Recess reviews and discussion

3.9

71% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Elegant, minimalist packaging aesthetic
  • Light, refreshing flavor profiles
  • Notably calming, subtle effect
  • Versatile nonalcoholic cocktail alternative
  • Inconsistent functional effects
  • Faint, sometimes medicinal flavors
  • Occasional bitter aftertaste
  • Soft, low carbonation mouthfeel

Recess earns mixed reviews: the brand delivers light, refreshing flavors, sleek packaging, and for many a subtle calming effect, yet it polarizes on taste intensity and the consistency of functional benefits. Reviews praise Strawberry Rose, Blood Orange, Peach Ginger, Blackberry Chai, and coconut lime, but cite faint or medicinal flavors, occasional aftertaste, low carbonation, and uneven “mood” effects—leaving some to view it as elevated seltzer rather than a reliably functional drink.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

480 reviews and posts

  • This drink has become my new go-to for unwinding! The delicate fizz and nuanced flavors – the Black Cherry and Peach Ginger were particularly delightful – offer a truly refreshing experience without any cloying sweetness. What impressed me most was the subtle shift I felt afterwards: a genuine sense of calm washed over me, coupled with a surprising clarity of mind. While my personal taste leaned towards some flavors more than others, the overall quality and the noticeable relaxation benefits make this well worth exploring. Yes, it's a bit of an investment, but the natural ingredients and the tranquility it provides feel like money well spent.

    Friends with Recess
  • Not sure I wanted to like this stuff, but I am also always looking for a way to drink more water and have it be interesting so I try a lot of different sparkling waters. I think the hemp was really effective.

  • Maybe better for those who don’t love a super sweet drink. It’s a good nonalcoholic alternative and their rosé cans are nice.

  • I've really enjoyed the few times I've had this sparkling water. The flavors have always been light and just the right amount of fizz. It's healthy and low calorie but still feels like I'm drinking soda. Also it's great that it has additional health benefits like the adaptogens which I definitely notice and give me a sense of calm.

  • I love the simple but elegant design of the cans. I usually save these for unwinding time after a long day at work. I put on a show or some music, grab a can and just chillax on the couch, maybe even take an evening nap!

  • I like how subtle the flavor is, not too strong, but not faint enough that you feel like you're just drinking plain water. I didn't necessarily notice the calming effects, but I did really like having an alternative to plain water or soda.

  • Firstly, I love the packaging. This makes me want to grab them, as they are super relaxing just to look at. I find the hemp taste to be nonexistent, no earthiness. It just tastes like a nice sweet drink.

  • Wasn’t a big fan of the brand, there’s lot of other drinks I enjoy more like te pache or even spindrift, that’s a good drink, this just tasted so sweet and just not my favorite drink ya know! That’s all

  • I am a die hard fan of the blood orange mood canned drink. I have been on a journey to find soda alternatives, and to me this is the perfect replacement to Orangina. Very crisp taste and the perfect level of carbonation. I don't really notice a "calm" effect when I drink it, but I also don't choose this drink for that reason. Reasonably priced considering the cost of soda alternatives.

  • I tried the mocktail and just thought it was ok. I thought it was a bit pricey for what you got and the flavor was a bit odd to me. I didn't think there was anything that was a particular standout about the product.

  • I didn't love the flavors of these, and for a CBD drink I much prefer the flavors of Vybes (super dumb name though). I might give Recess another try. I also wish they would explain why adaptogens are good for you, seems very trendy but not many brands explaining the science behind it.

  • Recess Mood is an adaptogen and magnesium infused sparkling water. They have a light subtle flavor but they’re not very bubbly. The strawberry rose is my favorite. I’ve tried a lot of adaptogen beverages and this is one of the few that I actually have a noticeable wave of calmness from. I’ve also tried the powder form but it tasted chalkier. I prefer the canned versions. I like that this brand is easier to find stocked in regular grocery stores and health food stores, it makes it an easy non-alcoholic go-to when on vacation and you want to stock up the fridge with some beverage varieties.

  • Tastes so good and makes you feel good too! Great mocktail substitute or something to just take the edge off before headed out.

  • Recess sparkling water and powder mixes are a game-changer for anyone looking to unwind and boost their mood. The flavors are light, crisp, and refreshing, and I love that each drink is infused with hemp extract and adaptogens to help calm your mind without any jitters. It’s the perfect drink for relaxing after a long day or just staying centered during a busy one. If you're looking for a soothing, natural way to stay refreshed and balanced, Recess is a must-try! 💧💆‍♀️

  • I absolutely loved the packaging of Recess and it drew me in! The product tasted nice and I will definitely purchase again!

  • I’ve been trying to cut down on drinking for the last couple of months and have found these to be a great alternative. I love the flavor of the lime marg and Paloma. The reason for 4 stars is because I don’t know that I feel the full effects that they talk about people having from these drinks - I feel a bit calmer (maybe?) but it’s not significant.

  • Love the CBD effects in Recess. I’m not a big drinker and love having a recess on hand to feel included in backyard BBQs and with friends.