Last year, I started my Runner’s Report Card to put new running products, gadgets, fuel and apparel to the test. As a runner, marathon coach and someone who writes about all aspects of running, companies often reach out to me to test their products and provide feedback.

Since the beginning of 2016, I’ve tested a number of products. You deserve the honest truth as you see these in ads, on social media and hear about them from other runners. I did not receive compensation nor do I receive benefits for writing about any of these products outside of my long-term Run Happy Ambassador relationship with Brooks Running.

Here is my grading scale:

Let’s bring on the grading. Here’s a glimpse at the products on today’s spring 2016 report card:

1. SlimClip Phone Case: A

As someone who almost always runs with music, I’m consistently looking for better and less cumbersome ways to carry my phone. I’ve tried numerous arm bands as well as cases that attach to my hand. In March, the Wonderful Things Factory told me they had the answer to my problem and sent me a SlimClip Case to try. It is a lightweight phone case that has a clip on the back to latch to your running shorts or pants. I was beyond skeptical. The last thing I want or need is something that bounces around on my waist and feels uncomfortable while running. I’ve never been able to wear running belts, so I assumed this would be no different.

Turns out, the SlipClip Case was love at first wear. Here’s what you should know:

• It doesn’t move or bounce while wearing it. Even during very fast speed work it stays in place and you forget it is even there.
• It is a great alternative for arm bands for music. I love not having the extra weight on my arm. I simply string my ear bud cords up through my running tank.
• It is incredibly light and has not only become my phone case for running, but I now use it for my everyday phone case. It has a wide angle opening around your camera lens so you can still take great photos.
• It is also extremely useful/helpful in everyday life. I work from home so on conference calls I can clip it to my pants and still walk around or move. Additionally, when I need to be on the phone while walking around or carrying things, it gives me an extra set of hands by being hands-free.

2. Physiclo Capris: D+

I had the opportunity to test a very unique set of workout pants from a company called Physiclo. They design products that have built-in resistance to engage your muscles more, enhance cardio and maximize workout results. They are supposed to do this through a unique system of elastic panels that are said to boost muscle activity by 23 percent and increase calorie burn by 14 percent. Imagine if those circular resistance bands you use for leg/hip/glute work were built into your workout pants … that’s what these are like.

The idea is that by wearing these pants to workout, you will get more out of what you’re already doing quicker and with less effort. I encourage you to watch this video to get a better perspective of the technology and research behind the product. Their co-founder and CEO Frank who talks in the video was great to work with and incredibly genuine.

I wore them for a strength training and running workout, and while they are not a product I would wear again or use regularly, I think they are intriguing for people who may not be very active or who do not enjoy working out, and I appreciate all the science and research that has gone into their technology. Here’s my take:

• As someone who already does really hard and intense workouts, I don’t need or want my outfit to make my workout even harder. As a runner and marathon coach who trains with very purposeful workouts and plans when I am training for a goal race, I don’t see myself wearing these to run as every workout is designed to either be an easier recovery or to be very taxing. I don’t believe this product is good for runners training for specific races, however, I do see value for people who don’t enjoy physical activity that much or who are looking to lose weight as having an extra tool to help them do so will be seen as a motivator.
• My capris fit well and true to size. I was able to have full movement in them. They felt odd at first, but after a short while I didn’t notice the resistance bands much. The one thing I did not like about the fit/style was how the bands make your skin look. Do you know how it looks when women wear full-bottomed underwear with tight fighting pants and you can see the underwear lines? The bands do the same sort of thing on your thighs. It made me feel a bit self-conscious, which is the opposite of how I want to feel in my workout clothes. The picture below does not fully capture this effect.

• The fabric is very heavy and thick. Being a runner in Florida, I can’t wear these outside and be comfortable due to the heat and humidity. They are better suited for indoor workouts given the climate in which I live.
• The price point is $110. Although that is consistent with compression tights, I think it is a bit pricey for the everyday woman who would be most likely to wear these.

3. Sarah Marie Design Studio Coffee Poop Run Mug: A

When I moved into my new house in March, my dear friend Beth gave me this incredible mug from Sarah Marie Design Studio as a housewarming gift. It is officially my favorite mug in the world, and I think it is the best running gift on the face of the planet. It retails at $18. Be sure to check out all the other unique and amazing running gifts on her site. She also has a great Instagram feed.

What’s even cooler? She has versions for other sports like swimming and biking and just launched one with a runner girl … now, if Apple would just get with the program and add it to the emoji keyboard, right?

4. Brooks Running Neuros: B

The Neuros are the newest addition to Brooks Running’s shoe collection that launched earlier this year. They are lightweight neutral shoes designed for speed. If you have tried Brooks in the past and haven’t had success, these are completely different than all the other shoes in their line. They feel totally different from what you expect in a Brooks shoe. They are extremely flexible and soft, and you can actually completely bend them in half. The heel and forefoot move independently for powerful push-offs which makes that possible. The sole kind of looks like a shoe from outer space, which is actually a series of propulsion pods designed to return the energy you put in to keep you running your best every time you lace up.

My verdict? These are good shoes and definitely worth trying, but they are not without a few opportunities for improvement. First, these shoes are over-sized, meaning if you typically wear a 9, you need to order an 8.5. They feel a little wider than most Brooks shoes I wear. The other thing I wish was different is that I’d like to see the shoelaces be a little thicker. They are thin and feel too dainty. The sole is a bit flashier than what I would prefer. Since I need a little more stability, I use these for cross training and enjoy wearing them. They are really comfortable, and it has been fun to try something completely different.

5. Chosen Foods Spray Oil: A

Kate from SoCal Runner Gal turned me onto Chosen Foods, a health food company in San Diego. I had never heard of them before she reached out to try some of their products, but they are now a staple in our house. All of their products are non-GMO, low-sugar and nutrient dense. What I love most are their oil sprays. I’ve never been able to find oil/cooking sprays in the store that aren’t loaded with fake ingredients or additives, so I don’t buy them. But all that is in theirs is either avocado oil or coconut oil. In addition to using them as actual cooking sprays on pans, they are fantastic to spray right on salads, thereby using less oil overall. I love, love, love these sprays and highly recommend them if you’re looking for a healthy spray you can feel good about using. Also, check out their mango chia bites. Delish!

6. Eureka Balm Stick (and lip balm): A

Eureka Balm is a product I discovered while living in Atlanta because it is homemade right in the metro area. Although I’ve written about it before, they have two new products that I hadn’t yet tried: a Eureka Balm stick and lip balm. They don’t disappoint! These completely all-natural products are amazing. And what’s even better is that you get to support a local, small business when you buy them.

7. Brooks Running Greenlight 3″ Running Short Tight: A-

If you follow me on Instagram, you know I wear short, tight-fitted black shorts for almost all my running and racing (when it is not cold enough to require capris or tights). You also know that almost all the clothes I wear are made by Brooks Running. Brooks has unfortunately not offered a 3-4-inch fitted short option for several years. I have been badgering the apparel team about it every year, and have worn lululemon and Oiselle shorts since I didn’t have a Brooks option … until now. This past spring, Brooks launched their Greenlight 3″ Running Short Tights and I am in love with them! While a 3.5 or 4-inch short would probably be my preference, I still love these. They fit great and are incredibly comfortable. They don’t ride up at all. The only downside is that there is only one pocket in the front waistband and it is pretty small. It is perfect for fitting your house or car key, but wouldn’t adequately hold gels while racing. The shorts do fall low on the waist, so if you are self-conscious about love handles or belly pooch, these aren’t very forgiving.

(The photo below is pictured with the Brooks Streaker Racerback Tank. If you like the lululemon Run Swiftly tanks, you will LOVE this. So soft and comfortable!)

8. Go Macro MacroBar: A

I cannot get enough of these delicious GoMacro bars! The ingredients are clean, and anything with dried cherries as a key ingredient has me at hello. While all the flavors are tasty, cherries + berries is the kind I buy and devour. I started buying these at my local grocery store and they are in our house every week. Mr. rUnladylike also loves them. They are about 200 calories per bar.