The 8 best products Yahoo Canada's shopping team tried in May — seriously, we're obsessed

Yahoo

a day ago

It's safe to say May kept us on our toes — one day it was T-shirt temperature, the next we were reaching for our umbrellas and raincoats again. While the weather couldn't quite make up its mind, our shopping editors had no trouble picking out their favourite products of the month.
From practical everyday items to the impulsive splurge that turned out to be totally worth it, this month's best picks strike a healthy balance between functional and fun. And while we do love testing products (because who wouldn't?), we're really here to answer one question: is it worth the money?
If you're interested in what made the cut, here are the things we reached for again and again in May, and we think you might, too. Keep reading to see what stood out, as well as a sneak peek at what we're eyeing as we head into summer.
I've written about this sunscreen stick before, but recently replenished my supply ahead of the Victoria Day long weekend. While summer may seem like it's never coming, Canadians, I promise it'll be here soon — and you don't want to get caught without sunscreen. I love this clear Shiseido suncreen stick which glides on easily, doesn't have a scent and can easily fit in your bag or backpack. While it's quite pricey, a little goes a long way — and I'm willing to splurge for the best sunscreen stick I've found. — Hilary Hagerman, Lifestyle & Shopping Managing Editor
One of my recent hyperfixations has been researching the gut-brain connection. I love reading (and writing!) about health, mental health and longevity (this is an excellent book if you care about the latter), and thus, I have spent a lot of my spare time learning about the gut-brain axis.
What is the gut-brain axis? Research suggests that digestive system activity may affect cognition (thinking skills and memory), mood, and even anxiety and depression.
To maintain a happy gut, I take a daily probiotic. Recently, this probiotic has been the internet-famous Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic. DS-01 is formulated with 24 strains not commonly found in other probiotics or foods and boasts 53.6 Billion AFU. It takes a few days for your body to adjust to Seed (don't stray too far from a bathroom), but once you get used to it, it's great for overall health and wellness.
While I really like Seed, my main (and big) gripe is shipping and duties. If you're based in the U.S., shipping is free. However, for those of us up north, you can expect to pay more for the already pricey supplement. I've enjoyed trying it, but after my 60-day supply is depleted, I'll look for a Canadian-made alternative. - Kayla Kuefler, Senior Shopping Editor
You've probably come across the bestselling Skylight digital photo frame (which makes a great gift idea, might I add), but have you heard of the digital calendar? When I stumbled upon this nifty gadget, it immediately piqued my interest. If you find yourself constantly overfilling your wall calendar or daily planner — because let's be real, there's never enough space in those little squares — then this product is right up your alley.
This smart calendar uses an interactive touchscreen and Wi-Fi connectivity to help you track your day-to-day tasks, events and appointments. I'm thoroughly impressed with its ability to keep everything streamlined, from daily duties and chores to meal planning. My favourite part is the colour coordination of it all; it helps keep my schedule separate from everyone else's in the household.
You can prop it up on a counter or hang it on the wall, and it can be positioned in landscape or portrait mode. And the yearly subscription allows it to double as a photo frame (which I highly recommend).
There are so many useful features on this calendar that keep things easy and concise, making it worth the splurge in my opinion. My only note is that the touchscreen can feel laggy in comparison to my iPhone 15 Plus. — Melina Brum, Shopping Editor
Justin Trudeau may stick with Gazelles, but I'm an Adidas Japan fan through and through. Confession: I actually have these in three (!!!) other colourways, but I couldn't resist the hunter green and cream combination. These low-profile sneakers are stylish, but unlike other cool-looking shoes I've tried, they're actually comfy as heck right out of the box. If you've never bought Adidas shoes before, make sure to check the size guide (or try them on in store) — I typically take a full size down from my usual women's size. — HH
I am completely and utterly obsessed with the Venom 2 Back from Hyperice. Dubbed the "most advanced heat and massage wrap on the market," the Venom 2 Back heats up 6x faster than a standard heating pad and provides instant, soothing relief to sore muscles.
I walk a lot, often whilst carrying a very heavy backpack, and do a lot of physical activities, so this vibrating heating pad is a staple in my end-of-day routine. It heats up in seconds (literally) and offers three different vibration options. I recently moved to a new apartment, and my mom flew in to help me get settled. At the end of each day, we took turns using the Venom 2 Back to soothe our sore backs from the move. While she was packing her suitcase to return home, I had to double-check that she didn't try to sneak it into her carry-on bag.
If you suffer from back pain (especially lower back pain) and love some TLC at the end of a long day, the Venom 2 Back is worth every penny. The battery does die relatively quickly, but honestly, considering how much relief it packs into a single use, it's not a big deal. My mom has already asked my dad to buy it for her for Christmas. It's awesome. - KK
If you're a fellow hair-wash-day procrastinator, then you're probably no stranger to dry shampoo. Don't worry, I'm with you, but I've long since strayed away from aerosol versions once I discovered how damaging they can be. However, I couldn't steer clear of dry shampoo for long, knowing how much of a staple is in my beauty regimen.
I eventually came across powder products, like the Briogeo Dry Shampoo Powder Puff, which has become an absolute godsend. And if you're anything like me, I can assure you you'll love this non-aerosol, talc-free dry shampoo powder puff just as much as I do.
I own the tinted one for darker brunette hair, and I love how it helps fill in separated strands that oily hair tends to create. To apply it, I simply dab my scalp with the built-in puff and it works to absorb excess oil, leaving me with a fresh finish. It's incredibly easy to use and a little goes a long way, and since it's powder it will last a good while. So, while $38 is pricey, I know I will continue to get good use out of this game-changing product. — MB
I'm a big Canadiana girl (the downfall of The Bay has broken my heart in two), and thus, I'm a sucker for any T-shirt, sweater or pair of sweats that are branded with a little bit of Canadian pride. Roots' entire Canada Collection is adorable, but it's this Fruit Series T-shirt that I find myself wearing on repeat. It's crafted from 100 per cent cotton and is incredibly comfortable.
Tip: The shirt follows gender-free sizing, so it fits large if you're looking for a classic women's fit. If you don't want an oversized look, I would recommend sizing down. - KK
If you know anything about Korean skincare, you're likely familiar with the term "glass skin." In my attempt to achieve said glass skin, I tried to find products that would deliver effective results within a reasonable price range.
The brand BYOMA has been on my radar as of late (and not just because of its super cute packaging), so when I came across this Phyto-Mucin Glow Serum, I had to give it a shot. Why, you ask? Well, it's advertised as a "one-step solution for glass skin." While I don't believe any product is a miracle in a bottle, I can say I've noticed many benefits with this "super-serum."
Right off the bat, it's clear, lightweight and absorbs into the skin quickly. Every time I put it on I feel refreshed and my complexion appears a little more glowy than before. It's too early to tell if it can majorly transform my skin, but so far, so good. I will continue to keep up with it (and the price is great!). The only thing I noticed is that the consistency is a little tacky when rubbing it in my hands, but it dries perfectly fine. — MB
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