August starts off deceptively slow for many, but it’s actually a big month of discovery for the shopping experts on our team. The laid-back nature of those first couple of weeks is often welcome following an eventful July. But just before the month comes to an end, everything seems to feel fast-paced again — students are heading back to school, people are squeezing in their last-minute summer vacations and sports fans are prepping for Premier League and football season.
At NBC Selected, we’re always in the process of testing some sort of footwear, skin care product or interesting new piece of tech — the types just vary based on the season. This August, everyone on staff tried out a mix of self-bought products and samples (sent complimentary for testing purposes) from some of our favorite brands, which includes Adidas, Shark, Zara, Béis, Phlur and many more.
Below, we’re sharing all of the products we tried out this month, including comfortable shoes, hair gel, carry-on luggage, lunch boxes, and tank tops that are so good we bought them (or would buy them) with our own money.
The best products we tried in August 2026
All of the products below are either courtesy brand samples or products that we bought ourselves.
Zoe Malin, reporter
There’s always a couple pairs of shoes that it seems like every woman in Manhattan owns, and this year, one of them is the Adidas Handball Spezial, specifically in the Earth Strata/Off White/Gum color. After weeks of seeing them at least five times a day, I convinced myself I needed them — I even started planning outfits around them in my head, so I had no choice but to buy them. I’ve been wearing them multiple times a week for a month now. The sneakers are just as stylish as I imagined, and even more comfortable than I hoped for.
They support my feet as I walk more than 20,000 steps a day in New York City, and the brown shade makes them a neutral basic that pairs well with the majority of my outfits. Two sizing notes: I went down half a size in these because I felt like they ran big when I tried them on at the store (I got a women’s 8 instead of my typical 8.5), and they’re narrow in the toe area, so if you have wide feet, they may not work for you.
One of the ingredients I must have in my kitchen is Maldon Sea Salt Flakes. I sprinkle it on everything I eat to bring out the natural flavor of food and add crunch, including eggs, roasted vegetables, baked fish, pasta, ice cream and oatmeal. Whenever I run out, which I did this month, I buy the 20-ounce tub. It has a resealable lid, so it lasts me about six months; I keep it on my counter and grab a big pinch as needed. Not to be dramatic, but the few days between when I ran out of sea salt flakes and when my new tub came were tasteless — it’s that essential to my meals.
Curly hair styling is always a common theme in my TikTok algorithm, but I’ve been served even more videos about it lately, which prompted me to reconsider my routine. I consulted my hairdresser at Curl Bar Beauty, who approved of what I saw on social media and gave me more in-depth lessons based on my exact hair type.
She recommended I use a foam and a gel instead of a mousse and a cream, the latter of which weighs down my thick hair too much. I also finish with a few spritzes of my beloved Color Wow Dream Coat for Curly Hair. My hairdresser instructed me to apply these products to soaking wet hair, use a cotton T-shirt or paper towels to soak up excess moisture, air dry (or, better yet, diffuse if I have time) and break my curl cast with a little oil.
Lover Ur Curls offered to send me their Volumizing Foam and Strong Hold Gel when I was overhauling my hair styling routine. I’ve been testing them for about six weeks and truly feel like my curls have never looked as defined and shiny, or felt as soft. They also maintain their shape much better over about two days between sleeping and workouts. At $22 and $24, the foam and gel are half the price of what I was paying for similar products, so I’m less stingy about how much I use at a time, which has also contributed to my improved curl definition. Now, with a combination of the right products and a styling method I can actually commit to, I’m even more confident about my natural hair.
After a super hot, sweaty run, I always crave fruit punch, so I usually drink a Gatorade Zero. But when I was on vacation in Maine this month, the nearby market only had Local Weather’s Fruit Punch Premium Sport Drink — it seemed close enough to Gatorade, so I bought it. It tastes exactly like the Hawaiian Punch I had as a kid but with way less sugar and lots of electrolytes from coconut water and sea salt.
As I drank it, I started to feel much less depleted, and the flavor was delicious, so I actually enjoyed sipping it. I looked forward to buying a Local Weather each day after my run during my trip, so I ordered a 12-pack when I got home since I haven’t seen them in Manhattan grocery stores or bodegas yet.
I meal prep overnight oats for breakfast during the work week, and nut butter is one of my favorite toppings in addition to berries, coconut flakes and pecans. I usually go with plain almond butter, but Big Spoon Roasters sent me a few of its more unique options, and out of all the ones I tried, I came back to Pistachio Crunch Almond Butter most often. It has just enough maple and sea salt in it that I taste the flavors without them being overpowering, and the pistachios mixed with the almonds adds extra richness.
I also love spreading the Pistachio Crunch Almond Butter on rice cakes with sliced bananas before a run. I don’t think I’ll be able to go back to eating standard almond butter once I finish this jar.
Caitlin Cusack, associate social media editor
I absolutely love when my skin looks shiny, glittery and bronzed, especially in the summer. When I saw that Phlur launched this shimmery body oil, I was beyond excited to try it out. Out of all of the glittery body oils I’ve tested (which is at least 5), I can confidently say that this one is my favorite.
The formula is extremely pigmented, so I only need to use a little bit at a time, and it’s actually noticeable to the eye and in pictures. It’s also extremely long lasting — I can put this on in the morning before lunch and get home at night with it looking fresh. My only complaint is that it’s a little sticky right after application — which is not ideal if you’re like me and always get ready super last-minute.
Last month, Béis dropped a fully overhauled collection of travel essentials, which included an updated version of the brand’s insanely popular OG weekender bag. We stopped by its New York City popup event to chat with founder Shay Mitchell, and I was lucky enough to take home the revamped weekender bag, which I tested out on my trip to Chicago earlier this month. I used this bag as my personal item on the flight, and was extremely impressed with how much I was able to pack — it fit all of my toiletries, hair tools, a pair of shoes and even my travel-sized Lola Blanket.
My favorite part of this bag is the soft opening, which allowed me to stuff my blanket on top of all of my things while still being able to fit the bag underneath the seat in front of me. I used the trolley sleeve to carry the bag on top of my rolling carry-on, and it made my airport experience easy.
I’ve been looking for a great coffee tumbler for a while, and after trying a bunch, I realized that all I wanted was to see my coffee. Not sure what the psychology behind that is, but when I found this clear iced coffee tumbler from Nespresso, I knew it was exactly what I wanted. Although it’s technically not insulated, it keeps my iced lattes cold for hours. I can make my coffee with ice at home, bring it to the office and still see ice cubes until at least noon. It’s also *actually* spill resistant. I’ve thrown this in my bag plenty of times and haven’t had an issue with spilling one time. Plus, all of the pieces are dishwasher safe, so it’s super easy to clean.
As a years-long Color Wow Dream Coat fan, I was skeptical when e.l.f. launched a similar anti-frizz styling product for more than half the price. But after trying it out on a blowout, I was extremely impressed. My blowout looked shiny, silky and not frizzy at all immediately after styling, and it held up great throughout my humid commute and full day at the office.
My only complaint is that the nozzle doesn’t distribute the product that quickly, so it takes a while to cover my entire head. But, I’d take an achy wrist in exchange for a blowout that actually lasts throughout the day. And for just $9? I’m already planning to stock up before this product sells out.
I’m a huge fan of Ninja’s OG espresso machine, the Ninja Luxe Cafe. So when the brand dropped their first fully automatic espresso machine, I was excited to try it out. After testing it over the last few weeks, I can confidently say that this machine has fixed all of my pain points that come with the Ninja Luxe Cafe.
Since it’s fully automatic, you basically don’t have to do any of the manual work you once did. This machine grinds the beans, tamps your espresso, brews your coffee and discards the grounds, all with the press of a single button. Plus, it does a full machine rinse after every single use, so I have a little peace of mind that the inside of my machine is clean. The biggest pain point is definitely the price — $900 is a lot of money, but I think it’s worth it for a machine that’s basically a personal barista living in your kitchen, especially if you’re a real coffee lover.
Marilyn La Jeunesse, newsletter editor
I have always been a vanilla girl. The obsession started back in middle school with Victoria’s Secret Vanilla Lace and has been going strong ever since. Lately, I’ve been on the hunt for more mature vanilla scents that feel refined and intriguing. Phlur’s new Vanilla Canyon is just that. The scent reminds me of fall days in Southern California, the notes of wild honey and patchouli are warm and familiar. It wears well throughout the day and feels like the perfect elevated vanilla for every day wear.
I’m a carry-on only traveler who can easily survive a two-week vacation living out of a single tiny suitcase. After my old Monos suitcase needed to be retired, I requested Away’s The Bigger Carry-On Flex to test on upcoming trips. I didn’t think the extra two inches of space would make such a difference, but I was instantly impressed when I was able to easily fit two pairs of shoes, five heavy dresses, two pairs of shorts, three shirts, my toiletry bag, and all my undergarments inside with room to spare.
This suitcase is an absolute workhorse that glides like a breeze over airport floors and other terrain. The one con is that, both times I boarded my plane, the gate agents flagged the suitcase because its height is very obvious. While I was able to put the bag in the overhead bin, anyone wanting to avoid the dreaded gatecheck may want to opt for the regular size of The Carry-On Flex.
As someone with androgenic alopecia and naturally thin hair, I don’t usually put my hair up. Normally, I’m very self-conscious about gaps and don’t feel like investing in claw clips or cute hair ties is really worth my money — until I got a sample of Wet Brush x Hill House’s new collaboration. For the first time in a long time, I actually wanted to wear my hair up, excited to show off all the fun patterns. While I am still insecure about the way my hair looks when it’s tied up, having cute accessories (that are surprisingly affordable) make me feel a bit more confident.
Despite being a huge bath person (I take at least one steamy bath a week, even during the summer), I never knew bath tub filters existed until a colleague tested them for work. I tested the Canopy Bath Tub Filter, and was surprised at not only how easy it was to install (it took less than two minutes) and how cute it looks on my spout. There’s also a built-in temperature indicator on the side of the filter that tells you when the water is too hot — a huge bonus for anyone who tends to turn their water on full blast.
Shalwah Evans, senior editor
Back in May I bought a pair of these sneakers in a different color as a birthday gift to myself. They’re so comfortable that I got them in this neutral cream for that end-of-summer into fall transitional weather. The gum bottom has just the right amount of traction so that when I’m running for the train I don’t worry about slipping. I will wear these well into the winter if the weather permits — they are that stylish and easy.
It had been a while since I’d bought anything from Zara, but when I needed a basic tank it’s one of the first stores that came to mind — and it didn’t fail me. I love this top because it’s a neutral color but doesn’t look too simple. I can wear it with so many things in my wardrobe. Additionally, it didn’t have weird straps that were too puny to cover my bra straps (I hate fiddling with them all day) and it was fitted in a way that gave me support during that time of the month when my top is heavy and sensitive.
I bring my own coffee everywhere I go because I only drink one type, which means I run through coffee mugs quickly. My Yeti is by far my favorite but it’s large and I wanted something a little smaller and lighter. This kids’ rambler is the perfect size for my one cup of 6-ounce coffee, it has a leakproof top so I don’t have to worry about spills if I need to throw it in my bag during my morning commute, and it’s dishwasher safe so I just drop it in there when I get home. I also love that it has a top handle for carrying, so I can hold onto the bottle and a subway pole with the same hand.
I’ll likely never use the straw, but it doesn’t take away from the function of the bottle so I don’t mind it. I’m actually thinking about getting two more so I’ll have a Yeti for each work day.
Mili Godio, updates editor
We’re huge fans of Grace & Stella eye masks here at NBC Selected, and these brightening patches (which the brand launched last month) are no exception. I slap these under my eyes nearly every morning before work and they make a noticeable difference. I look so much brighter and more awake, and my genetic dark circles look a little less intense.
Ashley Morris, associate reporter, seo
In the past few years, Meiji Meji has become one of my favorite brands to follow, and I happened to be visiting home during its Toronto pop-up and managed to pick up a few pieces. I’m obsessed with the brand’s aesthetic, which features bold and bright colors inspired by the founder’s Nigerian roots, with stunning, unique graphics as the cornerstone of its design.
The Danfo skirt is mini without being too short (not that that’s a problem to me), and fits well. I was worried about choosing the wrong size, but the brand has a sister sizes page that shows women of different sizes in the garments, so you can get a better idea of what may work for you. I also love the fit and soft, stretchy feel of the Ko Mi Je No Rush top, which gets me compliments every time I wear it. I’ve actually had the cycling jersey since the start of the summer, but they go together perfectly.
A few months of wear has only further confirmed that I’m 100 percent on board the Meji Meji train — it’s honestly only a matter of time before I make another purchase.
When Aest Studios reached out to me to send me a bag to test, I had to do a double take — never would I have imagined such a chic camera bag. It’s made from a soft yet durable washed calf leather, which has a deliciously worn-in look that’s perfect for conveying an effortless vibe. It has magnetic pockets on the side that I love to fill with my cards and lip glosses, along with a removable interior divider that keeps my camera separate from all of my other bag fillings.
Camera or not though, I’ve been carrying this bag everywhere: errands, parties, the office, you name it — yes it’s a great camera bag, but in my opinion, it’s an even better everyday bag.
I’ve had this top for a short while and it’s already become an essential in my wardrobe. When I initially received it from the brand, the first thing I noticed was the texture. It was soft, yet still had a firm feel to it, and best of all, was completely opaque. A non-sheer white top is hard to come by these days, and that immediately got me excited to wear it.
Since then, I’ve worn it at least twice a week, and it’s been the ideal summer top. It’s not too heavy, versatile enough to pair with just about any bottom in my wardrobe, and easy to wash and get right back to wearing (with no yellow armpits yet).
Bethany Heitman, commerce editor
My 5-year-old daughter is going into kindergarten and I’ve been focused on getting her ready with all the necessary supplies. We tested backpacks and State Bags were far and away our favorite. So, of course, I needed to buy her the matching lunchbox. The purple metallic color pleases her girlie sensibility and I like how easy it is to wipe down. I also find that when I add an ice pack, it keeps her food nice and cold all day long. Though we didn’t opt to get it personalized, the brand also offers the option for an additional fee.
Along with the lunchbox, I got my daughter this bento-style box. It comes with a cooling gel pack that you can keep in the freezer. Then, when it’s time to pack lunch, the gel pack fits into a compartment underneath the food tray in the lunch box. The actual lunch box has three compartments for food, plus a secret surprise compartment that you can house a sweet treat or a nice note. I also like that my 5-year-old can open and close it on her own.
Did I cringe at the idea of spending $100 on sneakers for my 5-year-old? Absolutely. But my daughter is super picky about her shoes and hates the thicker padded collars that many sneakers have. So when I saw that this pair has a neoprene sock-like liner, I decided to splurge. Thankfully, she loves them. I also love that she can easily pull them on herself. They have a thick, padded sole that keeps her comfy for days at the park but they’re still lightweight enough for her to run in them easily.
I’m a sucker for anything made with goat milk for my kids. After reading it was more gentle on tummies, I imported goat milk formula from Europe for my son when he was a baby and have recently gotten into goat milk skin care products for him — including this diaper rash cream. The consistency is perfect — thick enough that it creates a barrier, but not so thick that it’s hard to spread. I’ve found that it soothes any redness he has and prevents more from popping up. I also appreciate that it is unscented, which tends to be good for a baby’s sensitive skin.
Now that I’m north of 40, I’ve found that my face cream needs to work double duty — infusing moisture and ideally helping return some of its suppleness. I have been using this cream for nearly a month and find that it is rich and nourishing. It is also packed with ingredients that support firmness and smoothness and after using it consistently, I notice a genuine difference: My skin feels plumper, more hydrated and smoother.
Cory Fernandez, commerce editor
My colleague and NBC Selected editorial production associate Jem Alabi introduced me to this portable fan from Shark. I use two fans already, but it’s been extremely hot this summer, so I wanted something more powerful than what I already had, and this small, lightweight fan was the perfect solution for me.
Since it’s portable, I can charge it and then put it anywhere I want, and I’m not limited to only a few areas in my apartment. Plus, I love that it has a handle on the top and a U-shaped leg on the bottom, which allows me to position the airflow in many different angles. Also, the fan is incredibly quiet, particularly when you consider how strong it is (it has five speed settings).
There are other options out there that might be somewhat more powerful but they make more noise than the FlexBreeze HydroGo. The fan also has a compartment on the front that sprays a mist of water, making it ideal to use outside on those particularly scorching days.
Morgan Dawson, page
August is my birthday month, so I decided to treat myself and splurge on this ice roller that I’ve been eyeing from The Skinny Confidential. This double-ended roller has already elevated my morning routine, and I use the smooth side for depuffing my face and the grooved side for sculpting my cheekbones and jawline. I absolutely love that the roller is aluminum so it gets cold in the freezer but doesn’t completely ice over like other rollers I’ve tried in the past. Also, I appreciate that it has caps for each end to keep the roller hygienic and contained in my jam-packed freezer.
I have been a longtime lover of The New York Times mini crossword, but earlier this month I bought a hardcopy book of 150 mini crosswords. As a subway commuter, I’ve enjoyed doing these paper crosswords in the morning; it has been a nice way to kick off my day in a more analog way. And luckily there is an answer key in the back in case I get really stumped!
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I’m a commerce editor at NBC Selected, where I write about deals, sale events and more. I also test products, including home, kitchen and cleaning appliances. For this story, I got product recommendations from my colleagues. Some of the products we tested were samples sent to use by brands for testing purposes, others we bought ourselves with our own personal funds.
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