Hiyo vs Recess: My Honest Experience
I’ll be honest — I didn’t start drinking functional beverages because I’m ultra-wellness obsessed. I started because I wanted something fun to drink without alcohol. Something that felt social, a little relaxing, but didn’t leave me foggy, dehydrated, or regretting my life choices the next morning.
That’s how I ended up trying Hiyo and Recess — two drinks people constantly compare. They’re both alcohol-free, caffeine-free (in most versions), low in sugar, and packed with buzzwords like adaptogens, nootropics, and sometimes CBD.
But they feel very different in real life. Here’s my actual experience drinking both.
Brief Product Descriptions
What Hiyo Is Like
Hiyo calls itself a “social tonic,” and that branding actually makes sense once you try it. It’s a sparkling, fruity drink made with organic adaptogens and nootropics like ashwagandha, lion’s mane, L-theanine, lemon balm, and passion flower.
There’s no caffeine, no alcohol, and no CBD. Instead, Hiyo markets a feeling they call “the float” — a relaxed, slightly uplifted vibe that’s supposed to make social situations easier.
Think:
mocktail energy without the alcohol.
What Recess Is Like
Recess feels more like a functional sparkling water than a social drink. The flavors are lighter, less sweet, and more subtle. Depending on the version, Recess uses adaptogens, L-theanine, magnesium, and sometimes CBD.
The goal isn’t a social buzz — it’s calm, focus, and stress relief, especially during the day.
How Each One Feels (My Real-World Experience)
How Hiyo Felt to Me
Hiyo was… interesting. The first time I drank it, I kept asking myself, “Okay, do I feel something or am I imagining this?”
After about 15–20 minutes, I did feel slightly more relaxed. Not high. Not buzzed. Just a little lighter, like my shoulders dropped and conversations felt easier. That’s probably what they mean by “the float.”
But here’s the honest part:
- Sometimes I felt it
- Sometimes I didn’t
- Once or twice, I got a mild headache
It’s very hit or miss, and I’ve noticed that’s true for a lot of people.
How Recess Felt to Me
Recess was way more predictable. I didn’t feel any kind of float or social buzz — but I did feel calmer. It reminded me of that quiet, focused feeling you get after taking a break or stepping outside for air.
Especially with the CBD versions, I noticed:
- Less mental noise
- Slightly better focus
- A calm that didn’t make me sleepy
It’s subtle, but consistent.
Adaptogens vs CBD: What That Actually Means for Your Body
Adaptogens (Both Drinks)
Adaptogens are herbs and mushrooms that are supposed to help your body manage stress. They’re not intoxicating and won’t make you high.
The catch?
Their effects are very individual and often very subtle, especially at beverage-level doses. That’s probably why Hiyo feels amazing to some people and like nothing to others.
CBD (Some Recess Versions)
CBD interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in stress and mood regulation. Even at low doses, it tends to feel more noticeable and predictable than adaptogens alone.
Still mild — but more reliable.
Best Moments to Drink Each
When I Reach for Hiyo
- Social gatherings
- Sober nights out
- Evenings when I want something fun in a can
- Replacing a cocktail at a party
When I Reach for Recess
- Workdays
- Midday stress
- Reading or focused tasks
- Evenings when I want calm without stimulation
Can They Really Replace Alcohol?
Short answer: not really.
Long answer:
They don’t replace alcohol’s buzz, intoxication, or intensity — and honestly, that’s probably a good thing. What they do replace is the ritual of drinking. Holding a can. Sipping something interesting. Feeling included socially.
Hiyo comes closer to the social side.
Recess comes closer to the relaxation side.
But neither will make you feel drunk — no matter how many cans you drink.
Side Effects, Safety, and Daily Use
Safety
Both drinks are generally safe for healthy adults. No alcohol, no caffeine, and no THC.
Possible Side Effects I’ve Seen Reported
- Hiyo: headaches, nausea, bloating for some people
- Recess: mild drowsiness or dry mouth (mostly with CBD versions)
Daily Use
I’d personally drink either occasionally, not obsessively. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or sensitive to herbs or CBD, it’s smart to check with a professional first.
Price: Are They Worth It?
Let’s be real — $3–$5 per can is expensive.
What you’re paying for:
- Flavor
- Branding
- Ritual
- The chance of feeling something
If you love the taste and vibe, it might be worth it. If you’re expecting a dramatic effect, you’ll probably be disappointed.
Final Verdict: Who Should Choose Which?
Choose Hiyo If:
- You want a social-feeling drink
- You’re sober-curious
- You enjoy fun flavors
- You’re okay with inconsistent effects
Choose Recess If:
- You want calm and focus
- You like subtle, predictable effects
- You’re curious about CBD or magnesium
- You want something easy for daily stress
My Final Take
If I had to sum it up simply:
- Hiyo is fun, social, and unpredictable
- Recess is calm, steady, and reliable
Neither replaces alcohol — but both are solid options if you’re trying to drink less and still want something that feels intentional.
