August Product Picks: Must-Have Items from Béis, Hoka, Zara, and More

POLICY WIRE — City, Country — August may start slow, but it is a month of discovery for shopping experts. Following a busy July, the pace picks up as students return to school, people take last-minute summer vacations, and sports fans gear up for new seasons.

At NBC Selected, the team is always testing various products like footwear, skincare, and tech. This August, staff tried out a variety of items from brands such as Adidas, Shark, Zara, Béis, Phlur, and more. The products ranged from self-purchased items to complimentary samples.

Among the tested products were comfortable shoes, hair gel, carry-on luggage, lunch boxes, and tank tops. All items were either brand samples or personally purchased.

One standout was the Adidas Handball Spezial in Earth Strata/Off White/Gum, a popular choice among Manhattan women. The sneakers are stylish, comfortable, and support high activity levels. However, they run slightly large and are narrow in the toe area.

Maldon Sea Salt Flakes were another essential, used to enhance the flavor of various dishes. The 20-ounce tub with a resealable lid lasts about six months.

For curly hair, Lover Ur Curls’ Volumizing Foam and Strong Hold Gel were recommended, offering defined, shiny curls at an affordable price.

Local Weather’s Fruit Punch Premium Sport Drink, discovered in Maine, became a favorite post-run refreshment due to its low sugar content and electrolyte benefits.

Big Spoon Roasters’ Pistachio Crunch Almond Butter was a hit for its unique flavor and versatility as a topping or pre-run snack.

Phlur’s shimmery body oil was praised for its pigmented formula, long-lasting effect, and noticeable shimmer, though it is slightly sticky upon application.

Béis’ updated weekender bag impressed with its soft opening, ample packing space, and trolley sleeve for easy airport navigation.

Nespresso’s clear iced coffee tumbler was loved for its visibility, spill resistance, and dishwasher-safe design.

E.l.f.’s anti-frizz styling product was a budget-friendly alternative to Color Wow Dream Coat, offering shiny, silky results.

Ninja’s fully automatic espresso machine was a game-changer for coffee lovers, automating the entire process and ensuring a clean machine after each use.

Phlur’s Vanilla Canyon scent was a mature, refined vanilla fragrance that wore well throughout the day.

Away’s The Bigger Carry-On Flex suitcase offered extra space and smooth gliding, though it may be flagged by gate agents due to its height.

Wet Brush x Hill House’s collaboration provided cute, affordable hair accessories that boosted confidence.

The Canopy Bath Tub Filter was easy to install, cute, and featured a built-in temperature indicator.

Zara’s basic tank top was a versatile, comfortable addition to any wardrobe.

The kids’ rambler coffee bottle was perfect for on-the-go coffee, featuring a leakproof top and dishwasher-safe design.

Grace & Stella’s brightening eye patches made a noticeable difference in reducing dark circles.

Meji Meji’s bold, colorful designs and comfortable fits made it a favorite brand.

Aest Studios’ chic camera bag was versatile for everyday use, featuring durable leather and magnetic pockets.

The non-sheer white top from an undisclosed brand became a summer wardrobe essential.

State Bags’ lunchbox and bento-style box were favorites for kindergarten readiness, offering easy cleaning and temperature control.

The neoprene-lined sneakers were a hit with a picky 5-year-old, offering comfort and ease of wear.

Goat milk diaper rash cream was gentle on a baby’s skin, soothing redness and preventing further irritation.

A face cream rich in moisture and firmness-supporting ingredients was a game-changer for mature skin.

Shark’s portable fan offered powerful, quiet cooling with adjustable airflow and a misting feature.

The Skinny Confidential’s ice roller elevated morning routines with its dual-ended design and hygienic caps.

A hardcopy book of mini crosswords from The New York Times provided a nostalgic, analog start to the day.

The NBC Selected team, led by commerce editor Cory Fernandez, tested these products, some of which were brand samples and others personally purchased.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)