The water container you're sporting reflects more than just 'hydration' implications
In the realm of everyday essentials, water bottles have come a long way since their humble beginnings. From the early plastic versions to the latest high-tech models, the market is brimming with options to quench your thirst and elevate your style.
One constant in this ever-evolving landscape is the Hydro Flask, a sturdy steel companion that has graced Wirecutter's "best" water bottle list since 2014. Praised for its good insulation, dishwasher-cleanability, and robust steel construction, the Hydro Flask has proven to be a reliable choice for many.
As for personal preference, Eva Bleyer, a kitchen appliance tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute, advises that the choice of water bottle should be tailored to individual needs.
Another popular option is the WanderFull bag, which has made Oprah's Favorite Things list twice. Available in colourful puffer-coat fabric and a nylon crossbody strap, the WanderFull bag also boasts a vegan leather version adorned with an additional chain strap for dressier occasions.
The world of water bottles is not just about functionality; it's about fashion too. S'well offers customization options for events, teams, or special gifts, while Owala's FreeSip bottles are known for their fashionable designs, with some limited-edition designs fetching over $200 on eBay.
Collaborations between brands and artists have also added a unique twist to water bottles. Italian company YouBottles, for instance, has collaborated with the enigmatic street artist Banksy, featuring his "Girl with Balloon" and "Flower Thrower" murals as patterns.
Tech-savvy water bottles are also making waves in the market. The HidrateSpark Pro water bottle comes with a Bluetooth tracker to update you on consumption based on factors like age, weight, and activity level. The LARQ PureVis 2 water bottle, on the other hand, tracks your consumption and has been featured in the Museum of Modern Art's design store.
Self-cleaning bottles are another innovative development. Philips' GoZero UV Self-Cleaning Smart Water Bottle received top ratings in Men's Health magazine's testing lab for self-cleaning bottles, making it a useful tool for off-grid camping or trekking, with its month-long battery life.
The LARQ PureVis 2 water bottle also falls into this category, self-cleaning and featuring a plant-based filter in the lid that removes chlorine, PFAS, and bacteria.
Companies like Larq, known for their self-cleaning water bottles using UV technology, are paving the way for the future of water bottles. The writer for Wirecutter, Kit Dillon, emphasizes that a good water bottle should be the right size, leakproof, feel good, and insulate well.
PackIt offers an insulated carry bag for water bottles with a crossbody strap in sturdy nylon, featuring sunflower or starry-night prints and a phone pouch attachment. Some people prefer a favourite sipping straw in their water bottle, while others value a comfortable carrying handle.
From the early days of Nalge's light, plastic water bottles to the myriad of options available today, the water bottle market has come a long way. With colour trend giants like Pantone releasing BPA-free water bottles in vibrant colours, and companies like S'well collaborating with illustrators and Crayola for unique designs, the excitement for new colours and patterns is palpable, especially among collectors.
In the end, choosing the right water bottle is a personal decision, a testament to the diverse needs and preferences of consumers in the modern world.
