Best Fitness Gear | May 2017
All the Spring Fitness Gear We're Obsessed With For May
As POPSUGAR editors, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.
This month, we are so frickin' excited to get out and enjoy the sunshine and warmer temps (finally!). Of course we've got some great gear to help us stay energized, inspired, and supported on all our outdoor adventures. Check out our must haves for May!
Chocolate Chip RXBAR
"When the new flavors (chocolate chip, peanut butter chocolate, and mixed berry) of RXBARs ($26 for a case of 12) showed up at my desk, I was thrilled. Since discovering them last year, they have become the only protein bar I will eat — not only because they are good, but they're also good for you. The bars are made from all-natural, whole ingredients, and as someone who doesn't eat dairy, this is kind of unheard of in the world of protein bars.
My current RXBAR obsession the new chocolate chip flavor. It reminds me of raw cookie dough, which is so satisfying to dig into after a workout! Each bar contains 12 grams of egg white protein and absolutely no added sugars. Or, as RXBAR says, No B.S." — Michele Foley, director, Fitness
Klean Kanteen Insulated Water Bottle
"Sometimes it's the simplest things that are the best. And this 20 oz. Klean Kanteen Insulated Reflect ($41) is one of those things. No bells or whistles. Just sturdy, dependable, and my favorite water bottle at the moment. I love the narrow mouth that's easy to drink from but also wide enough to thoroughly clean inside. The handle on the cap makes it easy to carry, and my water stays cold for hours. Of course the fact that's it's stainless steel on the inside makes me feel safe." — Jenny Sugar, editor, Fitness
The System by Stacy Reiki-Powered Protein Shakes
"I've been really into natural wellness lately, including reiki. When I saw that these The System by Stacy Protein Shakes ($26 for 4 bottles) were reiki-powered, I was really intrigued. Woo-woo wellness aside, these mini bottles pack about 20 grams of protein per drink (I love the efficiency) and are low in sugar thanks to stevia. Nitty gritty: organic ingredients, non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, and Paleo friendly." — Dominique Astorino, assistant editor, Fitness
Every. Body. Beautiful. by Natalie Carey
"If you're lucky enough to be in San Francisco, I highly recommend a training session with Natalie Carey. She's a beautiful soul, who is on a crusade to help her clients feel strong and beautiful from the inside out.
If you can't make it to an in-person session, then do the next best thing: pick up a copy of her book, Every. Body. Beautiful. Not only will you learn about Natalie's own struggle on body image and acceptance, but she will arm you with practical tools to learn to love yourself — exactly how you are at this exact moment. Talk about powerful." — MF
Mira Rae Leggings
"I can't tell you how many compliments I've gotten on these Mira Rae High-Waisted Leggings. The Grey Mandala and Red Stained Glass ($82) are my faves. Not only are the patterns fun, but the feel — oh my! Silky smooth and perfect whether you're sweating buckets in a hot yoga class or leisurely heading out for brunch. The high waist stays put and I didn't have to adjust these leggings once while wearing them. That's huge!"— JS
Bulletproof Chocolate Fuel Bar
"Think about indulging in delicious dark chocolate that is miraculously sugar-free. Are you salivating? Same. Our dreams have become reality, friend: the Bulletproof Chocolate Fuel Bars ($19 for a pack of three) combine 78-percent cacao with coconut oil and vanilla bean for a rich cocoa taste without excess sugar." — DA
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
"Dairy-free protein powder leaves a lot to be desired. It's often chalky and has a weird aftertaste from whatever sweetener it contains. In the past, I've done my best to mask the flavor by adding a ton of other ingredients, yet the protein powder always came through. Never again! Discovering Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides ($43 for a 20-ounce tub) has totally changed my smoothie game. The powder has absolutely no flavor, which means I can mix it into anything and not alter the taste or texture of what I am drinking — even water. Each serving contains 18 grams of protein and also a healthy dose of collagen and BCAAs, which helps improve skin, joint, and hair health while also aiding in muscle recovery.
If you do like your protein powder to have some flavor, I can't recommend Vital Proteins Vanilla and Coconut ($75 for a 20-ounce tub) enough. I've been blending it into my coffee every morning with some 4th & Heart vanilla ghee, and can't remember a time where I've felt more energized and focused." — MF
Grain-Free Bagels
"Grain-free bagels are possible and actually delicious with Barely Bread ($14 for pack for 4.) This take on one of my favorite comfort foods is high in protein and made with ingredients like almond flour and apple sauce and has a texture incredibly similar to regular bagels and perfect for a bread addict like myself." — Genevieve Farrell, producer, Fitness and Glow
R Bar
"Being vegan and avoiding sugar, it's sometimes tough to find healthy food to eat on the go, which is why I was so pleasantly surprised to find these R Bars (10 for $18) in an airport terminal. They had me at 'vegan' and 'no sugar added,' and the fact that each is made with just three ingredients was another bones. I tried the Cranberry Cashew and the Double Chocolate but can't wait to try the other flavors like Peanut Butter & Jelly." — JS
APL Women's TechLoom Pro Cashmere Ice Blue
"Did I ever think I'd be the person who would own cashmere sneakers? Absolutely not. Will I ever look back now that I have them? NOPE. These gorgeous, ultraluxe APL sneakers ($250) have the incredibly comfortable sole that APL is known for, with an awesomely impractical cashmere upper." — DA
Patagonia Provisions
"If you love the outdoors, chances are you already know — and love — Patagonia. Well, get excited, because the environmentally conscious company now makes food for those of us who love to camp, backpack, and spend our nights outside.
With more than 20 boxes ($25-$240) to choose from, fill up on things like buffalo jerky, salmon, hot breakfast grains, soup, and chili. It's also food you can feel great about eating: Patagonia has partnered with farmers, ranchers, and fishermen who use sustainable methods to source all of its food products." — MF
Titka Twist Top Crop
"Sometimes finding "effortless" clothes, takes some searching. I scoured many stores to find a knotted crop top to wear with high waisted tights. You know, a top that looks like I just pulled it together but is actually perfect and chic? I found it with Titka's Twist Top Crop ($58.) Not only is this to so soft and comfortable, but it actually breathes well for working out." - GF
Makanis by Sunski
"My mantra this Spring is 'take a hike,' so I am busting out my boots and sunnies every chance I get and heading to the hills. My new favorite frames are the Makanis by Sunski ($55). They're big, bold, and a little retro; when I wear them I feel like I am in a Duran Duran video. And to me that is a good thing. As for the size, the more sun coverage the better, and they're really lightweight too. Plus, the purple lenses are polarized to minimize glare." — Susi May, senior content director, Fitness
Lululemon Enlite Bra
"I got the chance to test the newest bra at Lululemon last week, and it was pretty darn incredible. Things that seem counterintuitive combine in the Enlite Bra ($98) — like being both supersupportive AND nonrestrictive. It controls bounce and provides coverage but still looks beautiful and stylish. It's the sports bra you won't want to take off — bonded seams don't dig into your skin or chafe, no matter how intense your exercise is (and trust me, I really put it to the test at Barry's Bootcamp)." — DA
Koral's Versatility Mat
"I consider my yoga mat part of the interior design of my apartment because it is almost always unrolled in the center of my living room. That's why I'm so excited about Koral's Versatility Mat ($135,) which features a rose gold design that was first painted on a canvas then transferred on to the mat. It elevates the look of my room, rather than making like my living room appear like a makeshift gym studio." — GF
Roxy Set Session Running Sneaker
"When I found out that one of my old favorite brands, Roxy, was making running sneakers (ADORABLE ones), I knew I had to try a pair. Not only were these shoes extrememly comfy, they're actually really great to run in; I felt just as supported in these as I do in my Nike Free Runs. I got the Set Session Sneaker ($69) in grey, and though if I could do it again I'd go up half a size because they were a teeny bit snug, I have no regrets (I'm normally a true 8, so I'd go so far as to say these may run small in general). They're a cheaper option than most known brands, plus, I wore them all over even when I wasn't working out and must have gotten a million compliments on how cute they were, which gave me a little ego boost to call upon during my run." — Alessia Santoro, assistant editor, Moms
