." — CS
Hella
"Hella ($9) is a chocolate hazelnut spread like Nutella — but Nutella has 21 grams of sugar, and Hella has only eight, plus only 144 calories to Nutella's 200. It tastes richer and less overpoweringly sugary, but let me tell you: that doesn't make it any less addictive. The brand recommends drizzling it over fruit or spooning some into hot milk for hot chocolate, but frankly, I ate all of mine straight out of the jar over the course of two blissful nights, and I do not regret it." — MR
Marpac Dohm White Noise Machine
"I use the Marpac Dohm White Noise Machine ($40, originally $44) to fall asleep, and it's the best lullaby I've ever had. The noise is a mix between soft static, rushing air, and ocean waves. It's gentle, soothing, and the reason I fall asleep in minutes. It's my number one sleep recommendation, whether you're trying to block out street noise or fill in the silence in a quiet neighborhood." — MR
Jfit Pro Push-Up Bar
"I like push-ups because they work more than just my upper body; they work my core, too. This Jfit Pro Push-Up Bar ($27, originally $34) enhances my push-ups by forcing me to really focus on my form. I'm also able to use the handles for other moves like planks and triceps dips." — SB
Splendid Spoon Carrot Ginger Chia Smoothie
"When I'm busy and don't have time to meal prep, I find myself eating whatever snacks I can find in the office and calling it a meal. So I was so excited to try Splendid Spoon, a meal delivery service that offers smoothies and soups chock full of fruits and veggies ($95 for five smoothies and five soups or $395 for the one-month starter.) The smoothies were delicious and low sugar, so I didn't experience a sugar crash I sometimes do. My favorite was the carrot ginger chia , which honestly is my favorite smoothie I've ever had! The soups were warm and comforting. I was a bit concerned that just a smoothie and soup would leave me hungry in a few hours, but both are very full of fiber so I was surprisingly full." — GF