Few things help you work out a sore muscle quite like a percussion massager. These little machines beat your body up in the best way possible to increase blood flow and accelerate recovery. They’re great for before bed, after the gym, or when the muscle next to your shoulder blade won’t stop twitching because you’ve been sitting at your desk writing about Black Friday deals for 20 hours straight and your body is slowly atrophying into a hunched mass of sinew. That last one might just be us. Still, these are great deals from two of the biggest companies in the space.

TheraGun Prime $189 (was $299)

SEE IT

This mid-level massage gun from Therabody comes with four high-quality attachments and a deep app integration that helps guide you through a variety of massage treatments. I’ve been using the upgraded TheraGun Elite version for a few weeks now, and the bedtime routine is pretty much essential for me (our editor’s family swears by the flagship PRO Plus after running and/or soccer matches). It has customizable programs and speeds depending on how intense you want your percussion to get. This is a somewhat advanced model, but the app provides excellent instruction for beginners so you can grow into it.

More Therabody massager deals

• TheraGun Pro $349 (was $499)
• TheraGun Mini Massage Gun $149 (was $199)
• TheraFace PRO Microcurrent Facial Device $319 (was $399)
• Therabody Wave Series Wave Roller $99 (was $149)
• Therabody Wave Series Wave Duo $79 (was $99)
• Therabody Wave Series Wave Solo $59 (was $79)

Hyperice percussion massager deals

• Hypervolt 2 Pro $259 (was $329)
• Hypervolt 2 $159 (was $199)
• Hypervolt Go 2 $99 (was $129)
• Hyperice Venom Go – Advanced Heat + Vibration Wearable $99 (was $129)
• Hyperice X – Advanced Contrast Therapy $349 (was $449)
• Hyperice Normatec 3 – Recovery System $699 (was $799)
• Vyper 3 – High-Intensity Vibrating Foam Roller $159 (was $199)

The post Shop percussion massagers at Amazon for Black Friday and get up to 40% off appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

We know that going to the gym is going to be on your New Year’s resolutions list. Working out is great for endorphins and getting your heart rate up, but leaving your house in the dark, cold early morning or equally dark, cold evening is a bummer, to say the least. Bring the gym to your place with this massive Black Friday deal on Echelon, Peloton, NordicTrack, Hydrow Rowing, and other exercise equipment at Amazon.

Echelon EX5 Smart Connect Fitness Bike $359.99 (Was $999.99)

SEE IT

You get a free 30-day trial of Echelon Premiere with this bike, giving you access to 3,000 live and on-demand classes on the Echelon Fit app (for iOS and Android). This bike was built with performance and comfort in mind, with ergonomic handlebars and six seat position levels. The tablet mount flips 180 degrees so you can get a gym membership worth of workouts in one piece of equipment.

• Echelon EX-15 Smart Connect Fitness Bike $399.99 (Was $500)
• Echelon EX5-S Smart Connect Fitness Bike $699.99 (Was $1,499.99)
• Echelon Fitness Stride Auto-Fold Smart Treadmill $999.99 (Was $1,299.99)

Peloton deals

• Original Peloton Bike $1,095 (Was $1,445)
• Peloton Bike+ $1,995 (Was $2,495)
• Peloton Guide AI-Powered Personal Strength Training Device For Your TV $95 (Was $195)
• Peloton Altos Cycling Shoes for Bike and Bike+ $101.50 (Was $145)
• Peloton Bike Mat $45 (Was $75)

Hydrow deals

• Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine with 16″ HD Touchscreen $1,445 (Was $1,895)
• Hydrow Rowing Machine with Immersive 22″ HD Rotating Screen $1,745 (Was $2,945)
• Hydrow Multi-Use Workout Mat $68 (Was $80)

NordicTrack deals

• NordicTrack T Series 8.5S $1,290 (Was $1,599)
• NordicTrack T Series 6.5S $679 (Was $799)

XTERRA deals

• XTERRA Fitness Folding Exercise Bike $110.49 (Was $179.99)
• XTERRA Fitness UB120 Upright Bike $66.49 (Was $97.99)
• XTERRA Fitness Dual Action Air Bike $419.99 (Was $499)
• XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill $314.99 (Was $393.78)
• XTERRA Fitness TR260 Folding Treadmill $491.50 (Was $578.24)
• XTERRA Fitness WalkSlim Treadmill $509.99 (Was $599.99)

The post Shop the best fitness gear during Amazon Black Friday with up 64% of savings appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Having a lukewarm beverage is one of the largest party fouls at a holiday shindig. There’s always a shortage of ice! There’s so much schmoozing happening that our hot boozy beverage becomes tepid! We give thanks if you didn’t experience this at turkey dinner and want to make sure it doesn’t happen when Christmas ham or any other festive favorites roll around. Keep your drinks hot and/or cold all night all year with this Yeti tumbler and insulated koozie deal at Amazon.

YETI Rambler 16 oz. Colster Tall Can Insulator for Tallboys & 16 oz. Cans $15 (Was $30)

SEE IT

This stainless steel, vacuum-insulated Tall Colster is great for anything that involves a 16-ounce can: a holiday work party; meeting the parents for the first time; a winter football tailgate; and more. It’s dishwasher-safe and can accommodate a Liquid Death pounder can.

Here are more Yeti deals happening for Amazon Black Friday:

• YETI Rambler 14 oz Vacuum Insulated Mug $21 (Was $30)
• YETI Crossroads Backpack 35L, Nordic Purple $161 (Was $230)
• YETI Lowlands Blanket $140 (Was $200)
• YETI Boomer 4, Stainless Steel, Non-Slip Dog Bowl $28 (Was $40)
• YETI Rambler Half Gallon Jug $70 (Was $100)
• YETI Rambler 64 oz Bottle, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with Chug Cap $45.50 (Was $65)
• YETI Rambler Gallon Jug $91 (Was $130)
• YETI Rambler 26 oz Straw Cup, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with Straw Lid, Stainless $26.25 (Was $36.81)
• YETI Rambler 16 oz Stackable Pint, Vacuum Insulated, Stainless Steel with MagSlider Lid $22.50 (Was $30)

The post Sip, sip, hooray: Shop the best Yeti Black Friday deals at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		VIKTOR JURGEN Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager		SEE IT	This option features eight massage heads and uses infrared heat to provide relief to sore muscles.
Best for athletes		Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro		SEE IT	This powerful percussion massager operates at five different speeds and comes with five head attachments to customize the sensation.
Best budget		Homedics Neck Massager with Heat		SEE IT	This affordable model provides Shiatsu and vibrational massage and lets users control the intensity.

Working from home may be more comfortable in many ways, but it can also do a number on your muscles—the kind of number that calls for a neck massager. Typing with your laptop in your lap on the couch or looking down at your phone throughout the day can cause tightness and strain in your neck. According to John Hopkins Medicine, at least 25 percent of Americans experience neck or back pain at some point in their lives.

Investing in a neck massager is one way to get some relief at home. These devices “significantly improve blood circulation in the neck region,” says Kevin Huffman, D.O., specializing in bariatric surgery and treating whiplash and other car accident injuries. “Improved blood circulation delivers not only instantaneous relief, it also hastens the recovery process and delivery of vital nutrients to impacted areas.”

He adds that neck massagers also provide rhythmic pulses on pressure points that help alleviate muscle tension, which lessens pain and promotes relaxation. So, if you’ve got some knots in your neck, we’ve rounded up the best neck massagers to provide some relief.

• Best overall: VIKTOR JURGEN Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
• Best for neck, shoulders, and back: Homedics Shiatsu Neck and Body Massager
• Best intelligent: COMFIER Portable Heated Neck Massager
• Best handheld: TruMedic Massage Gun
• Best for athletes: Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro
• Best pillow: Homedics Back and Neck Massager, Portable Shiatsu All Body Massage Pillow
• Best mini: Theragun Mini Gen 4
• Best budget: Homedics Neck Massager with Heat

What causes neck pain?

Neck pain is the fourth leading cause of disability around the globe. While most acute cases resolve themselves within about a month, nearly 50 percent of people go on to experience more pain or frequent occurrences. This pain can result from both our environment and underlying conditions.

“Our lifestyle choices contribute to neck pain. These include enduring constant stress—whether professional or personal—which often precipitates physical manifestations of the tension we feel; one such manifestation is chronic neck discomfort,” Huffman says. “Moreover, a lack of attention towards ergonomic health in our work and living environments can permit conditions that exert undue pressure upon our necks, resulting in persistent strain and subsequent pain.”

As we increasingly adopt sedentary lifestyles and become more dependent on technology, the prevalence of neck pain could get worse. Poor posture is, arguably, the most pervasive cause. “And in our digital age, a modern epidemic known as tech neck has emerged due to continual strain on the neck muscles from looking down at handheld devices,” Huffman says. “And as we age, the degeneration caused by wear and tear on our neck joints can lead to painful sensations.” Chronic conditions like migraine and osteoporosis can also result in neck pain. And muscle soreness can also result from strenuous exercise and injury.

That said, neck massagers can only do so much. If your neck pain is a result of an injury or underlying condition, you should always consult your healthcare provider if your aches increase or persist over time.

How we chose the best neck massagers

In searching for the best neck massagers to help alleviate some of that pain, we considered options from leading brands, including Homedics and Victor Jurgen. We also prioritized the new technologies developed by Hyperice and Theragun. We looked for various form factors in these devices, from massage guns to U-shaped models people hang around their necks. In addition, we considered the types of massage provided by these devices, whether they provided heat, and how customizable and portable they were. We also consulted user reviews when making our picks.

The best neck massagers: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re looking to relieve tech neck, are searching for some targeted relief after a tough workout, or are looking for some respite from a chronic condition, these neck massagers can help relieve muscle tension and help you feel more relaxed.

Best overall: VIKTOR JURGEN Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Shiatsu
• Weight: 3.7 pounds
• Power: Corded electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: High, medium, and low

Pros

• Allows you to customize intensity of massage
• Heated
• Can be used on different parts of the body
• Affordable

Cons

• Controls are small
• Extension cord isn’t long

When your neck is aching after a long day working on a computer, VIKTOR JURGEN’s Neck and Shoulder Massager can rescue you. This massager is designed with eight massage heads and infrared heat for deep tissue Shiatsu massage. Just plug this massager in, pull it around your neck and shoulders, and choose between high, medium, and low-intensity settings for targeted relief. It will knead tired muscles in your neck, back, and shoulders and provides about 113 degrees Fahrenheit of heat to encourage blood flow. The controls on the front of the device also allow you to customize the Shiatsu massage in three modes: Auto-Reversing, Single Direction, and Timed Interval, which goes for 15 minutes before it automatically shuts off.

Best for neck, shoulders, and back: Homedics Shiatsu Neck and Body Massager

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Shiatsu
• Weight: 3.7 pounds
• Power: Corded electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: High, medium, low

Pros

• Works on different types of body
• Can turn heat on or off
• Compact

Cons

• Attached to cord

The Homedics Shiatsu Neck and Body Massager has lots in common with our best overall pick. This massager is similarly designed for users to hang around their neck and control the deep kneading settings with the control panel on the handles. Users choose between three intensities: high, medium, and low. Heat is an option you can turn on and off. This neck massager is particularly attractive because of its easy portability and the option to use it all over the body: shoulders, lower back, calves, and more. Looking for more targeted relief? Check out the best back massagers.

Best intelligent: COMFIER Portable Heated Neck Massager

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Six modes, including Shiatsu
• Weight: .72 pounds
• Power: Battery
• Heat: Ranges from 100.4 to 118.4 degrees F
• Settings: Cupping, tapping, scraping, Shiatsu, acupuncture, and relaxation, plus 15 levels of electric muscle stimulation (EMS)

Pros

• Provides six different types of massager
• Offer 15 levels of EMS
• Features two electrodes for extra coverage
• Portable

Cons

• Some users had a hard time getting it to work

If you’re looking for a greater range of therapy from a neck massager, the COMFIER Portable Heated Neck Massager might be the right option. This battery-powered U-shaped device features six modes of massage: Cupping, tapping, scraping, Shiatsu, acupuncture, and relaxation. This massager also incorporates 15 levels of electric muscle stimulation, which uses electricity to stimulate muscle contractions. You can also incorporate heat into the experience, which ranges from 100.4 to 118.4 degrees F, and change the settings through a remote control. And the battery life is impressive as well. The company says a three-hour charge should last up to 10 days.

Best handheld: TruMedic Massage Gun

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Percussion
• Weight: 3.61 pounds
• Power: Battery
• Heat: No
• Settings: Six levels, plus

Pros

• Versatile
• Powerful
• Portable

Cons

• Should only use low settings on neck

People who need more powerful relief may want to consider a massage gun like this option from TruMedic. This percussion massager features six frequency settings, from 2,000 to 7,000 vibrations per minute. The TruMedic also comes with six interchangeable heads that users can use to customize the intensity of their massage. Powered by a lithium-ion battery, this massage gun has a quiet motor and can last up to four hours on a single charge. And it’s also ultra-portable and can be used all over the body.

Best for athletes: Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Percussion
• Weight: 2.6 pounds
• Power: Battery
• Heat: No
• Settings: Five percussion speeds

Pros

• Modern design
• Powerful
• Comes with five head attachments for customizations

Cons

• Expensive
• No heat

Muscle soreness is common for athletes, so investing in a high-quality massager for your whole body makes sense. The powerful HyperVolt 2 features five different head attachments to customize your experience: fork, ball, cushion, flat, and bullet. This gun also operates at five speeds, but given the sensitivity of the neck area, Hypervolt recommends that you use the slow and easy setting around that area. This massage gun may be overkill if you’re only concerned about your neck. But if your whole body needs relief, this massage gun is up to the task.

Best pillow: Homedics Back and Neck Massager, Portable Shiatsu All Body Massage Pillow

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Shiatsu, vibration
• Weight: 4.18 pounds
• Power: Corded electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: Shiatsu, heat, vibration

Pros

• Comfortable
• Versatile
• Easy to use

Cons

• Doesn’t provide range of vibration or heat levels

When you just want to lie your head down at the end of a long day and relieve your aching neck, consider Homedics’ Body Massage Pillow. This cushion has massage nodes that let you switch between Shiatsu, vibration, and heated settings. The pillow adjusts to the contours of your body and can be used for your back, shoulders, and calves, as well. The heat also has an automatic shut-off after 15 minutes should you be lulled into slumber. If you’re looking for full-body relaxation, check out the best massage chairs.

Best mini: Theragun Mini Gen 4

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Percussion 
• Weight: 1 pound
• Power: Battery
• Heat: No 
• Settings: Three speeds

Pros

• Small
• Powerful
• Ergonomically designed
• Works on range of body parts

Cons

• Expensive
• No heat

The Theragun Mini Gen 4 provides impressive power in an extremely portable package. This pocket-sized, battery-powered percussion massager weighs in at just one pound. Yet it can provide up to 20 pounds of pressure. It’s ergonomically designed to be easy to hold, and you’ll want to use the lowest speed for your neck. But this deceptively small device can provide relief for your whole body.

Best budget: Homedics Neck Massager with Heat

SEE IT

Specs

• Type: Shiatsu and vibration
• Weight: 1.14 pounds
• Power: Corded electric
• Heat: Yes
• Settings: Shiatsu, vibration, heat

Pros

• Affordable
• Provides Shiatsu massage, vibration, and heat
• Lets you combine settings
• Portable

Cons

• Some users say it doesn’t fit ergonomically on the neck

If you’re looking for a neck massager that covers the basics but doesn’t cost a lot, Homedics’ Neck Massager with Heat checks all the boxes. This device lets users switch between Shiatsu massage, vibration, and heat modes or use them together for maximum relief. This foam massager is also comfortable, and the handles let you manually control the intensity of the experience. You can also complement this device with one of the best foot massagers.

What to consider when choosing the best neck massager

There are lots of options on the market for massagers. Before making a purchase, consider these elements to find the best option for you.

Types of massage

Neck massagers feature several types of massage, and some combine different methods. The most common are:

Shiatsu: Originating in Japan, Shiatsu, which translates as “finger pressure,” is a type of massage in which practitioners use their hands and fingers to knead muscles to release tension. Neck massagers that feature Shiatsu massage mimic that kneading motion. 

Vibrating: Vibrating massagers vibrate at a frequency, typically between 20 and 60 hertz, that causes muscles to contract and relax in quick succession, increasing blood flow to the muscles.

Percussion: Percussion massage combines vibrating massage with quick, forceful, and repetitive motions that encourage circulation and oxygen and nutrient flow to the muscles. Massage guns typically are percussion massagers, and they often feature a variety of attachments, such as balls, forks, bullets, and more, that allow users to customize the experience of the massage.

Percussion massagers often operate at a range of speeds, which are typically measured in vibrations per minute. And users can also choose the intensity of the massage. For the neck, it’s always best to use the lowest setting.

Heated: Many massagers also include heated elements. Some allow you to adjust the temperature to your liking, while others operate at a fixed temperature once they heat up. Often, heated massagers are designed with automatic shutoffs for safety. It’s worth noting that massage guns typically don’t provide heat therapy if that’s a feature you’re looking for.

Electric muscle stimulation: With this type of therapy, a massager uses electrodes to send electrical impulses to the muscles, which causes them to contract. 

Other modalities: Some massagers offer settings for cupping, tapping, acupressure, and other types of massage.

Form

Neck massagers come in a variety of forms, from U-shaped devices users hang around their necks to foam pillows to massage guns. Before making a purchase, consider whether you prefer to have the massage be more of a passive or active experience. Would you like just to turn the massager on, adjust the settings, and let it get to work? Or are you (or a partner or friend) interested in more of an active experience using a massage gun to target neck pain? Take into consideration that reaching the neck area with a massage gun may be hard for one person, depending on your mobility.

Versatility

Some neck massagers specifically target the neck, while others also simultaneously provide relief to the shoulders and upper back. Many devices, such as Homedics’ Shiatsu Neck and Body Massager, are designed to target several body parts at once. Others work specifically on the neck. Massage guns are typically more expensive than other neck massagers, and buying one makes more sense if you also plan to use it on different locations on the body.

Portability

Many neck massagers are corded electric, so you’ll need access to an outlet or another power source to use them. Other options are designed with rechargeable batteries and are lightweight, making it much easier to take them with you in the car or when you travel.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best neck massagers

• Best overall: VIKTOR JURGEN Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
• Best for neck, shoulders, and back: Homedics Shiatsu Neck and Body Massager
• Best intelligent: COMFIER Portable Heated Neck Massager
• Best handheld: TruMedic Massage Gun
• Best for athletes: Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Pro
• Best pillow: Homedics Back and Neck Massager, Portable Shiatsu All Body Massage Pillow
• Best mini: Theragun Mini Gen 4
• Best budget: Homedics Neck Massager with Heat

Fortunately, relieving the neck pain you get from sitting hunched at your desk or looking down at your phone all day can often be remedied with some electronic massage and heat. The best neck massagers are a relatively affordable way to release that tension without medication and promote overall relaxation and well-being.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best neck massagers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle		SEE IT	Sip two ways with this stylish, colorful bottle.
Best tumbler		Pelican Hydration Pelican Porter		SEE IT	Water stays cold all day in this trendy cup.
Best budget		Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle		SEE IT	A cheap classic that gets the job done.

A water bottle is a gym must-have. Cacti can survive on small amounts of water, sure, but you’re no succulent; you are a meaty flesh bag whose body is 60% H2O. If flowers wilt when they’re not watered, you surely will, too. Staying hydrated is incredibly important for all levels of activity, from a leisurely stroll on the treadmill to an intense leg day. Plus, you don’t need to hit up the water fountain for small, unsatisfactory sips (and potentially communal germs) when you have an entire receptacle filled with water from your house. Depending on your gym, the water fountain might have a low flow rate and a thin layer of lime build-up on the spout—both unideal and a little grody. Your best bet is to BYOGWB (Bring Your Own Gym Water Bottle) and hope the gym has a WFwaBF (Water Fountain with a Bottle Filler). The best water bottles for the gym crush thirst, just like how you crush your PRs, you *strong* meaty flesh bag.

• Best overall: Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
• Best for running: Nathan Quick Squeeze Insulated Water Bottle
• Best tumbler: Pelican Hydration Pelican Porter
• Best insulated: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle with Flex Straw Lid
• Best gallon water bottle: Yeti Gallon Jug
• Best self-cleaning: LARQ Movement PureVis
• Best budget: Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle

How we chose the best water bottles for the gym

It is a joke in my household that Wednesdays are off-limits for social activities, as it’s Barre Wednesday: the one day I week that I travel to my Pure Barre location of choice and take an evening Classic class with my favorite instructor, Amanda. Instructor Amanda kicks my ass in a way that keeps Writer Amanda from biting her handlers in a fit of rage. (They would need a rabies shot series if she gets chomp in.)

I’ve Burpee’d my way through the occasional HIIT class, mastered the Stairmaster, and even tried Bikram yoga. And although the hot yoga was a one-time deal, an insulated water bottle was a constant companion in my journey to sweaty, definitely not-culty enlightenment.

I made a few criteria based on my own gym/workout class experience. Each bottle is at least 32 ounces because 16-24 ounces is simply insufficient water for a 45-minute cardio or strength workout. Each bottle needed to have a handle or carry loop for convenience. A built-in straw and a wide mouth were minor considerations since both are nice to have but not necessities. Many bottles made the brave journey to barre class for on-the-ground testing, but only a few made the final cut.

The best water bottles for the gym: Reviews & Recommendations

If you’re headed to the gym for your hot girl walk, or you lost your last trusty gym water bottle and need to bring in a new recruit, one of our con-sip-erations should make you feel like you’ve found gold at the bottom of the well.

Best overall: Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe: Hand-wash cup; dishwasher safe-lif
• BPA-free: Yes
• Temperature retention: 24 hours cold

Pros

• Lightweight when filled
• Spout doesn’t touch sweaty hands
• Really fun to use

Cons

• Not dishwasher safe

Like most products, I first heard of the Owala FreeSip water bottle on TikTok. Account after account raved about the bottle’s FreeSip spout, which lets you sip upright through a built-in straw or tilt it back for a classic swig. After testing it myself, I concluded it’s worth the hype.

The temperature retention is fabulous. Water stays cold all day, and ice cubes aren’t melted away after a few hours. The wide mouth easily accommodates a handful of ice cubes and makes cleaning seem like less of a chore. A push-to-open lid protects the spout from your own germy, sweaty hands, and the carrying loop doubles as a lock, so you don’t have accidental spills if you throw it into your gym bag like I do.

The FreeSip cap is the crown jewel of this canteen. The outer rim doesn’t hit your nose when swigging, and the cap doesn’t get in your face if you decide to take a long chug. I was also expecting a face full of water from the spout design, but the sip portion does not seem to affect the spout. The sip portion is seamless to drink out of—there’s no weird tugging like other sports bottles with straws. Using the bottle is just plain fun. The “click” of the lid opening and the design of the FreeSip spout tickle my brain in a way that makes me drink more water.

Although it’s not completely dishwasher safe—it’s recommended you hand-wash the bottle portion to maintain the finish—its inherent fun and ease of use easily outshines this minor downside.

Best for running: Nathan Quick Squeeze Insulated Water Bottle

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: Double-wall insulated plastic
• Dishwasher safe: No
• BPA-free: Yes
• Temperature retention: Unknown

Pros

• Ergonomic grip
• Extra storage
• No slip grip

Cons

• Not dishwasher safe

If you prefer running on the indoor track instead of on a treadmill, a handheld running water bottle helps keep hydration at arm’s length—literally. This one from Nathan is made to fit ergonomically in your hand, and it’s easy to squeeze to get that sweet, sweet water out of the nozzle and into your thirsty gullet. Double-wall insulation keeps your water/electrolyte drink cool, and a zippered front pocket holds your smartphone, cards, keys, and a good-luck trinket. It’s not dishwasher-safe, which is a bummer considering all of the nooks and crannies in the lid.

Best tumbler: Pelican Hydration Pelican Porter

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: 18/8 Stainless steel; copper lining
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA-free: Yes
• Temperature retention: 16 hours cold

Pros

• Great temperature retention
• Fits in car cup holders
• Easy-to-hold handle

Cons

• Not spill proof

Testing the Pelican Porter made me understand the Stanley Quencher hype. Although the Quencher is a great tumbler, the Pelican Porter edges it out. It will keep drinks cold for 16 hours, compared to the Quencher’s 11-hour chill rate. This longevity is thanks to a copper lining that works with double-wall vacuum insulation to prevent thermal loss. It’s not completely spill-proof—one accidental kick from a passerby will lead to a certain disaster—but a splash-resistant lid prevents any waterworks on the drive to the gym. You can sip from the strong Tritan plastic drinking straw or rotate the lid for some chug action, although I prefer the straw. Something primal and childlike awoke deep in me as soon as I grabbed the Pelican Porter’s handle. I hope it also makes you feel like a big hydrated adult baby.

Best insulated: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: 18/8 stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA-free: Yes
• Temperature retention: 24 hours cold

Pros

• Lightweight when filled up
• Moveable handle
• Lid comes apart for easy cleaning

Cons

• Dents easily

It’s a close race between the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle with Flex Straw Lid and the Yeti Rambler with Straw Lid for the title of best insulated water bottle for the gym. The Hydro Flask ranks superior thanks to its lid, which comes apart completely—no more moldy, nasty caps—and is dishwasher-safe. It’s also lightweight when filled up, and the moveable handle on the lid makes it better to carry from leg press to rowing machine to exercise bike, etc. It has a wide mouth to make it easy to clean and fill with ice, and the cap is leakproof when closed. A plastic ledge-like protrusion helps you flip the straw up without having to touch the mouthpiece, earning brownie points in the sanitary category. It is the water bottle I personally reach most for when I’m doing barre, since I can flip the straw up and carry it around while going from barre to floor to mat.

Best gallon water bottle: Yeti Gallon Jug

SEE IT

Specs

• Material: 18/8 stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• BPA free: Yes
• Temperature retention: 24+ hours cold

Pros

• Study handle
• Clever lid to store spout cap
• Double-wall vacuum insulation

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy when filled

If you’re a person who drinks a gallon of water a day, the Yeti Gallon Jug is one of the nicest gallon water bottles you can find. It will keep your water cold all day, even if the bottle has sat in your hot car. It’s made of durable stainless steel and features vacuum insulation so that it will keep liquids hot or cold for several hours. It also keeps your bottle from sweating, so gym floors are safe from condensation.

The Gallon Jug’s lid features a sturdy metal handle with soft grip padding. The lid also contains a neat magnetic design, so users can store the cap when the spout is open. You can also screw the entire lid off for easy cleaning and refills, although some reviews note it’s hard to remove because of the lid’s large diameter.

Like all Yeti’s other stainless steel bottles, the Gallon Jug is BPA-free and dishwasher safe. It weighs 4.5 pounds before putting water in it, or over 12 pounds full. This is not the weight you intend to lift while at the gym. Still, it is far and away the nicest water bottle of this size.

Best self-cleaning: LARQ Movement PureVis

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Specs

• Material: Stainless steel
• Dishwasher safe: Bottle is dishwasher safe; cap it not
• BPA free: Yes
• Temperature retention: N/A

Pros

• Lightweight
• Self-cleaning
• Lightweight compared to other water bottles

Cons

• Non-insulated
• No wide mouth
• Expensive

I tested and reviewed the insulated LARQ PureVis bottle and was impressed at its ability to keep water cold and make a noticeable difference in how it tasted after hitting it with the PureVis UV-C light. If the LARQ insulated PureVis bottle is the nerdy, well-read smartypants of the family, then the uninsulated PureVis Movement bottle is the sporty one who will get a scholarship playing D1 field hockey and eventually join the U.S. Olympic team. It’s called the Movement bottle since it’s uninsulated, making it even lighter than the insulated version. Both bottles use the same technology in the cap. Simply press a button to activate the PureVis tech, which eliminates 99% of bio-contaminants like E.coli. If you’re bad at remembering to drink water, the LARQ, unfortunately, doesn’t have a built-in water tracker or sip reminder. However, it automatically cleans itself every two hours, and one charge powers the bottle for a month, giving you at least two fewer things to think about.

Best budget: Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle

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Specs

• Material: Tritan plastic
• Dishwasher safe: Top rack safe
• BPA-free: Yes
• Temperature retention: N/A

Pros

• Completely leakproof
• No frills
• Incredibly lightweight

Cons

• Non-insulated
• Wide mouth leads to a faceful of water

The Nalgene water bottle is a classic for a reason. Nalgene bottles have carried me from field hockey games to marching band practice when I was in high school, and they still have a place in my cupboard despite the objectively fancier options I have. They’re impact-resistant, leakproof, and are top-rack safe. Plus, Tritan plastic is BPA/BPS free if you’re cutting back on microplastics.

If you choose a wide-mouth Nalgene, I highly recommend getting an Easy Sipper. It’s a circular disk with a small hole that sits right inside the bottle to prevent getting a faceful of water when taking a sip. Although buying an accessory when you could buy a narrow-mouth bottle from the jump seems silly, wide-mouth bottles are easier to fill at bottle-filling stations. Being able to add ice is also a major perk. I’ve even filled mine and frozen them overnight so I’d have icy water after school. If you do that, just make sure to leave some room at the top since ice expands.

What to consider when buying the best water bottles for the gym

You may not need to drink 8 cups of water a day, but staying hydrated is a must while working out. Here is what you should keep in mind before adding to your water bottle collection:

Durability

Water bottles get dropped by sweaty hands, kicked by walkers deep in their favorite podcast and not paying attention, or fall over due to the mysterious forces of gravity.

Stainless steel can get dented and scratched, but it’s pretty resilient. Stainless steel can also handle sudden temperature changes. However, you should not freeze them since low freezer temperatures can damage the surface of the water bottle.

Tritan plastic water bottles are generally more scratch-resistant and won’t ding, but are by no means indestructible. Both materials are generally resistant to the wear and tear of everyday life.

Material

Speaking of material, you’ll want bottles made of stainless steel or Tritan plastic. You’ll want to skip glass entirely since broken shards and people lifting in their socks don’t mix.

Stainless steel water bottles are popular because they’re light and durable. They’re usually made from 18/8 stainless steel, which refers to its 18% chromium and 8% nickel elemental composition. Many stainless steel bottles are vacuum-insulated to create a sealed buffer between the liquid in the container and the environment outside the bottle, which reduces conduction and keeps liquids cold for several hours. If you’re looking for even more thermal retention, consider a bottle with copper lining.

Reusable plastic water bottles give you a balance of durability and affordability. High-quality plastic bottles can be more resistant to superficial wear and tear and generally lack insulation.

When buying plastic, make sure to get a plastic water bottle that’s made from BPA-free Tritan plastic, which is light and ultra-durable. Some studies suggest that containers made from plastics with bisphenol A, or BPA, can seep into what’s stored in the container and cause adverse health effects.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best water bottles for the gym

• Best overall: Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
• Best for running: Nathan Quick Squeeze Insulated Water Bottle
• Best tumbler: Pelican Hydration Pelican Porter
• Best insulated: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle
• Best gallon water bottle: Yeti Gallon Jug
• Best self-cleaning: LARQ Movement PureVis
• Best budget: Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle

You can bring any water bottle into the gym, but why not bring one that inspires you and #sparksjoy? Find one in your favorite color with handy features like a carry loop, vacuum insulation, and a touch-free cap for more sanitary sipping. The most important thing is making sure to stay hydrated while pumping iron, putting in rounds with the heavy bag, etc. You should sip some water from your new bottle and get some reps in.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best water bottles for the gym in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

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You’ve probably heard a lot about Ozempic and Wegovy, the semaglutide wonder drugs for weight loss. Their newfound popularity with prescribers and online pharmacies has sparked a global shortage. Other diabetes medications are now also being repurposed for weight loss: On Wednesday, the FDA approved Zepbound, another version of Mounjaro, for chronic weight management.

While Ozempic and Wegovy have different ingredients than Mounjaro and Zepbound, they work in a similar way. Semaglutide mimics a hormone called GLP-1 that’s usually released when the body detects carbohydrates, proteins, and other lipids after a meal. This sends a message to the brain that you’ve eaten, changing hunger signaling activity. When the body thinks it’s full, GLP-1 activates other systems to slow down muscle contractions that would usually move food out of the stomach.

A weekly injection might seem like an easy option to shed pounds, but doctors warn these medications are not a perfect weight-loss solution. Semaglutide carries a number of side effects that range from uncomfortable to life-threatening, which can be even worse with off-label use of Wegovy or Ozempic.

What are the common side effects of semaglutide?

Since semaglutide has a direct effect on the GI tract, a majority of the side effects are gastrointestinal-related. Mir Ali, a bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center in California, says about 50 percent of people taking Wegovy or Ozempic experience nausea. Other common side effects include constipation, diarrhea, or cramping. People who overeat while on the regimen might experience more severe nausea and even vomiting. Additionally, while not as common as the other GI side effects, Ali mentions there is a chance of dizziness while taking Ozempic. This may stem from the blood sugar-lowering effects of the drug. 

What are the more dangerous side effects?

Since large numbers of people started using semaglutide for off-label weight loss, doctors have been documenting more troubling reactions. New research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association links Ozempic to gastroparesis, a chronic condition that severely weakens the muscles in the stomach wall, making it harder to push food over to the small intestine. The inability to empty stomach contents can delay the digestive process and induce regular episodes of nausea and diarrhea. While there are surgical and non-surgical ways to manage gastroparesis, there’s currently no cure for it. 

Considering that there have only been a few documented cases of gastroparesis with Ozempic use, Ali says the chances of this happening are relatively rare and “not something you typically see in patients.” But as demand for the drug continues to soar, more cases may come to light. Along with stomach paralysis, other limited but severe side effects of Ozempic involve pancreatitis, kidney issues, and gallbladder issues.

Can semaglutide cause suicidal thoughts?

A growing number of people worldwide have also reported suicidal thoughts while taking Ozempic. After receiving 150 reports of suicidal ideation and self-injury, the European Medicines Agency is reviewing the safety data on the diabetes drug. The United Kingdom is also reviewing all drugs classified as GLP-1 agonists, including Ozempic, after an uptick in incidences of self-harming thoughts. In the US, individuals have spoken out about experiencing suicidal ideation while taking Ozempic, despite having no history of self-harm. 

Some of the mental health concerns have precedent. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires any chronic weight management medication that works on the central nervous system to carry a warning about suicidal behavior and ideation. Wegovy has a warning for suicidal ideation but Ozempic—intended only to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes—does not. It’s not clear what the link is between these drugs and suicidal thoughts, but it’s assumed the neuropsychiatric side effects emerge when semaglutide interacts with the brain to control appetite. 

“The question becomes, should the same medication under a different name carry the same caution regarding suicidal ideation?” says Joseph Barrera, an endocrinologist and associate medical director of Providence Mission Hospital in California. He adds that the likelihood of developing self-harming thoughts while taking Ozempic seems to occur more in people with a history of depression or other psychological issues—a possible safety concern as some psychiatrists are now prescribing Ozempic for depression. 

Overall, cases of suicidal ideations are largely anecdotal and relatively rare. As of September 2023, of the 23,845 reports of adverse reactions with semaglutide in the US, there have been 144 cases of suicidal ideation and 2 deaths by suicide. As Barrera points out, it’s still unclear how many of these cases involved Ozempic versus Wegovy.

What to consider if taking Ozempic or Wegovy for weight loss

Barrera has one piece of advice for people considering using Ozempic or Wegovy off-label: Don’t. The risks of taking the drug, including suicidal ideation, are too high. What’s more, Barrera warns some individuals have been paying providers and clinics for “compounded semaglutide,” which involves mixing multiple medications together. According to the FDA, people making compounded semaglutide are using a salt form, such as semaglutide sodium or semaglutide acetate, that doesn’t contain the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Wegovy. 

The post The unintended side effects of popular weight loss drugs appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best sneakers		Nike Air Pegasus Shield 37 Running Shoes		SEE IT	These sneakers are designed specifically for cold weather, with water-repellent features and grooves to keep you from slipping.
Best smartwatch		Garmin Forerunner 965		SEE IT	Designed for serious athletes, the Garmin Forerunner 965 tracks advanced performance metrics and provides up to 23 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.
Best hydration vest		Salomon Adv Skin 12		SEE IT	This well-fitting vest features two soft flasks, and extra bladder for water, and plenty of pockets for snacks and other essentials.

Running seems simple enough: Put one foot in front of the other in a semi-speedy fashion. It’s free, it’s safe, and dare we say, it’s fun. The equipment, too, seems appealingly uncomplicated. All you need are clothes and running shoes, right? While that’s technically true, some specialized running gear can make jogging a whole lot more pleasant. Plus, when you feel good, you run good. It’s simple science. Here’s our list of some of the best gifts for runners:

• Best smartwatch: Garmin Forerunner 965
• Best heart rate monitor: Garmin HRM-Pro
• Best headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro
• Best treadmill: NordicTrack T Series
• Best massage gun: Turonic GM5 Massage Gun
• Best cold-weather sneakers: Nike Air Pegasus Shield 37 Running Shoes
• Best outerwear: Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody
• Best underlayer: Ibex Men’s Woolies Tech Long-Sleeve 1/4 Zip
• Best safety gear: Brooks Run Visible Collection
• Best running vest: Nike Aeroloft Women’s Running Vest
• Best running tights: Reebok Women’s Puremove Leggings
• Best gloves: Arc’teryx Venta Gloves
• Best socks: Smartwool Run Cold Weather Targeted Cushion Crew Sock 
• Best face covering: Nike Therma Sphere Hood 3.0
• Best hat: TrailHeads Fleece Ponytail Hat 
• Best compression sleeves: Hyperice Normatec Go
• Best hydration vest: Salomon Adv Skin 12
• Best T-shirt for trail running: Arc’teryx Cormac Crew SS Shirt
• Best running shorts for women: Kari Traa Nora 2.0
• Best running skort: Outdoor Voices The Exercise 3″ Skort
• Best sunglasses: Tifosi Sunglasses

Best all-weather running gear

Best smartwatch: Garmin Forerunner 965

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While you don’t need a watch for running, it certainly helps if you are aiming to track your progress and work toward goals. Garmin’s smartwatches are some of the best around for all types of physical activity, but that’s especially true for running. Its Forerunner lineup is the company’s dedicated running line, with the Forerunner 965 sitting at the top. 

The Forerunner 965 features a vibrant AMOLED touchscreen display with up to 31 hours of battery life in GPS mode and up to 23 days in smartwatch mode. As with any Garmin watch, it offers advanced training metrics and tools, including VO2 max, performance condition, training effect, wrist-based running power, load ratio, and more. You can plan your race strategies and receive daily suggested workouts right on your wrist. It also offers built-in mapping, music storage, Garmin Pay, and safety features. It’s a watch built for serious athletes and adventurers, so if you know a newer or more casual runner, the 265 would be a cheaper, smaller, more approachable option.

Best heart rate monitor: Garmin HRM-Pro

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Most running watches provide wrist-based heart rate measurements, but the accuracy of those tools still doesn’t match what you can get with a chest-based monitor. The Garmin HRM-Pro is a premium heart rate monitor with dual ANT and Bluetooth Low Energy technology. It easily pairs with Garmin devices, online training apps like Zwift, or compatible gym equipment. Beyond heart rate, this monitor also gathers running dynamics, including vertical oscillation, ground contact time, stride length, vertical ratio, and more. It can even store data when your watch is out of range, such as during a swim. And it’s comfortable to wear; I barely notice it, even on long runs or bike rides.

Best headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro

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Most people prefer to run with music or podcasts, but traditional in-ear headphones can pose some safety concerns. Bone conduction headphones are a fantastic option for runners because they allow you to hear your music while still staying alert to the world around you. The Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones offer a secure, lightweight fit that is comfortable even for long runs. They produce clear, high-quality sound with plenty of volume, even when running near traffic. It also features a mic so that you can call your runner when they are out. And the 10 hours of battery life will keep them from needing to charge their headphones constantly.

Best treadmill: NordicTrack T Series

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Whether it’s a blizzard or extreme heat, there are times when it’s not safe to run outside. That’s why it can be helpful to invest in a treadmill. We recommend NordicTrack’s T series. There’s a reason why NordicTrack treadmills are considered some of the best treadmills on the market: they’re reliable, durable, long-lasting, and come with several luxe features to mirror gym-quality workouts. 

This model comes with incline controls up to 15 percent, a 10-inch interactive HD coaching touchscreen, and 30 days free iFit membership, which comes with several on-demand and live workouts with automatic trainer control. also easily folds up and can be stored away for more space-saving. While it’s more expensive than other models, we believe it’s the best if you’re serious about running, want to invest in a higher-end product for the long haul, and are looking for a piece of equipment that mimics what you’d find in a high-end gym.

Best massage gun: Turonic GM5 Massage Gun

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Recovery is key for runners. A massage gun can help relieve those tired leg muscles to promote recovery after runs, preventing injuries and keeping your runner active even during busy training schedules. The Turonic GM5 is a relatively affordable massage gun that still packs a punch. It comes with a range of attachments for different parts of the body and a handy case to keep it all organized even during travel. It offers variable intensity between 1200 and 3200 rpm, so they can fine-tune how intense their massage is. And it’s quiet, so they can even massage their muscles while you watch a movie.

Best cold-weather running gear

Best cold-weather sneakers: Nike Air Pegasus Shield 37 Running Shoes

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Let’s get started with the basics: sneakers. There’s nothing worse than missing a carefully calculated step and landing right into a puddle on a cold and rainy day. To avoid this mishap, Nike took one of its most popular running shoes, the Pegasus, and winterized it with a water-repellent upper material and an outsole with wet weather traction to keep you from slipping on the slick pavement. The outsole’s micro grooves feature multidirectional shapes that displace the water when the shoe makes contact with the pavement, so your feet can leave and arrive home dry and warm.

Best outerwear: Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody

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Layers are essential when it comes to cold-weather running. Arc’teryx’s sleek Squamish hoodie provides plenty of assistance, keeping you warm without slowing you down. The lightweight shell is windproof yet protects you against rain and snow. It’s also made from nylon that is moisture-wicking and allows sweat to escape, helping to keep your body temperature steady during frigid runs. Plus, this minimalist option is a cinch to roll up into a backpack or carry-on. It’s available in men’s and women’s styles.

Best underlayer: Ibex Men’s Woolies Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt

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Speaking of layering, a merino wool base is the way to go for those frigid days. This long-sleeve base layer has a nylon lining that will help keep you warm and dry all day. The company’s Pro Tech fabric is comfy and lightweight, but still wicks moisture away and keeps odor under control. They’re available in four matte colors (Deepest Red, Deep Ocean, Black, and Ginger Bisquite), you can pair the zippered top with the Woolies Tech Bottoms for full-body coverage.

Best safety gear: Brooks’ Run Visible Collection

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Some of the best gifts for runners aren’t only about keeping warm—they’re about keeping people safe. When North America is experiencing the shortest days of the year—with the sun rising around 7 a.m. and setting by 5 p.m.— that means if they’re trying to squeeze in a run before or after work, they’re probably going to be doing at least some of those miles in the dark. Brooks Running’s Run Visible collection features clothing—from hats to windbreakers and leggings—that all come equipped with 3M Scotchlite Carbon Black Stretch Reflective material with neon colors. The material and coloring (which covers the most visible part of the light spectrum in low-light conditions) are strategically placed in so-called motion zones. That includes the joints that move the most while you’re jogging, like elbows, wrists, and ankles, so they can run safely no matter when they’re able to get that jog in.

Best running vest: Nike Aeroloft Women’s Running Vest

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In addition to keeping hands and feet from freezing, maintaining a warm core will keep the rest of your body toasty without adding too much bulk that could make you overheat mid-run. When looking for the best gifts for runners (or yourself), Nike’s Aeroloft running vest provides necessary warmth where you need it most. It also has pockets to store your keys, cell phone, or anything else you might need mid-run.

Best running tights: Reebok Women’s Puremove Leggings

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Many runners have a love-and-hate relationship with running tights. You need a pair that fits in just the right places for them to work well and feel comfortable. To make that happen, Reebok used its Motion Sense Technology (that the company originally designed for sports bras) to fill its tights with a material that stays liquid-like when in stasis and becomes more solid upon impact. This gives you a full range of movement on a run, while adding support precisely

Best gloves: Arc’teryx Venta Gloves

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Running in the cold sometimes feels like a tease. When you first step outside, the frigid temperatures can be startling, making you want to bundle up with extra pant and shirt layers. But as you ease into the miles, you can quickly overheat with all those clothes. Instead, wear lighter layers (unless the conditions are truly frigid) and focus on making sure your core and extremities are well-protected. Arc’teryx’s Venta glove uses Gore-tex’s Infinium material, which protects from water and wind and is extremely thin and light. Plus the mitten design allows your body heat to keep all your fingers tight and warm.

Best socks: Smartwool Run Cold Weather Crew Socks

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In addition to keeping their hands warm, snuggly and comfy feet also make for a happy run. Smartwool’s Run Cold Weather Socks are made of sweat-wicking wool that also provides comfort and durability. The mid-crew length hits that perfect sweet spot of not too short to let wind in but not too long to cause overheating. Lastly, the socks have the company’s Light Elite cushioning that provides targeted support in the ball and heel of the foot. Otherwise, too much layering between your feet and shoes can restrict blood flow.

Best hat: TrailHeads Fleece Ponytail Hat

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When cold weather hits, a good hat is essential. But for those with longer hair, stuffing your long locks into a hat can be annoying at a minimum and cause a headache at the worst. Trailheads’ ponytail hat features an opening in the back to fit your hair through so it doesn’t get trapped, tangled, or bungled in your hat as you run. The piece is also made of quick-drying polyester fleece and flaps so your head and ears can stay warm for the duration of your run.

Best face covering: Nike Therma Sphere Hood 3.0

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When the wind is howling and moisture from your eyes is starting to freeze on your face, it’s time to call in the reinforcements. Nike’s Therma Sphere Hood is a balaclava-style head covering that’s made with Therma-Sphere fabric that helps wick moisture away. It’s designed to be comfortable and customizable, with a foldover design you can adjust to cover more or less of your face and neck as the day warms up.

Best compression sleeves: Hyperice Normatec Go

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Colder weather can cause arteries to tighten and restrict blood flow. Runners can recover better from workouts with Hyperice’s Normatec Go. These wearables are designed to be strapped to the runner’s calves and provide a symmetrical massage to increase circulation and reduce pain in the lower body. The Bluetooth-enabled controls and associated app allow the runner to choose between seven levels of compression for a better recovery and the battery lasts up to three hours.

Best warm-weather running gear

Best hydration vest: Salomon Adv Skin 12

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For those who enjoy long runs or running in all sorts of weather, a hydration vest is a critical tool. The Salomon Adv Skin 12 comes with two soft flasks that fit snuggly on the chest straps, providing quick and easy access to hydration without stopping. It can also hold a hydration bladder for hot days that call for extra water. Additionally, the pack offers plenty of pockets to hold a jacket, snacks for fueling your run, and attachment points for stashing poles. It fits snugly and comfortably without jiggling around on runs, and the pockets are easily accessible so as not to slow you down. It will keep the runner in your life prepared when hitting the trails.

Best T-shirt for trail running: Arc’teryx Cormac Crew SS Shirt

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When the warm weather comes and a runner is out everyday in the sun, it’s great to have a trusted T-shirt to rely upon. Arc’teryx’s Cormac Crew SS Shirt is designed for trail running and hiking. Made with recycled fabric, this T-shirt is designed to wick moisture away and is odor-resistant. Should the gift recipient get caught in a shower, this shirt also repels water. When the sun is out, this T-shirt provides 50+ UPF protection. And it’s available in five colors.

Best running shorts for women: Kari Traa Nora 2.0

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Good running shorts can be hard to find, but the Nora 2.0 shorts from Kari Traa are a fantastic choice and have been my favorite pair since discovering them. They feature a loose fit with no liner to keep airflow going. The material is very lightweight and effectively wicks away sweat. They feel dry even when running in the Florida heat and humidity, which is very impressive. The elastic waistband offers a drawstring, and there’s a small zippered pocket at the back to store keys or a gel. They are definitely the most comfortable running shorts I’ve used in a long time.

Best running skort: Outdoor Voices The Exercise 3″ Skort

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Running skorts are a great alternative to shorts in part because they feature built-in compression shorts to help prevent chafing. The skirt design also means that you won’t be constantly adjusting the legs of your shorts while running. Outdoor Voices’ The Exercise is one of the best skorts for running that I’ve tried for many reasons. The compression shorts are made with sticky grippers at the bottom hem to keep them in place, and they are long enough to prevent chafing successfully. The liner also offers pockets to hold a phone, and there’s a zippered side pocket on the skirt for keys or snacks. The material of the skirt is very flexible and sweat-wicking to keep you moving freely and dry on runs.

Best sunglasses: Tifosi Sunglasses

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If you haven’t heard, Tifosi Sunglasses makes some of the most brilliantly colored UVA-/UVB-protected sunglasses on the market. With frames that come in enough colorways to match nearly any aesthetic, the Swank and Swick lines (and more), offer bright polarized lenses that will keep your eyes safe even on the snow or sand. These sunglasses are one of the best gifts for runners, as well as people who like extreme sports, desert hikers, and skiers alike.

The post The best gifts for runners who put in the miles all year round appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Beats Fit Pro		SEE IT	These earbuds use wingtips that fit to your ear to stay secure.
Best over-ear		TRELAB Z2		SEE IT	This more traditional design has a tough IPX4 waterproof rating that’s tough against rain and sweat.
Best budget		Otium U18 Earbuds		SEE IT	Battery life, secure fit, and an IPX7 waterproof rating make these budget headphones a solid choice for hitting the treadmill.

Choosing the right pair of running headphones is essential for getting through your workout comfortably and safely. Listening to your favorite music and podcasts while running, jogging, and participating in other endurance exercises is a great way to bear up and push yourself that extra mile. Unlike traditional headphones and earbuds that come in all shapes and sizes, often more concerned with aesthetics than activity, the best running headphones are super lightweight and snug-fitting. They typically feature waterproof designs with long battery life. We’ve selected some of the best running headphones on the market to help you make an informed decision no matter where your workout takes you.

• Best overall: Apple Beats Fit Pro
• Best bone-conduction: SHOKZ OpenRun Pro
• Most comfortable: Ultimate Ears FITS
• Best over-ear: Treblab Z2
• Best for city runs: Sony LinkBuds
• Best battery life: JBL Endurance Peak 3
• Best budget: Otium U18 Earbuds

How we chose the best running headphones

The best running headphones are wireless, and Bluetooth requires power. Running out of battery life during a workout is inconvenient at best, so we built our list with options that feature battery capacities between 10 hours and 50 hours to ensure they’ll endure through at least two average workout days before recharging. Running headphones should fit comfortably and allow the user to exercise unencumbered, so our picks are relatively lightweight and feature secure, customizable fit options. Most of the headphones on our list are earbuds, but we added an over-ear and a bone conduction option to cover every possible use scenario and style preference.

Breaking a sweat is a normal part of running, so we selected headphones with Ingress Protection ratings ranging from a splashproof IPX3 to a completely dustproof and waterproof IP68. Most of the headphones on our list offer environmental transparency/situational awareness tech, from the ambient mic modes of the JBL Endurance Peak 3 and Apple Beats Fit Pro to the actually open designs of the Sony LinkBuds and SHOKZ OpenRun Pro.

The best running headphones: Reviews & Recommendations

Running can boost the production of your brain’s endorphins and help you de-stress. With this in mind, finding the best running headphones shouldn’t be a stressful endeavor. One of our picks should help get you on a runner’s high.

Best overall: Apple Beats Fit Pro

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Why it made the cut: The Apple Beats Fit Pro earbuds combine user-friendly design and great sound in a snug-fitting form factor.

Specs

• Weight: 0.2 ounces/earbud; 2.3 ounces with case
• IP rating: IPX4 (splash-resistant)
• Battery life: 7 hours single-charge; 30 hours with case

Pros

• Features Apple H1 chip for quick pairing and spatial tracking
• Compact form factor and tight fit perfect for running
• Great sound quality with ANC and transparency modes

Cons

• Requires iOS device to use all features
• Case incompatible with wireless charging
• No multipoint pairing

We recently featured the Apple Beats Fit Pro in our roundup of the best headphones for working out, and they’re also our top pick for running. They feature a relatively neutral and well-rounded sound profile with crisp highs that make them great for a wide range of listening duties, and their inclusion of active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes make them equally useful on the road and at the gym. The Beats Fit Pro are super lightweight and compact in and out of its charging case, making them easy to keep in your pocket and comfortable to wear while active. They’re also some of the most secure earbuds we’ve tested thanks to their unique flexible wingtip design that sits firmly against the outside of your ear, aided further by three sets of interchangeable silicone ear tips.

As we mention in our full review, the Beats Fit Pro offer a user experience very similar to that of the Apple AirPods Pro thanks to their built-in H1 chip, which allows for quick and effortless pairing to your iOS device, as well as access to Apple’s immersive head tracking and spatial audio technologies. These buds do work with Android devices—you connect to them as you would any other Bluetooth earbuds—but non-iOS users will, unfortunately, miss out on those H1-provided benefits. We also wish the Beats Fit Pro featured better waterproofing than the same IPX4 rating shared by Apple’s regular line of AirPods. They also lack wireless charging and multipoint pairing, which are features that would ease switching gears before and after a run. Still, we can’t shake how we can’t shake ’em loose.

Best bone-conduction: SHOKZ OpenRun Pro

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Why it made the cut: The OpenRun Pro’s open-ear bone-conduction design allows you to work out and listen to your favorite music while maintaining full situational awareness.

Specs

• Weight: 0.95 ounces
• IP rating: IP55 (dust- and water-resistant at low pressures)
• Battery life: 10 hours single-charge

Pros

• Open-ear design for maximum situational awareness
• Highly resistant to dust and water
• Headband design stays put during the ups and downs of running

Cons

• Sound quality is limited due to design
• Audible to others
• Proprietary charging cable is inconvenient to replace

If you frequently work out in parks or along roads where you share space with bikes and cars, a pair of bone-conduction headphones like the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro will be the safest and most convenient choice for your runs. Like all of the best bone-conduction headphones, the OpenRun Pro uses vibration to send audio through your cheek and directly to your earbones, bypassing your ear canal entirely and leaving it open so you can stay aware of approaching traffic while listening to your favorite music. The OpenRun Pro weighs just under one ounce and features a snug-fitting headband design that sits comfortably around your ears and stays put through even the most strenuous sprints, and its high dust- and water-resistant design make it a great choice for exercising on any terrain in any weather.

While the design of the OpenRun Pro is perfect for maintaining situational awareness while running, it lacks bass response. That’s not entirely necessary if you’re running to podcasts or ambient/classical music, but it leaves something to be desired in dance, rock, and other bass-heavy music. Others will also be able to hear what you’re hearing, so they’re not a great choice for use on public transit or in quiet places. Plan on taking the OpenRun Pro out for multiple workouts between charges? The headphones’ 10-hour battery should be more than flexible enough, but remember that they use a proprietary magnetic charger rather than something universal like USB-C.

Most comfortable: Ultimate Ears FITS

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Why it made the cut: These ultralight running headphones from Ultimate Ears are custom-fit to your ears to deliver one of the most comfortable workout listening experiences available.

Specs 

• Weight: 0.26 ounces/earbud; 2.04 ounces with case
• IP rating: IPX3 (splash-resistant at up to 60-degree angle)
• Battery life: 8 hours single-charge; 20 hours with case

Pros

• Moldable eartips are custom-fit to your ears
• Neutral midrange frequency response with custom EQ available in-app
• Sweat-resistant design

Cons

• Design protrudes far from ear
• Sub-bass response is lacking initially
• No active noise cancellation

The Ultimate Ears FITS—or UE FITS if you’re nasty—are an incredibly comfortable and lightweight pair of custom-fit running headphones with a design and setup process that seem straight out of a sci-fi movie. After removing the FITS from their package for the first time, users simply place the earbuds in their ears and initiate the molding process via a smartphone app, during which the photosensitive polymer ear tips are literally molded to the shape of your ears with the help of some built-in flashing LEDs. Apart from downloading the app, the entire setup process takes roughly 60 seconds, after which you’re free to use the earbuds however you see fit. The process feels alien but not uncomfortable. Despite being very light and comfy, the FITS tend to protrude further from the ear than other earbuds, which may bother users who prefer a streamlined look. Those with sensitive, small ears, however, will appreciate the ability to wear them comfortably for hours.

The sound of the Ultimate Ears FITS is relatively neutral yet lacking in low frequencies out of the box; luckily, it’s easy to sculpt using the in-app EQ, so you can get lows to reach a runner’s high. They, unfortunately, don’t feature active noise cancellation, but their snug fit allows them a good measure of passive noise cancellation that can be useful in gyms and other crowded environments. The FITS’ sweat-resistant IPX3 rating is also a bit lower than the minimum IPX4 we’re used to seeing in this class of earbuds, but they’ll still make it through many a sweaty session unscathed.

Less athletically inclined but still like the idea of custom-fit earbud comfort for running errands (or the occasional power walk)? UE offers the DROPS, which have a more involved, more handcrafted process resulting in bespoke acrylic housings tailored to your personal specifications and aesthetic.

Best over-ear: Treblab Z2

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Why it made the cut: The Treblab Z2 headphones are a uniquely light, comfy over-ear option with a long battery life that makes them great for taking on a run.

Specs

• Weight: 0.53 pounds
• IP rating: IPX4 (splash-resistant)
• Battery life: 35 hours

Pros

• Super light and comfy design for running unencumbered
• Very long single-charge battery life
• Built-in control buttons are intuitive and easy to use

Cons

• No charging case
• ANC mode changes the sound profile, performs unreliably
• Prone to leaking audio

While over-ear headphones aren’t an ideal choice for running due to being much heavier and bulkier than earbuds, the Treblab Z2’s combination of lightweight comfort and long 35-hour battery life will have you covered if you have your heart set on a more traditional design. The Z2 features an IPX4 waterproof rating that’s tough enough to stand up to sweat and rain, and it has easy-to-use audio controls placed conveniently on each earcup, plus a simple switch to toggle ANC mode. They come in a custom-fit zip-up carrying case that makes them easy to stow in a gym bag, and they charge using an included micro USB cable.

The Treblab Z2’s sound profile is fairly neutral and balanced out of the box, but its ANC mode tends to roll off a lot of the headphones’ bass frequencies, giving the audio a somewhat unappealing mid-forward sound. With ANC engaged, the headphones almost give the impression of changing their EQ to mask environmental noise rather than performing active cancellation. The Treblab Z2s also feature light and airy earpads that make them very comfortable to wear while running. They do tend to leak some sound if you push the volume (not that you should, even if you push the tempo), so you’ll likely want to avoid using them in quiet or shared environments.

Best for city runs: Sony LinkBuds

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Why it made the cut: The Sony LinkBuds use a unique open-ring design to let in environmental noise while delivering the fit and sound of traditional earbuds.

Specs

• Weight: 0.14 ounces/earbud; 1.45 ounces with case
• IP rating: IPX4 (splash-resistant)
• Battery life: 5.5 hours single-charge; 17.5 hours with case

Pros

• Unique ring design lets in ambient noise
• Very comfortable and lightweight fit perfect for running
• Midrange-forward sound is great for spoken word
• EQ adjustable via the Sony Headphones Connect app

Cons

• No noise cancellation
• Very little sub-bass response
• Others can hear what you’re listening to

If you’re looking to maintain a level of situational awareness similar to that given by bone-conduction headphones but prefer the look and feel of earbuds, Sony’s innovative LinkBuds are worth considering. This unique pair of lightweight earbuds—small enough to hang from succulents, as shown above—use a ring-shaped speaker and flexible anchor to stay secure within your ear while letting in ambient noise. This makes them a great choice for running in loud environments and areas with heavy traffic. The size of each fin can be custom-fitted to your ears using an included selection of five sizes, resulting in an incredibly comfortable and snug fit that won’t budge during your run. The LinkBuds aren’t quite as easy to hear through as bone conduction headphones due to their placement in the ear canal, but they do feature a similar midrange-heavy sound with slightly more low-end. If the buds leave you wanting a little more bass, you can also fine-tune their sound further using the Sony Headphones Connect app.

Controlling the Sony LinkBuds involves either tapping directly on the earbuds or on your own facial cartilage in front of the ear, a gesture that works well but takes some getting used to. Some users reported false triggers when engaging in activity, but this effect can be mitigated by selecting the right fin size to ensure the fit is as tight as possible. Because of their open design, the LinkBuds also tend to leak sound and provide no form of noise cancellation at all, so while they might not be the best choice for critical listening unless you’re in the quietest environment (one that wouldn’t mind hearing a bit of what you’re enjoying), there’s really nothing else quite like them if you prefer the fit and feel of earbuds.

Best battery life: JBL Endurance Peak 3

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Why it made the cut: These rugged IP68 earbuds pack up to 50 hours of battery life thanks to their charging case, making them ideal for travel and frequent use.

Specs

• Weight: 0.9 ounces/earbud; 4.5 ounces with case
• IP rating: IP68 (dustproof and waterproof for 30 minutes)
• Battery life: 10 hours single-charge; 50 hours with case

Pros

• Highly waterproof and dustproof
• Very secure-fitting ear hook design
• Super long battery life

Cons

• Lack active noise canceling
• No multipoint pairing or wireless charging
• Muddy and low-heavy sound, but can be EQ’d

JBL’s new Peak Endurance 3 running headphones are a fantastic option if you run daily but don’t always have the opportunity (or memory) to charge your devices. They feature a generous 10-hour single-charge battery life plus another 50 hours thanks to their compact charging case, making them a great choice for stowing in a gym bag or for traveling. The fit of the Endurance Peak 3s uses a wireless ear hook design (JBL refers to the hooks as “TwistLock ear hook enhancers”) similar to that of the Powerbeats Pro, which goes around the back of your ear and works in tandem with three silicone ear tip options, resulting in a comfortable wearing experience that remains stable while running despite not going too far into the ear canal. They even stay stable while doing side plank rotations. The Endurance Peak 3s are also waterproof and dustproof at a very high IP68 level, which makes them impervious to salt water and easy to clean with a simple rinse.

The sound of the Endurance Peak 3s is a bit muddy out of the box, but JBL’s companion app provides an easy-to-use EQ that helps sculpt their sound to your liking. They also don’t have active noise-cancelling abilities, but the tips combined with their shape do a good job of blocking out your surroundings. Still, they do feature JBL’s Ambient Aware mode, which is effective for engaging in conversation at the gym or on the street without having to pause and remove them from your ears. However, we wish they featured conveniences like multipoint device pairing and wireless charging. And, the ear hooks get in the way of sunglasses, which is a pain while running outdoors in the bright sun. If these aren’t major cons for you, their secure fit, battery life, and ease of use make these headphones perfect for running in nearly every way. 

Best budget: Otium U18 Earbuds

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Why it made the cut: Otium’s U18 earbuds feature a secure ear hook design similar to that found in running headphones three times their price.

Specs

• Weight: 3.52 ounces
• IP rating: IPX7 (waterproof for 30 minutes; not dustproof)
• Battery life: 15 hours

Pros

• Great battery life and secure fit on a budget
• IPX7 waterproof for sweaty workouts
• Set of easy-to-use controls

Cons

• Slightly muddy sound profile
• No active noise cancelation
• Charging design is cumbersome

If you love listening to music while running but don’t want to spend a lot, the Otium U18s are a great value thanks to their battery life, secure fit, and IPX7 waterproof rating. They feature an ear hook-based design similar to that of the JBL Endurance Peak 3 and the Powerbeats Pro, with the inclusion of a connective neckband that makes them easy to hang around your neck when not in use and keeps them from getting separated. The U18’s sound profile is a bit muddy and leaves something to be desired, and because they don’t come with any EQ-enabled companion apps you’ll need to explore other options to sculpt their sound. But if you just need a beat to beat your personal best, these are a budget way to get that.

As a set of budget headphones, the Otium U18s are fairly stripped down and lack conveniences like active noise cancelation, wireless charging, and ambient modes. They do have a set of onboard controls, including an on-ear button and a rocker switch, both of which are intuitive and easy to use, but charging the headphones is a little more difficult and involves opening a small, tight-fitting door for access to a micro USB port. Still, if you’re not picky about sound quality or noise canceling, the runner-friendly fit of the U18s makes them worth a look.

What to consider when buying the best running headphones

Most of the best headphones should avoid even a hint of moisture. Heck, even some of the best Bluetooth earbuds might not be suited for more than a brisk stroll. That’s why we’ve put together these things to look at before adding something to your cart:

Do you run in a city environment?

Running in a city environment near bikes, cars, and other forms of traffic requires a high level of situational awareness to ensure you stay out of harm’s way. The best-running headphones for urban environments and crowded places include the Sony LinkBuds, which feature a snug earbud design, and the SHOKZ OpenEars Pro, a bone-conduction design that leaves your ears completely open. 

How important is sound quality to you?

If you fancy yourself an audiophile, go for running headphones with a well-rounded sound profile like the Apple Beats Fit Pro, which have extended low-end response and present highs. Some running headphones also allow you to customize their EQ via smartphone apps, including the JBL Endurance Peak 3 and Ultimate Ears FITS.

Do you need waterproof running headphones?

If you frequently run in moist environments or sweat a lot, picking a pair of running headphones with some measure of waterproofing is essential. All the best running headphones are in some way splash/sweat-resistant, but if you need maximum protection, models such as the JBL Endurance Peak 3 and Jabra Elite 7 Active are some of the best waterproof options we’ve tested.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best running headphones

• Best overall: Apple Beats Fit Pro
• Best bone-conduction: SHOKZ OpenRun Pro
• Most comfortable: Ultimate Ears FITS
• Best over-ear: Treblab Z2
• Best for city runs: Sony LinkBuds
• Best battery life: JBL Endurance Peak 3
• Best budget: Otium U18 Earbuds

For most runners, the easy-to-use Apple Beats Fit Pro are the best headphones, thanks to their well-rounded sound profile, ANC capabilities, and secure fit. Runners in city areas who want to maximize their situational awareness should consider the in-ear Sony LinkBuds or the SHOKZ OpenEars Pro. In contrast, runners interested in the most comfortable fit should look at the in-ear Ultimate Ears FITS or the over-ear Treblab Z2. For more intense workouts, the long battery life, secure fit, and high resistance to water and dust of the JBL Endurance Peak 3 make them a worthy contender. If you’re shopping for running headphones on a budget, it’s hard to beat the sub-$30 Otium U18 Earbuds, which feature a secure ear hook design and 15 hours of single-charge battery life. Now get those feet pounding on the pavement and run off into the sunset, your favorite running tunes pumping in your ears.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best running headphones for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Ace 3		SEE IT	It’s made specifically for children.
Best for style		Fitbit Luxe		SEE IT	Its good looks make it appealing to a wide audience.
Best for teens		Inspire 3		SEE IT	Get slightly older kids some more advanced features.

Fitbits for kids can be a great way to encourage children to develop healthy habits and active lifestyles from an early age. Beyond serving as motivational tools to get moving, they also help you monitor how much exercise your child is getting. Some even offer kid-specific features to gamify movement, making it fun to get active. Fitbits don’t just monitor exercise, though. They can help keep track of stress levels, monitor heart rate, store music, receive phone notifications, and even track sleep. No matter your child’s age, there’s something for them on our list of the best Fitbits for kids. 

• Best overall: Ace 3
• Best for teens: Inspire 3
• Best for style: Fitbit Luxe
• Best with GPS: Fitbit Charge 6
• Best Fitbit alternative: Amazfit Band 7

How we chose the best Fitbits for kids

When selecting the best Fitbits for kids, we started by comparing the entire Fitbit lineup, many of which we have actually reviewed. We focused on models offering kid-friendly features, reasonable pricing, and designs that appeal to a younger crowd. While one model is specifically made for kids, other models can appeal to slightly older children and teens with different needs. We also included a Fiitbit alternative if you want a budget-friendly fitness tracker outside the Fitbit brand.

The best Fitbits for kids: Reviews & Recommendations

A Fitbit, one of the leading brands of activity trackers, can motivate your child to get the recommended daily amount of exercise. According to the Centers for Disease Control, kids from ages 6 to 17 need about 60 minutes of physical movement per day to stay healthy. Fitbits can easily help track those minutes to ensure adequate movement. Below are the best Fitbits for kids, no matter what their current level of activity may be.

Best overall: Ace 3

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Why it made the cut: With a touchscreen display, eight days of battery life, impressive memory, and Parent and Kid View, this is the obvious choice for most young ones.

Specs

• Ages: 6+
• Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
• Battery life: Up to 8 days
• Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

• 8 days of battery life
• Bedtime and alarms
• Parent and Kid View
• Water-resistant 
• Interchangeable bands 

Cons

• Pricey for young kids
• No heart rate monitoring

The only Fitbit specifically made for children, the Ace 3 has many great features relevant to young ones. With eight days of battery life, a touchscreen display, bedtime alerts, reminders to move, a step counter, and gentle alarms to wake your kids up, this Fitbit comes fully stocked.

One of the most kid-friendly aspects of the Ace 3 is the fun virtual badges, animated clock faces, and personalized avatars that add a healthy sense of competition and play to their activity. Your kids can also personalize their Fitbit with interchangeable accessories, like Minions bands, for an added fee. 

There’s both parent and kid view, and it’s also water-resistant up to 164 feet, so they can even wear it while swimming. It’s by no means cheap, but with all the bells and whistles, we think it’s worth the investment. 

Best for teens: Inspire 3

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Why it made the cut: Easy to use and accessible for teens with a one-year premium trial included, this is a great starter tracker for young adults looking to track calories, heart rate, steps, and more at home and at school.

Specs

• Ages: 13+
• Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
• Battery life: Up to 10 days
• Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

• Easy to use and accessible
• Affordable 
• Up to 10 days of battery
• Six-month Fitbit Premium membership included
• Competitive games

Cons

• Screen may be hard to read in the sunlight
• Band wears after some time

The Inspire 3 is Fitbit’s most accessible and easy-to-use fitness tracker, which makes it a solid option for teens. It’s also a New Fitbit users get a six-month free trial of Fitbit Premium so they can have access to guided meditations, exercises, and accountability to make their fitness and health journey even easier. 

The Inspire 3 connects to a smartphone, providing call, text, and app notifications right on your teen’s wrist. That means they won’t have as much of an excuse for ignoring your calls or texts. Come nighttime, it offers a sleep mode to pause notifications and turns the screen off so that their sleep isn’t interrupted.

With its sleek design and simple interface, Inspire 3 is a great starter Fitbit for tracking steps, heart rate, distance, calories, food logging, menstrual health, sleep, and more. This waterproof smartwatch can go as deep as 164 feet, so your teen can wear it during swim team practice to keep track of their workouts. The battery lasts up to 10 days, and there are even fun games in the app like Get Fit Bingo, for more competitive-minded teens.

Best for style: Fitbit Luxe

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Why it made the cut: Fashion-forward and stylish, the Fitbit Luxe features a menstrual health tracker, several stress management tools, and sleep aids useful for teens.

Specs

• Ages: 13+
• Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
• Battery life: Up to 5 days
• Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

• Call/text notifications 
• Connects to phone GPS to track pace and distance
• Menstrual health tracker
• Stylish design
• Stress management features

Cons

• Pricey
• Website says the battery lasts five days, but depletes quicker depending on use

Swimproof, slim, and fashion-forward, the Fitbit Luxe is the perfect tracker for teens who want to be more hands-on (or is that wrists-on?) with their health. It not only takes care of all-day tracking but also connects to a phone’s GPS to track pace and distance and allows wearers to stay connected with friends via call and text notifications. 

If your teenager has periods, they can track ovulation, record period symptoms, and log flow with the built-in menstrual health tracker, which can help them feel informed about their menstrual health. It also has several stress-management features, such as guided breathing, to help with mood and stress levels. We want to note that teenage girls have enough societal pressure, and we love that Fitbit’s team is committed to helping teenage girls stay healthy and happy without focusing on striving for perfection.

It’s not the cheapest option, but the Special Edition gorjana Soft Gold Stainless Steel Parker Link Bracelet doubles as a bracelet that goes with every outfit, making the perfect birthday or holiday gift!

Best with GPS: Fitbit Charge 6

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Why it made the cut: This Fitbit with GPS can track over 40 workouts, including swimming, and has a built-in GPS system for more accurate location and distance information during workouts. 

Specs

• Ages: 13+
• Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
• Battery life: Up to 7 days
• Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

• Comfortable to wear 24/7
• Built-in GPS with access to Google Maps
• Bigger touchscreen display 
• Heart rate tracker
• Built-in YouTube Music controls

Cons

• Music controls require a subscription
• Expensive compared to other options

Fitbit’s most advanced fitness and health tracker yet, this Fitbit with GPS comes with tons of elite features in a slim and lightweight design. It features an on-wrist ECG app, step tracker, calorie tracker, automatic exercise recognition, swim-tracking, and sleep monitoring. It also allows your kids to set goals and it buzzes when they hit certain heart rate zones. Plus, the main draw: built-in GPS for tracking routes and workouts.

The built-in GPS allows for much more accurate data related to distance and pace during workouts. The Charge 6 also comes with Google Maps, which provides turn-by-turn directions right on their wrist, giving you peace of mind that your child won’t get lost on a run or bike ride.

Fitbit also included YouTube Music controls on the Charge 6, though you will need a subscription to access that feature.

Best Fitbit alternative: Amazfit Band 7

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Why it made the cut: This budget-friendly Fitbit alternative offers accurate heart rate data, movement goals, and a vibrant display without the subscription fee.

Specs

• Ages: 13+
• Water resistance: Up to 164 feet
• Battery life: Up to 18 days
• Charge time: 2 hours

Pros

• Long battery life
• Accurate heart rate data
• No subscription required to access all features
• Affordable

Cons

• Touchscreen is finicky
• Lack of buttons takes time to get used to

While Fitbit makes some excellent fitness trackers, you’ll need a subscription to access all features and data. For many, that makes Fitbits for kids a less-than-ideal choice. The Amazfit Band 7 is a great alternative in part thanks to the lack of a subscription but also due to the initial budget-friendly price. You’ll spend less upfront and overtime with this cheap fitness tracker.

Despite the low price, the Band 7 has a lot to offer. Amazfit promises up to 18 days of battery life, and during my testing, I got 16 days or so with a daily workout. Of course, actual battery life heavily depends on how you use the watch and if you have the always-on display on, but it is still impressive for the price. It also charges quickly, so you can get back to tracking movement in no time.

The built-in BioTracker 3.0 PPG biometric sensor tracks heart rate and blood oxygen levels. I found the heart rate data to be very accurate during runs and weightlifting sessions, even when compared to more expensive hiking and Garmin watches. The watch uses that information to calculate VO2 Max, stress levels, and to track sleep. It also provides a PAI, or Personal Activity Intelligence, score, which gives you a picture of how active you are and what your activity level should be for you as an individual.

The Amazfit Band 7 can track 120 different workout types. That includes basics like running, cycling, and yoga but also more obscure things like kite-flying, jumping rope, and badminton. No matter what your child is into, there’s a good chance this fitness tracker can track it. It also pairs with a phone so that your kid can receive phone notifications on their wrist.

Check out our full review to learn more about the Amazfit Band 7.

What to consider when shopping for the best Fitbits for kids

The best Fitbits for kids will fall into the fitness tracker category due to the inherent lower price and slim design. While many of these options share features, there are still some key things to consider before purchasing a device for your child.

A quick note on the term “Fitbit”

For some people, the term “Fitbit” has taken on a more general meaning—it’s a catch-all that references any fitness tracker. It’s like how we often call plastic storage bags Ziploc bags. In reality, Fitbit is a specific brand that’s owned by Alphabet, Google’s parent company. We’re keeping this list almost entirely specific to that brand because the company makes a lot of excellent devices, but have included an alternative as well.

Battery life

Battery life is a key component of any device for kids. If their fitness tracker needs to be charged daily, there’s a good chance it won’t actually be worn very much. Most Fitbits promise a battery life of up to five days, but actual battery life is dependent on how your child is using the watch and what types of settings and features are turned on. You’ll want to consider how responsible your kid is—or how much you want to be hands-on with charging—and choose a watch with a battery life that matches.

Features

While Fitbit products have commonalities, some trackers come with unique features. It’s important to identify what you want to get out of your Fitbit. Do you want a hybrid tracker and smartwatch that can sync with a smartphone and offer more complex functionality? Or do you want simple fitness tracking? Do you need GPS built in? How important are stress management tools?

Sleep tracking may also be an important feature for your child. The Sleep Foundation says that sleep not only helps your child’s energy levels but also impacts a slew of other important developmental areas such as memory, focus, mood, learning, motor skill development, and overall happiness. Keeping track of their sleep can help you get your kids on a healthy sleep schedule, which will only have benefits down the road.

Luckily, Fitbit has a tool to help you narrow in on the best option for your particular needs. Take the company’s Fitbit quiz to help you make your decision. 

Budget

How much are you looking to spend? While some budget Fitbits are around $80, they can go all the way up to several hundred, depending on features and frills like GPS tracking and smartwatch capabilities. The kid-specific Ace is one of Fitbit’s cheaper models, which makes sense since kids are prone to breaking and losing gadgets on the regular. Buying a kid a $250 smartwatch can be a real gamble. 

Style

Your Fitbit’s style should reflect your child’s age and development. Some Fitbits, like the Ace 3, are meant for small children around six years, and others are meant for older teens, like the Inspire 3 or Luxe. A kid won’t wear something if they hate the way it looks.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Fitbits for kids

• Best overall: Ace 3
• Best for teens: Inspire 3
• Best for style: Fitbit Luxe
• Best with GPS: Fitbit Charge 6
• Best Fitbit alternative: Amazfit Band 7

More focused on fitness than the average smartwatches for kids, Fitbits for kids are a great tool to make healthy living a convenient part of your child’s daily life. From fun incentives, cool features, and built-in tracking, teaching your child how to have agency over their health has never been easier. Hopefully, this article helps you narrow down the best Fitbits for kids so you can find the one that is right for your child.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Fitbits for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Portable		DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser		SEE IT	A compact model that offers eight resistance modes.
Best Elliptical		Cubii JR2 Seated Under Desk Elliptical Machine		SEE IT	Comes with a built-in monitor and an app to track your progress.
Best Budget		Wakeman Portable Fitness Stationary Under Desk Bike		SEE IT	A no-frills option that allows you to adjust resistance.

If you’re looking to get some exercise in while you work, consider an under-desk bike. They enable you to go about your day while stretching your muscles, getting your heartbeat up, and improving your circulation. They’re especially good if you spend so much time at your desk that you can’t get to the gym after work or hit the road for an actual bike ride. Those are the obvious benefits. There are other less obvious under-desk bike benefits: Do you have trouble sitting still? Think of a pedal exerciser as a fidget spinner for your legs. Are you in a thermostat war at work and constantly freezing? Warm yourself right up with a few turns of the wheel. Some fans of the cycling desk even report increased focus and concentration. That’s why we’ve compiled what to know to buy one of the best under-desk bikes for your lifestyle.

• Best overall: Davcreator Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
• Best with app: Stamina Inmotion E1000 Compact Lower Body Workout Strider Machine
• Best portable: DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
• Best elliptical: Cubii JR2 Seated Under Desk Elliptical Machine
• Best with desk: Exerpeutic 2500 Bluetooth 3-Way Adjustable Desk
• Best folding: Vaunn Medical Folding Pedal Exerciser
• Best for two-in-one: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
• Best with resistance bands: LifePro Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser with Resistance Bands
• Best budget: Wakeman Portable Fitness Stationary Under Desk Bike

How we chose the best under-desk bikes

In compiling our list of the best under-desk bikes, we considered the functionality of the bikes, resistance levels, whether they tracked metrics, if they featured an associated app, and if they had extra features like resistance bands. We also considered under-desk bike reviews, mobility and portability, and price.

The best under-desk bikes: Reviews & Recommendations

Maybe you’ve never considered incorporating home exercise equipment into your workday, but it could be time to! Just because an under-desk bike is lower profile than its home-gym counterparts, like treadmills and ellipticals and full-sized exercise bikes, doesn’t mean it still can’t be a serious piece of equipment. Read on for our picks for a range of needs.

Best overall: Davcreator Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser

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Specs

• Materials: Aluminum alloy, plastic
• Dimensions: 19.9 inches D x 12.8 inches W x 9.6 inches H
• Weight: 22 pounds
• Resistance levels: 8

Pros

• Well-made
• Ability to track metrics on LCD screen
• Large pedals

Cons

• No smart functionality

If you want to improve your strength and endurance and measure your progress, the Davcreator Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser is a good choice. This under-desk bike is designed with a magnetic resistance flywheel that’s quiet enough for you to take phone calls or watch TV as you pedal. This device also has a knob that allows you to dial up eight resistance levels, including a warm-up and cool-down. The LCD screen shows basic metrics like speed, time, and calories burned. The pedals are also large and have treads to prevent slippage.

Best with app: Stamina Inmotion E1000 Compact Lower Body Workout Strider Machine

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Specs

• Materials: Steel, plastic
• Dimensions: 17 inches D x 24.5 inches W x 12 inches H
• Weight: 24 pounds
• Resistance levels: Adjusts with knob, no specific levels

Pros

• Provides personalized fitness coaching
• Tracks performance over time
• Large pedals

Cons

• No specific resistance levels

Even with a low-impact exercise device you use sitting down, you may want some coaching and accountability. The Stamina Inmotion E1000 Compact Lower Body Workout Strider Machine provides access to an app called müüv. In addition to tracking all your sessions, the app offers personalized coaching and 500 minutes of training per month, plus ad-free access to iHeart Radio. The LCD monitor lets you keep tabs on your strides per minute and calories burned. That said, it’s worth noting that this bike doesn’t have specific resistance levels, just a knob to increase and decrease intensity. And if you’re looking for more equipment to round out your home office, check out our guide to the best office chairs.

Best portable: DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser

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Specs

• Materials: Steel, plastic
• Dimensions: 24 inches L x 20 inches W x 10 inches H
• Weight: 23 pounds
• Resistance levels: 8

Pros

• Provides eight levels of resistance
• Portable
• LCD screen displays metrics

Cons

• No tracking over time

At 23 pounds, the DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser isn’t the most lightweight option around, but it’s certainly portable enough to toss in the trunk of your car. This bike still provides the features that serious exercisers are looking for, with eight resistance levels and an LCD screen that displays key metrics like time, speed, and distance. For other low-impact options on the days you can get out of the house, check out our guide to the best electric bikes.

Best elliptical: Cubii JR2 Seated Under Desk Elliptical Machine

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Specs

• Materials: Plastic
• Dimensions: 23.15 inches D x 17.56 inches W x 10 inches H
• Weight: Under 20 pounds
• Resistance levels: 8

Pros

• Elliptical motion
• Lightweight
• Connected to an app

Cons

• Heavy
• Stats have to be entered manually in fitness device

Another compact option, this quiet under-desk elliptical bike has eight exercise levels and an LCD monitor. Use it with upper-body tools (like resistance bands) for an all-over workout. This has a handle that makes it easy to bring around your house or office. While there is a smartphone app, you must manually enter your workout from the LCD screen. This makes the fitness tracking process less automatic than other options.

Best with desk: Exerpeutic 2500 Bluetooth 3-Way Adjustable Desk

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Specs

• Materials: Steel, foam, plastic
• Dimensions: ‎54 inches D x 25 inches W x 40 inches H
• Weight: 16.24 pounds
• Resistance levels: 14

Pros

• Comfortable
• 14 levels of resistance
• Syncs with My Cloud Fitness app

Cons

• Shipped in two boxes that may be delivered days apart

If you’re looking for a workstation with an under-desk bike, consider the Exerpeutic 2500 Bluetooth 3-Way Adjustable Desk. This model features an extra-large cushioned seat, adjustable backrest, swiveling desk, and soft hand grips for a comfortable work/exercise experience. This Bluetooth-compatible model syncs with the My Cloud Fitness app, which works with iOS and Android systems so that you can track your progress over time. Plus, buying an all-in-one product removes the hassle of measuring to make sure your desk is compatible, size-wise, with your bike. (Remember: A desk must accommodate your knees when raised to maximum pedal height.)

Best folding: Vaunn Medical Folding Pedal Exerciser

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Specs

• Materials: Alloy steel, plastic
• Dimensions: 18.25 inches L x 15.2 inches W x 11.25 inches H
• Weight: 5.4 pounds
• Resistance levels: Adjustable knob

Pros

• Lightweight
• Easy to store
• Can also be used for an upper-body workout

Cons

• Doesn’t provide specific levels of resistance

If foldability and storage are more important to you than a range of features, the Vaunn Medical Folding Pedal Exerciser is a solid option. This fully assembled pedal exerciser also doubles as an arm exerciser. It runs on two AAA batteries and features an LCD display, an adjustable tension knob, and skid-resistant rubber feet for traction and stability no matter where you place it.

Best two-in-one: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike

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Specs

• Materials: Alloy steel, plastic 
• Dimensions: 16.5 inches D x 20.5 inches W x 10.5 inches H
• Weight: 19.1 pounds
• Resistance levels: 8

Pros

• Allows you to work out lower and upper body
• Provides eight levels of resistance
• Designed with a quiet magnetic flywheel

Cons

• The bike may move while pedaling
• Some users report poor quality materials

Consider the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike if you want your fitness device to multitask. This under-desk bike provides eight levels of resistance, and its flywheel ensures a quiet, smooth ride. When you’re done pedaling, you can place the device on your desk and give your arms a workout as well.

Best with resistance bands: LifePro Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser with Resistance Bands

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Specs

• Materials: Metal, plastic
• Dimensions: ‎17.5 inches L x 20.9 inches W x 13.2 inches H
• Weight: 18.1 pounds
• Resistance levels: 8

Pros

• Lets you work lower and upper body at once
• Provides training videos
• Allows you to track progress over time with app

Cons

• Some users say pedals came off during use

Looking to work your lower and upper body at the same time? The Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser with Resistance Bands is a good option. This mini exercise bike under-desk provides eight levels of resistance for pedaling and bands that allow you to work on your upper body and grip strength simultaneously. LifePro also provides training videos, and you can track your stats on the LCD monitor and through the associated app.

Best budget: Wakeman Portable Fitness Stationary Under Desk Bike

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Specs

• Materials: Metal, plastic
• Dimensions: 14 inches D x 19.5 inches W x 9.5 inches H
• Weight: 4.89 pounds
• Resistance levels: 1

Pros

• Lightweight
• Inexpensive
• Battery-powered

Cons

• Doesn’t track metrics
• No specific resistance levels

You don’t get an LCD screen or Bluetooth capability with this no-frills stationary under-desk bike from Wakeman. But if your main goal is to get a low-impact workout in and you’re not looking to track your progress, this basic model is a budget-friendly option that’s light enough to take with you.

Things to consider when looking for the best under-desk bikes

The one thing you already know is that you’re interested in cycling while you work. Beyond that, choosing the best exercise bike for your desk comes down to your particular wants and needs. Whether you desire something lightweight and portable, compact and stowable, or frill-free and cheap, there’s a desk bike for you (and some even come with the desk!).

Portability

The key to a portable pedal exerciser is finding something that’s not terribly heavy, is easy to set up, and isn’t too bulky. (So not, for example, a bike with the desk attached.) A travel-friendly under-desk exercise bike has all the features you need without the bulk.

Portable options range from bare-bones hydraulic models to battery-powered cycles with LCD screens and fitness-tracker capabilities. There’s a wide spectrum depending on how much you want to spend.

Elliptical vs. classic models

An elliptical bike differs from a classic style in that the pedal strokes are oval (so you glide more than pump). Elliptical bikes are easier on your joints and bones because, unlike standard-styled bicycles, they have no impact (i.e., your feet never leave the pedals). But as far as the benefits go—cardiovascular health, muscle building, distraction—there’s no difference. Some people just prefer an elliptical ride.

The biggest key to keeping up a consistent workout schedule is finding something you enjoy, so if you prefer an elliptical bike in the gym, you’ll prefer one under your desk, too.

Bike-desk combos

If you’re starting your exercise-friendly home office from scratch, pick up a bike-desk combo and call it a day. You don’t even necessarily have to sacrifice style or function—just take note of the weight limit of the particular model you’re considering to ensure it’s inclusive of all who will be using it.

Storage

When you get right down to it, all an under-desk bike really requires are two pedals. If you don’t need many bells and whistles and easy storage is your main concern, a folding pedal exerciser is the way to go. Especially If you’re getting a pedaler for physical therapy use, a simple, scaled-down design may be all you need.

Full-body workouts

Look at you, multi-multi-tasker! An arm bike gives you the same cardio benefits as a foot bike, but it also works your upper body, including your shoulders, neck, and core (major points of tension for those of us with desk jobs). Unlike with an under-desk bike, you can’t really type or answer the phone while you’re pedaling with your arms, but investing in a bike desk that doubles as an arm exerciser is a terrific way to get twice as much bang for your buck.

Price

If all you want to do is boost your circulation, get your heart rate up, and give yourself something to do while working on a boring project, there’s no reason to shell out a ton of money on a desk exercise bike. Will the bike you’re looking at fit under your desk? Does it pedal? Will your feet fit? If the answers are all yes, that’s all you need. Here’s the best under-desk bike we’ve found for less.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best under-desk bikes

• Best overall: Davcreator Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
• Best with app: Stamina Inmotion E1000 Compact Lower Body Workout Strider Machine
• Best portable: DeskCycle Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
• Best elliptical: Cubii JR2 Seated Under Desk Elliptical Machine
• Best with desk: Exerpeutic 2500 Bluetooth 3 Way Adjustable Desk
• Best folding: Vaunn Medical Folding Pedal Exerciser
• Best two-in-one: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
• Best with resistance bands: Life Pro Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser with Resistance Bands
• Best budget: Wakeman Portable Fitness Stationary Under Desk Bike

Once you’ve decided to invest in desk exercise equipment, all you really need to do is consider the features that are important to you—like magnetic resistance, Bluetooth capability, an LED screen, portability, and affordability—to find the best under-desk pedal bike for you. The good news is it’s hard to go wrong when investing in your health.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best under-desk bikes of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best budget		Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap		SEE IT	This budget-friendly microwaveable option comes in four varieties including several filled with herbs and flowers.
Best overall		Pure Enrichment PureRelief Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad		SEE IT	The super comfy heating pad has six levels of temperature and automatic shutoff after 2 hours for safety.
Best for cramps		Sunbeam Cordless Heating Pad		SEE IT	Sunbeam’s battery-powered portable heating pad provides targeted relief for cramps, and back and neck pain.

If you’ve got tense, sore, or injured muscles, consider heating pads before you reach for aspirin. They stimulate blood flow, help muscles relax, and offer fast pain relief. They come in different shapes and sizes to fit various areas of the body. Different types of heating pads, like weighted and microwaveable models, feature designs that fit certain needs and preferences. If you have problem areas, some models can mold to or specifically fit the shoulders, neck, or lower back. In addition, some heating pads can shape themselves to most areas of the body, so you can use the same one even if you’ve got many different sore spots. So get ready for some heat, and look at the best heating pads, along with tips on choosing the right one for your aching body.  

• Best overall: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad
• Best for cramps: Sunbeam Cordless Heating Pad
• Best for arthritis: Thermophore MaxHeat Arthritis Pad
• Best for neck and shoulders: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder
• Best moist: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain Relief
• Best weighted: Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth 2-in-1 Weighted Body Pad
• Best eco-friendly: Caylee’s Creations Microwavable Corn-Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack
• Best budget: Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap

How we chose the best heating pads

At PopSci, we have an affinity for products that help keep readers warm, from the best heated clothing to the best electric garage heaters to the cousin of heating pads, the best heated blankets. In compiling our list of the best heating pads, we looked for options that served various needs, from arthritis and neck and back pain, to heating pads that just help keep people warm. We looked for heating pads from trusted brands like Sunbeam and Carex. We also considered user reviews in making our recommendations.

The best heating pads: Reviews & Recommendations

Both heat and cold can help soothe aches and pains. Heat attracts more blood flow and nutrients to the affected areas, helping to provide relief, according to WebMD. Heating pads can offer different types of heat, control features, and designs that make some pads more helpful under certain circumstances. For example, there’s dry heat, and there’s moist heat. Both types of heat are helpful, but there’s evidence that moist heat’s ability to penetrate soft tissue faster can boost the pad’s effectiveness. So, if you’re looking for the best heating pad for cramps, arthritis, neck and shoulders, or general muscle pains, our recommendations have you covered.

Best overall: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad

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Specs

• Material: Microplush polyester, plastic
• Heat range: 105-140℉
• Size: 24 inches L x 20 inches W 
• Weight: 1.9 pounds

Pros

• Cozy
• Six temperature settings
• Provides dry and moist heat therapy
• Automatic shutoff after 2 hours

Cons

• Some users said it stopped working consistently

Pure Enrichment’s PureRelief Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad is a cross between a super comfy blanket and a heating pad you can fine-tune to your preferences. Made of microplush, this heating pad provides six heat levels, which you can adjust using an ergonomic LCD controller. It’s designed to heat up instantly, and you can select between 105-140℉ of heat. You can also switch between dry and moist heat by dampening the pad. And automatically shuts off after 2 hours, should you doze off.

At just 1.9 pounds, this heating pad is lightweight, but its dimensions of 20 by 24 inches provide plenty of coverage for neck, shoulders, back, and legs. It provides plenty of warmth and relief for muscle soreness and joint pain. Plus, it’s machine-washable.

Best for cramps: Sunbeam Cordless Heating Pad

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Specs

• Material: Micromink (double-sided polyester), lithium-ion battery
• Heat range: Low to high
• Size: 12 inches L x 9.5 inches W
• Weight: One pound

Pros

• Portable
• Modern design
• Operates at 60 hertz
• Works on multiple parts of the body
• Machine-washable cover

Cons

• Battery may run out

Looking for targeted relief from cramps? Sunbeam’s Cordless Heat Pad is designed with a microplush covering that measures 12 inches by 9.5 inches, and strap that adjusts up to 55 inches. This heating pad provides three levels of heat and is battery-powered so that you can wear it around your home. The lithium-ion battery also runs for up to 4 hours on a single charge and runs at a frequency of 60 hertz. You can also use it on your back, neck, shoulders, and legs. Once you’re feeling better, the cover is removable and machine-washable.

Best for arthritis: Thermophore MaxHeat Arthritis Pad

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Specs

• Material: Fleece, plastic
• Heat range: 50 to 165°F
• Size: 14 inches W x 27 inches L  
• Weight: N/A

Pros

• Temperature goes higher than some other options
• Shuts off after 25 minutes
• Easy to clean

Cons

• Some users say you can’t return it

The Thermophore MaxHeat Arthritis Pad heats quickly and reaches temperatures between 150 to 165°F. The intense, moist heat is delivered by a large 14- by 27-inch pad. With three heat settings and an automatic 25-minute shutoff feature, this portable heating pad relieves pain but keeps you safe, too.

Best for neck and shoulders: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder

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Specs

• Material: Micromink, plastic
• Heat range: Max of 176°F
• Size: 22 inches L x 19 inches W
• Weight: 2.7 pounds

Pros

• Fits to your shoulders and neck
• Very soft
• Close fit

Cons

• Some users say the heat is uneven
• Cord is bulky

The Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder features an extra-tall, adjustable collar to cover the entire back of the neck and into the scalp. In total, this pad measures 22 by 19 inches, making it large enough for men and women. The Sunbeam also includes four heating settings and a removable, washable cover made of soft micromink. Meanwhile, you can keep your feet warm with some of the best heated insoles or best heated slippers.

Best moist: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain Relief

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Specs

• Material: Polyester, vinyl
• Heat range: 110 to 160°F
• Size: 12 inches x 15 inches
• Weight: One pound

Pros

• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Easy to clean

Cons

• May not cover as much of the body as other options
• Not as cozy as other picks

If you’re looking for an inexpensive heating pad that provides moist heat, consider the Sunbeam Heating Pad for Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain Relief. At 12 inches by 15 inches, this electric heating pad can help provide relief to a smaller area than some other heating pads. But you can adjust the temperature in the three settings, ranging from 110 to 160°F. Designed to help with arthritis, shoulder, neck, and back pain, this heating pad is also equipped with a sponge insert to provide moist heat in addition to dry heat. Plus, you can remove the cover to wash it.

Best weighted: Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth 2-in-1 Body Pad

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Specs

• Material: Micromink, glass beads
• Heat range: 105-140℉
• Size: ‎32 inches L x 21 inches W
• Weight: 6 pounds

Pros

• Weighted blanket and heating pad in one
• Plush
• Non-toxic
• More attractive than other options

Cons

• Some users had problems getting it to heat up
• Glass beads may bunch

The Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth 2-in-1 Body Pad is made of a diamond quilted mink. Each diamond contains non-toxic beads that help the pad conform to the shape of your shoulders, leg, or back. The quilting maintains an even distribution of the beads, so there’s no pooling. That also maintains the pad’s contouring so it can better reach tight, sore muscles. Want to explore the psychological benefits of weighted blankets minus the heat? We’ve got a guide for that, too.

Best eco-friendly: Caylee’s Creations Microweavable Corn-Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack

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Specs

• Material: Cotton and corn
• Heat range: N/A
• Size: 7.5 inches W x 11 inches L; 5.25 inches W x 17.25 inches L
• Weight: 2.8 pounds

Pros

• Made of natural materials
• Microwaveable
• Provides both heat and cold therapy

Cons

• Can’t adjust temperature
• May not be the best solution for arthritis or chronic pain

If you’re looking for a low-tech heating pad that’s made from natural materials, consider Caylee’s Creations Microwavable Corn-Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack. Yes, you read that right: corn-filled. When you heat one of these heating pads up in the microwave, it smells like popcorn. If you want cold relief instead, you can just pop this heating pad in the freezer. It’s available in two sizes (7.5 inches wide by 11 inches long and 5.25 inches wide by 17.5 inches long), and you can choose from 25 colorways and designs, including polka dot, plaid, and camo. And the 100 percent cotton cover is removable for washing.

Best budget: Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap

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Specs

• Material: Nylon handles, natural filling (herbs, flowers)
• Heat range: N/A
• Size: ‎23 inches L x 4.25 inches W
• Weight: 2 pounds

Pros

• Comes in four versions (unscented, Balance Orange, Bliss Pink, Fresh Green)
• Provides both hot and cold therapy
• Inexpensive

Cons

• May not provide heat and cold consistently

The Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap contains an organic filling of grains and herbs that holds heat or cold. Pop it in the microwave to create moist heat, or store it in the freezer for a cooling wrap to treat swelling or injury. Handles on either end help it stay in place, or press the heating pad into the skin for deeper heat penetration.

What to consider before buying a heating pad

Whether you’re looking for a comfy heating pad to wrap your tired muscles in after a long, cold run, or you’d like to reduce tension in your neck, our recommendations can help address your needs. To find the option that’s the best for you, consider these factors:

Levels of heat

Heating pads with multiple or adjustable heat settings give you more control over your heat therapy. Areas of the body that don’t have a lot of soft tissue, like the ankle, may need less heat than the thigh, for example, where there’s ample soft tissue to disperse the heat. Of course, there are also comfort preferences and heat tolerance that may necessitate temperature adjustment. And those with a single heat setting may need closer monitoring to ensure the temperature stays comfortable. 

Location of pain and fit

Back pain, specifically low-back pain, causes more global disability than all other pain sources. Heat can help, whether that pain comes from overuse or stems from a chronic condition. Heating pads designed for back pain may be a simple rectangle shape that molds to the body. This type works for the back, but also for general pain in other areas of the body. 

Other designs fit like a vest or jacket, allowing freedom of movement with the arms. These electric heating pads aren’t usually battery-powered. Consequently, you can’t walk around while wearing one, but the pad will fit and stay in place better. However, these close-fitting designs can cause overheating, so pay attention to how you feel. Red skin, lightheadedness, or an upset stomach could indicate that you or your skin are overheating, and it’s time to take the pad off.

That said, a rectangle isn’t always the best shape for the body’s curves. Shoulder and neck pain are common complaints that may not get the heat they need from a standard rectangular heating pad. 

To address that need, neck-and-shoulder heating pads are made in the shape of the neck and/or shoulders with a collar and body that drapes across the shoulders and partially down the back. Some are for the neck only, and others are shoulders only. However, the magical ones do both at once. Look for a model that fits your body size and drapes far enough down the body to reach your problem areas.

Moist vs. dry heat

Heat is heat, right? Wrong. Moisture can help the heat penetrate deeper into the soft tissues and amplify the effects. The most efficient and consistent moist heating pads absorb moisture from the air, heat it, and let it penetrate the body. They don’t run out of moisture and keep heat exposure consistent. 

Look for models with adjustable temperature settings. Moist heat feels hotter and can easily burn the skin. Moist heating pads can also welcome mold and mildew if they aren’t maintained properly. Make sure that it is completely dry before putting it away.

Electric vs. microwaveable

Microwavable heating pads have two key benefits. First, they don’t require an electrical cord. You can manipulate the pad and adjust it to the body without wrestling with a cord. A lack of cord also lets you walk around with it in place. 

The second benefit is that some microwaveable heating pads offer moist heat. Some models allow you to put a small bowl of water in the microwave with the heating pad. The water releases steam, which the pad absorbs. It then releases that moisture against your body, letting the steam penetrate deeper into the tissue. 

The downside of these pads is that you have to be careful with them initially as they may be very hot, but they lose their heat relatively quickly. At that point, you’ll have to reheat them, but it’s a small price to pay for mobile heat.

Safety

It’s important to note that heating pads, when not used properly, can cause a burn or be a fire hazard. Safety features like an automatic shut-off and an internal thermometer prevent heating pad burns and fire. Some models feature a timer that shuts the heat off after 20 to 30 minutes, while others turn off once they reach a certain temperature. However, safety also requires that the user follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

As far as safe use, don’t lay on a heating pad, which can trap heat against your body and potentially cause a burn or start a fire. Do not place the pad directly on your skin, and make sure you don’t fall asleep with one, even if it has an automatic shut-off feature. 

Weight

Weighted heating pads do a couple of things that other models don’t. First, they offer a better fit against the body. If there’s a gap between the pad and the body, heat cannot penetrate as well, and you might not get all of the benefits. Weighted models mold to the body and stay in place more readily, so you get a good fit no matter the pad’s placement. 

Second, weight and pressure have also been shown to help relieve anxiety. These heating pads can act as a mini weighted blanket while providing relaxing heat. It’s kind of a win-win situation—a better fit and relaxing heat all in one. If you’re looking for a DIY heating pad, you can fill an old sock with rice and heat it in the microwave, or warm towels. Just be careful of the heat when you first handle a homemade heating pad.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best heating pads

• Best overall: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad
• Best for cramps: Sunbeam Cordless Heating Pad
• Best for arthritis: Thermophore MaxHeat Arthritis Pad
• Best for neck and shoulders: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Neck & Shoulder
• Best moist: Sunbeam Heating Pad for Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain Relief
• Best weighted: Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth 2-in-1 Weighted Body Pad
• Best eco-friendly: Caylee’s Creations Microwavable Corn-Filled Heating Pad and Cold Pack
• Best budget: Carex Bed Buddy Heat Pad and Cooling Neck Wrap

Sweet relief is only a button touch away when you’ve got the best heating pad waiting for you. Whether it’s a moist heating pad, electric model, or microwavable, there’s a model that will fit your body and budget. Make sure it’s got safety features, even heat distribution, and the coverage your aching body needs. Now, it’s time to sit down, turn on the heat, and relax.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best heating pads in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Fitbit Versa 4		SEE IT	The Versa 4 is the company’s most well-rounded smartwatch.
Best fitness tracker		Fitbit Charge 6		SEE IT	The Charge 6 offers advanced data-driven insights to help you optimize your workouts.
Best budget		Fitbit Inspire 3		SEE IT	The Inspire 3 is a low-cost fitness tracker for people who just want the basics.

For many tech and health enthusiasts, Fitbits are the first devices that come to mind when you say “fitness tracker.” In some circles, the company had briefly achieved that level of cultural ubiquity where people referred to all fitness trackers as “Fitbits.” The market is now saturated—with options from Garmin, Apple, Polar, and Amazfit, just to name a few—but there are still plenty of reasons to choose devices made by Fitbit. These fitness trackers and watches deliver outstanding levels of functionality, each with its own particular benefits. With so many types of Fitbits—not to mention multiple generations of each version—it might not be readily apparent which one makes the most sense for you. To that end, we’re looking at the top options for a range of intentions so you can work out (or even sleep) with confidence, knowing that these are truly the best Fitbits.

• Best overall: Fitbit Versa 4
• Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Charge 6
• Best watch: Fitbit Sense 2
• Best for women: Fitbit Luxe
• Best for men: Google Pixel Watch 2
• Best budget: Fitbit Inspire 3
• Best for kids: Fitbit Ace 3

How we chose the best Fitbits

I selected these Fitbits like I do ebikes and gear for van-lifers (such as solar generators): through first-hand testing and input from real buyers. I tested these alongside fitness trackers from Fitbit and other leading brands, such as the Polar Ignite 2 Plus and the Garmin Venu 2 Plus. While testing, I looked to determine core functionality like tracker accuracy and battery, as well as the relative ease of use

The Fitbit versions that didn’t make the cut were not always significantly different from those included above, but our picks stood out for a reason. You can choose yours from these Fitbit reviews, knowing that these truly are the best options available right now.

The best Fitbits: Reviews & Recommendations

While the features offered by the various models tend to overlap—most build up from a base of 20 health and fitness metrics—each individual package tailors itself to a specific set of needs or parameters. Plenty of people want access to this data but don’t need the battery life for the backcountry and don’t necessarily want the bulk of a sensor-packed hiking/multisport watch. To that end, here are the best Fitbits for most people.

Best overall: Fitbit Versa 4

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Why it made the cut: With its broad range of fitness tracking capabilities, smartwatch functions, and lower price, the Versa 4 is a balanced fitness watch that plays to Fitbit’s strengths.

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: Yes
• Battery life: 6 days
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• Plenty of fitness tracking functions
• Detailed sleep-tracking information
• Wide range of smart features

Cons

• Higher price than most Fitbits
• Relatively short battery life

For all practical purposes, the Fitbit Versa 4 can do everything that most users want from their fitness tracker. It provides info about steps, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, calories burned, and sleep tracking. It’s also water-resistant down to 50 meters, in case you’re a swimmer. It even buzzes to let you know when you’ve entered your personalized target heart rate for exercise, which it refers to as your “active zone.”

At the same time, the Versa 4 includes plenty of smart functions. You can use it to take calls and receive notifications from your phone or ask Alexa about the weather. Fitbit also features an app ecosystem that’s smaller than iOS or Android but includes apps for music, payments, and more. The Versa 4 and more powerful Sense watch bring a lot of value to the table, but the Versa does so at a lower price, making it a slightly more accessible pick. If you’re looking for a less expensive version, read our review of the Fitbit Versa 3.

Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Charge 6

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Why it made the cut: With its expansive suite of fitness trackers and detailed workout insights, the Charge 6 is a gym rat’s best friend.

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: Yes
• Battery life: 7 days
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• Provides access to Google Maps, Wallet, and YouTube Music
• Stress management tools
• Provides recommendations for workouts, mindfulness, and challenges

Cons

• Subscription required for advanced insights
• Reply to calls and texts function for Android only

If you’re looking for the utmost in fitness-tracking power, the Fitbit Charge 6 delivers. With a full range of fitness and health tracking options, it records all the stats you need. What makes it stand out, however, is its workout intensity map, which leverages GPS and various physical data points to highlight when you’re getting the most and least out of your workout. Between workouts, it sends guidance to maintain mindfulness and workout optimization.

Though it’s primarily fitness-focused, it also features a smattering of basic smart functions that allow you to manage payments plus receive calls, texts, and calendar notifications. It also offers access to Google features such as YouTube Music controls, Google Wallet, and Google Maps. Some of these functions only work with Android phones, however.

The one drawback to the Charge 6—like all Fitbit devices—is its reliance on a subscription. Like the Whoop 4.0 and other recent high-end fitness trackers, Fitbit gates off many of its most detailed workout insights unless you pay for its Premium membership. You get six months of free access to see if it’s worth the $9.99 a month, but you should probably decide whether or not you’re even open to such an arrangement in the first place.

Best watch: Fitbit Sense 2

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Why it made the cut: The Sense 2 is a sleek, powerful smartwatch with advanced fitness-tracking capabilities.

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: Yes
• Battery life: 6 days
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• Fitbit’s largest suite of smart apps
• Includes ECG monitoring and EDA Scan for tracking heart health and stress
• Works with Alexa

Cons

• The most expensive Fitbit
• Relatively short battery life
• Large

If you want a fitness tracker that really leans into smart features, the sleek Fitbit Sense 2 delivers. With the largest suite of smart apps on any Fitbit device, as well as most of the key fitness and health tracking functions, it is the most powerful Fitbit we recommend. Most notably, the Sense includes an ECG for detecting heart health, as well as an EDA Scan app that monitors electrodermal activity and then provides a graph of how your body responds to stress. It is also the only Fitbit to come with a 6-month free trial of the guided meditation app Calm to support any stress management goals you might have.

Given all that, it’s worth noting that the Sense is the second most expensive device you can get from Fitbit right now. If you want all the features, the Sense may be the best choice, but it is bigger and more expensive than most of the pack.

Best for women: Fitbit Luxe

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Why it made the cut: The Fitbit Luxe is a great option if you want a fitness tracker that can double as a piece of jewelry. 

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: No
• Battery life: 5 days
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• Stylish design
• Heart tracking
• Stress management tools included

Cons

• Need to connect to phone for GPS
• Doesn’t let you play music

If you’re looking for a fitness tracker that looks more like a bracelet than a military-grade smartwatch, the Fitbit Luxe is a good option. The slim design, polished stainless steel case, and bands available in a range of hues make this an option that works for both work and working out, and one of the best Fitbit watches for women. The Luxe also tracks heart rate, sleep, and breathing rate, plus provides some stress management tools. You can also text and receive call notifications, but you can’t access music or make calls. 

This tracker is water-resistant up to 50 meters, and has a battery life of up to five days. Unfortunately, you’ll need to connect to the GPS in your phone to see your pace in real-time, as it doesn’t offer built-in GPS. It won’t be the best option for those serious about accurate pace and mileage information as a result, but it does help keep the cost and size down.

Best for men: Google Pixel Watch 2

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Why it made the cut: This sleek watch can double as a sophisticated timepiece and a high-end fitness tracker. 

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: No
• Battery life: 24 hours
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• Tracks heart rhythms 
• Comes with emergency SOS system
• Sophisticated design
• Available with 4G LTE service as well

Cons

• Only works for Android users

Google bought Fitbit in November 2019, and some of Fitbit’s fitness trackers feature the integration of the parent company’s features. Conversely, Google’s Pixel Watch 2 uses Fitbit’s tracking technology to monitor activity, calories burned, and sleep patterns. It also provides in-depth tracking of the heart rhythm with the ECG feature and can track skin temperature. Additionally, it has an SOS feature that allows users to contact 911 in case of an emergency. And the Android-compatible device pairs with Google’s Wear OS system, Pixel phones, and Pixel buds for running.

This Fitbit for men also allows users to get turn-by-turn guidance from Google Maps, make contactless payments, and receive calendar alerts. You can opt for a Bluetooth version if you want to keep your phone on you for notifications or spend $50 more for the 4G LTE version. But beyond the device’s functionality, it’s also a timepiece that looks great on the wrist with its domed design and AMOLED touchscreen display. Plus, it comes in a variety of color options, so you can choose one that fits your style best.

Best budget: Fitbit Inspire 3

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Why it made the cut: With all the essential fitness tracking capabilities, the Inspire 3 gives you the features you need at a more affordable price.

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: Yes
• Built-in GPS: No
• Battery life: Up to 10 days
• Premium membership: Free for 6 months

Pros

• 20 fitness functions
• Long battery life
• Long premium trial

Cons

• Limited smartphone notifications
• Small, hard-to-read screen

If you just need a basic fitness tracker, try the Fitbit Inspire 3. It tracks all the basics—steps, calories, heart rate, etc. It also has more advanced features than other trackers, including active zone alert, cardio fitness scores, and a “daily readiness score” to make sure you let your body recover between workouts.

That said, this cheap Fitbit is very much an essentialist fitness tracker. It has some smartwatch functionality, including notifications for calls, text, and social media. It also offers stress management features and menstrual health tracking. These features require looking at the Inspire 3’s tiny screen, which isn’t ideal for anything beyond the quickest of glances. This is definitely a tracker for people who actively want to avoid the “smart features” and stay focused on working out. Looking to save a few dollars with an older version? Read our review of the Fitbit Inspire 2.

Best for kids: Fitbit Ace 3

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Why it made the cut: Arguably the most feature-rich fitness tracker designed specifically for kids, the Ace 3 helps keep your little one moving.

Specs

• Heart rate monitor: No
• Built-in GPS: No
• Battery life: Up to 8 days
• Premium membership: Not included

Pros

• Parent View safety feature
• Incentivizes fitness in kids
• Bedtime reminders and sleep tracking

Cons

• Single wristband size doesn’t fit all wrists
• Some users have reported durability issues with the buckle

There aren’t too many quality fitness trackers designed specifically for kids, so the Fitbit Ace 3 is incredibly useful and the best Fitbit for kids. It primarily tracks steps and sleep but can also set challenges to keep kids motivated and active. You can also set reminders to prompt children to get up, move, stretch, or sleep at specific times. Its features are comparatively very limited beyond the basics, but it is water-resistant for up to 50 meters, so it is durable and can stay on in the pool.

The Ace 3 supports the Fitbit app, which features separate viewing modes for parents and kids when you activate the Family Account mode. In Parent View mode, parents can monitor their kid’s activity and approve any connections in the Fitbit social community. Meanwhile, Kid View presents a child-friendly version of the fitness tracker experience, with access to stats, badges, personalized avatars, and challenges. Like many of the best smartwatches for kids, it’s cute but quite feature-packed.

What to consider before buying a Fitbit

Each Fitbit variety offers its unique features and benefits, so it’s important to keep a few things in mind when choosing which is the best one for you and whether that’s the latest Fitbit or old Fitbit models. These are, for the most part, the same considerations to keep in mind when picking any fitness tracker or fitness watch. 

Health goals

To judge any fitness tracker, you must know how you plan to use it. Are you looking to track your high-impact workouts or simply ensure you get your steps in? Monitor heart health or blood oxygen levels? Or maybe sleep tracking and monitoring mindfulness? Different Fitbits come with varying feature sets that will accommodate different goals. Often, more complex trackers will be larger, more complicated, and more expensive. Finding the right balance among those three factors will set you up to use your Fitbit to the fullest.

Cost

Fitbits come in many shapes and sizes, meaning some are more expensive than others. Some models cost as little as $60. Others get as high as $400. Again, you want to find a balance between feature-set and price that works for you, but it’s also generally important to keep your budget in mind as you shop.

Smart functions

While some Fitbits act as fairly basic fitness trackers, others are much more elaborate smartwatches. Which is right for you depends on whether or not you need all those smarts.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Fitbits

• Best overall: Fitbit Versa 4
• Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Charge 6
• Best watch: Fitbit Sense 2
• Best for women: Fitbit Luxe
• Best for men: Google Pixel Watch 2
• Best budget: Fitbit Inspire 3
• Best for kids: Fitbit Ace 3

The best Fitbit for you comes down to one of two factors: whether you want a smartwatch or a fitness tracker and your budget. The core fitness tracking features are largely consistent among most models. Hence, you need to consider whether you care about smartphone-related lifestyle features and the advanced fitness analytics that come with Fitbit’s premium subscription. Ultimately, most Fitbits are great so long as their features and your expectations are in sync.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Fitbits for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Modern adults are rarely without footwear, all too eager to cover their feet for everything from walking to the mailbox to relaxing on the back porch. And while shoes are, of course, frequently required (like for your morning coffee run, grocery shopping, and dinner out with friends), the outdoors offer a stellar opportunity to kick off your shoes and free your feet for a change.

Yes, despite the presence of dirt, sticks, mud, and uneven surfaces, you can—and perhaps should—ditch your shoes for your next ramble in the woods. Because going barefoot offers holistic health and wellness benefits, strengthens your feet, improves balance, and is just plain fun. Here’s how to do it safely and why you might want to consider hiking barefoot on your next outing.

The benefits of walking barefoot

There have been numerous studies documenting the benefits of walking barefoot, including strengthening foot and leg muscles, improving balance, and potentially reducing inflammation.

The physical effects stem from the fact that when barefoot, the small bones, muscles, and ligaments in your feet can move more freely than they would in typical footwear that reduces natural movement. This restriction can lead to physically weaker foot muscles, less stabilization when walking, and even flat arches.

The potential anti-inflammatory effects may be attributed to the practice of grounding or earthing, which involves your bare skin touching natural surfaces—as it would when walking barefoot. Grounding has been shown in small studies to reduce pain and inflammation, but more research is needed.

There are also more immediately tangible results to hiking in unshod feet, explains Paul Thompson, a podiatrist and founder of The Barefoot Movement, who specializes in barefoot neuromuscular training in New South Wales, Australia. “Traditional shoes often encourage compensations in our natural gait,” he says. “By returning to a barefoot state, we can utilize our entire body in a more balanced and efficient manner. This not only improves the efficiency of walking but also allows us to adapt more effectively to varying terrains.”

Translation: hiking barefoot could improve your balance and reduce your risk of injury. Thompson says that’s because the “heightened sensitivity translates into improved reaction times, enabling hikers to swiftly respond to terrain changes and avoid potential discomfort or injuries.” 

[Related: Learn how to use trekking poles]

But strengthening your feet, just like other parts of your body, takes time, so if you’re new to barefoot hiking, take it slow to protect your soles.

Transition wisely

Much like transitioning to barefoot-style shoes, slow and steady is the way to go when attempting barefoot hiking. After all, if you’ve spent most of your life in cushioned, overbuilt footwear, walking barefoot on any surface is likely going to take some getting used to.

So start with short barefoot walks on soft surfaces like grass. Then incorporate foot exercises into your daily routine. Perform heel raises by planting the balls of your feet and lifting your heels off the ground while squeezing a tennis ball between your heels. Or a technique called “short foot,” where you stand up straight with bare feet, spread your toes, and strive to raise your arches while keeping your heels and the balls of your feet firmly planted.

All of this will strengthen your feet and condition them to the novel feeling and workload of being barefoot for extended periods of time. When you’re ready to hike, Thompson says one short stroll a week is plenty at the start. As your feet become stronger and your soles toughen, you can progressively increase hike duration.

Safety first

When you hike, bring along a first aid kit and a pair of shoes or sandals in case you come to a section of trail you’re not comfortable traversing without foot protection. Slide them on when you need to and back off again whenever you’re ready.

[Related: First aid basics for your adventure in the wilderness]

Then, take it slow. You’ll likely need to pay more attention to where you’re planting your feet than you do while wearing shoes. That means you may end up hiking a bit more slowly than you’re used to, but it also means you’ll be experiencing your surroundings in a more immersive way. So take your time and enjoy the journey.

Find a trail

When it comes to picking the perfect trail for a barefoot hike, some destinations can be more accommodating than others. In Celerina, a small town located in the Swiss Alps, for example, there are dedicated trails specifically for barefoot hiking.

But those are few and far between in the US, so depending on where you’re located, you may have to do a bit of research. One way is to find a local barefoot hiking group, several of which are scattered around the US. If there’s not an official club near you, check websites like Meetup or Facebook for barefoot-friendly hiking events. Even if you don’t want to join a group hike, you can ask for trail recommendations in your area.

If you’re searching on your own, focus on finding trails with ideal surfaces for hiking barefoot, at least when you’re starting out. These include grass, soft dirt, and sand. Even mud is often more fun barefoot than in shoes—plus, going shoeless keeps your boots clean.

Though there aren’t many high moors left in the world, Katharina Moosbrugger, hiking guide and founder of Naturerfahren, a nature-focused tour company in Austria, says these landscapes are an excellent place to walk barefoot thanks to the soft, spongy surfaces. But because these open tracts of land can hide deceptively deep bogs, you’ll want to opt for a guided hike through such areas if you’re not familiar with them. Otherwise, you could easily sink up to your shoulders in wet mud.

Once you’ve found a few ideal spots and are ready to liberate your feet from shoes, have at it. Just remember to take it slow, pick trails wisely, and enjoy the experience of being outdoors as nature intended.

The post How to start hiking barefoot, if you’re into that kind of thing appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Comfier Shiatsu Neck & Back Massager		SEE IT	This massager sits atop an office chair, sofa, or dining room chair to reach pain points in the back, neck, and legs.
Best handheld		RENPHO Rechargeable Hand Held Deep Tissue Massager		SEE IT	The RENPHO massager’s five percussion modes and five interchangeable nodes let you target problem areas on your own.
Best percussion massager		Hypervolt 2 Pro		SEE IT	Multiple attachments and a serious motor target specific areas and take no prisoners, bullying sore, tight muscles into a relaxed mass of goo.

A back massager can’t replace a full-on visit with a massage therapist, but it can provide some much-needed relief for just about any back pain. These handy devices let you target sore spots, loosen tight muscles, and relieve pain. However, you’ve got some decisions because they come in many designs. From massage pads that cover your chair to models that mimic a deep shiatsu massage, these handy tools pamper and maintain mobility at the same time. You can soothe your muscles with vibration or beat out stiffness with a massage gun. Then, you can apply heat to keep everything loose. Back massagers can make you ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ or weep a tear as they knead tight muscles into submission. Here are some of the best back massagers for a variety of bodies.

• Best overall: Comfier Shiatsu Neck & Back Massager
• Best for lower back: MagicMaker Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
• Best handheld: RENPHO Rechargeable Hand Held Deep-Tissue Massager
• Best percussion massager: Hypervolt 2 Pro
• Best mini massager: TheraGun Mini Massage Gun

How we chose the best back massagers

Splitting our time bent over laptops and lugging new gear to test around, we’re no strangers to back pain here at PopSci. We surveyed dozens of products and scoured reviews by media outlets and users to choose the best back massagers. We have chosen a variety of types of back massagers, including percussion massagers and more deep tissue options. Ultimately, we relied on a mixture of hands-on experience, user reviews, editorial reviews, and expert opinions to land our picks.

The best back massagers: Reviews & Recommendations

All back pain isn’t the same, and neither are back massagers. There’s a wide variety of designs and features. Some models mimic shiatsu massage, a deep-tissue massage with roots in Japanese therapy. Others offer percussive massage, working out deep muscle knots, as tight muscles may just need heat and vibration to stimulate blood flow. Some massagers provide a range of massage movements, including different nodes to target various areas of the back and body. We’ve selected multiple types of back massagers so you can find one to heal, relax, and soothe your muscles whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or staring at spreadsheets for hours.

Best overall: Comfier Shiatsu Neck & Back Massager

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Why it made the cut: Four nodes dig into your tense muscles in the best possible way.

Specs

• Levels of intensity: 3
• Power source: AC adapter
• Price at time of publication: $196.99

Pros

• Also gets hips and neck in the mix
• Easy to use in most chairs
• Optional heat function

Cons

• Pricey
• Not very portable

The Comfier Shiatsu Neck & Back Massager uses slow, targeted movements to knead the back, shoulders, neck, and thighs. You can also relax the body into the massager to add a pressure massage to the lower back, waist, and thighs. The shiatsu massage balls in each location (neck and lower back) can be turned on or off independently, so you get a massage only where you want it. Users of different sizes can adjust the position of the neck massagers to fit a taller or shorter torso better. This model folds down for compact storage.

Best for lower back: MagicMaker Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

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Why it made the cut: This simple method for self-massage can also apply heat alongside pressure.

Specs

• Levels of intensity: 3
• Power source: AC adapter
• Price at time of publication: $39.99

Pros

• Targets common trouble areas
• Doesn’t require a second person
• Heat function

Cons

• Requires arm strength some people may not have
• Six-foot power cord can be limiting

The MagicMaker Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager features eight rollers that knead into the muscles. The rollers heat, but you can turn the heat on or off as needed. This model’s design works beautifully for the lower back, and its ergonomic design can rotate to fit the neck and shoulders, too. It includes two massage motions to adjust the massage experience to your needs. 

Best handheld: RENPHO Rechargeable Handheld Deep-Tissue Massager

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Why it made the cut: The extra-long reach makes it simple to get into tricky areas.

Specs

• Levels of intensity: 5
• Power source: Built-in battery
• Price at time of publication: $39.99

Pros

• Long reach to accommodate less flexible users
• Affordable
• Five attachments provide ample options
• Battery-powered for portability

Cons

• Not all the attachments are particularly useful
• Shuts off after 20 minutes to prevent overheating

The RENPHO Rechargeable Handheld Deep-Tissue Massager features a rechargeable battery-powered design that lets you reach behind your back or legs without getting tangled. This cordless model also comes with five interchangeable nodes to target problem areas. A full charge lasts 140 minutes, though it may be lower depending on the level of the massage. The RENPHO also includes a safety feature to prevent overheating that turns the massager off after 20 minutes.

Best percussion massager: Hypervolt 2 Pro

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Why it made the cut: This pro-grade percussion massager has exceptional pressure and extremely robust battery life.

Specs

• Levels of intensity: 5
• Power source: Built-in battery
• Price at time of publication: $329

Pros

• Strong pressure options
• Built for heavy use
• All the attachments feel useful

Cons

• Pricey
• Heavy

Portable, high-powered massagers have become essential equipment for athletes and even casual gym-goers looking to bully their sore muscles into a quick recovery. This high-end option isn’t cheap, but it offers five levels of intensity and guided routines developed by athletes and trainers provided in the companion app (making it one of our top percussion massager picks). The package includes an assortment of five attachments designed to target specific areas. Attachments with larger surface area make the experience a little less intense. Advanced users will want more pointed attachments to really dig into trouble areas.

While this model isn’t cheap, it does offer a serious brushless motor designed to endure frequent and everyday use. A fully charged battery will also provide up to three hours of run-time, which is great if you want to bring it to the gym without having to worry about plugging it in.

It’s not all upside, though. It is rather heavy, and some high-end models offer a slightly more ergonomic design. But, when it comes to performance and durability, the Hypervolt has the advantage.

Best mini massager: TheraGun Mini Massage Gun

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Why it made the cut: This pocket-sized device provides powerful percussion massages on the go.

Specs

• Levels of intensity: 3
• Power source: Lithium-ion battery (included)
• Price at time of publication: $149

Pros

• Powerful
• Provides deep penetration
• Ergonomically designed
• Easy to use

Cons

• Somewhat expensive

Theragun’s Mini Massage Gun fits in the palm of your hand yet can do serious work on sore muscles. This second-generation model is 30 percent lighter than the last model. It features three percussion speeds (1750, 2100, 2400 PPM), penetrating to 12 mm amplitude for deep relief. Each 2.5-hour charge provides 2 hours of running time. Plus, it comes with three attachments that let you customize your massage. This mini massager is also Bluetooth-enabled, and you’ll get access to the Therabody app, which features a library of wellness regimens. At only a pound, Theragun’s Mini Massage Gun can fit inside your gym bag or suitcase to give you sweet relief when you’re away.

Things to consider before buying a back massager

Back massagers may be electric, battery-powered, or manual. Battery-powered models provide portability, making it easier to use the massager throughout your house or take it while you travel. However, electric massagers maintain consistent power. 

With so many affordable electric and battery-powered massagers available, manual massagers have largely fallen out of favor. That doesn’t mean you can’t find one, but you can easily secure an electrical or battery-powered model for a few more dollars. 

Designs range from massagers covering a chair’s seat and back to a low back-only massager. Choose a design that targets your type of pain. For example, pain may strike only during certain positions like sitting or standing. A chair massager can help those stuck on the sofa, while a handheld model can work for those held hostage in the standing position.

Different muscle issues and pain points may respond better to certain types of back massagers. If you want a massager for general muscle soreness (not just in the back), handheld massagers and massage guns can be used almost anywhere on the body. However, if you suffer from severe back pain, a model that targets and is specifically designed for the back may work better.

Dig into knots and pain deep within the muscle

Deep-tissue massage requires a massager reaching the deepest muscle layers and fascia, the muscles’ connective tissues. The massager then uses slow, firm pressure to relieve aches and pains. 

Shiatsu massagers also fall into this category. If you are at a day spa, a shiatsu massage would involve the masseuse using their fingers, thumb, and palms to target the body’s pressure points. Electric and battery-powered shiatsu back massagers mimic this movement, using slow, intense motions.

Lower back pain (LBP) can make it hard to work, stand, or sit

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 28% of men and 31% of women over the age of 18 experience lower-back pain (LBP). Anything from an injury to weight gain can cause LBP, and it can limit activity, work, and sleep. 

Lower-back massagers target this sensitive area with designs that fit the spine’s natural curve. These massagers also feature nodes and balls that dig into the musculature of the lower back without touching the vertebrae. Lower-back massagers may offer vibration, deep tissue massage, and/or heat. Take your pick of the movement that works best for you.

How handheld massagers work

A massager that lets you target pain points yourself can be invaluable. Handheld massagers do just that. These portable models feature a long handle with a massage head that contains one to four massage nodes. Most include different node attachments, from multi-pronged to thin, pointed ones that dig deep into the muscle. 

Most massagers use vibration to stimulate blood flow and relax the muscles. However, some use percussion to press into hard knots to relax the muscle tissue. Many include a heated option, too. Models with cases or storage bags let you keep all the attachments together, so you’re ready for a massage anywhere.

The difference between deep-tissue and percussive massage

Percussive massage differs from deep-tissue massage, even though both target muscles deep within the body’s muscle structure. Percussive massage, also known as deep-muscle stimulation, targets muscle soreness and soft tissue pain. With this method, short, rapid pulses press deep into the body’s soft tissues, stimulating blood flow and elongating muscle tissue. 

These massage guns go hard and fast. They’re not for the faint of heart, but they can work wonders on the sore muscles for which they are designed. Models with varying speeds and intensities provide adjustability based on your comfort level. These guns can be loud, so look for a model with a motor designed to keep noise down. 

Mini massagers save space and let you target problem areas

Mini massagers are smaller versions of full-size massagers. They come in manual, battery-powered, and electric designs. These handheld models may also include different nodes for a greater variety of massage options. They typically have fewer speeds and intensities than larger models, but a mini massager can also be much quieter.

If you’re on a budget, look into a manual massager. The only problem with these is you usually need someone else to do the actual back massaging. But a mini handheld with a long handle can do the trick if you’re usually massaging on your own. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best back massagers

• Best overall: Comfier Shiatsu Neck & Back Massager
• Best for lower back: MagicMaker Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
• Best handheld: RENPHO Rechargeable Hand Held Deep-Tissue Massager
• Best percussion massager: Hypervolt 2 Pro
• Best mini massager: TheraGun Mini Massage Gun

A back massager can work wonders on a chronically sore back. A massager that fits your lifestyle and includes movements that target your pain points will offer the most relief. The best back massager will soothe your hard-to-reach areas with little effort on your part. You can lean into them, close your eyes, and let the massager do its work.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Black Diamond Alpine FLZ		SEE IT	The Black Diamond Alpine FLZ is a dynamic, highly packable trekking pole.
Best carbon fiber		MSR Dynalock Ascent Carbon		SEE IT	The MSR Dynalock Ascent Carbon is a versatile, sturdy, and comfortable pair of poles.
Best aluminum		Leki Makalu Lite		SEE IT	The Leki Makalu Lite will hold up through months-long treks over all sorts of terrain.

Many dedicated backpackers consider a quality pair of trekking poles essential gear for hiking. They help you hike and keep your balance over steep hills, rocky paths, and slippery snow-covered trails. Like their predecessor, the humble walking stick, a quality pair of hiking poles are sturdy enough to put your entire weight on them, yet light enough that they do not feel like a burden after a long day on the trail. They ease the strain on your knees and back, especially if you’re carrying a heavy pack. There are a dizzying number of poles to choose from. They’re made from different materials, feature different designs, and, of course, some are more expensive than others. We’ve tried a whole bunch of popular options, taking them on runs, hikes, climbs, and scrambles to find the best trekking poles for all your outdoor adventures.

• Best overall: Black Diamond Alpine FLZ
• Best carbon fiber: MSR Dynalock Ascent Carbon
• Best aluminum: Leki Makalu Lite
• Best for hiking: Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork
• Best for backpacking: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
• Best ultralight: Gossamer Gear LT5 Three Piece Carbon
• Best budget: Trekology Trek-Z

How we picked the best trekking poles 

I’ve been writing about outdoor gear and my often dubious adventure travel for decades at publications like Hearst, HuffPost, BBC Travel, Fodor’s, Adventure Cycling, Input, and many others. My criteria for experiencing new places usually include how many people visit (the fewer the better), and if it has a reputation as a “challenging” journey. Over the years, I’ve traveled across all kinds of terrain and environments, many of which required a good set of trekking poles to navigate.

I’ve spent a good deal of time testing trekking poles—walking, running, climbing, scrambling, and sometimes falling—all over the world. Over the years, I’ve found a few favorites. I’ve also compared notes and talked for hours with trekkers, hikers, and adventurers about gear around countless campfires and well-worn tables in questionable bars.

The best trekking poles: Reviews & Recommendations

Like most outdoor gear, trekking pole preference can vary from person to person. Given that, our recommendations span a variety of options made from different materials and covering a wide range of prices. All of them, however, have a clear edge over similar poles in important qualities like durability and weight.

Best overall: Black Diamond Alpine FLZ

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Black Diamond Alpine FLZ is a highly versatile pole that packs down small, making it a prime choice for all kinds of activities.

Specs

• Weight: 18 ounces
• Maximum length: 43, 49, or 55 inches
• Collapsed length: 14, 15, or 16 inches
• Shaft material: Aluminum
• Grip material: Cork
• Pole design: Foldable
• Tips: Carbide tips, trail baskets, snow baskets, rubber tips (sold separately)

Pros

• Versatile
• Comfortable handles
• Packable

Cons

• Heavy

The Black Diamond Alpine FLZ is an incredibly versatile trekking pole. The small packable size and durable aluminum construction make it an optimal pole for most everything including rugged trekking, multi-day backpacking, steep hiking, and even backcountry skiing. The cork handles become increasingly more comfortable over time as well as a secondary foam grip.

While a telescoping pole is inherently stronger than a foldable one, I’ve found the Alpine FLZ holds up extremely well in a variety of precarious situations including nefarious water crossings and muddy sheer drop-offs. They feature Black Diamond’s patented Flicklock pro locking mechanism, which uses a lever to secure the pole length with an inner adjustable tension dial that requires a small Allen key to adjust.

The Black Diamond Alpine FLZ is far from the fanciest pair of trekking poles out there but has proven that it can get the job done in difficult situations, and feels comfortable on easy trail hikes.

Best carbon fiber: MSR Dynalock Ascent Carbon

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Why it made the cut: The MSR Dynalock Ascent Carbon is a versatile, sturdy, and comfortable pair of poles that work for a wide variety of adventures.

Specs

• Weight: 17 ounces
• Maximum length: 47 inches or 55 inches
• Collapsed length: 14.25 inches or 17.5 inches
• Shaft material: Carbon fiber
• Grip material: EVA foam
• Pole design: Collapsible
• Tips: Winter and summer baskets

Pros

• Comfortable grip
• Versatile
• Small pack size

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy for a carbon pole

My friend Ben has been almost everywhere on the globe and he always travels with his MSR Dynalock Ascent carbon poles, which he considers an extension of himself and one of the best gear spurges he’s ever made (it may also be the only one).

The Dynalock Ascent poles have comfortable, contoured foam grip handles and padded straps. Each one folds down to a very packable 14.25-17 inches, depending on which size you get. Unlike most other poles where most of the tips are sold separately, these come with both winter and summer basket tips. 

They also feature MSR’s signature Dynalock mechanism, which consists of a thick aluminum lever and an inner metal dial that allows you to tighten or loosen with ease as well as providing exceptional sturdiness. It also locks each section into place with metal buttons on the sides. As someone who often has “Final Destination”-type scenarios running through my brain, I appreciate both of these components. 

Best aluminum: Leki Makalu Lite

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Leki Makalu Lite is one of the most durable poles I’ve tried.

Specs

• Weight: 17.3 ounces
• Maximum length: 54 inches
• Collapsed length: 26 inches
• Shaft material: Aluminum
• Grip material: Cork
• Pole design: Collapsible
• Tips: Carbide tips, summer basket

Pros

• Comfortable
• Extremely durable
• Moderate price

Cons

• Large packed size

If you’re planning to use your trekking poles on a weeks-long adventure, Leki’s Makalu Lite poles are among the most durable we’ve found. Despite the name, they’re slightly thicker than most other poles, making them tremendously strong, as well as fairly heavy.

The Makalu Lite features Leki’s very comfortable “Aergon Air” grip—a cork design with a hollow core and wide support at a lightly tilted ergonomic angle. Like all Leki poles, these use the company’s durable “Speed Lock” system, which combines a lever lock with a small dial to tighten spring tension by hand.

A pair of Makalu Lites is overkill for your average day hike, but their durability is worth the extra weight on a long trip where you’ll traverse mountains or glacial ice for weeks or months.

Best for hiking: Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork is an incredibly sturdy carbon pole with a very comfortable grip.

Specs

• Weight: 17 ounces
• Maximum length: 51 inches
• Collapsed length: 24 inches
• Shaft material: Carbon fiber
• Grip material: Cork
• Pole design: Collapsible
• Tips: Carbide tips and trail baskets included; snow baskets sold separately

Pros

• Comfortable
• Excellent locking mechanism
• Durable

Cons

• Not as packable as other options
• Expensive

I prefer cork handles over rubber and foam because they mold to your hands over time so, eventually, feel like a seamless extension of your body. The cork handles on Black Diamond’s Alpine carbon poles are quite comfortable right out of the box and improve exponentially over time. Like most trekking poles, they have a secondary foam grip beneath the handles, which gives you a comfortable place to grab when you need to lower your grip, as well as wide wrist straps.

They are amazingly durable and sturdy for a carbon pole, thanks to their thicker shafts and Black Diamond’s patented “Flicklock” mechanism, which flips into place with a robust snap. The “Flicklock” system has its disadvantages: The locking mechanism requires a tiny Allen key to adjust, which isn’t ideal since it’s easily misplaced. Not being the most graceful person, (especially when hiking) I routinely get my poles stuck between boulders requiring intense back-and-forth movement to dislodge. Despite this, I have yet to break them.

The collapsed length of these poles means they’re not well-suited to be stowed in a backpack during a technical climb but for most activities, including trekking over rock and snow in remote regions of the world, these poles are a solid choice that will last for years.

Best for backpacking: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork is a solid, affordable option that’s durable enough to handle most backpacking trips.

Specs

• Weight: 18 ounces
• Maximum length: 55 inches
• Collapsed length: 27 inches
• Shaft material: Aluminum
• Grip material: Cork
• Pole design: Collapsible
• Tips: Carbide tips, trekking baskets, and snow baskets

Pros

• Comfortable
• Versatile
• Reasonable mid-range price

Cons

• Doesn’t pack down as small as other options

Black Diamond’s Trail Ergo Cork trekking poles are a great pick for new hikers. They’re sturdy, comfortable, and reliable—a great fit for most backpacking and thru-hiking. Plus, at less than $150, they don’t cost a fortune.

 The cork handles are tilted forward slightly for a more natural, ergonomic wrist alignment. They also have padded straps and a foam secondary grip, making them easy to hold. Like the other Black Diamond hiking poles on our list, these feature the company’s patented “Flicklock” system, ensuring they don’t come loose while you’re walking.

Collapsing to a fairly large 27 inches, they are longer than the majority of other poles when packed away. Unless you’re taking them on a plane, though, that probably shouldn’t be too much of an issue.

Best ultralight: Gossamer Gear LT5 Three Piece Carbon

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Why it made the cut: The Gossamer Gear LT5 is one of the lightest trekking poles available.

Specs

• Weight: 10.6 ounces
• Maximum length: 51 inches
• Collapsed length: 23.5 inches
• Shaft material: Carbon fiber
• Grip material: EVA foam
• Pole design: Collapsible
• Tips: Carbide tips

Pros

• Comfortable
• Ultralight
• Extremely durable for their weight

Cons

• Expensive

For situations where every ounce (or even gram) counts, the ultralight Gossamer Gear LT5 carbon trekking poles streamline your experience better than any other poles. Despite weighing less than 11 ounces, they’re incredibly durable. I used them on a multi-week thru-hike over mixed terrain through a good portion of northern Spain one summer where I was intent on carrying as little weight as possible, both emotionally and physically, and they didn’t let me down.

The twist-lock mechanism is easy to set; you simply rotate the sections for a secure lock. The wrist straps sport comfortable padding and the EVA foam handles have proven to be comfortable enough (though I am partial to cork handles).

The LT5s also serve as great support for ultralight tents that use trekking poles as part of the structure, thus providing a super lightweight sleep system.

Best budget: Trekology Trek-Z

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Trekology Trek-Z is an incredibly inexpensive pole that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or durability.

Specs

• Weight: 26 ounces
• Maximum length: 51 inches
• Collapsed length: 15 inches
• Shaft material: Aluminum
• Grip material: Cork
• Pole design: Foldable
• Tips: Carbide, rubber, snow baskets, mud stops, rubber feet

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Durable
• Folds down small

Cons

• Heavy

Made from aerospace-grade 7075 aluminum alloy, the Trekology Trek-Z is an inexpensive pair of poles that come complete with carbide tips, rubber tips, snow baskets, mud stops, and rubber feet, making them highly adaptable and a huge bargain. They feature a metal flip-lock mechanism that’s easy to operate, though you may not use it often since they offer a very limited 7-inch range. They do collapse into a very compact 15-inch package, though.

For less than $50, the Trek-Z is one of the most affordable poles we’ve seen. Unsurprisingly, they’re also among the heaviest. We wouldn’t recommend them for alpine climbing, mountain running, or speed hiking, where you want to be quick and nimble. For those sticking to the trail and not too concerned about their performance, they’re an excellent option for not a lot of money.

One thing to keep in mind: Trekology makes a new “Trek-Z 2.0” with EVA foam grips instead of cork. In general, I prefer cork grips because of the material’s moldable properties, so we’re sticking with the original. Just keep in mind that it may become harder to find in the coming months.

What to consider when buying trekking poles

Finding the perfect trekking pole can be a daunting task. As with all outdoor gear, there are a variety of options to consider. More often than not, finding the “best” choice requires you to balance different strengths and weaknesses based on your personal needs and taste. The lightest trekking poles will rarely be the absolute sturdiest. The strongest poles will likely not be the most packable. To help you figure out what you need, let’s talk about the most important elements of any trekking pole set.

Sizing up your poles

Trekking poles come in different lengths so that any person can find a pair that feels right. At standing position, the grip of the pole should line up with your elbow or, more precisely, with your hands when your elbows are bent at a 90-degree angle. If you’re shopping at home, look for poles that are adjustable to within 20-24 inches shorter than you. For example, I’m 5 feet 6 inches, or 66 inches, so I want poles that you can set to a height between 42-46 inches.

Most modern trekking poles are adjustable to some degree, so there’s a lot of wiggle room if you aren’t sure about what will feel right. Some companies also make fixed-height poles, as they are technically stronger. All of our recommendations are adjustable, though, as we find them to be much more versatile than fixed-length poles. In general, I usually shorten my poles when ascending a steep incline and lengthen them when descending. Collapsible and foldable trekking poles allow the user to change the overall length of the pole as the terrain and situation merit.

Collapsible poles feature a telescoping design, where increasingly narrow sections slide and fit inside each other. Foldable poles have a reinforced cord running through them that holds the sections together when pulled apart while allowing them to fold—like the pole technology used in most lightweight tents. 

Telescoping poles will be stronger than their foldable counterparts because, in most cases, the pole overlaps and slides into itself at a greater distance than foldable ones. A fixed-length pole will be the most durable option, though, as there are no weak points or breaks in the shaft. Many poles now feature one telescoping section coupled with two folding sections to offer more precise adjustment options.

Pole material

Most trekking poles are made from either high-grade aluminum or carbon fiber. Carbon fiber produces a lighter pole, while sacrificing a bit of durability. Under intense stress, a carbon fiber pole will likely snap. Aluminum poles, by contrast, will usually bend before they break, giving you a bit of a warning that you should navigate out of that particular situation right away if at all possible. 

If you’re looking for speed and/or the ability to go long distances, a carbon pole is probably your best choice. If you’re okay with a slightly heavier pole (and we’re usually talking ounces here, not pounds), an aluminum pole may be a better fit for difficult terrain and will last a bit longer.

Check the grip

You’re going to spend a long time holding your trekking poles’ grips, so you want to make sure that they’re comfortable. You should take a look at the grip and, ideally, give it a squeeze to see how it feels in your hand.

Most pole grips are made from cork, foam, or rubber. I prefer cork because the material molds to the shape of your hand over time. Grips made with EVA foam are also often quite comfortable and weigh a bit less than cork. Rubber grips absorb shock exceptionally well, but can get sticky and cause blisters when it’s hot and humid out.

Tips

Trekking poles come with different kinds of tips on the end, which can help you move across different kinds of terrain. Many poles, including our recommendations, either come with multiple sets of pole tips or give you the opportunity to buy alternate tips or replacements when you need them. (You should replace your tips every 1,500-2,000 miles.) Most pole tips have a screw-on mechanism, so it’s easy to change them on the fly, so it’s nice to have multiple options on your trip. Here are some of the most common choices:

Rubber tips provide extra grip on wet surfaces, as well as shock absorption on paved surfaces. Since they’re softer and less pointy, rubber tips don’t tear up trails as much as carbide tips, but also don’t provide as much traction.

Carbide tips are extremely durable. They don’t wear down as quickly as rubber versions. With a sharper point, they grip well on rock, dirt, and ice, allowing you to really dig into surfaces. They’ll also rip up soft dirt, so they may damage hiking trails.

Rubber feet have a shape that resembles a small foot. With a wider footprint, they allow you to move faster without losing your balance.

Mud baskets attach a few inches above the tip of your poles and prevent your poles from sinking down too far into soft, muddy earth. They can also prevent some of the mud from splattering onto your calves. Like carbide tips, though, they can damage plant life on trails, so you should reserve them for appropriate terrain.

Snow baskets are a wider version of mud baskets made for snow. They function like snowshoes, keeping your poles near the surface of deep snow.

Locking mechanism

If you follow my lead and go with adjustable poles, you should take a closer look at how it opens and closes. Most adjustable trekking poles feature a locking mechanism with a lever that opens or closes to slide the pole length up or down, coupled with a push button lock or spring-loaded twist lock. Many also include an inner dial in the lever to increase or decrease tension. When considering a pole, check to make sure it’s easy to adjust the poles and operate the lock with or without gloves. If you buy poles that require special tools to change spring tension, make sure those are included. You want a pole that you can easily adjust when out on the trail but also locks securely.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best trekking poles

• Best overall: Black Diamond Alpine FLZ
• Best carbon fiber: MSR Dynalock Ascent Carbon
• Best aluminum: Leki Makalu Lite
• Best for hiking: Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork
• Best for backpacking: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
• Best ultralight: Gossamer Gear LT5 Three Piece Carbon
• Best budget: Trekology Trek-Z

Outdoor gear companies are always finding ways to build sturdier, lighter trekking poles, but I find that you don’t need to get too worried about the particulars. As long as you get a pair that’s sturdy, comfortable to hold, and light enough to use all day, you shouldn’t worry too much about optimizing for the “best” experience. More than anything, you want something reliable. All of the poles included here are durable and comfortable with the potential to be that favorite piece of gear you don’t leave for an adventure without.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best trekking poles of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for beginners		Hayabusa T3		SEE IT	These synthetic gloves come in tons of colors and weights.
Best for sparring		Fairtex BGV1		SEE IT	The classic hook shape makes them useful for working in a clinch.
Best budget		RDX		SEE IT	These solid, reliable gloves retail for roughly $30.

Selecting the right pair of boxing gloves can be a difficult task. Whether you’re a seasoned pugilist or a total newcomer to fight sports, the importance of high-quality equipment can’t be overstated. A good set of gloves is important for protecting your wrists and hands, but they also play an important role in the safety of your training partners. You must consider details like their overall weight, padding, material, and wrist support. With the explosion in popularity of casual boxing classes, a variety of options have flooded the market. Today, there are countless brands, styles, and materials to choose from, so I’ve assembled a list detailing some of my favorites to help you navigate. Plenty of quality brands exist beyond those discussed here, so shop around, try out different pairs, and find the best boxing gloves for you.

• Best overall: Twins Special
• Best for beginners: Hayabusa T3
• Best for heavy bag: Ringside Apex Flash
• Best for sparring: Fairtex BGV1 
• Best for sparring (runner up): Yokkao
• Best budget: RDX

How we chose the best boxing gloves

I’ve been practicing martial arts on and off since I was eight years old. I picked up kickboxing in my teens, MMA in my 20s, and Muay Thai in my 30s. I now train students at a handful of fight and fitness gyms around NYC, where students of every age and level come to sharpen their skills. After a few decades of training and teaching, I’ve gotten a handle on what to look for when finding just the right pair. You’re going to prioritize the details that are most important to you. Still, I looked at overall construction, design, durability, price, and basically how each glove feels when I use it on the bag or when hitting pads. So, mix up some protein powder, strap on a pair, and get to punching.

The best boxing gloves: Reviews & Recommendations

You won’t truly know how much you love a pair of boxing gloves until you hear them slap against a pad or a bag, but we fully recommend these pairs based on years of experience.

Best overall: Twins Special

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Specs

• Material: Leather
• Weights: 10oz, 12 oz, 14oz, or 16oz

Pros

• Extremely durable
• Stay firmly in place
• Ample protection
• Impeccable reputation

Cons

• Some may prefer a longer cuff
• Hard to buy online

Twins Specials is known for being a classic, high-quality, widely respected maker of boxing gloves. They’re made in Thailand, with a long history of producing premium equipment. They top my list because of their fit, weight distribution, construction, and durability. Their standard models are generally round around the fist with more-than-sufficient padding over the knuckles and a short cuff over the wrist (I personally dislike a long wrist cuff that goes way up my forearm, and these do not have one, but that’s a personal choice). They’re really well balanced, too, with just the right amount of weight on the hand versus the wrist. They also last forever. You can beat the heck out of them on the bag or on the mitts (even with an old-school trainer with heavy hands), and these gloves will somehow still keep their shape and padding. They are a little more expensive, with authentic pairs rarely less than $100, but totally worth the price tag. I’m looking forward to seeing more faux leather options from them in the future. Bottom line, Twins Special has well-earned its excellent reputation. The only trouble is buying them online. You can find limited models from online retailers, but a local shop is your best bet.

Best for beginners: Hayabusa T3

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Specs

• Material: Vylar
• Weights: 10oz, 12oz, 14oz, 16oz, or 18oz

Pros

• Tough synthetic outer
• Ample knuckle protection
• Lots of wrist support
• Tons of color and size options
• Five layers of foam for impact absorption

Cons

• Breaking-in process can take a while

The Hayabusa T3 is a really high-quality glove with great wrist support, making it my top pick for beginners. Many new boxers can struggle with hand and wrist pain because of the misalignment of their joints when striking. To help solve this, the T3 runs a semi-rigid “splint” across the wrist (from the cuff to the knuckles) that helps keep the arm straight and knuckles in place when throwing a punch. Additionally, the dual straps help support the wrist and fortify it on impact. Multiple layers of dense padding help, too, and the gloves just plain look cool in pretty much every color variation. They take a few more rounds on the bag to “break in” than other brands, but that’s a good thing for newbies. 

Best for heavy bag: Ringside Apex Flash

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Specs

• Material: Leather
• Weights: 14oz or 16oz

Pros

• Round shape provides extra padding at the knuckles
• Good bounce off the bag
• Good for high-volume training
• Flashy colors
• Protect joints

Cons

• Limited weight options

Ringside makes great equipment all around, and the Apex Flash line of boxing gloves is no exception. I find Ringside gloves to be well “rounded” around the knuckles, giving a bit more of a padded feel when landing heavy strikes. This is beneficial when you’re going deep in rounds on a densely packed heavy bag that doesn’t have much give. You want the slight “bounce” off the glove the Apex Flash will give you every time you throw a jab or a cross so that a high-volume training session doesn’t have a high-volume impact on your knuckles, elbows, or other joints. 

Best for sparring: Fairtex BGV1

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Specs

• Material: Synthetic leather
• Weights: 14oz, 16oz, 18oz, or 20oz

Pros

• Another brand with an impeccable reputation from a long tradition
• Plush cushioning for protection
• Durable despite softness
• Hook shape is ideal for kickboxing
• Available up to 20 ounces in some colors

Cons

• Graphics may not match everyone’s style

Fairtex is one of the most well-respected names in boxing, kickboxing, and especially Muay Thai training equipment. Their gloves are superbly made, and they offer a wide variety of styles and colorways. I’ve probably owned more pairs of Fairtex gloves, shinpads, and shorts than any other brand. The BGV1 is a great standard-issue glove evenly weighted around the fist with a short cuff around the wrist. I chose them for sparring because the padding is strong enough to protect your knuckles but cushy enough not to thud too heavily on your training partner and because the material doesn’t easily degrade (which could scratch your training partner’s face). Additionally, if you’re working on the inside or doing clinch work, they have a classic “hook” shape to the palm side of the glove that helps maintain a grip on your opponent. Fairtex also makes it easy to find heavier pairs, like 18 oz and 20 oz gloves, for bigger fighters.

Best for sparring (runner up): Yokkao

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Specs

• Material: Leather
• Weights: 8oz, 10oz, 12oz, 14oz, 16oz, or 18oz

Pros

• Extra-long cuff for wrist support
• Soft-but-durable leather outer
• Hook shape for clinching
• Tons of color and size options

Cons

• Some users don’t love the smell of the leather (which eventually goes away)

Best budget: RDX

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Specs

• Material: Synthetic leather
• Weights: 8oz, 10oz, 12oz, 14oz, or 16oz

Pros

• Very affordable
• Simple, sturdy closure
• Solid ventilation
• Durable
• Very attached thumb to encourage beginners to make the correct fist shape

Cons

• Not as plush as expensive models

These days, you can get a pretty good pair of boxing gloves without burning through your wallet. RDX makes great high-level gear but also some of the sturdiest affordable gloves on the market. At about $30, this pair hits all the marks—solid construction, balanced weighting, dense padding through the knuckles, and they just look cool. I’m also a fan of the faux-leather material, which is just as durable as its more expensive real-leather cousin. It used to be that you couldn’t find a solid pair of boxing gloves for less than $75, and then it dropped to $50, but these RDX really do the trick for anyone just getting into striking who doesn’t want to make a big investment yet. 

What to consider when shopping for the best boxing gloves

Here are some essential terms to know and variables to consider when you set out to find the perfect pair of boxing gloves:

Style

Most boxing gloves are constructed relatively similarly in terms of shape and “style.” Some Muay Thai gloves will have a bit of a “hook” design to them that aids in clinching, but overall, the differences are pretty subtle for most users. When considering how they fasten, you typically can choose between velcro and laces. Most gloves on the market open and close using velcro straps because it’s quick and easy. You can usually get a pretty tight grip, too, unless it begins to wear out (less common with the more expensive pairs). Laced-up gloves are great for getting a more snug fit around the hand, but they’re not really necessary below a certain level of training. In most scenarios, velcro gloves are completely appropriate, especially if you don’t have a trainer to help you get in and out of them. 

Material

Boxing gloves are typically made out of leather, but faux-leather options are on the rise and totally viable. As recently as 10 years ago, you didn’t want to purchase the non-leather options because the material would quickly break down after a handful of workouts. Today, it seems most companies have mastered the manufacturing process, and you can get inexpensive versions of both leather and faux-leather boxing gloves that will last you a while. On the inner part of the glove, you’ll typically find some kind of nylon lining, whereas some gloves will feature foam. I tend to favor lining because it’s easier to slide your hand in and out and because it helps stop sweat from absorbing into the deeper parts of the glove. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best boxing gloves

• Best overall: Twins Special
• Best for beginners: Hayabusa T3
• Best for heavy bag: Ringside Apex Flash
• Best for sparring: Fairtex BGV1 
• Best for sparring (runner up): Yokkao
• Best budget: RDX

At the end of the day, buying the right pair of boxing gloves is a personal decision. A strong case can be made for any of the gloves above, as well as a host of other great brands out there, but you have to find the glove that fits your needs and physiology best. Figure out your training routine and goals, then pick a pair and go! For the vast majority of us, any glove is better than no glove or no training at all. Take into consideration some of the specifics we mentioned above—weight, material, training methods, etc.—and then talk to your coach and training partners and see what they say. Try a few pairs out, and don’t be afraid to switch them up if you feel they aren’t what you’re looking for. “Protect your tools” is one of the most important things I remember from my first MMA coach, and a good pair of boxing gloves is part of that. Luckily, there are plenty on this list to choose from. Good luck and happy hitting!

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best boxing gloves in 2023, according to experts appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		YETI Rambler 26-ounce Bottle		SEE IT	A variety of sizes and mouthpieces mean you can build your best bottle.
Best with straw		Takeya Pickleball Insulated Water Bottle with Straw Lid		SEE IT	An included silicon bumper protects from dings and dents.
Best 64 oz.		Stanley Ice Flow Flip Straw Jug		SEE IT	No refills are necessary with this easy-to-carry bottle.

The hottest accessory of the season (or maybe it’s the coolest, depending on the contents) is an insulated water bottle. Although that sounds a little zany to say in a world of Amazon and Etsy, the #emotionalsupportwaterbottle tag on TikTok has 45.1 million views, with hundreds of videos of people showing off their rotation of reusable water bottles—plural—in a variety of colors, sizes, and brands. Those looking for this level of attachment—something trustworthy and always at your side, much like an emotional support animal—often turn to insulated varieties, which can keep drinks frosty for hours sans condensation, making them perfect travel companions. The best insulated water bottles go the distance when it comes to keeping drinks icy in style, and here are our picks.

• Best overall: YETI Rambler 26-ounce Bottle
• Best sustainable: Klean Kanteen TKWide
• Best with straw: Takeya Pickleball Insulated Water Bottle with Straw Lid
• Best for kids: Hydro Flask 12-ounce Kids Wide Mouth Straw Lid
• Best with a filter: LifeStraw Go Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle
• Best 64 oz.: Stanley Ice Flow Flip Straw Jug
• Best budget: Igloo 36-ounce Vacuum-Insulated Bottle

How we chose the best insulated water bottles

As a former field hockey player and marching band kid, I know the importance of a water bottle that can go from class to sports practice to band rehearsal without breaking a sweat—literally. Although I was both an average athlete and slightly better musician, I can say with confidence that I’m a water bottle expert (hydration is very important to me, a water sign). Although my current hydration MVP is a pink 32-ounce Nalgene plastic water bottle I was excited to rescue from my college bookstore’s lost & found, I’ve had insulated water bottles from Yeti, Hydro Flask, Stanley, and Kleen Kanteen in my rotation. I also looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and conducted first-hand testing to separate the bad bottles from the rest of the bunch. The only thing we don’t like to keep bottled up at PopSci is our feelings on the best buys. 

How do insulated water bottles work?

One of the biggest reasons to opt for one of the best insulated water bottles and not something like the BPA-free Tritan plastic in my Nalgene bottle is the vacuum insulation—a small gap of air between the bottle walls to reduce conduction, keeping liquids hot or cold for several hours. Additionally, this also prevents the outer layer from sweating and causing water marks on some surfaces. Plastic may be durable and is less likely to dent in a fall, but it will warm up if left in a hot car. Beyond temperature retention, there are certain things to keep in mind when picking an insulated water bottle.

The best insulated water bottles: Reviews & Recommendations

These insulated water bottles will leave you feeling refreshed—hydration-wise and “this water bottle is a nice step-up from the other things I’ve used”-wise.

Best overall: YETI Rambler 26-ounce Bottle

SEE IT

Also available on Amazon

Why it made the cut: Throw it in your backpack and then throw it in the dishwasher—this bottle is meant to keep up with busy lifestyles. 

Specs

• Sizes: 12, 18, 26, 36, 46, 64 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• Temperature retention: 12-24 hours for iced drinks; 12 for hot
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth with removable Chug Cap

Pros

• Tough
• Dishwasher safe
• Lots of mouthpiece accessories are available

Cons

• 5-year warranty
• A bit more expensive compared to other reusable water bottles

There was stiff competition to name the best overall water bottle. However, the Yeti Rambler takes home the top prize. It’s more durable than other contenders like Hydro Flask, and the powder coating has a great feel and grip to it. The bottle itself comes in a plethora of fun colors (with equally fun names like “Bimini Pink” and “King Crab”), and the number of accessories you can get for your bottle is astonishing. We think the included Chug Cap is a happy medium between wide-mouth ease and narrow-mouth accessibility; you can remove the Chug Cap for washing and ice insertion and put it back on for spillage-free sips. 

The handle on the bottle feels sturdy and is grabble—an important feature for slippy-fingered people like myself. Even the straw cap warrants major kudos—you don’t have to touch the straw part to flip it up, and the handle is offset, so you can sip without any logistical problems. Yeti advertises 12-24 hours for keeping iced drinks cold, but we think it can keep drinks cold for closer to 36 hours. Although the five-year warranty is great in theory, other comparable brands feature a lifetime warranty on their bottles. And, although the price is great in the long run, you can technically get an insulated water bottle that will last just as long (with more dings and dents) but is cheaper. However, we think Yeti is worth the investment.

Best sustainable: Klean Kanteen TKWide

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Why it made the cut: Insulated water bottles are already sustainable, but Klean Kanteen’s 90% post-consumer 18/8 stainless steel composition goes the extra eco-friendly mile.

Specs

• Sizes: 12, 16, 20, 32, 64
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• Temperature retention: 46-47 hours for iced drinks, depending on cap; 14 hours hot with cafe cap
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth

Pros

• Steel straw in twist mouthpiece is more luxurious and eco-friendly than plastic
• Twist cap straw design is stylish and prevents germs
• Innovative internal thread design
• Lots of accessory options

Cons

• Straw cap not recommended for hot liquids due to stainless steel straw
• Mouthpieces have more crevices than other bottles
• Handle could be more robust

If you thought your reusable water bottle was saving the planet, wait until you meet the Klean Kanteen TKWide line. The company states that 95 percent of its products will be made from recycled steel by 2023; however, the TKWide line is explicitly made from recycled steel right now. 

We love the innovative twist cap straw design, which hides the straw mouthpiece completely until use, meaning it’s only exposed to the world when you want it to be. The internal thread design uses a series of rounded bumps rather than a line of threads to create a better seal, keeping your drinks cooler for longer. There are multiple cap options available to turn your TKWide into a tumbler for iced coffee or transform it into athletic mode with the sport cap. If you’re looking for a bottle with a sleek handle, the TKWide metal loop cap is for you. It’s easy to snag with two fingers, but it might not be for you if you’re looking for something truly grabbable.

Best with straw: Takeya Pickleball Insulated Water Bottle with Straw Lid

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Why it made the cut: A large, flexible handle, included silicon bumper, and leakproof design are all game-winning features.

Specs

• Sizes: 32, 40, 64 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• Temperature times: 24 hours cold; 12 hours hot
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth with straw lid

Pros

• Large handle
• Included silicone bumper
• Leakproof 

Cons

• Reviews note pink bottle looks different in the product photo than in real-life

When looking for an insulated water bottle with a straw cap, we like to see some specific features: a durable handle that isn’t in the way of the straw itself; a ridge to easily flip up the straw so it doesn’t come in contact with sweaty or dirty hands; and a leakproof design. The Takeya Pickleball Insulated Water Bottle with Straw Lid checks off all these boxes, with an included silicone bumper to prevent damage. A powder coating makes this bottle durable and easy to hold, and the large handle makes it easy to clip onto a backpack or carry around. 

These bottles are also cheaper than others on this list of a similar size—for example, a 32-ounce Hydroflask retails for $44.95, depending on where you purchase it. This bottle retails for $39.99, which is a steal considering it comes with a silicone bumper, which other companies sell separately. We think everyone is sleeping on this Japanese brand. If you’re looking for a serious step-up option, check out the Titanium Aurora Bottle from Snow Peak, a Japanese outdoors brand founded out of the snowy mountains that crafts elevated everyday items.

Best for kids: Hydro Flask 12-ounce Kids Wide Mouth Straw Lid

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This lightweight bottle has an included silicone boot for extra protection.

Specs

• Sizes: 12 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes 
• Temperature times: 24 hours for cold drinks
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth

Pros

• Perforated silicone boot for extra protection
• Kid-friendly features like a place to write a name
• Straw doesn’t need to be open all the way to take a sip

Cons

• Handle design not the most comfortable to hold
• Not leakproof

It was tough to choose between this and the Yeti Rambler Jr. as best for kids. However, the included silicon boot—which other companies sell as a separate accessory—and kid-specific features like a place to write their name edged it out. It’s also lighter than the Yeti Rambler Jr., clocking in at 9.6 ounces compared to 1 pound.

The straw doesn’t need to be opened all the way to take a sip, which is a blessing and a curse: it’s easier to drink out of, but it’s not leakproof. Additionally, the handle is out of the way from taking a sip but is a little uncomfortable to hold since it requires you to hook your fingers rather than allow for a full grab. The company does sell water bottle slings separately, which can keep everyone hands-free. If this bottle doesn’t tickle your kid’s hydration fancy, check out our other picks for the best kid water bottles.

Best with a filter: LifeStraw Go Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle

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Why it made the cut: Clean water is all around you with this fabulous filtered bottle.

Specs

• Sizes: 24 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes, only with filter and carbon capsule removed
• Temperature times: 24 hours cold; not recommended for hot liquids
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth with straw mouthpiece

Pros

• Included carabiner
• Clean water anywhere
• Dishwasher safe

Cons

• One size only
• Heavy
• Doesn’t fit in standard cupholders

Finding clean water in the great outdoors is a struggle. Heck, even finding clean water in cities is difficult—looking at you, suss outdoor water fountain in the park. The LifeStraw Go Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle gets rid of this drinkable debacle thanks to its included Titan Renew and membrane microfilters, which protect against parasites, microplastics, chlorine, organic chemical matter, dirt, sand, and cloudiness, while also improving taste. 

Specifically, LifeStraw’s membrane microfilter removes 99.999999% of bacteria, 99.999% of parasites, 99.999% of microplastics, silt, sand, and cloudiness. It meets NSF 42 standard for chlorine reduction and meets U.S. EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites. This means you can also have access to clean water internationally. The carbon filter costs around $10 to replace, and the replacement two-stage membrane filter costs around $25. However, these filters only need replacing every 1,000 gallons—that’s a lot of lake water. Although it’s heavier than other insulated water bottles, doesn’t fit in standard cup holders, and only comes in one size, we think the benefits of clean water outweigh these cons. If you’re looking for a bottle with UV light filtering, consider the LARQ PureVis Bottle, which is also self-cleaning.

Best 64 oz.: Stanley Ice Flow Flip Straw Jug

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Why it made the cut: This jug is easy to carry and keeps drinks cold for hours, making it easy to drink more water.

Specs

• Sizes: 64 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• Temperature times: cold for 20 hours; 4 days with ice
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth with straw lid

Pros

• Extra large moveable handle 
• Leakproof straw
• Insulated lid doubles as a cup

Cons

• Heavy when filled

Stanley Adventure Quencher travel tumblers are currently every TikTok drink girlie’s must-have item. A TikTok drink girlie is a person (girlie is gender neutral) who has at least three beverages on their person at once, one of them being some sort of chaotic Utah soda concoction or an iced coffee. Stanley makes a mean water bottle as well, and its 64-ounce Ice Flow Flip Straw Jug is our favorite. Unlike other jugs, which come with a narrower mouthpiece for chugging, this water bottle comes with a straw for easy sipping—no one wants to recreate the water-chair scene in Flashdance IRL, at least not unintentionally. 

Its temperature control is also unbeatable—four days with ice is a long time! The large, moveable handle allows you to carry the (objectively heavy) jug with ease. I have an older model of this jug with a fixed handle, and I’m debating swapping it out for this model. Although it won’t fit in your cupholder, you can throw it on the floor of your car without worrying about it tipping over—and if it does, you’re less likely to experience any spills.

Best budget: Igloo 36-ounce Vacuum-Insulated Bottle

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Why it made the cut: You don’t have to sacrifice quality for price with this bottle, which has the same cooling times and features as more expensive varieties. 

Specs

• Sizes: 26, 36 ounces
• Dishwasher safe: Yes
• Temperature times: 48 hours cold; 12 hours hot
• Mouthpiece: Wide mouth

Pros

• Ergonomic handle
• Great price for how long it can keep drinks cold
• Powder coating for durability

Cons

• Reviewers note the bottle leaking despite closing it tightly

If you’re looking for quality on a budget, look no further than cooler-aficionado Igloo. Although the company doesn’t sell any accessory mouthpieces—you’re kinda stuck with the wide mouth bottle with twist cap—you might be able to get away with finding an accessory cap from another company (which we are obligated to say, do this at your own risk). This bottle features similar specs as our best overall, the Yeti Rambler, at a fraction of the price. The products even have almost identical dimensions and handle shapes. Which is to say we love this bottle for the same reasons we love the Rambler: a powder coat finish for durability, an ergonomic handle, and lasting cooling power.

What to consider when buying the best insulated water bottles

Size: Insulated water bottles bring plenty of bounce to the ounce; the water bottles on this list range from 18 ounces all the way up to 64 ounces. Shop for a size based on your water intake. If you’re a frequent hydrator or athlete, you might want to consider a bottle that is 32 ounces and up. For on-the-go use, I personally enjoy a water bottle in the 24- to 32-ounce range—it’s not too small that I need to refill it constantly, but not a complete lug to haul around. However, I have a 64-ounce water bottle for the sole purpose of getting in my daily water intake without having to refill. Those looking for super-extra hydration should consider a gallon water bottle. Tiny tykes who don’t need that much water should aim for a 12-ounce bottle.

Dishwasher friendliness: You should wash your stainless steel water bottle after every use, regardless of what was in the bottle. Not all stainless steel bottles are dishwasher safe, however. Warm, soapy water and a sponge does the trick for bottles that require handwashing. If you have a bottle with a narrower opening or one that has hard-to-reach crevices—which equals a stinky, smelly, stainless steel bottle—look for a bottle brush or bottle-cleaning tabs to take care of the job. All of the bottles on our list are dishwasher safe.

Sip preferences: Wide-mouth water bottles are great if you want a cup-like sipping experience or want to throw in some ice hassle-free. However, you might get some spillage on your shirt and face in public, which is humbling, to say the least. A narrow mouth prevents that but is harder to load up with ice. A flip-up straw lets you sip your water as you please, but can be harder to chug based on the model. Companies often sell separate cap accessories to customize a sipping experience to your liking. 

Weight & durability: Stainless steel vacuum-insulated water bottles tend to be light and durable, thanks to 18/8 stainless steel, which refers to its elemental composition: 18% chromium and 8% nickel. However, there is still a possibility for dings during use since some bottles have a thinner outer layer of stainless steel compared to others. This makes them lighter in weight but more prone to dents. And, like phone screens, you never know if your bottle will survive a short fall on concrete or a 3-foot tumble down a mountain. 

Additionally, the bottle’s paint coating affects its durability. Powder-coated bottles are less prone to scratches and peeling than liquid-coated bottles. The powder coating also gives the bottle more grip, which prevents it from slipping out of your hands. Handles, slings, and silicon sleeves can add personality and keep your bottle ding-and-dent-free. 

Thankfully, you can allegedly fix a dented bottle with some hot and cold water or a hairdryer and dry ice. This is all to say that a bottle with a thicker outer layer and a powder paint coating will typically experience fewer dents. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best insulated water bottles

• Best overall: YETI Rambler 26-ounce Bottle
• Best sustainable: Klean Kanteen TKWide
• Best with straw: Takeya Pickleball Insulated Water Bottle with Straw Lid
• Best for kids: Hydro Flask 12-ounce Kids Wide Mouth Straw Lid
• Best with a filter: LifeStraw Go Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle
• Best 64 oz.: Stanley Ice Flow Flip Straw Jug
• Best budget: Igloo 36-ounce Vacuum-Insulated Bottle

Choosing the best insulated water bottle doesn’t have to dry out your spirit. You can find high-quality bottles to fit your liking and lifestyle across all price points. Handles, different mouthpieces, accessories, stickers, and fun colors can help you personalize your water bottle so it matches your personality. Hydration is essential, but who says it should be boring?

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best insulated water bottles of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

The Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) is Apple’s budget-friendly wearable, and Amazon has knocked $50 off the price across the board to make it even more attainable. The SE has most of the bells and whistles found on the more expensive Apple Watch models at a fraction of the price. It’s 50m water resistant and includes essential safety features like irregular/unusually high heartbeat notifications and crash detection. It works seamlessly with other Apple devices. Plus, it comes in two sizes and a wide variety of colors. You can buy an older model to save money, but then you won’t get software support for as long as you will with the SE. This is all the smartwatch most people need, and it’s a steal at this price.

Note: You’ll have to be an Amazon Prime member to take advantage of most of these deals, so be sure you’re signed up before making a purchase.

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 40mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Loop $199 (was $249)

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This is the cheapest version you can get. It has a smaller 40mm face (you can move up to 44mm starting at $229). It’s great if you don’t have a huge wrist or you simply don’t want a giant watch. It monitors your heart rate, gives you your messages, runs all the Apple Watch apps, and does everything most people need.

Other Apple Watch SE options on sale for Prime Day:

• Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 44mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band M/L $229 (was $279)
• Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 44mm] Smartwatch with Silver Aluminum Case with Winter Blue Sport Loop $229 (was $279)
• Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 44mm] Smartwatch with Starlight Aluminum Case with Starlight Sport Loop $229 (was $279)

Accessorizing other activities? Take a look at our ongoing list of Big Deal Days discounts.

Want more deals delivered to your inbox weekly? Sign up for PopSci’s Deals newsletter and save money on stuff you’ll really use.

The post The best Apple Watch for most people is just $199 for Amazon Prime Day appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Nobull Gum Trainer+		SEE IT	The sturdy and seamless, which prevents annoying blisters from forming.
Best budget		Nike Metcon 8		SEE IT	They’re one generation old, but they’re still great and frequently on sale.
Best for recovery		Hoka Ora Recovery Slides		SEE IT	They’re comfortable like flip flops, but much better for your feet.

If you’ve ever attended a WOD (short for Workout of the Day in CrossFit parlance), you know the right CrossFit shoes can make a huge difference in your performance. Of all the many, many CrossFit accessories you can purchase to improve your training, few have the same kind of impact as your shoe choice. But, CrossFit is a varied discipline with several distinct aspects. In this list, we’ll break down the best CrossFit shoes for cross-training, Olympic lifting, and even recovery.

• Best overall: Nobull Gum Trainer+
• Best budget: Nike Metcon 8
• Best for beginning lifters: Reebok Lifter PR II
• Best for advanced lifters: Nike Romaleos 4 SE
• Best for recovery: Hoka Ora Recovery Slide

How we chose the best CrossFit shoes

I have been a part of my local CrossFit community since 2009, during which time I’ve tried just about every shoe meant for the mats. You can even see a very embarrassing picture of me online from the Reebok CrossFit launch event way back in 2012. For this article, I relied on personal experience, editorial reviews, spec comparisons, and advice from several high-level CrossFit competitors who can’t be named here due to their sponsorship status. While CrossFit-oriented shoes are never cheap, I have focused on pairs that are durable enough to last for years while providing the comfort and performance required to keep you ringing up PRs. 

The best CrossFit shoes: Reviews & Recommendations

While we make specific recommendations about individual products, you’re always best off checking out all the options before purchasing. There’s lots of product overlap, so know your options before you pay.

Best overall: Nobull Gum Trainer+

SEE IT

Specs

• Sizes: Men’s 8-16 and Women’s 5-11
• Best for: All-around shoe suitable for weightlifting and metabolic conditioning

Pros

• No seams to rub and cause blisters
• Very comfortable
• Subtle heel rise
• Rubber reinforcement makes them very durable
• Wide toe box for stability

Cons

• Toe box may actually feel too wide for some
• Women’s sizes cap at 11

Nobull burst onto the CrossFit scene just a few years ago, and now the company is the title sponsor for the annual CrossFit Games. The Nobull shoes are easily recognizable thanks to their seamless design, which makes them cool to look at but also reduces the risk of blisters from bunched fabric. CrossFit requires a lot of unusual movements in every direction, and one bad seam inside of a shoe can cause havoc. 

Heavy-duty rubber reinforces areas that take a lot of abuse. The toe caps are burly, so repeated burpees won’t tear them apart. The bottom is thick and sturdy, so it won’t flex when you don’t want it to. Plus, the wide toe cage and reinforced sole provide a very stable platform for heavy lifts and intense dynamic movements. Despite their rugged build, they’re still relatively light and extremely breathable. 

These shoes were specifically built for the rigors of a CrossFit gym, and it shows. 

Best budget: Nike Metcon 8

SEE IT

Specs

• Sizes: Women’s 5-12 and Men’s 6-15
• Best for: All-around shoe for lifting and conditioning

Pros

• Very wide size range in both men’s and women’s
• Attractive design with lots of colors
• Affordable because they’re usually on-sale
• Sturdy sole provides a very solid platform
• Breathable

Cons

• Toe box isn’t as wide as some others

You’ll notice that the Metcon 9 is already on the market, which may make the 8 seem like a weird recommendation. But, if you don’t need the absolute latest model, you can save quite a bit of cash and still get a great shoe. 

The Nike Metcon 8 (“Meton” is CrossFit speak for “metabolic conditioning”) offers a flat, sturdy bottom with four degrees of heel rise. That makes them much more stable than running shoes when it comes to dynamic movements and heavy lifts. They’re naturally a bit more narrow than the Nobulls, but they break in very nicely. They’re reinforced with sturdy rubber at points that naturally take a lot of abuse. There’s even a large rubber area on the outside midsole of the shoe to prevent rope climbs from tearing up your kicks. 

While the Nobulls opt for a very no-nonsense design, the Nikes are much flashier, which I personally appreciate. There are lots of colorways to choose from. 

The toe box is wide but not massive, so you might have to spend a little time breaking these in before they feel just right. Once you’ve gotten a couple of workouts in, though, they’re excellent. 

Best for beginning lifters: Reebok Lifter PR II

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Specs

• Sizes: Men’s 6-14 (men and women can wear the same style)
• Best for: Weightlifting

Pros

• Affordable compared to other dedicated lifters
• Relatively light
• Lots of size options
• Easy to put on
• Stable

Cons

• Not as durable as more expensive models

Once you start lifting seriously, a solid pair of weight-lifting shoes can make a huge difference in your form and the overall feel of your lifts. You’ll notice that pro lifters typically wear wedge-shaped shoes with a raised heel that puts their legs (and by extension, their entire body) into a better position. These beginner-oriented lifters do just that with a wedge-shaped sole that slightly raises the heel. This is useful for backsquatting, Olympic lifting, and other activities with heavy weights. 

A sturdy velcro strap goes across the laces to add an extra layer for stability during the high-torque process that is weight-lifting. If you’re just starting out, these will likely provide all the stability you need. Plus, they’re durable enough to last for years of training before you move up to something more advanced.

Best for advanced lifters: Nike Romaleos 4 SE

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Specs

• Sizes: Men’s 3.5-15 (unisex)
• Best for: Serious weight lifting

Pros

• Heel rise provides a comfortable lifting position
• Extremely sturdy
• Very stable even under heavy load
• Cool colorways
• Easy to put on

Cons

• Some reviewers complain about the durability of the Velcro strap

Once you’re ready to move on to a more advanced (and more expensive) lifter, this is a great option. The hard, flat bottom provides a very stable base and a satisfying slap against the gym floor during Olympic lifts. The raised heel puts your body in an ideal position for a deep squat without taxing your Achilles and other vulnerable tendons. The leather upper is very sturdy to handle the rotational forces involved with heavy lifts. Plus, a pair of Velcro straps go over the laces in order to keep everything cinched up tightly. These are pro-grade lifting shoes for moving serious weight. 

Best for recovery: Hoka Ora Recovery Slide

SEE IT

Specs

• Sizes: Men’s 4-14 (unisex)
• Best for: Wearing after a workout

Pros

• Specifically shaped to support the foot, unlike regular sandals
• Air channels to keep cool
• Two-stage material to refine squish under your foot
• Lots of colorways

Cons

• Most colorways are very bright, which may not be your style

Recovery is crucial for your entire body. But, feet take an especially hard beating. Just about any good trainer will tell you that the average sandal or flip-flop is like a foot torture device. Hoka designed these slides with recovery in mind. They have a two-stage design, which provides the right balance of squishy padding and stable support. The shape of the slide cradles your foot in an active position rather than flattening it out and stressing the delicate parts inside. They’re super-light, ventilated for airflow, and cool-looking as long as you can pull off the bright color vibes. You could get some to match your workout headphones.

Things to consider when shopping for the best CrossFit shoes

Here are some variables and terms to understand when shopping for the best CrossFit shoes.

Style

Most serious CrossFitters have a pair of shoes they use for metabolic conditioning workouts and then another pair of shoes meant specifically for weight lifting. If you’re just starting out, you probably don’t need a dedicated set of lifters. A simple pair of training shoes from this list can do everything you need. Once you start getting to heavier lifts, however, a good pair of lifting shoes will pay off in the long run. Plus, since you only wear them a few hours a week, they should last a long time. 

Heel drop

Running shoes are not good for CrossFit. They typically have too much padding, which makes them unstable during lateral movements and under heavy weights. Plus, they typically have more than 10mm of drop from the heel to the toe. That elevated heel puts your legs in the incorrect position and can limit your flexibility and mobility down the road. A shoe like the Nobull trainers on this list, for example, only has 4mm of heel drop. You’ll find that most CrossFit shoes hover around that. You want something that’s still relatively comfortable, but that puts your legs in the correct position during a workout. 

Fit

Most CrossFit shoes offer a wide toe box that may feel weird when you’re first getting used to it. You need a wide, stable base for dynamic movements (especially when you’re moving laterally), so CrossFit shoes skew much wider than running shoes or casual footwear. Even with that wide toe box, however, you want to ensure you tie them very tightly. You don’t want your foot wiggling around while you work out. That’s a surefire ticket to Blister City. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best CrossFit shoes

• Best overall: Nobull Gum Trainer+
• Best budget: Nike Metcon 8
• Best for beginning lifters: Reebok Lifter PR II
• Best for advanced lifters: Nike Romaleos 4 SE
• Best for recovery: Hoka Ora Recovery Slide

Whether you’re just starting out or have been around since the early days, the right CrossFit shoes can make a huge difference in how you train. You want stability, versatility, and durability. Plus, you want them to look cool, so when you post your daily Instagram story from the gym, you look the part. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best CrossFit shoes for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Vega Sport Chocolate		SEE IT	This high-performance protein tastes good and comes at a reasonable price-per-serving.
Best tasting		Garden of Life: Creamy Oat Chocolate Brownie		SEE IT	If you have trouble choking down regular protein, this pleasant powder may be what you’re looking for.
Best for sensitive stomachs		Promix Vegan Raw Chocolate		SEE IT	If you want simple ingredients and immaculate macros, then this is a great choice.

The plant-based bandwagon has been picking up a lot of passengers these last few years, which has led to an abundance of vegan protein powders on the market. But, the workout supplement landscape can be tricky to navigate. It’s full of expensive scams and misinformation. Plus, the rise of well-meaning, but unqualified foodies and fitness influencers across the Internet has made it difficult to discern fact from fiction. We’re here to help you sort it out. Whether you’re throwing haymakers on the heavy bag or trying to PR on your deadlift, we found five vegan protein powders that will support your every workout. 

• Best overall: Vega Sport Chocolate
• Best tasting: Garden of Life: Creamy Oat Chocolate Brownie
• Best meal replacement: Gnarly Vegan Chocolate
• Best for sensitive stomachs: Promix Vegan Raw Chocolate
• Best after an interval workout: Ladder Chocolate

How we chose the best vegan protein powder

PopSci has multiple staff members who are vegetarian and explore animal protein alternatives, while I’ve been an active athlete since childhood and have been vegan most of my adult life. I filtered my search to performance supplements that are purely plant-based. I’m also a Columbia-educated registered dietician. I focused my search on products with ingredients that are accurately labeled, which can be tricky since the FDA doesn’t regulate protein powder in the same way it regulates regular food. Therefore, I relied on supplements certified by NSFSport, trusted by USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency) and most major league sports associations, to verify product authenticity and suitability for athletes. You’ll notice I chose the chocolate flavors of each brand because that’s what I find best fits the most common peanut butter and banana “recipe” many of us use for protein smoothies (most brands only carry a chocolate and vanilla flavor in their vegan selection, anyway). Finally, as I reviewed the available options, I made sure to account for differences in things like packaging, allergens, and price.

Here’s that easy, delicious smoothie recipe:

• 12 oz Britta water
• 1 large banana
• 2 ice cubes
• Teaspoon of peanut butter
• Dash of vanilla extract
• Shake of cinnamon
• Shake of cloves

The best vegan protein: Reviews & Recommendations

While we make specific recommendations, it’s important to consider your needs and tastes. Be sure to check out all the options on the list before ordering.

Best overall: Vega Sport Chocolate

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Specs

• Protein per serving: 30g
• Carbs per serving: 6g
• Fat per serving: 3g
• Calories per serving: 160
• Cost per serving: $1.92

Pros

• High absolute and relative protein content (second highest of all reviewed)
• Has 2.5 g of leucine, which is important for stimulating MPS (muscle protein synthesis)
• Simple ingredients make it less likely to upset your stomach
• Tart cherry, a powerful antioxidant, can help aid in recovery

Cons

• Not personally a huge fan of the stevia taste, but it’s not bad

The Vega brand carries a lot of weight in the world of vegan athletics because of its co-founder, Brendan Brazier—a former ultra-endurance athlete who helped prove the competitive viability of a plant-based lifestyle. This protein powder looks like it’s formulated to help you maintain that competitive edge. It got top billing on this list because of its high protein content, GI-safe ingredients, and adequate leucine content—important traits for any protein supplement. It comes stacked with 30 grams of protein per 44 gram serving (a ratio of 0.682 per gram) and 2.5 grams of leucine, which is important for stimulating muscle protein synthesis. It’s also free of the pro- and prebiotics, often the cause of GI disturbances, found in the more expensive “Premium” version. It doesn’t skimp on vitamins with 7 milligrams of iron and 20% of your daily calcium needs. I remember the early Vega protein powders in the mid-2000s and, I’ll be honest, they weren’t great. This has come a long way in taste and texture with a subtle, chocolatey flavor not overly affected by that distinct stevia taste. It blended well with the rest of my smoothie ingredients without getting too frothy. I’m not a fan of “froth” because it just puts my air in your stomach, causing most people to feel bloated. Finally, at only $29.99 for the standard tub, Vega’s Sport Protein – Plant-Based Protein Powder Chocolate does all I need it to do as a vegan athlete.

Best tasting: Garden of Life: Creamy Oat Chocolate Brownie

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Specs

• Protein per serving: 20g
• Carbs per serving: 16g
• Fat per serving: 4.5g
• Calories per serving: 170
• Cost per serving: $2

Pros

• Oat milk does just what it says—gives it a creamy taste
• Fully organic, non-GMO product
• Trusted brand that has been around a long time

Cons

• The protein-to-powder ratio is a little low compared to competitors
• Pro- and prebiotic blend can upset the stomach of a person with a normal GI tract or IBS

Taste is a huge factor when considering a supplement because, let’s be honest, if it tastes bad, you’re probably not going to take it. The Garden of Life Creamy Organic Vegan Protein Powder + OatMilk is not that chalky protein powder of old. The coconut and oat milk powders give it a silky and creamy flavor that tastes pretty close to an actual milkshake. And, I’m not a chef, but there’s this nutty character of the chocolate that I’m guessing comes from the gluten-free grains they use for extra protein—brown rice, amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, millet, and chia. Now, as someone who tries to get a pretty high amount of protein in his body every day, I do wish it had a bit more than 20 grams per serving (a ratio of 0.435 per gram), especially since vegan athletes have a slightly less access to bioavailable proteins. It also has a number of ingredients like erythritol (sugar alcohol), inulin, acacia gum, and a probiotic blend that can cause bloating or GI irritation for some people. Still, Garden of Life has been around a long time and makes a host of products that are independently verified to be as authentic, organic, and generally good for you as they try to be. If you get a good amount of protein in your diet and just want a bit extra through a delicious, organic shake, this is a good bet.

Best meal replacement: Gnarly Vegan Chocolate

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Specs

• Protein per serving: 20g
• Carbs per serving: 16g
• Fat per serving: 7g
• Calories per serving: 200
• Cost per serving: $3.69

Pros

• Higher overall calories and a broad macronutrient profile 
• Contains widest array of micronutrients, including biotin, vitamin D, and iron
• Includes more than 30% of daily fiber needs (9 grams)

Cons

• Larger serving size means you’ve got a lot of powder to chug
• Higher fat content than the others on the list

Gnarly Vegan’s Chocolate Meal Replacement protein is great for exactly that—a meal replacement. It’s got the highest calorie count (200 kilocals) and the widest array of micronutrients (i.e., vitamins and minerals) of all the brands reviewed. At 20 grams of protein per serving (a ratio of 0.400 per gram), 7 grams of net carbohydrates, and an impressive 9 grams of dietary fiber (one of the most chronically insufficient nutrients in American diets) it has a macronutrient distribution atypical for a protein powder but worthy of a meal replacement if you add a few more sources of carbohydrates. On their website, Gnarly owns up to the fact that this supplement is just barely a meal replacement, claiming that the higher calorie count (as compared to most protein supplements) puts them in that category.

As a sports dietitian, I agree, and added a few more bananas, berries, and applesauce to my shake in order to make it meet a full meal’s worth of nutrients. I would have added more powder, but the large serving size (50 grams) might have made it a more chalky smoothie than I was looking to drink. Be that as it may, if you’re looking to pack on muscle, which nutritionally relies on caloric surplus and protein intake, Gnarly Vegan’s Chocolate Meal Replacement is a safe bet. 

Best for sensitive stomachs: Promix Vegan Raw Chocolate

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Specs

• Protein per serving: 25g
• Carbs per serving: 3g
• Fat per serving: 2g
• Calories per serving: 130
• Cost per serving: $1.32

Pros

• Highest relative protein content of all reviewed (more than 3/4s of the product weight is protein at 0.781 per gram) 
• Fewest ingredients make it pretty easy on the stomach
• Made mostly in America (94%)

Cons

• Packaging is inconvenient and easily punctured

Promix’s Vegan Raw Chocolate protein powder is my kind of straight-to-the-point, no-frills workout supplement. It doesn’t try to be everything to everyone and just packs a lot of protein in as few ingredients as possible. For that reason, it gets the nod as the easiest on your stomach, free of bubbly-guts culprits like prebiotics, probiotics, gums, sugar-alcohols, and all nine major food allergens. It actually has more protein per gram of product (0.781) than any of the others I reviewed, which means you get a lot of muscle-building macronutrients without too much powder. I found this to help with taste since I tasted more of the banana and cinnamon I added than the powder itself, which was more of a generic, neutral chocolate flavor than anything else. It’s not overly delightful, but it’s not at all offensive like some supplements can be. Finally, for those who like to shop with a bit of environmental responsibility, Promix’s manufacturing processes ensure 67% less carbon emissions compared to most competitors, and it sources 94% of its ingredients in North America.

Best after an interval workout: Ladder Chocolate

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Specs

• Protein per serving: 21g
• Carbs per serving: 7g
• Fat per serving: 2g
• Calories per serving: TK
• Cost per serving: $1.80

Pros

• High in electrolytes (sodium and potassium), making it a good option for someone who sweats a lot 
• Tart cherry contents help with recovery after a tough workout
• Chocolatiest of the chocolate protein powders

Cons

• Pro- and prebiotic blend can upset the stomach of a person with a normal GI tract or IBS

Ladder’s Premium Chocolate Protein was close to getting the award for best tasting because of its rich chocolatey flavor while providing 21 grams of protein per serving. I actually tasted it by itself (mixing it with just water) and it legit tasted like a cooled-down hot chocolate. What makes it stand out, though, is its high concentration of electrolytes (650 mg of sodium, 620 mg of potassium), which are essential in rehydrating after an intense workout, and it’s inclusion of 480 mg of tart cherry extract—a powerful antioxidant which has been shown to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation. It isn’t specific about its leucine content, but it does boast 1000 mg of BCAAs (valine, leucine, isoleucine) and methionine. I could also do without the probiotic blends, but some people may find that useful. Overall, it tasted great and didn’t bother my stomach much, if at all. It’s definitely something I’ll consider taking after a bunch of rounds on the heavy bag. 

Things to consider when shopping for vegan protein powder

Here are some essential variables to consider when shopping for a vegan protein supplement.

Protein content

The first thing I consider when looking for a vegan protein supplement is how much protein it contains. As plant-based athletes, it can be challenging to get high-bioavailability protein into our systems without eating a massive amount of food. Vegan protein sources are usually found in foods containing a lot of fiber, so some of the protein gets passed through us. Therefore, I’m usually trying to get the biggest bang for my buck, with a minimum of 20 grams of protein per serving, but preferably 30.

Ingredients and your ability to digest them

I’m also looking out for unnecessary ingredients (like probiotics) because I don’t need my protein shake to solve any GI issues I have. I just need it to give me protein without making me feel bloated or giving me the runs (we’ve all been there). This includes being aware of the protein source—soy, pea, brown rice, etc.—though most these days come from peas. Pea protein tends to be easy on the gut and peas have a high protein content compared to other legumes. Also worth thinking about is a supplement’s overall macronutrient content. Most protein powders will have a good ratio that is high in protein and low in fat and carbohydrates, but most of us don’t need to be overly concerned with that. The truth is, muscle building mostly happens in energy surplus, meaning we need sufficient overall calories for the protein we ingest to be put to proper use. Having adequate calories from carbohydrates and fats is an important part of that equation.

Other beneficial ingredients

Finally, where possible, I try to find a supplement with about 3 grams of leucine, an essential amino acid that stimulates muscle protein synthesis. Some powders will advertise their BCAAs (branched chain amino acids) but aren’t specific about how much leucine is present, even though it’s the most important of the three (leucine, isoleucine, and valine). If you can’t get it in your protein powder, soy, legumes, and whole wheats are usually a good bet. You know your body and your goals, so make the choices that best suit you, but keep the above in mind. Whenever possible, talk to an accredited dietitian to better understand what dietary adjustments best suit you. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best vegan protein powder

• Best overall: Vega Sport Chocolate
• Best tasting: Garden of Life: Creamy Oat Chocolate Brownie
• Best meal replacement: Gnarly Vegan Chocolate
• Best for sensitive stomachs: Promix Vegan Raw Chocolate
• Best after an interval workout: Ladder Chocolate

At the end of the day, our goals are individual, and our tastes are subjective. You’ve got to figure out what your body needs and how best to get there. Find a protein powder that you’re going to use consistently, maybe because of its taste, because it helps you recover after a workout, or because it doesn’t bother your stomach. You find what works for you. When in doubt, find a registered dietitian to help you sort through the details.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best vegan protein powder for 2023, tested and reviewed by experts appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		Apple Watch Ultra 2		SEE IT	This watch offers full functionality without your phone and plenty of advanced activity tracking.
Best for running		Garmin Forerunner 965		SEE IT	The Forerunner 965 offers advanced running metrics even without additional accessories.
Best budget		COROS Pace 2		SEE IT	You’ll get advanced fitness watch features at a more affordable price.

If you lead an active lifestyle, are training for competition, or simply want to keep better track of your health, a fitness watch is a necessary addition to your everyday wear. These devices help you focus on what you’ve set out to do, whether running, cycling, swimming, or hiking. Some even allow you to download your favorite songs to onboard storage or take control of smartphone apps like Spotify. You can gain insight into where to maximize your efforts with detailed monitoring of your distance, steps, calories burned, heart rate, and more. Most wearables even provide data you can use to improve your sleep and offer specific training suggestions. No matter your goals, the best fitness watches will help you keep progressing.  

• Best overall: Apple Watch Ultra 2
• Best for the backcountry: Garmin epix Pro (Gen. 2) Sapphire Edition
• Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Sense 2
• Best for running: Garmin Forerunner 965
• Best budget: COROS Pace 2

How we chose the best fitness watches

As fitness enthusiasts and long-time athletes, we have used our fair share of fitness trackers. We used our personal experience, editorial reviews, and user feedback to select this guide. When considering the wide array of options available, we looked at what sensors and tech each watch used and what each watch did with all that data in terms of insights and suggestions. Accurate on-wrist heart rate monitoring, SpO2 measurements, and GPS were essential. Usability was a key consideration, as was durability. We prioritized watches that provide free access to your information instead of paid subscription models. 

The best fitness watches: Reviews & Recommendations

With so many brands and products available, there is bound to be a watch that aligns perfectly with your wants and needs. The good news is that you might not have to choose only one must-have feature since most smartwatches run the gamut of fitness-tracking features—though some handle particular needs, like running or sleep tracking, better than others. 

Best overall: Apple Watch Ultra 2

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Specs

• Battery life: 36 hours (70 with low power mode)
• Display type: Always-on OLED Retina 
• Water resistance: 328 feet
• Materials: Titanium case
• Size: 49mm case
• Weight: 2.16 ounces

Pros

• Available in three different band styles with multiple colors
• 3000 nit display more easily viewable in bright sun
• Made of recycled materials
• Support for third-party training apps
• Improved cycling features

Cons

• Battery life still lags behind other watches
• Recovery metrics are limited

While the Apple Watch Ultra 2 may be a splurge purchase compared to other fitness watches on this list, its top-shelf feature set makes it worth the cash. Thanks to its (optional) cellular connection, it is the best connected smartwatch for most, meaning you can leave the phone behind. You can listen to music without your phone (just use headphones or earbuds with situational awareness features, please). And you can send and receive messages or calls even if you are trail running (as long as you have service). That’s a great safety feature for fitness watches since you never know when you may twist that ankle and need a ride home. 

The Ultra 2 is highly capable when it comes to insights. The wearable measures your blood oxygen levels and takes electrocardiograms right from your wrist to keep extremely close tabs on your cardiovascular health. Of course, it’ll do the basics, like track your daily activity and measure your workouts, even if they include swimming.

The second iteration of the Apple Watch Ultra brings new cycling features to the table, including the ability to connect Bluetooth power meters, speed, and cadence sensors. It also estimates cycling power and power zones (when using a power meter). Another benefit of the Ultra 2 is that you can connect third-party training apps, such as TrainingPeaks. 

Unfortunately, the battery life of the Ultra 2, while better than the standard Series 9, is still pretty lackluster compared to the competition. And, of course, you’ll only be able to take advantage of all the features we’ve listed with an iPhone. But, the well-rounded features make this the best option for most people looking for a fitness watch. 

Best for the backcountry: Garmin epix Pro (Gen. 2) Sapphire Edition 

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Specs

• Battery life: Up to 10 days in smartwatch mode (42mm case), 
• Display type: AMOLED 
• Water resistance: 10 ATM
• Materials: Sapphire glass lens with steel bezel
• Size: 42mm, 47mm, or 51mm case
• Weight: 2.2 ounces (42mm 

Pros

• Flashlight is powerful and extremely useful
• Available in three sizes to fit your wrist best
• Advanced training metrics and suggestions
• Features topographic maps and weather overlays

Cons

• Expensive

If you like to hit the trail less traveled, the Garmin epix Pro (Gen. 2) is the best fitness watch you can get. The watch comes in two configurations (Pro Standard or Pro Sapphire) and three sizes, so you can dial in what you want and need. We particularly like the Pro Sapphire for backcountry use since the Sapphire lens is incredibly durable and scratch-resistant. In fact, it’s the only screen I’ve not managed to scratch, even after using and abusing it. Plus, Garmin tested the watch to U.S. military standards for thermal, shock, and water resistance, so you can trust it will hold up on even the most rugged adventures.

Beyond durability, the epix Pro (Gen. 2) has a built-in LED flashlight on the front side of the watch case. It is surprisingly handy, and I find myself utilizing it almost every day, but it would be especially nice if you are trying to navigate off a trail after dark. You’ll also have access to multi-band GPS ​​for accurate location information, which enables navigation via the topographical maps. I especially like that the map tells you the distance to the next fork to prevent missing a turn—one of several reasons it tops our best hiking watches. Garmin also added weather overlays so you can keep an eye on any storms that may be headed your way, which I have found extremely useful even when just grabbing a beer on the patio of a local brewery.

As with just about any Garmin smartwatch, you’ll have access to a robust list of sensors, activity recording, and insights. The epix Pro (Gen. 2) tracks your heart rate and blood oxygen levels all day and your HRV status while you sleep. It provides a Morning Report so you can get a picture of your sleep, training outlook, and even the weather. The watch will provide daily suggested workouts and even offers animated workouts for you to follow along. It can predict your race times, help you plan race-day strategies, and more. It’s essentially a helpful coach right on your wrist at all times.

The 42mm epix Pro (Gen. 2) offers 10 days of battery life in smartwatch mode or up to 20 hours in GPS mode. The 42mm case size is ideal for my small wrists, but you can also opt for the 47mm or 51mm sizes and will see a boost to battery life in the larger versions. For example, the 51mm Pro Sapphire provides up to 31 days in smartwatch mode or 62 hours in GPS mode, which is a substantial difference. 

Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Sense 2

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Specs

• Battery life: 6 days
• Display type: AMOLED
• Water resistance: 164 feet
• Materials: Aluminum case
• Size: 1.5 x 1.5 x 0.45 inches
• Weight: 0.8 ounces

Pros

• Slim, minimal design and size
• Plenty of sensors for health tracking
• Bright and responsive touchscreen
• Long battery life

Cons

• No third-party app support
• Subscription required to access all features and insights

The watches we’ve included here can be overkill for many people, which is where a fitness tracker comes in. The Fitbit Sense 2 is essentially a paired-down fitness watch. Though don’t let that fool you, it is still highly capable of helping you track your fitness and health. It is packed full of sensors, including a multi-path optical heart rate sensor, cEDA sensor, SpO2 sensor, skin temperature sensor, built-in GPS and GLONASS, ambient light sensor, and more. 

All of those sensors combine to give you useful health stats. It keeps an eye on your heart rate and alerts you if there is anything abnormal. You can track your sleep and stress levels. It automatically tracks exercises and can guide you on when it’s time to rest or workout. And as a smartwatch, you’ll get notifications right on your wrist. 

The lower price of the Sense 2 does mean there are some compromises. For example, if you want to take advantage of some features, such as the Daily Readiness Score or in-depth sleep information, you’ll need to pay for a Premium Fitbit subscription. And even then, it doesn’t provide as thorough performance and health insights as Garmin or Apple options. It also doesn’t support any third-party apps, so you’re stuck with Fitbit Pay, Google Wallet, and Google Maps. And there are no music controls or storage. But if you just want a basic device to help you stay active, the Fitbit Sense 2 is a great option.

Best for running: Garmin Forerunner 965

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Specs

• Battery life: Up to 23 days in smartwatch mode, 31 hours in GPS mode
• Display type: AMOLED
• Water resistance: 5 ATM
• Materials: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 DX, titanium
• Size: 1.8 x 1.8 x 0.5 inches
• Weight: 1.9 ounces

Pros

• Bright and colorful AMOLED display
• Lots of customization options
• Highly accurate GPS and heart rate
• Lots of training metrics

Cons

• Pricey
• A bit large on small wrists

For runners and triathletes, it’s hard to beat the Forerunner 965 (or any Forerunner, in my opinion). Though all of the fitness watches here offer plenty of running features, this Garmin watch is clearly purpose-built to help you truly improve your running performance. Considering the bright and colorful AMOLED display, it offers impressive battery life. Even with daily runs and the always-on display enabled, you should be able to get nearly a week of life out of your watch. And it charges quickly if you need to top it off before going out for a run. 

Garmin hits its training features out of the park, which is no different on the Forerunner 965. The Training Readiness feature looks at your sleep, recovery, training load, and more to better guide your workouts. And the daily suggested workouts can help you when you’re stuck. Garmin will even build training plans based on your races for truly fine-tuned suggestions. And the Training Status feature helps you understand your overall fitness at a glance. 

The Forerunner 965 can track a wide range of workouts, including multisport profiles for triathlons, duathlons, brick workouts, and swimruns. It’s an ideal tool for those focused on multiple disciplines. You can easily customize what you see on your watch for each activity, putting the information that you rely on front and center. The heart rate data is accurate, though wrist-based heart rate monitors don’t work well during swimming activities, so you will want to invest in that accessory if you’re a triathlete.

Beyond workouts, you can get turn-by-turn directions on courses you find or create in the Garmin Connect app or third-party platforms. Or, you can enter your desired distance for suggested routes, which is helpful when running in new areas. I also love the safety features of the Forerunner 965, which allow you to send a message with your live location right from the watch. It can even sense when an incident occurs and send a message automatically. You have to have your phone on you to use those, but it gives me some peace of mind when I’m out running.

Best budget: COROS Pace 2

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Specs

• Battery life: 20 days of regular use, 30 hours of activity tracking
• Display type: LCD
• Water resistance: 5 ATM
• Materials: 
• Size: 1.2 inch
• Weight: 1.05 ounces

Pros

• Excellent battery life
• Available with silicone or nylon straps
• Very lightweight and low-profile
• Accurate GPS and heart rate

Cons

• No music controls or contactless payment options

The COROS Pace 2 is a generation behind the current model, but it’s still an impressive watch, especially for the price. One of the best features of this fitness watch is the battery life. COROS promises up to 20 days of regular use, which includes tracking daily activity and sleep. It also offers up to 30 hours of full GPS battery life, which can last for serious ultramarathon runs. 

Another big advantage of the Pace 2 is how small it is. The watch weighs only 1.05 ounces (with the band) and is very low profile on the wrist. Despite the slim form factor, it is packed with plenty of sensors, including GPS, heart rate monitor, barometric altimeter, accelerometer, compass, gyroscope, and thermometer. You’ll be able to gather plenty of data to guide your training and monitor your health. The display isn’t as bright or beautiful as more expensive watches, and you won’t have access to music controls or contactless payments, but those are minor details for many.

From a training standpoint, the Pace 2 is highly capable. It offers activity tracking for a wide range of spots, including jump rope, swimming, rowing, weight training, and more. The navigation tools make it easy to find your way on runs or hikes. Like Garmin watches, it gives insight into your training status, training load, and recovery time to manage fatigue and prevent injuries. You’ll even have access to pre-designed workouts and plans or one-on-one support from a team of qualified coaches.

What to consider when shopping for the best fitness watch 

Whether you prefer running outside, spinning, or playing group sports like baseball, purchasing a fitness watch can be a great addition to your accessory collection. With sleek and customizable styles, you can wear your watch daily, no matter your activity. But before you buy a wearable designed to help you prioritize your health, you’ll need to prioritize the features that are your must-haves. 

Activity tracking and preferences

While many fitness watches are fitness omnivores—monitoring workouts of all stripes—some watches will specialize in certain activities. For example, Garmin tailored its Forerunner series of watches to runners with running-specific activity tracking, performance metrics, and more. If you focus on cycling or strength training, such metrics may be irrelevant to you. Also, if you opt for a specialized device that differs from your preferred workout type, you may not be able to track what you need due to limited sports profiles. As a result, it’s important to put some thought into what you most frequently participate in and look at what each fitness watch offers in terms of tracking and insights for that activity.

Battery life

A fitness watch doesn’t do much good if you need to constantly take it off in order to charge the battery. You’ll want to keep an eye on the promised battery life from the manufacturer, but remember to take that with a grain of salt. Individual usage and conditions can impact battery life significantly. For example, if you enable an always-on display and use the most precise level of GPS for long activities on a daily basis, you will burn through the battery much faster than someone who performs short workouts without the display on at all times.

Battery life is especially important for those who participate in long-lasting activities, such as hours-long trail runs or bike rides. For serious athletes, look for a model that offers 20 to 30 hours (or more) of battery life in GPS mode. If you are a more casual user but still hate needing to charge your device frequently, focus on fitness watches with days or even weeks-long battery life in smartwatch mode.

Performance metrics & training features

Some of us need a nudge to push workouts to the next level. Many devices offer lots of training tools to help you understand your current performance level and what you need to do to improve it. Some may feature built-in workout suggestions to specifically guide you. Others include access to fitness communities that put you in touch with both peers and professional coaches, both of which can offer inspiration or exercise routines to keep you motivated or mix up your routine if you get bored. 

Phone connectivity

The line between smartwatch and fitness watch has become incredibly blurry, with the two essentially being synonymous at this point. That said, there are varying levels of phone connectivity options in fitness watches that may impact what is best for you. 

Cheaper fitness trackers typically won’t offer built-in GPS, instead relying on your phone for connected GPS. That means you must have your phone on you for mapping, distance, and pace information. Pricier fitness watches all feature built-in GPS so that you can track your workouts without your phone. Some models will also provide on-board storage to save music or podcasts, meaning you can keep yourself entertained without having your phone on hand. Others may allow you to control your music, but you will need your phone on you to actually listen. 

Lastly, most fitness watches do not have a cellular connection, so you won’t be able to send or make calls on the watch itself. And you won’t be able to receive notifications if you don’t have your phone nearby. Look at the Apple Watch or Samsung Watch LTE versions if you want a device that can do it all. 

Sleep tracking

There are some days when you wake up ready to greet the day and others where you just want to pull the covers back over your head. It can be hard to know the difference between a good night’s sleep and a rough one, but fitness watches with sleep-tracking capabilities can help you get to the bottom of it. Most fitness watches monitor your heart rate and movement, which is closely related to sleep cycles. Once the device’s algorithmic smarts crunch all that information, it’ll help you understand why and when you are waking up. Then, you can take action to resolve the issue. Some watches even come with built-in meditation apps like Breath or Calm to help you wind down before bed. 

Advanced health metrics 

More health-conscious individuals may want a watch that tracks their fitness activity and offers a deeper understanding of their health beyond heart rates and calorie burns. Most Garmin watches, as well as the Apple Watch, include sensors to track your cardiovascular health by measuring your blood oxygen levels and taking electrocardiograms. This provides a better picture of your overall health, which can be very useful. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best fitness watch

• Best overall: Apple Watch Ultra 2
• Best for the backcountry: Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) Sapphire Edition
• Best fitness tracker: Fitbit Sense 2
• Best for running: Garmin Forerunner 965
• Best budget: COROS Pace 2

The best fitness watch will track your activity metrics and provide insight as to where improvements can be made. These devices are full of advanced technology to help you progress and monitor your fitness and health while preventing you from overtraining. They can also be used as smartwatches, so you are always connected, even when hitting the gym. The best option for you depends on your goals, priorities, and budget, but with so many options available, you’re sure to find the right fit. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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