Booster

The Verdict

Lacoste Booster arrived in 1996 as a bold, uncompromising entry in the sport fragrance category, and it has maintained a loyal following ever since. Built around a powerful combination of peppermint, eucalyptus, and citrus, it delivers an energy hit that many reviewers describe as genuinely invigorating. Community sentiment is positive among those who appreciate its bracing character, though newcomers encountering it for the first time may find the medicinal edge challenging.

Now discontinued in its original formulation, Booster has achieved a kind of cult status among vintage fragrance enthusiasts. Its defenders argue it represents one of the more courageously composed sport fragrances of its era, refusing to smooth away its herbaceous edges in favor of mass appeal.

What It Smells Like

The opening is an unapologetic blast of peppermint and eucalyptus, energizing and sharp, layered over bright grapefruit and orange citrus. Multiple reviewers note this initial hit can veer into Vicks VapoRub territory, though fans argue the balance is perfectly calibrated. The eucalyptus is present but tempered by the mint, with the wood notes toning things down.

The heart introduces aromatic complexity with basil, lavender, galbanum, and warming accents of nutmeg and chili pepper. This spicy-herbal transition softens the medicinal edge and adds sophistication. The base of vetiver, sandalwood, and cedar provides a clean, woody anchor that is soapy and pleasant without being heavy. The overall arc moves from medicinal freshness to a more rounded, herbaceous-woody drydown.

When to Wear It

Booster is unmistakably a warm-weather, daytime fragrance. Its sporty, energizing character makes it a natural companion for the gym, outdoor activities, and casual summer days. Several reviewers specifically praise its effectiveness for workout settings, where the cooling eucalyptus and mint provide genuine invigoration.

This is not a fragrance for formal occasions or evening wear. Its personality is loud, youthful, and active, best suited to environments where its bracing freshness enhances rather than clashes with the setting.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is the most debated aspect of Booster. Some reviewers report impressive staying power of eight or more hours with great sillage, while others describe longevity as abysmal, fading to a skin scent within three to four hours. The most common reports place it in the three-to-six-hour range with moderate projection. For an eau de toilette built around volatile top notes like mint and eucalyptus, this is within expected parameters.

The initial projection is strong and will announce your presence, but the drydown becomes considerably more intimate.

The Community Says

Basenotes reviewers describe Booster as a courageously made potion that centers on the brightness of mint via eucalyptus and peppermint. One reviewer praised the perfect balance of eucalyptus and mint, with wood toning it down and basil and pepper adding complexity. Others on Fragrantica commend its unique personality among sport fragrances, noting it smells like nothing else in the genre.

Critical voices compare the opening to Simple Green all-purpose cleaner, though they concede it calms down after a few minutes. The discontinued original is generally preferred over the 2022 reboot, which reviewers consider less characterful.

Who Should Buy This

Booster appeals to those who appreciate bold, herbaceous-citrus masculines with genuine personality. Vintage fragrance hunters will find it a rewarding discovery, provided they can locate bottles at reasonable prices. Active men who want a fragrance that matches their energy level rather than blending into the background will enjoy its spirited character.

Those accustomed to modern, smooth designer masculines should sample before purchasing. The eucalyptus-mint accord is polarizing, and modern reformulations may differ from vintage bottles.

The Bottom Line

Lacoste Booster remains a distinctive, energizing sport fragrance that refuses to play it safe. Its uncompromising mint-and-eucalyptus opening may challenge some noses, but those who click with its bracing personality will find a refreshingly honest fragrance that wears well in warm weather. Its discontinued status only adds to its appeal for collectors seeking something with genuine character.