The Hit List
These are companies that I have spent extensive time both researching and testing their products on my most valuable resource — myself. I have encountered zero problems or anything that would give me pause and recommend any of them without reservation. These are in no order of preference; if a company appears on this list, they are solid. Of course, if they don’t appear on this list…they may need further investigation…I will try to keep this updated as time permits.
Athletic Edge Nutrition — For a while, I was using their entire line religiously. The products are well-designed and very effective and Sebastian Balcombe is, in my view, possibly the most ethical owner on these boards. I once told him that he was running AEN the exact same way I would if I were ever inclined to conduct a supplement company. His devotion to making high quality products is making AEN a huge success story and the future only looks bright for this stellar company, particularly given that he has made one product and one product category into household names from when they were formerly nothing.
Champion Nutrition — I have no favorites of any of these companies as I think they all have strengths, but if I had to choose only one line to ever use again, it would probably be these guys. They’ve been around for nearly 3 decades with nearly everything in the entire line geared around performance. There are very few stones unturned in their extremely comprehensive product line and according to the company, it is all manufactured in America, in their own plant, vs. being imported or subbed out. I have found all of what I’ve used to be of very high quality, very effective and very affordable.
AOR — It is difficult to the point of being impossible to surpass the strict quality control of AOR and it shows in their products, which are at or near the top in terms of quality for every single thing they make. Well worth the cost.
Xtreme Formulations — If it all comes down to taste of the protein, XF is very likely going to emerge the victor. Their quality control measures are beyond compare and the taste of many of their proteins is best defined as divine.
Prolab — Never a question about their quality and I typically keep at least one of their products on hand at all times. They also are very strong in their support of bodybuilding and the inherent lifestyle and I would not hesitate to ever use them.
Driven Sports — From the ashes of the dearly departed Designer Supplements comes a new leaner, meaner company. I can’t say enough about how much I think of Matt Cahill and the rest of the staff of both companies and the products I’ve usually found to be inventive, innovative and nearly always effective. One of the most underrated companies out there.
OTHER NOTABLES — these are not included above because I either have misgivings about some of the product line or there is one thing in particular that stands out about them to me…the above list is more indicative of what I currently am finding more suitable to my current lifestyle and habits.
Controlled Labs — They keep a top notch staff of board reps and take a very innovative approach to their supplements. Purple Wraath, in particular, is simply marvelous for what it is. No matter what they come out with, CL is always someone to watch.
Fusion Bodybuilding — In addition to a fantastic staff, Fusion also makes some interesting, almost boutique products, very specially tuned to the bodybuilding culture. They will always maintain a certain fondness to me for a few other reasons beyond their products, which themselves I’ve mostly found very useful.
RPN — One of the most intriguing companies out there. They have a great deal of inventiveness and their Gut Health product is nothing short of fantastic.
Olympian Labs — I’ve liked the majority of what I’ve tried from them and many of their products are at a solid price.
