PR*BAR NUTRITION
($21 for 12;
prbar.com)
PREMISE: A multipurpose nutrition supplement, PR*Bar works to stabilize and maintain blood sugar levels before, during, and after a strenuous workout. The all-natural blend helps athletes maintain energy and tap into body fat reserves for long, endurance workouts.
TESTERS SAY: While our testers didn’t put the product’s Fastburn nutrition program through the motions, testers were happy with the nutrition boost before and during workouts. Tom downed one about 40 minutes prior to an intense sprint workout and said he felt great throughout, and Taylor enjoyed the benefits as a quick snack during her long runs. Chocolate mint was the favorite among all of our testers, and Becky was pleased to report, “the double chocolate flavor actually tasted like chocolate, which you don’t always find in supplement bars.”
RATING: 4.5
ROLA NV-2 HITCH-MOUNT BIKE RACK
($283;
rolaproducts.com)
PREMISE: A slight adaptation from the typical hitch mounted rack, the lightweight NV-2 is designed to carry bikes by the wheels rather than the frame in order to accommodate all bike sizes. Its adjustable cradles slide into place to fit both adult and children’s sizes, and the support arms stow upright for travel when not in use. The NV-2 is designed to fit both 1 ¼ and 2 inch hitch receivers.
TESTERS SAY: Rola’s claims of adjustability certainly lived up to expectations, even for rather funky frame shapes. Zach didn’t have any problem getting both his own 56cm road bike and his wife’s 47cm ride on the rack quickly, and appreciated the NV-2’s third point of contact to help minimize sway while the bikes were mounted. But be careful of your environment. While quick and easy to use in warmer months, “I cringe to think about how well the sliding mounts will ‘slide’ after a few months of New England road grit builds up on the tracks and arms.” While the NV-2 may not be the perfect rack if you are looking to cart your ride about year-round, the novel wheel mounts are a great option for the rider looking for a hitch-mounted rack that can take frames of any shape or size.
RATING: 4.5
FINIS POSITIVE DRIVE FIN
($22;
finisinc.com)
PREMISE: For the avid swimmer, the PDF is designed to improve leg strength, foot speed, and ankle flexibility for a variety of swim strokes. The asymmetrical shape promotes a natural inward kick stroke, while the ellipsoidal blade generates correct propulsion for all kick styles. An ergonomic footpocket keeps your feet in ideal swimming position and the secure heel-strap allows feet and ankles to flex naturally during training.
TESTERS SAY: Due to the compact design, Eliza fell in love with the PDFs even before trying them on, remarking at how nice it was to find a training fin that easily fit into her swim bag. Once in the pool, the PDF continued to impress. Ben appreciated the ankle flexibility allowed by the rear strap, and the smaller size allowed for a faster kick rate than previous fins he had tried. Eliza warned that the closed toe might provide some added pressure for swimmers with wide feet but still had fun on her test swims. “They’re zippy, that’s for sure.”
RATING: 4.25
USATRIATHLON.ORG USA TRIATHLON 73
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