With the start of the second semester and the end of winter break, it’s easy to find yourself in need of an extra boost of energy. From late nights of homework to the jarring reintroduction of long school days, caffeine is a must-have at this time of year. This list covers recommendations for the best energy drinks to help navigate grocery store drink aisles and power through winter.
#5 Monster
A common feature of many grocery store drink shelves, Monster is an easy brand to reach for to satisfy a caffeine craving. The drink comes in over a dozen flavors, including zero-sugar options. The 160 mg caffeine content, though potentially jitter-inducing, is effective, although the same results could be gleaned from a more pleasant-tasting source. Its convenience and intensity earn the drink three out of five feathers.
#4 Zoa
A brand founded by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson himself, Zoa packs a punch. This energy drink is just as effective as any, with 160 mg of caffeine, and contains electrolytes, vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids, advertising potential health benefits. Despite offering 12 flavors, including “Pineapple Coconut” and “Super Berry,” the taste doesn’t stand out. Zoa has a similar acidic taste to Monster, sharing the same caffeine content but in a smaller can for convenience, and earns 3.5 out of five feathers.
#3 Sambazon
For a natural option, look no further than Sambazon’s organic Acai energy drink. It has a milder flavor and is slightly less common in stores. Each drink contains two espresso shots’, or 120 mg, worth of caffeine. The soft flavor but strong energy punch gives Sambazon a four out of five feathers.
#2 Celsius
Celsius’ energy drinks are a standout, with a whopping 200 mg caffeine content. That much energy is guaranteed to get you going, and comes in a wide variety of flavors, including “Peach Vibe” and “Kiwi Guava.” Celsius offers quick, accessible energy in bulk, earning four out of five feathers.
#1 Clean
A lightly flavored and bubbly refresher, Clean offers 160 mg of caffeine in a wholly enjoyable package. With a limited but fresh flavor range, the brand promises to alleviate jitters and energy crashes while containing the same effective energy as a Monster. This drink’s efficacy, in combination with the mild, sweet flavor, earns Clean five out of five feathers.
Honorable Mentions:
Yerba Mate – The beverage comes in many enjoyable flavors, although it is technically a tea and not an energy drink.
Red Bull – A widely available and compact form of energy drink, convenient but suffers from a rough aftertaste.
Alani – A drink similar to Celsius at 200 mg of caffeine, but with colorful cans. Its synthetic sweetness does little to elevate the drink beyond the others on the shelves.
