Latest news with #CRZYoga
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
How the rise of dupes and store brands could change the way you shop
Adrianna Rinaldi has enough high-quality leggings to last a week of remote work in New York without having to do laundry - and it didn't cost her a small fortune. Instead of continuing to spend up to $118 for one pair from Lululemon, she now buys a version that is a third of the price. CRZ Yoga has built a cult following for its near-perfect dupe - short for duplicate - of Lululemon leggings. 'The quality is just the same,' said Rinaldi, 34. 'There's more acceptance around not going for the brand name.' Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post. From copycat brands to store-label groceries, budget alternatives to everyday essentials and indulgences are having a moment. Rather than the cheap knockoffs of old, they often come close to their brand equivalent in quality. More Americans are prioritizing price and value in lieu of national brand loyalty, according to spending data and company earnings calls - while influencers are also embracing the change. 'The dupe feels like you've cheated or one-upped the system … especially in a time of economic uncertainty,' said Lauren Beitelspacher, a professor of marketing at Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Brands and retailers are hustling to meet the moment as persistently high grocery prices, increasing personal debt levels and tariff uncertainty weigh heavily on consumers, creating a sense of urgency to save. Albertsons CEO Susan Morris told investors last week in its first quarter earnings call that the grocery retailer is 'leaning heavily into own brands,' looking to meet customer demand for more options at lower prices. This expansion could also be a 'great solution for our customer' when tariffs push up grocery prices, she said. Even mid- to high-income consumers are changing how they spend, despite 'still doing pretty well' on paper, said Chedly Louis, a retail analyst and vice president at Moody's. They are trading down to retailers such as Walmart, Dollar General and Dollar Tree, which historically serve low- to mid-income consumers. And the increasing popularity of store brands signals 'higher caution from the consumer,' she said. The same is true in some discretionary categories, where there are more options for quality products at attainable prices. 'People may not feel so beholden to a single brand - rather it's more about an overall aesthetic or niche that they want to express,' Jenna Drenten, a marketing professor specializing in digital consumer culture at Loyola University Chicago, wrote in an email. 'For every single one of the brand name 'must-haves', there are suggestions for the cheaper (but still good) version to buy instead.' - - - The private-label boom The trend is most evident in the grocery aisles, said Sally Lyons Wyatt, of the market research firm Circana. Large supermarket chains, big-box stores and value retailers have been leaning into private labels, which have higher margins than name brands, for decades. But they doubled down in 2022 as prices surged, noted Lyon Wyatt, the company's senior adviser on global packaged goods and the food service industry. By 2024, sales on private-label food and nonfood grocery products hit an all-time high of $270.6 billion, a 4 percent increase over 2023, according to a report from Circana and the Private Label Manufacturers Association. That is about a fifth of total sales last year. National brands climbed 1 percent. 'The investments have certainly been worth it for grocers,' said Neil Saunders, a managing director at retail analytics firm GlobalData. 'They'll probably push on it even harder.' Canned food company Del Monte, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this month, and General Mills, the maker of Cheerios and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, have pointed to private labels as being increasingly tough competition. In a 2024 Ipsos poll, a third of respondents said most or all of their groceries within the previous week were store brands, while only 24 percent said the same of national brands. (Forty-one percent responded that the share was half and half.) These products often look strikingly similar to their national-brand equivalent, Beitelspacher said, 'to signal to the customer that they're the same quality.' Customers are also more clued in, with a better understanding that store brand products are sometimes manufactured in the same facility as the national brand, according to Saunders. Stephanie Olson, 31, said it wasn't until she lost her job during the coronavirus pandemic that she started planning her grocery lists around sales and coupons. Olson said she shops at Kroger in part because she lives in its hometown of Cincinnati, and because the store brands often have the best discounts and coupons, making the price gap against national brands even wider. 'They definitely make it enticing to buy their brand,' said Olson, who works in talent acquisition. In the past few years, retailers not only announced new private-label lines, but also improved branding, quality and selection, Saunders said. Target invested in its organic line Good and Gather and its indulgent offerings from Favorite Day. Albertsons' line of sweets - Overjoyed - is reminiscent of Target's, using brightly colored packaging and whimsical font. Meanwhile, Walmart has seen success with Bettergoods, which features organic and 'healthier' products that have been a draw for higher-income customers. Amazon turned to the other end of the spectrum, announcing Amazon Saver, a no-frills line of grocery staples. (Amazon founder Jeff Bezos owns The Washington Post.) Then there are the wholesale chains, most notably Costco and its Kirkland Signature brand, which have long dominated in the space, Lyons Wyatt said. The brand, which includes apparel, alcohol and groceries, accounted for 23 percent of Costco's revenue last year, generating $56 billion, according to the PLMA report. Those sales alone exceed those of Best Buy, Coca-Cola and Dollar General. Newer competitors are the Germany-based value retailers Aldi and Lidl, which have been rapidly expanding in the U.S. Aldi opened 120 new U.S. stores last year and its U.S. sales grew 14 percent over 2023, reaching $54 billion, according to the National Retail Federation. One quarter of U.S. households now shop at Aldi, Dave Rinaldo, then the president of Aldi USA, said at a PLMA conference. Jack Salzman, 29, doesn't mind walking a bit farther outside his neighborhood in Chicago to go to Aldi because his money 'goes a lot further,' the freelance TV and film production assistant said. 'I can spend under $100 and have enough stuff for a full week, and then some, at Aldi.' Plus, he often can't taste the difference between the store brand versus the national brand. Sydney Patterson, 30, feels similarly about over-the-counter medication. Growing up, she was used to seeing Tylenol, Advil and Aleve in her medicine cabinet. Now she thinks twice before reaching for those familiar brands, looking instead to the 'Target version that's $5 cheaper,' the fundraising consultant in Dallas said. - - - Discretionary dupes While it's true that aspirational brands still hold weight in the fashion and beauty space, consumers are more open minded about trying cheaper alternatives, said Drenten, of Loyola University Chicago. Influencers were the catalyst, she added, because by speaking openly and enthusiastically about a dupe, it gives permission to followers to do the same - and even brag about it. Brands like Quince, E.L.F. Beauty, Few Moda and Dossier have built their customer base by explicitly duping expensive, popular products. Dossier, which went viral on TikTok for its 'impression perfumes' of designer brands, recently opened its first store in New York City. Instead of spending $335 on Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Baccarat Rouge 540, Dossier has its own version called Amber Saffron for $49. Sales of fragrance dupe brands surged 103 percent in mid-June compared to the same period last year, according to NielsenIQ. Cosmetic dupe sales increased almost 10 percent and facial skin dupe brands were up about 27 percent. Consumers are also allocating more of their spending to cheaper goods over expensive ones, according to Adobe Analytics, which tracked sales from June 2024 to June 2025. In apparel, the share of the cheapest goods increased about 9 percent, while the share of most expensive goods decreased by 5.7 percent. Quince, which sells apparel, accessories, suitcases, homeware and kitchenware, is more reminiscent of a private label model, in which its products are made and sold by the factories making them. While its website doesn't advertise the brand it's copying, Quince has made the comparison in marketing texts: 'Our answer to the $5K Bottega bag is here,' one text read. 'Same luxe craftsmanship. Same premium handwoven Italian leather.' Quince's version costs $130. Few Moda, a membership-model fashion website, asserts that its products are 'made by the same manufacturers as the leading brands you know and love, at cost' and that it bypasses 'the middlemen and the markups.' Most items on the website note which pricey brand's manufacturer it shares, such as that of Staud, Theory and Ted Baker. Then there is Amazon, where many fashion and accessory sellers dupe trends - as CRZ Yoga does. Rinaldi, who works in ad tech in New York, said she and her friends are often sharing and showing off their finds. 'I just complimented my friend's outfit and … 50 percent of what she was wearing was from Amazon,' she said. 'Now, it's socially acceptable.' Related Content 'Buckingham Nicks,' the missing link of the Fleetwood Mac saga, is back Family adopts a shelter dog — then learns he's the father of their late dog Can the Fed stay independent? Trump-era adviser may put it to the test.
Washington Post
5 days ago
- Business
- Washington Post
Shoppers' appetite for store brands, ‘dupes' grows in hunt for savings
Adrianna Rinaldi has enough high-quality leggings to last a week of remote work in New York without having to do laundry — and it didn't cost her a small fortune. Instead of continuing to spend up to $118 for one pair from Lululemon, she now buys a version that is a third of the price. CRZ Yoga has built a cult following for its near-perfect dupe — short for duplicate — of Lululemon leggings. 'The quality is just the same,' said Rinaldi, 34. 'There's more acceptance around not going for the brand name.' From copycat brands to store-label groceries, budget alternatives to everyday essentials and indulgences are having a moment. Rather than the cheap knockoffs of old, they often come close to their brand equivalent in quality. More Americans are prioritizing price and value in lieu of national brand loyalty, according to spending data and company earnings calls — while influencers are also embracing the change. 'The dupe feels like you've cheated or one-upped the system … especially in a time of economic uncertainty,' said Lauren Beitelspacher, a professor of marketing at Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Brands and retailers are hustling to meet the moment as persistently high grocery prices, increasing personal debt levels and tariff uncertainty weigh heavily on consumers, creating a sense of urgency to save. Albertsons CEO Susan Morris told investors last week in its first quarter earnings call that the grocery retailer is 'leaning heavily into own brands,' looking to meet customer demand for more options at lower prices. This expansion could also be a 'great solution for our customer' when tariffs push up grocery prices, she said. Even mid- to high-income consumers are changing how they spend, despite 'still doing pretty well' on paper, said Chedly Louis, a retail analyst and vice president at Moody's. They are trading down to retailers such as Walmart, Dollar General and Dollar Tree, which historically serve low- to mid-income consumers. And the increasing popularity of store brands signals 'higher caution from the consumer,' she said. The same is true in some discretionary categories, where there are more options for quality products at attainable prices. 'People may not feel so beholden to a single brand — rather it's more about an overall aesthetic or niche that they want to express,' Jenna Drenten, a marketing professor specializing in digital consumer culture at Loyola University Chicago, wrote in an email. 'For every single one of the brand name 'must-haves', there are suggestions for the cheaper (but still good) version to buy instead.' The trend is most evident in the grocery aisles, said Sally Lyons Wyatt, of the market research firm Circana. Large supermarket chains, big-box stores and value retailers have been leaning into private labels, which have higher margins than name brands, for decades. But they doubled down in 2022 as prices surged, noted Lyon Wyatt, the company's senior adviser on global packaged goods and the food service industry. By 2024, sales on private-label food and nonfood grocery products hit an all-time high of $270.6 billion, a 4 percent increase over 2023, according to a report from Circana and the Private Label Manufacturers Association. That is about a fifth of total sales last year. National brands climbed 1 percent. 'The investments have certainly been worth it for grocers,' said Neil Saunders, a managing director at retail analytics firm GlobalData. 'They'll probably push on it even harder.' Canned food company Del Monte, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this month, and General Mills, the maker of Cheerios and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, have pointed to private labels as being increasingly tough competition. In a 2024 Ipsos poll, a third of respondents said most or all of their groceries within the previous week were store brands, while only 24 percent said the same of national brands. (Forty-one percent responded that the share was half and half.) These products often look strikingly similar to their national-brand equivalent, Beitelspacher said, 'to signal to the customer that they're the same quality.' Customers are also more clued in, with a better understanding that store brand products are sometimes manufactured in the same facility as the national brand, according to Saunders. Stephanie Olson, 31, said it wasn't until she lost her job during the coronavirus pandemic that she started planning her grocery lists around sales and coupons. Olson said she shops at Kroger in part because she lives in its hometown of Cincinnati, and because the store brands often have the best discounts and coupons, making the price gap against national brands even wider. 'They definitely make it enticing to buy their brand,' said Olson, who works in talent acquisition. In the past few years, retailers not only announced new private-label lines, but also improved branding, quality and selection, Saunders said. Target invested in its organic line Good and Gather and its indulgent offerings from Favorite Day. Albertsons' line of sweets — Overjoyed — is reminiscent of Target's, using brightly colored packaging and whimsical font. Meanwhile, Walmart has seen success with Bettergoods, which features organic and 'healthier' products that have been a draw for higher-income customers. Amazon turned to the other end of the spectrum, announcing Amazon Saver, a no-frills line of grocery staples. (Amazon founder Jeff Bezos owns The Washington Post.) Then there are the wholesale chains, most notably Costco and its Kirkland Signature brand, which have long dominated in the space, Lyons Wyatt said. The brand, which includes apparel, alcohol and groceries, accounted for 23 percent of Costco's revenue last year, generating $56 billion, according to the PLMA report. Those sales alone exceed those of Best Buy, Coca-Cola and Dollar General. Newer competitors are the Germany-based value retailers Aldi and Lidl, which have been rapidly expanding in the U.S. Aldi opened 120 new U.S. stores last year and its U.S. sales grew 14 percent over 2023, reaching $54 billion, according to the National Retail Federation. One quarter of U.S. households now shop at Aldi, Dave Rinaldo, then the president of Aldi USA, said at a PLMA conference. Jack Salzman, 29, doesn't mind walking a bit farther outside his neighborhood in Chicago to go to Aldi because his money 'goes a lot further,' the freelance TV and film production assistant said. 'I can spend under $100 and have enough stuff for a full week, and then some, at Aldi.' Plus, he often can't taste the difference between the store brand versus the national brand. Sydney Patterson, 30, feels similarly about over-the-counter medication. Growing up, she was used to seeing Tylenol, Advil and Aleve in her medicine cabinet. Now she thinks twice before reaching for those familiar brands, looking instead to the 'Target version that's $5 cheaper,' the fundraising consultant in Dallas said. While it's true that aspirational brands still hold weight in the fashion and beauty space, consumers are more open minded about trying cheaper alternatives, said Drenten, of Loyola University Chicago. Influencers were the catalyst, she added, because by speaking openly and enthusiastically about a dupe, it gives permission to followers to do the same — and even brag about it. Brands like Quince, E.L.F. Beauty, Few Moda and Dossier have built their customer base by explicitly duping expensive, popular products. Dossier, which went viral on TikTok for its 'impression perfumes' of designer brands, recently opened its first store in New York City. Instead of spending $335 on Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Baccarat Rouge 540, Dossier has its own version called Amber Saffron for $49. Sales of fragrance dupe brands surged 103 percent in mid-June compared to the same period last year, according to NielsenIQ. Cosmetic dupe sales increased almost 10 percent and facial skin dupe brands were up about 27 percent. Consumers are also allocating more of their spending to cheaper goods over expensive ones, according to Adobe Analytics, which tracked sales from June 2024 to June 2025. In apparel, the share of the cheapest goods increased about 9 percent, while the share of most expensive goods decreased by 5.7 percent. Quince, which sells apparel, accessories, suitcases, homeware and kitchenware, is more reminiscent of a private label model, in which its products are made and sold by the factories making them. While its website doesn't advertise the brand it's copying, Quince has made the comparison in marketing texts: 'Our answer to the $5K Bottega bag is here,' one text read. 'Same luxe craftsmanship. Same premium handwoven Italian leather.' Quince's version costs $130. Few Moda, a membership-model fashion website, asserts that its products are 'made by the same manufacturers as the leading brands you know and love, at cost' and that it bypasses 'the middlemen and the markups.' Most items on the website note which pricey brand's manufacturer it shares, such as that of Staud, Theory and Ted Baker. Then there is Amazon, where many fashion and accessory sellers dupe trends — as CRZ Yoga does. Rinaldi, who works in ad tech in New York, said she and her friends are often sharing and showing off their finds. 'I just complimented my friend's outfit and … 50 percent of what she was wearing was from Amazon,' she said. 'Now, it's socially acceptable.'
Tom's Guide
09-07-2025
- Business
- Tom's Guide
I've vetted hundreds of Prime Day deals under $50 — here's my top picks from Apple, Lego, Adidas and more
I love to save money. That means I never pay full price for anything and I always second-guess my purchases. As we enter the third day of Prime Day, I've seen a handful of great Prime Day deals under $50. For instance, a handful of Amazon's summer deals are comfortably under the $50 mark. This includes the excellent UE WonderBoom Bluetooth Speaker for $47, which is a great accessory if you're hanging out in your backyard or by the pool. If you need some new workout apparel, Amazon has CRZ Yoga apparel on sale from $15. CRZ Yoga is specializes in activewear with clothes that's nearly as good as Lululemon's, but with a much more reasonable price point. Finally, one of my favorite protein brands is 20% off. You can get a Momentous Whey Protein Powder 1.44lb. Bottle for just $43. This is the cheapest it's been all year and the only time I recall seeing it on sale. From Amazon smart home devices to wireless headphones, I've handpicked the best Prime Day deals that won't cost a penny over $49.99. Keep scrolling to check them out. Add a smart bulb to your home for just $6 thanks to this deal. If you own other smart devices, you can connect this bulb via Alexa or Google Home. If not, you can control the bulb fully via the Kasa Smart app. You can set timers, routines, and adjust brightness levels — perfect for movie nights. Carhartt sale: deals from $8 @ AmazonIf you're looking to upgrade your wardrobe, Carhartt has tons of rugged and stylish pieces you'll want to rock all season long. With deals starting at just $8, this is a sale you don't want to miss. KitchenAid's Classic Utility Whisk is great for beating eggs, whipping meringue, blending batters or keeping the lumps out of your sauces. The sturdy head is constructed of stainless steel wire and the handle is designed for maximum comfort. The elegant design is completed with a pretty Pistachio handle with a saving of 33%. These Lego Roses really brighten up a living space, and they make for an excellent gift. The set comes with 120 pieces, and is relatively simple to build. What's more, these roses will never wilt! Crocs sale: Crocs from $8 @ AmazonShow your feet some love this spring with a new pair of Crocs. As part of its sale, Amazon is knocking up to 65% off select men's, women's, and children's Crocs. After discount, deal prices start from $8. The sale includes all-terrain clogs, slip-resistant clogs, sandals and more. Who hasn't dreamed of driving a monster truck? Now that reality can be yours, on a tiny scale, for less than $10. This thrill-inducing set comes with a blue monster truck complete with oversized rubber wheels, along with a fearless driver to steer it. It doesn't matter whether you're nine or 90 years old, this giant box of over 10,000 assorted Lego bricks is a blast to play with: build a house, a car, a robot, a dragon; the options are endless. Better yet, it's a whopping 57% off during Prime Day. These CAP dumbbells are excellent value on Prime Day. With chrome handles for comfortable gripping when you have sweaty hands, they're a great way to add extra resistance to your workouts. This little SanDisk drive holds up to 128GB of your files in a lightweight plastic chassis that fits in the palm of your hand. The drive has a rotating plastic cover that shields either the USB-A or USB-C end from the world while freeing the other up to plug into your laptop, PC, smartphone or tablet, allowing you to easily move up to 128GB of files between devices. A bunch of us here at Tom's Guide own this charger and love it. It tends to go on sale often and we recommend it each time because it's just so good. It's so light, portable, and convenient. It's just $1 shy of its all-time price low right now and an amazing buy if you find yourself running out of juice when you're out or just want peace of mind when traveling. Ever have a terrible night's sleep and wake up with massive under eye bags? These cooling and hydrating under eye masks will be your saving grace! Even when I sleep well, I slap these masks under my eyes to help me look and feel my best all day long. With over 15,000 five star reviews on Amazon, these masks reduce puffiness, bags and swelling and are gentle on sensitive skin. They're also clean, vegan and both paraben and sulfate-free. The set comes with 24 pairs of gold masks. YETI sale: deals from $17 @ AmazonAmazon is offering epic deals on YETI cups, coolers, ice buckets and more starting from $17 ahead of Prime Day. There's plenty of deals to help you sip in style this summer. Whether you're at the beach, gym or grabbing a coffee, these sandals do the job. They feature a contoured footbed that makes them comfy to walk in, and a hook-and-loop bandage upper dries quickly. Additionally, they complement everything perfectly. The Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask is one of the most iconic skincare products out there, and this 30% saving is one of Amazon's top sellers this Prime Day. Pick it up in a range of colors and flavors right now. Don't let its size fool you — the Blink Mini 2 packs some impressive features into its compact frame. This weather-ready camera handles both indoor and outdoor surveillance, with color night vision and person detection making it smarter than its price suggests. While our review noted some audio limitations, it's hard to fault what you get for the money, especially if you're already in the Alexa ecosystem. An ideal travel backpack for work, this half-price bag comes in a huge array of color options, and has a USB charger so you can keep your phone powered while you're out and about. It's also made of water-resistant material. Nothing adds outdoor ambiance like a killer playlist and the very best solar lights. This outdoor-rated pack is built with shatterproof plastic bulbs that are currently 54% off at Amazon. Plug them in when the sun sets and enjoy 27 feet-worth and up to six full hours of a soft, white glow. The MZOO sleep mask is an Amazon best seller sporting over 73,500 perfect reviews from customers who give it the "night shifter seal of approval," and say it provides 100% darkness while the pressure it puts on the eyes is "just perfect." This sleep mask will see you through your summer flights with more $$$ to spend on snacks onboard. The Loop Quiet 2 are one of the most famous earplugs and for good reason. We put the Loop Quiet 2 to the test and they came out on top. Our tester said she won't be using any other earbuds from here on out. These earplugs are super comfortable and come with a range of tip sizes to ensure a perfect fit. If you're willing to live without active noise-cancellation, these Soundcore P20i buds are fantastic value for money. Offering 10mm drivers for impressive "big" bass, along with Bluetooth 5.3, 30-hour battery life, water-resistance, 22 preset EQs and in-app customization, which is great for this price. The Apple AirTag is an excellent key finder that is extremely easy to set up and does a great job of locating your valuables. It's also the perfect gift for someone who misplaces their belongings. What more could you ask for? The Blink Mini 2 is the 2nd generation of home security cameras that offer Day and Night HD views of your home, alongside two audio and motion detection. On top of that, the Blink Mini 2 offers enhanced motion detection and an LED spotlight. Amazon's compact smart speaker packs Alexa features into a space-saving design. The Echo Pop delivers clear audio for music and podcasts, while still handling all your usual voice commands. Good for nightstands or desks where space is tight, and the semi-sphere design looks cleaner than typical smart speakers. This stylish, roomy tumbler is perfect for everyday adventures. Designed to fit in a car cup holder, you'll be able to take it with you everywhere and it can keep your drinks hot or cold for hours thanks to its double walled insulation. The advanced FlowState lid can move between closed to prevent splashes, straw and an opening to sip from. The new Fire TV Stick 4K (2024) sports an upgraded 1.7GHz quad-core processor that's 30% more powerful than the previous model. In our Amazon Fire TV stick 4K review, we praised its 4K video quality for a budget price. Features include Dolby Vision/HDR10/HDR10+/HLG support, Wi-Fi 6 support and a Live TV guide button on the remote. You also get Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby Atmos support to improve your streaming audio. You might recognize these packing cubes from TikTok. These compression travel cubes are kind of like how a vacuum sealer works. By adding an extra zipper around the outside, the cubes can be zipped up to help squash clothes and create more room in your suitcase. This 6-pack is backed by 8,800-plus positive reviews, which note the quality zippers and fabric, range of size options, and pack down. Get professional-level teeth whitening in the comfort of your own home with these whitening strips. By using the strips for an hour once a day, you can remove up to 14 years of teeth stains, and you'll start seeing results in just three days. Coleman camping gear: deals from $29 @ AmazonAmazon's early Prime Day sale is offering unbeatable deals on Coleman camping gear and essentials. Coleman is an outdoor brand with some of the best tents, sleeping bags, grills , coolers and gear on the market. And right now, you can snag the Coleman Insulated Cooler for just $29. One of the best Bluetooth speakers in terms of portability is on sale right now at Amazon. Believe it or not, this 0.6-pound speaker packs a punch. The orange, light grey and black colors are all included in the promotion. Another one of our favorite pint-sized portable speakers is also on sale for just $27. My go-to travel speaker, this thing is big on volume and battery, and tough as nails, having survived countless drops and even one full submersion in water (oops). The KitchenAid Coffee Scale is just as good as the rest of its coffee line. This scale works in a wide range of weights, whereas other scales we've used only weigh in grams or ounces. With the KitchenAid, you can measure in grams, pounds, kilograms, and ounces, which takes legwork out of converting metric or imperial recipes. We can't forget about our furry friends! I bought this bed for my pup and he sleeps like a baby in it. The orthopedic dog bed is designed to give your pet a deep, dreamy sleep and provide the perfect amount of pressure relief and joint support. It comes in several sizes for all kinds of pups and dozens of fun colors. While they aren't technically true wireless, on account of the wire that connects the buds, the Flex are a great pair of fitness earbuds. They're super comfortable thanks to their lightweight, and this deal is a solid discount. Mechanical watches are so haute right now, and you don't need to break the bank to own a stylish and reliable one. Exhibit A: This handsome 38mm unisex option with a lovely cream dial from one of America's most historic watch brands. It tells the time, and that's all, making it the perfect weekend companion. Momentous is one of the few protein power brands I personally buy. The brand is NSF certified, which means independent third-party organizations test the product to ensure there are no contaminants. I'm a fan of the chocolate flavor, which tastes pretty clean when mixed with just water. This is the first time I've seen it on sale this year. The Echo Spot offers a different take on the smart screen format. As well as playing your music and podcasts hands-free, it's also great for quick glances at weather, time and notifications, with a design that fits nicely on any surface. Looking for some budget sneakers? These Adidas slip-on shoes are designed for running, and they're 38% off for Prime Day. The cushioned midsole is guaranteed to offer comfort whether you're working out or wearing them around the house. Available in several different colors, this Ninja portable bender allows you to make perfectly smooth drinks anywhere you go. This is an especially great deal for athletes because you can make up to 18 ounces of shakes and smoothies on the go. It features an easy-open sip lid that lets you blend and drink in the same vessel. This 7-quart slow cooker is the perfect size to house a big batch of chili or queso to snack on all day. Or you can plan ahead and slow cook a melt-in-your-mouth roast with some carrots and potatoes for an easy dinner. Combining hot air with its rounded brush shape, this hair tool straightens and curls as you run it through your hair, giving you the perfect blow out. I typically let my hair mostly air dry and then use this handy device to help create a sleek, shiny and bouncy look. It's also an amazing price considering the overall difference it can make to your hair care routine. At just $49, the best value Ring Video Doorbell got even better. The newest of Ring's doorbells has head-to-toe video and package detection. You can't replace its battery, but it's a fantastic option at this price. Don't forget to check out our Prime Day live blog, and also check what you can get for free this Prime Day!
CNN
27-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
I swapped my favorite Lululemon running shorts with a pair from Amazon. Here's how they performed
When the long, hot days of summer roll around, I love lacing up my sneakers and heading out for a jog. For years, I struggled to find athletic shorts that would sit securely on my waist without riding up or constricting my thick thighs. Lululemon's Fast and Free shorts are consistently praised for being some of the most comfortable and flattering running shorts out there. After my old shorts bit the dust last spring, I decided — after much consideration — to give this $78 pair a go for myself, and they've been my go-to running shorts ever since. But just because I love Lululemon's shorts, doesn't mean I won't consider more affordable alternatives to help keep my summer workout wardrobe stocked. To try and save myself a few hundred dollars, I headed to Amazon and grabbed a pair of the top-rated (and under $30) CRZ Yoga running shorts to see if they could give Lululemon's a run for their money (pun intended). Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Classic-Fit Split Shorts Lululemon's Fast and Free shorts are beloved by runners for a reason. With hidden pockets to store essentials, an adjustable waistband and a lightweight design, they're the perfect mix between comfort and convenience. They are an investment, but these are the shorts you'll hope are clean the next time you want to pace out some miles in the blistering heat. CRZ Yoga High-Waisted Dolphin Running Shorts An almost identical-looking alternative to the Fast and Free Shorts, these CRZ Yoga Dolphin Shorts are comfortable, available in an array of colors and even made of the same materials as Lululemon's shorts. They lack the thoughtful features that make Lululemon's shorts better suited for running and vigorous workouts, but if all you're after is some lightweight and affordable athleisure, this CRZ Yoga pair hits the mark. 86% Polyester, 14% Elastane 86% Polyester, 14% Elastane 11 21 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes, 3 back pockets No 3 inches 3 inches Yes No XXXS to XL XXS to XL On first inspection, the CRZ Yoga Dolphin shorts and the Lululemon Fast and Free shorts look virtually identical. Both have a high-rise waistband that sits comfortably across the lower stomach. I found the stretchy waistband on the CRZ Yoga shorts to be very comfortable and flattering, but it's made of a thicker material than the Lululemon shorts and feels more prone to trapping sweat and heat, which for a sweaty gal like myself, isn't necessarily what I'm looking for in running shorts. Both shorts are cut in a 'dolphin' style, with side slits on both thighs, rounded corners and an overall shorter length designed for uninhibited movement. This specific cut lends itself to a lot of thigh exposure, especially once you start moving. Between the two shorts, the Lululemon pair has a higher slit and less fabric overlap between the front and back panels. While this put more of my thigh on display, it also led to less fabric bunching around the top of my thighs than when I ran in the CRZ Yoga shorts. In addition to their overall lightweight profiles, both shorts have mesh liners for extra coverage and comfort. Neither liner felt too tight or led to extra chafing, but the Lululemon liner stayed in place better during runs and vigorous workouts. The liner in the CRZ Yoga shorts was fine during stretching, sitting or standing, but tended to shift in the innermost part of my thighs when I ran, leading to some awkward readjustments. Lululemon's liner was also thinner, which helped keep things feeling more breathable, even during the hottest and sweatiest of days. While the Lululemon and CRZ Yoga shorts look identical, there's quite a difference between their running performance. You can tell Lululemon's shorts are made with runners in mind. The Fast and Free shorts have three pockets on the back waistband that are big enough to hold running gels, keys or other small items you want to keep close. Previous versions of these shorts also had three pockets, but in an altered layout: two in the front of the waistband and one in the back. The sides of the shorts are also adorned with small reflective dots. They won't give you a ton of visibility if you're running in low light conditions, but it's a runner-oriented detail worth noting. The Lululemon shorts include a drawstring waistband so you can tighten them for a more secure fit. In all honesty, Lululemon's drawstring isn't my favorite; it gets the job done and keeps the shorts in place, but it cinches the fabric around my waist in a way I find unflattering. I think this is more of an issue if you, like me, are between sizes and need to size up for a roomier fit through the hips and thighs, which can leave some extra gapping around the waist. Speaking of sizing, these updated Fast and Free shorts fit differently from Lululemon's previous versions. When I bought these shorts last year, the sizing was numerical — size 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and so on. Now, Lululemon offers the shorts in alpha sizing — from XXXS up to XL. Since I like the fit of my older Fast and Free shorts, I bought the corresponding letter for the numerical size I already have. When the new shorts arrived, they were much tighter through my hips and shorter in the back than my previous pair. Though they fit and I could have run in them, I ended up returning them and grabbing the next size up for a more comfortable fit. The CRZ Yoga shorts are available in sizes XXS to XL, but had a more true-to-size fit. Sizing issues aside, I still found the Lululemon shorts better for running performance than the CRZ Yoga ones. Though the CRZ Yoga shorts are comfortable and I like how the waistband lies flat against my stomach, there's no way to adjust the fit. This isn't an issue if you're lounging around or doing lighter workouts like stretching or yoga, but while running, I did have to pull the waistband back up multiple times after it slipped down. There are also no pockets on the CRZ Yoga shorts. I prefer to run without a running belt or hip pack if I can, and when I ran in the CRZ Yoga shorts, I had to stuff my house keys into my sports bra, which wasn't ideal. The features on Lululemon's shorts aren't groundbreaking, but at least they're there. Having a place to store your keys or running gels and a mechanism that keeps shorts from sliding down makes all the difference when you're on the move and in the zone. Color options aren't a deal breaker for me when it comes to running shorts, but it never hurts to feel like you can find something that will perfectly match your workout wear aesthetic. Lululemon's shorts come in 11 colors, including two current 'trending colors', which the brand launches seasonally and changes frequently. For instance, even though I bought them less than a month ago, the deep plum color of the Fast and Free shorts I tested isn't available anymore. As someone whose workout wear has been prone to stains from sweat, self-tanner and sunscreen, I tend to steer away from light-colored workout wear. Lululemon only has four colors available right now that I would consider 'dark', with the others leaning more into the pastel color trend of spring. The offerings feel a bit limited, but the seasonal color drops are part of what makes Lululemon feel exclusive and keeps runners repurchasing shorts every season. CRZ Yoga has 21 color options for its running shorts, carrying everything from neutrals like white, black and brown to bold hues like red, pink, green and blue. Though the Sparkle Blue color of the shorts I tested was just as bright and bold in person as it looked on the Amazon page, heavier sweat droplets were visible on the fabric. Though this was not my experience, in some of the reviewer photos, it looks like the mesh liner is visible through the backside of the shorts — mainly with lighter shades like the white, pink and yellow colors. Like I said, limited color options isn't the biggest purchasing factor, but if you're looking for shorts that can match with the rest of your workout wardrobe or more options to rotate into your athleisure outfits, CRZ Yoga has a better selection. If style is all you're after, the CRZ Yoga shorts are pretty much a spot-on silhouette match to the Lululemon Fast and Free shorts. They're comfortable, come in an array of vibrant colors and can be worn for an array of workouts. Just bear in mind that you might have to readjust them often, and they're not outfitted with pockets to store your essentials or an adjustable waistband. For true performance in your running shorts, Lululemon's shorts are the better pick. Lighter and designed with a drawstring waistband, pockets and a breathable mesh liner that won't slide around, the Fast and Free shorts put runners at the forefront. You might have to size up for the best fit, but summer runners — myself included — will enjoy reaching for these shorts again and again. Do the Lululemon Fast and Free shorts or the CRZ Yoga running shorts have mesh liners? Do the Lululemon Fast and Free shorts or the CRZ Yoga running shorts have mesh liners? Yes, both the Lululemon Fast and Free and the CRZ Yoga running shorts have mesh liners. While both liners were comfortable to wear and didn't feel too tight, I found that the Lululemon liner stayed in place better during runs and vigorous workouts. I also found the liner in the Lululemon shorts to be thinner and more breathable on especially hot days. Are the CRZ Yoga or the Lululemon Fast and Free shorts heavier? Are the CRZ Yoga or the Lululemon Fast and Free shorts heavier? CRZ Yoga lists the weight of its shorts as 92 grams or about 3.2 ounces. To check, I weighed both shorts at home using my kitchen scale. The CRZ Yoga shorts came in slightly heavier than stated, weighing in at 125 grams, though it's possible that size variations could explain the difference here. Lululemon's shorts felt lighter in my hand than the CR Yoga shorts, but the brand doesn't list the weight for its Fast and Free shorts on its site. The Lululemon shorts weighed in at 114 grams on my kitchen scale. All in all, you don't notice the 11-gram difference while you're moving, since both shorts have a lightweight feel overall. Which brand's running shorts has more color options: CRZ Yoga or Lululemon? Which brand's running shorts has more color options: CRZ Yoga or Lululemon? The CRZ Yoga shorts are currently available in 21 colors, while the Lululemon shorts come in 11. CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy tested the Lululemon Fast and Free shorts and the CRZ Yoga running shorts to see which performed better for exercise and casual wear.
Forbes
22-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
The Best Golf Pants To Keep You Comfortable From Tee To Green
You can play a round of golf in any old pair of pants, but once you've worn a pair that's actually made for the course, it's hard to go back. Made from stretchy, breathable fabrics, the best golf pants put an end to unwanted tugging, overheating and general discomfort. I spoke with the cofounder of a golf apparel brand and surveyed everyday golfers to learn which pants consistently make the cut, both on and off the green. Based on these insights and my in-depth research, the Lululemon ABC Pants are the best option overall—they're light, stretchy and easy to wear for hours on end. To find a well-rounded selection of other comfortable, capable golf pants, I examined styles based on a set of key variables: fit and fabric, storage and sheer versatility. The options in this guide meet the needs of just about any golfer, whether you're playing in the Florida sun or struggling to source pants that actually fit. Find a style that works for you, and refer to the buyer's guide for additional insights courtesy of Scott Morrison, cofounder of golf apparel brand Radmor. Sizes: 28 to 40 | Materials: 100% recycled polyester (lining); 53% elastomultiester, 47% recycled polyester (body) | Pockets: 4 Ask a group of discerning golfers to name their favorite pants and you'll probably hear at least one of them mention Lululemon's ABC Pants. The smart-casual style is made with a breathable, flexible blend of fabric that moves surprisingly well and feels great against bare skin for long-term comfort. They're also quick-drying, resistant to wrinkles and made from recycled materials to reduce environmental impact. Lululemon completes the design with four pockets, including dedicated phone storage and a hidden zippered pocket in the rear for smaller items, like tees and a marker. Add it all up, and it's no surprise these pants finds their way into just about every golfer's wardrobe. Naturally, the biggest drawback I hear about the ABC Pants is the price, and that's a fair concern. With a similar budget, you can pick up multiple pairs of the CRZ Yoga All-Day Comfort Golf Pants and swing away in a similar degree of comfort. That said, the ABC Pants take the cake because they're good for just about any occasion—you can dress for the office, the driving range, a family gathering or a quiet evening around the house—and that's pretty impressive. Ultimately, that's why these come out on top. Sizes: 28 to 40 | Materials: 100% polyester | Pockets: 5 CRZ Yoga's All-Day Comfy Golf Shorts earned a spot in our latest golf shorts guide, but if you're after more coverage, we're just as satisfied with the All-Day Comfy Golf Pants. For less than $50, you'll get a stretchy, quick-drying design that's available in more than a dozen colors. Since they're made for the course, these pants come loaded with pockets for your scorecard, tees and other essentials, plus a zippered one for cash or valuables. That said, the pants' 100% polyester construction is a flaw worth mentioning. While it's not a dealbreaker, polyester isn't very breathable on its own and it can hold onto odors, so it'd be nice to see CRZ Yoga use a fabric blend in the future. Still, it's plenty durable and comfortable enough for most environments, and you'll probably switch to shorts when playing in hot weather anyway. If you're willing to sacrifice a little breathability to save some coin, these are great pants to add to your quiver. Sizes: 28 to 46 | Materials: 100% recycled polyester| Pockets: 4 From the soft colorways to the straight cut through the leg, the Bonobos Performance Link Golf Pants look like a lot like classic dress pants, but make no mistake: They perform. Made from 100% recycled polyester, they're durable and soft against bare skin, and tiny details (like a rear zippered pocket) come in handy on the course. It's also really nice to see Bonobos offer so much variety in sizing. With a dozen colors, 14 waist sizes, five fits and five lengths to choose from, there's a combination that meets the needs of most bodies. Like the CRZ Yoga golf pants, the only real drawback is the 100% polyester construction. While it's a big plus that it's recycled, polyester gets hot when it's not combined with other fabrics. It's also less stretchy, so if you prefer slim-fit pants, you might find them a bit tight during dynamic movements like your driver swing. Ultimately, that's a small sacrifice to make if you're after classic golf pants, but it's worth noting. Otherwise, this is a great option that elevates style during most conditions. Sizes: 30 to 40 | Materials: 100% polyester (lining); 71% polymide, 29% elastane (body) | Pockets: 4 As nice as it would be to play in a pair of comfy joggers, courses (and even the game of golf itself) require you to dress a bit nicer, and that often comes at the cost of comfort. Fortunately, Greyson's Montauk Joggers are a great compromise, thanks to the satin fabric's eight-way stretch and soft cuffs that lock in the feeling of luxury. Plus, the fabric is antimicrobial, moisture-wicking and quick-drying, so it performs just like a technical layer, whether you're hot and sweaty or playing through light rain. Greyson completes the design with functional pockets and a sporty waistband for a streamlined, performance-ready fit. It's hard to look past the price when there plenty of less expensive options nowadays, but the Montauk Joggers check a lot of boxes if you're after a true balance of comfort and performance. Finding a style that looks and feels this good isn't easy, and when you've finally found it, you're likely to pay more. Do so, and the Montauk Joggers might just become your favorite pants for the course. Sizes: 36 to 56 | Materials: 95% polyester, 5% spandex | Pockets: 4 Golfers come in all shapes and sizes, and big and tall players need a little extra room to move and groove. Fortunately, Callaway's Big & Tall Stretch Classic Pant offers comfort in spades, from an active waistband that keeps your shirt tucked in to moisture-wicking fabric that helps regulate body temperature. Not only that, but the fabric also offers sun protection, and it's stretchy to make dynamic movements easier. Essentially, it's a simple, comfortable style that looks good on and off the course. The Forbes Vetted gear team covers a range of topics across the outdoors, fitness and wellness spaces. We also cover golf equipment and apparel, from rangefinders to shorts and shoes. Your golf pants don't just impact how you look and feel on the course, they can affect how you play, too. After all, if you've spent even an hour in uncomfortable clothing, you know how quickly it can impact your mood and your ability to move in comfort. To find pants that are comfortable and versatile, we focused on variables such as fit, fabric and storage. Finding comfortable golf pants comes down to fit and fabric, storage options, weatherproofing and style. Here's how to make sense of these variables and find a pair that meets your needs. A pair of golf pants should balance flexibility, comfort and style—and this comes down to the right materials. Start by looking for fabrics with a hint of stretch, like blends that contain polyester, spandex or elastane, as these are great options that move with you as you play. 'Candidly, I think stretch is everything,' says Scott Morrison. 'A proper golf swing demands mobility from your hips, legs and core. Without enough stretch, you'll either feel restricted or your pants will pull out of shape.' Obviously, pants differ from shorts in that they offer complete coverage, so you'll need to take into account how the pants feel through the thighs and below the knee. A tailored fit that's just tight enough allows for full range of motion without unwanted bagginess or excess fabric. Fit is personal, but it often differs between styles and brands. Slim-fit pants create a more tailored look, but stretch and flexibility is key to maintaining movement so don't go for pants that feel truly restrictive. Regular fits are usually the best all-around choice, while relaxed fits improve airflow and comfort. Pockets may not sound all that important, but golf pants should offer space for your on-course essentials. Hand pockets are a good start, though you should also consider styles with rear pockets and a zippered pocket or two. Morrison notes that angled pockets are easier to access and hidden pockets can secure valuables without the unwanted bulk. 'Every element should add to the pants' utility without taking away from a clean, minimal look,' he explains. Full-coverage golf pants make it easier to play comfortably in cold or wet weather, but they can also be great for sunny days, too. Look for pants with a DWR (durable water-repellent) treatment to keep light rain or morning dew at bay and a UPF rating to reduce exposure to the sun. Most golf pants are plenty breathable, but polyester and synthetic blends are common because they wick sweat and dry quickly. 'You want pants that look sharp but perform under pressure, and can ideally take you from the golf course to the restaurant or bar with ease,' says Morrison. All of the styles in this guide feature clean, classic designs that transition into casual settings. The key to versatile styling lies in fabric selection, simple colors and a comfortable fit that complements your body without feeling too restrictive.
