In the world of water bottles there’s no shortage of options, from sleek metal designs to rugged, outdoorsy types. The most popular brands as of late are Stanley and Owala. While both have their loyal fanbases, Stanley water bottles outshine their Owala competitors in more ways than one.
Stanley water bottles are built to last. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or simply commuting to work, the design of a Stanley bottle makes a good go-to for anyone who’s rough on their gear. Stanley started as a company providing outdoor gear, and this comes through in the reliable build of their bottles.
Senior Lexi Cooke said, “I love my Stanley. It’s better because it has a long straw instead of a weird mouth piece. It keeps my water cold all day, and holds so much water. I legit drink triple the amount of water than I used to before I got one.”
Stanleys are nearly indestructible, with thick, sturdy materials that don’t dent easily. In comparison, Owala bottles, while trendy and functional, feel a bit more fragile. The lightweight design may appeal to some, but for long-term use, the heft of a Stanley is a more worthy investment.
Stanley bottles excel when it comes to keeping your drinks at the perfect temperature. The Classic Stanley can keep beverages cold for up to 36 hours or hot for 24 hours, which is something Owala struggles to match. Owala bottles do offer decent insulation, but Stanley’s vacuum insulation technology is simply on a higher level.
Stanley bottles also hit a sweet spot between practicality and aesthetics. Their classic, vintage look feels timeless. Whether you’re headed to the gym or a meeting, a Stanley bottle fits in. Owala, on the other hand, seems to target a younger, more playful audience with its bright colors and quirky designs. While fun, Owala bottles can sometimes feel out of place in more professional settings. Stanley offers a level of versatility that Owala lacks.
Stanley bottles are user-friendly in ways that make them more functional for daily use. Their wide-mouth opening allows for easy filling, especially if you’re adding ice cubes or cleaning it out. The handle on many Stanley models is also ergonomically designed for carrying long distances without feeling cumbersome. In contrast, while Owala bottles come with innovative features like their “FreeSip” spout, the complexity of the design can lead to cleaning issues, or worse, malfunction over time.
Let’s face it — high-quality water bottles can be pricey. However, Stanley bottles are a long-term investment. Their durability ensures you won’t need to replace them any time soon. On the other hand, Owala bottles are generally cheaper, but the lower cost comes with some compromise in build and performance.
Junior Ella Taylor said, “I love my Owala, but I lose all of my aura when it’s in my backpack and you can hear the ice moving around. I hate that.”
Owala may offer a fun, modern alternative, but when it comes to durability, insulation, and overall practicality, they are lacking. Stanley bottles are built for those who want a reliable, practical and aesthetically pleasing drinking experience, making them a much better option.
