Whether it’s running, cycling, lifting weights, or doing yoga, staying hydrated during exercise is essential. Rather than spending a few bucks on a bottle of water every trip to the gym, it may be worth investing in a reusable sports water bottle that’s designed with movers in mind. Of course, not all water bottles serve the same purposes; the same plastic squeeze bottle seen on football sidelines may not do so well in a hot Yoga studio.
Fortunately, there are a host of very specific water bottles on the market. These are designed to help athletes stay hydrated so they can excel in a variety of activities, be it endurance training or backpacking. We rounded up some of the best sports water bottles on the market and gave our picks.
Best Water Bottle Belt:
Fitletic Hydration Belt
Pros:
- The Fitletic Hydration Belt includes two holsters to store two six ounce water bottles. These bottles are BPA-free and dishwasher safe.
- Equipped with an interior pocket to store items that probably aren’t needed during a workout, like an ID, credit card, or a money clip.
- Exterior pouch for easy access to a phone. Also includes bib toggles for competition runners.
- Manufacturer notes that this belt is built with patented “Dura-Comfort Technology” to prevent the belt from bouncing during exercise.
- Available in two sizes and able to accommodate waist sizes between 24” and 42”.
Cons:
- From a cost perspective, this is a bit pricey compared to some more straightforward water bottle options.
- Only 12oz of total fluid, which may not be enough for those going on long distance runs.
Athletes looking to take water with them while they exercise might want to check out the Fitletic Hydration Belt. Designed with holsters to accommodate two six ounce water bottles as well as a pouch to store a phone or wallet, this piece of equipment may be ideal for long distance runners.
Best Value Insulated Bottle:
Polar Insulated Water Bottle
Pros:
- Polar Insulated Water Bottle includes an additional layer on the inside to prevent the outside warm air from heating up cold liquids, and a foil layer in between the two plastic layers to reflect sunlight.
- Made with BPA-free plastic, this bottle is relatively lightweight compared to other insulated options.
- Includes a removable carrying strap that may be convenient for some folks.
- The 20oz size is designed to fit comfortably in bicycle bottle holsters.
- Very reasonably priced.
Cons:
- This may not be the best option for long distance runners, as holding it during exercise could prove cumbersome.
Those looking for a straightforward, affordable, insulated water bottle may want to check out Polar’s offering. Available in 20 or 24oz sizes and in a variety of unique colors and designs, these bottles utilize a double-wall design intended to keep liquids colder for longer.
Best Handheld Bottle:
Nathan Quick Shot
Pros:
- Nathan Quick Shot is a 10 oz water bottle designed with a strap intended to hold the bottle in place next to your hand during a run.
- Includes a small pouch to store a few personal items during a workout.
- Available in a wide variety of colors.
- Cap includes a one-way valve so that water can come out by sipping from it, but will not come out on its own.
- Reasonably priced.
Cons:
- With no insulation in this bottle, the water may get warm pretty quickly.
The Nathan Quick Shotis a very straightforward tool to stay hydrated during runs. Available in a variety of colors, this ten ounce bottle includes a strap to keep the bottle secured to your hand during runs.
Best Stainless Steel Bottle:
Takeya Insulated Stainless Steel
Pros:
- Takeya Insulated Stainless Steel bottles have a unique, leak-proof lid, including a small spout lid that screws off to reveal a wide mouth, making it easy to fill the bottle with ice.
- Includes a wide handle to make the bottle easy to carry, and a silicon bumper along the bottom to prevent damage from dropping and for setting it down quietly.
- Designed with a stainless steel double wall to insulate the liquids on the inside from the outside elements, keeping hot things hot and cold things cold for longer, and eliminate condensation.
- Available in five sizes ranging from 18oz to 64oz in a wide variety of colors.
Cons:
- Cost-wise, this is a bit of an investment, so those who constantly lose water bottles may want to bare that in mind before clicking purchase.
- While this may be a great bottle to take to a workout class or to the gym, it’s not really designed for running or cycling.
Those looking for a stainless steel insulated bottle might want to consider Takeya’s offering. These sturdy containers are available in sizes ranging from 18oz to 64oz and in a wide variety of colors.
Best Collapsible Water Bottle:
Platypus Soft Bottle
Pros:
- Collapsible water bottles may be great for a long day of hiking or trail walking; once the bottle’s empty, it rolls up and is easily stored away.
- Includes a hook that could be used on a belt loop or backpack to make for easy storage during walks or travel.
- Available in a variety of colors and designs at a very reasonable price.
- Comes in .75 or 1 L size.
Cons:
- A number of folks mentioned that if the cap was not screwed on perfectly, this bottle was liable to leak.
The Platypus DuoLock Soft Bottle may be a great option for folks looking for an easily packable, collapsible water bottle. Available in a variety of colors and designs, this water bottle also includes a wide mouth designed for easy filling.
Methodology
Shopping for the right water bottle can be a little overwhelming. When we compared the best sports water bottles on the market, there were several key features we took into consideration.
Volume
How much liquid can each bottle hold? Someone heading to a track and field meet without an easily accessible water source may need a bottle that holds more than a runner heading out for a quick 3 mile jaunt.
Spout
Take a look at the spout, and consider when and where this bottle will be used. A spout that requires screwing on and off may not be ideal while out on a run. On the flipside, having a bottle that only works when you sip from the top might not be great for sharing with others during a camping trip.
Insulation
Insulated water bottles are designed to keep liquids colder (or hotter!) for longer by providing an additional layer between the elements and the liquid. This barrier keeps hot air out, leaving behind a cooler liquid and cutting down on condensation.
Material
While many water bottles are made from BPA-free plastic, some utilize stainless steel. Preference in material may largely come down to where the bottle’s going to be used.
Portability
Many sports water bottles are designed to be taken out during exercise. Whether it’s a belt that contains a holster for a water bottle or a strap that keeps it attached to your hand, these are great options for staying hydrated while on the go.
Design/Color
This comes down to personal preference. Maybe having a water bottle that matches your sneakers and yoga mat is important! Or maybe it’s essential to have a uniquely designed bottle so it’s not mistaken for someone else’s at the gym.
FAQs
What is the best sports water bottle?
The best sports water bottle will vary depending on what it’s being used for. While a stainless steel insulated bottle will keep liquids colder for longer, it is not ideal for athletes looking to hydrate on the go.
What water bottle keeps water cold the longest?
Insulated water bottles keep water cold for longer periods of time. These bottles usually have a double wall construction to prevent outside elements from affecting the temperature of liquid. Stainless steel insulated bottles can also be used to keep hot liquids hot.
What is the healthiest water bottle you can use?
Lots of folks have raised concerns about drinking from plastic water bottles that contain BPAs. Fortunately, many of the top manufacturers now make BPA-free bottles.
How often should a water bottle be washed?
A water bottle should be washed frequently to make sure no bacteria is lurking. Use soap and hot water!
BarBend Tips
- Hydration does not stop when exercise stops. The most effective way to stay adequately hydrated is to drink water throughout the day. If this is a challenge, find a water bottle that’s fun to drink from!
- Consider when and where this water bottle will be used. It may make sense to have a different water bottle for endurance running than for casual trips to the gym.