Discover the power of product sampling: Quarterly roundup

“Seeing the quality of these reviews and how detailed they are makes me want this type of review on every product.” – Brian Block, Vice President of Sales, Mammut

Authentic feedback from knowledgeable experts is the ultimate endorsement. While many brands were laser-focused on the holiday season, several found time to prep for upcoming product launches. From trailblazing outdoor equipment manufacturers to innovative wellness companies — ExpertVoice product sampling helped connect their products with credentialed experts that carry outsized influence with their target audiences. 

A sampling of reviews from golf greens to hiking trails

Cleveland Golf Proto Wedges

25 proven golf experts were the first to test these sleek, high-performance wedges. Alex Franzen, a Dick’s Sporting Goods employee, noted that the club converted him from another brand and shared:

After spending multiple rounds of golf as well as hours on my backyard putting/chipping green, I will say I am a believer in what Cleveland Golf is doing with their wedges! Compared to the previous wedges I had in my bag, the overall feel and softness is unmatched.” 

Altra Lone Peak 9

Trail runners tested these revamped shoes throughout October and November with impressive results. Asha Shoffner, who leads outdoor recreational activities by and for BIPOC, called them the ultimate versatile shoe:

I would recommend these for running on grass, dirt, rocks, as well as at the office on casual days and while running errands. They are the ideal all-around shoe.”

Vortex Crossfire Spotting Scope

Hunters put this premium scope to the test in real-world scenarios. Eagle Scout Matt Boetcher praised its durability and clarity, saying:

I put it through the test bouncing around in a backpack on a few late summer scouting trips, long hours shooting in the desert and at the range, and even watching wildlife on a recent trip to the Grand Canyon. I absolutely recommend these spotters and look forward to chasing antelope with it in the coming weeks!”

Charlotte’s Web Mushroom Support Gummies

To support their new line of gummies, 100 experts were selected to try one of three unique formulations to manage stress, improve focus or boost energy. Healthcare professional Pearl Tam provided honest feedback about their Energy Support gummies:

I’m really enjoying this new product! I take it every morning feel more focused and productive, especially for projecting routes. Only caveat is that it’s a bit too sweet, for me at least.”

Diverse experts deliver high-quality content

Across every campaign, ExpertVoice facilitated unmatched authenticity and quality in user-generated content (UGC) from expert participants. Here’s a look at some of their results. 

Altra FWD Via

With a 94% participation rate, Altra gathered 132 reviews and photos from a diverse group of running experts who road-tested their latest high cushion model. Salt Lake Running Company employee Raymond Troncoso shared some scenic photos of his shoes in the wild and noted:

After logging about 50 miles in the Altra FWD EXP VIA I’m excited to keep training in these. Roomy in the toe box but secure enough in the mid-foot to have me feel locked in while running canyons this weekend. The 4mm offset helps me transition into a lower drop without stressing out my calves/achilles too much.”

Mammut Tree Wool Longsleeve and Neon 45

In one concise campaign, Mammut collected 40 reviews and over 70 images for their newest baselayer and climbing pack. Experts raved about the fit and usefulness of the women’s specific Neon 45 pack for climbing, showcasing how they packed their bags and the incredible places it took them:

Mammut selected two dozen experts to try out the new Tree Wool baselayer. Experts put it through the wringer, and they couldn’t wait to share their experiences. Environmental researcher and documentary filmmaker Ethan Parrish tested it across multiple outdoor adventures, noting:

I wore it for 6 days straight while hiking, climbing, and at work while filming sustainable logging practices in Washington. The shirt performed gallantly across the spectrum. I was surprised by how light and packable it was. On my fall hikes and during long filming days, it provided an awesome baselayer and, more often than not, ended up as my only layer during ascents. This is because, despite its light weight and impressive breathability, it regulated temperature really well.” 

Country Life Vitamins

To support the launch of three new products for healthy aging, women’s health and a plastic-free deodorant, Country Life tapped into the power of experts. These types of products can be hard to share in photographs, but Melissa Jones, a personal trainer, made us believers with her compelling UGC, stating:

I have tried many different products of organic deodorants, and this is one of my favorites. Although it doesn’t keep me super dry throughout the day it works wonderfully as far as keeping odors away.” 

Athlon Optics Cronus ATS 50-640

Three select experts had the opportunity to test this high-value thermal optic and Athlon hit the jackpot when Lucas Spencer, a US Marine and talented media professional, submitted a detailed review, a 10 minute video and multiple photos covering every aspect of his experience.

Sampling campaign results that speak volumes

Expert reviews bring authentic, firsthand insights that influence and inspire — and brands are taking notice.

• Altra e-commerce manager Ali Fernsell shared that expert reviews on their PDP contributed to their most successful launch ever of the Lone Peak 9. She emphasized the value of detailed insights shared by experts: “It’s so nice to see them call out that you can lace the shoe differently to meet your needs. That’s a really helpful insight because most people don’t know that.”

• Brian Block, VP of Sales at Mammut, highlighted the impact of detailed reviews: “We know 70% of consumers rely on good reviews to make purchasing decisions, so seeing the quality of these reviews and how detailed they are makes me want this type of review on every product.”

• John Palaspas, Marketing Operations & Customs Manager at Cleveland Golf, celebrated the campaign’s ability to convert experts from competitor brands. He noted his favorite review combined technical expertise, fitter insight, and personal storytelling: “The campaign was a success and I hope this momentum and fanfare carries into launch.”

For brands looking to amplify their message, ExpertVoice Product Sampling offers:

• A diverse network of qualified experts: From healthcare professionals to outdoor leaders to retail sales associates, our experts represent a wide range of industries and perspectives.
• Unparalleled review quality: Detailed, authentic feedback from trusted voices.
• Seamless execution: Our experienced strategists handle all the details to ensure your brand gets the results you need to boost visibility, credibility and conversion rates.